In a bid to foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship among young women, the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) took a significant step by organizing a one-day Entrepreneurship and Innovations Awareness Programme. The event, held at the Government Higher Secondary School in Bijbehara, was part of the Institute Innovation Council’s Mentor-Mentee Programme and aimed to spread awareness about entrepreneurship while encouraging young women to pursue entrepreneurial ventures.
The Women Entrepreneurship Development Cell, which operates under the aegis of the CIED IUST Foundation, took the lead in organizing this enlightening programme. The Institution’s Innovation Council (IIC) recognized IUST as one of the mentor institutions, entrusting it with the responsibility of nurturing innovation and promoting a thriving start-up ecosystem in various educational institutions, including the Government Higher Secondary School in Bijbehara.
The programme received praise and appreciation from Ms. Ruhee Jan, Principal of GGHSS Bijbehara, who lauded IUST’s proactive approach in organizing entrepreneurship awareness initiatives in educational institutions. Recognizing the transformative power of entrepreneurship, the programme’s agenda was designed to empower young women, enabling them to develop innovative ideas and pursue their dreams of becoming successful entrepreneurs.
During the event, Dr. Parvaiz A Mir, Director of the Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development (CIED), provided an overview of the centre’s evolution, ongoing projects, and notable achievements. Dr. Mir highlighted the significance of entrepreneurship, emphasizing its role in empowering individuals at all levels. He assured full support to aspiring young women entrepreneurs, offering them guidance and resources to nurture their innovative ideas and translate them into sustainable business ventures.
The Entrepreneurship and Innovations Awareness Programme was a platform for participants to gain valuable insights into the world of entrepreneurship. It aimed to demystify the concept of starting one’s own business, dispelling common myths and fears associated with entrepreneurship. Through interactive sessions and discussions, the participants were introduced to various aspects of entrepreneurship, including idea generation, business planning, market research, funding opportunities, and scaling up ventures.
The event also featured inspiring talks by successful women entrepreneurs, who shared their personal experiences and entrepreneurial journeys. These real-life success stories served as a source of motivation and encouragement, inspiring young women to believe in their capabilities and take bold steps towards achieving their entrepreneurial aspirations.
Additionally, the programme focused on building an entrepreneurial mindset among the participants, fostering creativity, problem-solving skills, and resilience. Developing such a mindset is crucial for entrepreneurs as it helps them navigate challenges and seize opportunities in the dynamic business landscape.
IUST’s commitment to promoting entrepreneurship and innovation extends beyond this one-day programme. As a mentor institution under the Institution’s Innovation Council, the university continues to provide ongoing support and mentorship to students and young entrepreneurs. The goal is to create a nurturing environment that fosters a spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship, equipping young women with the skills and confidence needed to carve their own paths in the business world.
As the Entrepreneurship and Innovations Awareness Programme concluded successfully, it left a positive impact on the participants, igniting their entrepreneurial spirits and encouraging them to dream big. The event’s ripple effect is expected to be felt in the coming months and years, as more young women are likely to explore and embrace entrepreneurship as a viable and fulfilling career option.
In conclusion, the Entrepreneurship and Innovations Awareness Programme organized by IUST’s Women Entrepreneurship Development Cell was a commendable initiative that aimed to empower young women with the knowledge and confidence to pursue entrepreneurial ventures. By fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, IUST is playing a crucial role in shaping the future generation of business leaders and change-makers. The programme’s success underscores the importance of such initiatives in empowering women, promoting gender equality, and driving socio-economic growth and development.
