Bhubaneswar, Dec 03: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik today inaugurated state’s first women’s university named after Maa Rama Devi.
On the occasion of 116th birth anniversary Maa Rama Devi, the University was inaugurated.
Inaugurating this occasion, Naveen Patnaik said: “Maa Rama Devi was an icon of women empowerment in the state. Breaking the traditional world of conservatism with rare sense of courage, she had come out of the closet to dedicate herself to the nation and serve society.
Her conviction, determination and dedication to bring about social change and empower women through education are rare examples of courage in those times. She was the epitome of women’s liberation and empowerment for the successive generations to follow.”
Education is the most significant component of human development in any society. I hope, Rama Devi Women’s University will be able bring these qualitative changes among its students, and gradually evolve as an institute that inspires the aspirations of women in Odisha, he said.
“This University is established with overall policy objectives of increased participation of women in higher education. It will be an ideal institution that recognizes and promotes gender equality. I hope the University will initiate studies on women’s empowerment, women’s rights, gender equality and studies that will create confidence and enable our young women for forward movement in society. The government will provide all necessary support to this University to stand out as a Centre of Excellence,” Patnaik added.
Among others, Higher Education Minister Dr. Pradeep Panigrahi, Culture Minister Ashok Panda, MP Dr. Prasanna Patsani, MLA Bijay Mpohanty, MLA Priyadarshi Mishra, BMC Mayor Anant Narayan Jena, Higher Education Principal Secretary G.V.V. Sharma, OSD of RD Women’s University Prof Padmaja Mishra were present on the occasion.
