Women lead from the front at Panjab University

Panjab University is setting an example of ‘women empowerment’ with a majority of its administrative posts being looked after by female faculty, including the chair of the Vice Chancellor (VC).

Prof Renu Vig is the first female VC of the university. She was appointed as the 14th VC of the university in 2023 for a three-year term, which will end next year.

The post of Dean University Instructions is held by Prof Yojana Rawat. Among other women leading from the front are Prof Meenakshi Goyal, Director, Research (additional charge of Librarian, AC Joshi Library); Prof Latika Sharma, Dean Alumni Relations; Prof Sonal Chawla, Director, Computer Centre; Prof Sonal Singhal, Director, Internal Quality Assurance Cell; Prof Meena Sharma, Director, Central Placement Cell; Prof Jyoti Rattan, Director, IAS Centre; Dr Jayanti Dutta, Director MMTTC; Prof Simrat Kahlon, Chief Vigilance Officer; Prof Kumool Abbi, Director, Population Research Centre; Prof Suveera Gill, Honorary Director, Centre for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship; Dr Rajinder Kaur, Director, Publication Bureau; Prof Upasna Joshi Sethi, Honorary Director, ICSSR – NWRC; and Dr Rupinder Kaur, Chief Medical Officer.

Besides, coordinators Prof Shivani Sharma (Swami Vivekananda Centre), Prof Navjot (Ambedkar Centre), Prof Anju Suri (Institute of Social Science Education and Research), Prof Indu Pal Kaur, (DPIIT-IPR Chair), Dr Bhavneet Bhatti, (Jyotirgamaya: 91.2 MHz - PU Community Radio Station), Dr Madhuri Rishi (IAS Centre) and Dr Upneet Kaur Mangat, co-coordinator of Permanent Anti-Discrimination Cell for Transgender Students, are also women. Recently, the university appointed Dr Namita Gupta, as Dean Student Welfare (Women).

“At the PU, we recognise that women’s leadership is vital for shaping a progressive and inclusive academic environment. By promoting women into key administrative and scholarly roles, we not only strengthen governance but also inspire future generations to dream bigger and achieve more. Our commitment is to ensure that talent and dedication are celebrated, irrespective of gender, creating a university culture where everyone can thrive,” said Prof Vig.