Celebrating International Week at Amity University Haryana

“Embarking on a Transformative Journey: Amity University Gurugram’s International Women’s Week Celebration starts with a week-long Leadership Development Program, aptly named ‘Empowering Women For Leadership: Progressing Together,’ curated by the esteemed Academic Staff College.” from 04-08 March, 2024 

 The celebrations inaugurated with the symbolic lighting of the lamp, ushering in an atmosphere of inspiration and enlightenment. A harmonious invocation of muses followed, resonating with the spirit of the program, a celebration of music and creativity that set the tone for the empowering week ahead.

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 During the Inaugural, Prof PB Sharma, the Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, Amity University Gurugram, shed light on the profound role of women in mythology, emphasizing the timeless importance of honesty and kindness in their narratives. Drawing parallels to ancient wisdom, he underscored the significance of these virtues as timeless guiding principles for leadership. Prof Sharma emphasied on Emotional Quotient (EQ) and Spiritual Quotient (SQ) in effective leadership. He spoke eloquently about the need for leaders, especially women, to navigate with emotional intelligence and spiritual insight, fostering a holistic approach to decision- making. Prof Sharma took a moment to acknowledge the commendable gender ratio within the faculty at Amity University Gurugram, emphasizing a balanced representation. His encouragement for women not to sacrifice their potential resonated deeply, promoting a culture of empowerment and equal opportunities. Prof Sharma address served as a beacon for the empowering journey that lay ahead, leaving a lasting impact on all those fortunate enough to be present during this significant event.

 Dr Sangita Reddy, Joint Managing Director, Apollo Hospitals Group, Chair – G20 Empower India & Past President – FICCI delivered a compelling address on International Women’s Day. With eloquence and authority, she shared insights and perspectives that resonated with the spirit of empowerment and gender equality. Dr. Reddy’s words encapsulated the essence of the occasion, inspiring and motivating everyone present. Her impactful contribution during the International Women’s Day celebration left a lasting impression, further emphasizing the importance of women’s leadership and their invaluable role in shaping a progressive society.

 Ms. Anna Roy, Principal Economic Adviser – NITI Aayog, Government of India, shared a unique perspective on women’s empowerment, highlighting her personal stance on the term. She acknowledged her privilege, emphasizing the scarcity of opportunities for many women. Ms. Roy stressed the importance of supportive mentors and addressed issues in Cyber- Physical Technology, particularly information asymmetry. Advocating collaborative programs for the Women Entrepreneurship Cell, she expressed concerns about excessive funding focus, urging recognition of efforts. Drawing from cultural references, she emphasized the value of hard work and cited Prime Minister Modi’s proactive stance on A.I. Ms. Anna Roy’s insights underscore the need for collective efforts and strategic focus for an empowered future.

 Dr. Meeta Brahma, Director NIIT Ltd, during her engaging address, delved into the remarkable work of NIIT in empowering individuals through technology. She shared insightful perspectives on how technology can be a catalyst for empowerment, transforming lives and providing opportunities for personal and professional growth. Dr. Meeta Brahma drew inspiration from management guru Peter Drucker, quoting his wisdom on managing oneself. She emphasized the critical importance of self-awareness, urging the audience to reflect on their strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. Dr. Brahma introduced the concept of “Discover, Dream, Design, Deliver.” This framework encapsulated a holistic approach to goal setting and achievement, inspiring the audience to envision their aspirations, strategize a plan, and diligently work towards realizing their dreams.

Prof Dr. Rajita Kulkarni, Hon’ble President, Sri Sri University, Odisha, shared impactful insights on leadership, emphasizing genuine connections, courage, and effective communication. Beyond conventional traits, she highlighted self-discovery, adaptability, and stress relief through practices like meditation. Dr. Kulkarni promoted a problem-solving mindset, advocating resilience and adaptability. Stressing the role of a robust team, she explored diverse leadership styles with a focus on collaboration and empowerment. Her dynamic presentation left a lasting impact, equipping the audience with strategies for navigating evolving leadership landscapes and fostering empowerment and motivation.

 Prof. Sanjana Vij, Prof, Liberal Arts, Director, Academic Staff College, Amity University Haryana delivered a powerful Opening Address on Women’s Day, emphasizing the Leadership Development Program’s role in enhancing faculty growth and fostering essential leadership skills. Her impactful speech set the tone for a transformative journey, highlighting the program’s significance in empowering women within the academic community. Prof Sanjna Vij’s words resonated with a clear vision for personal and professional development, inspiring participants to actively engage in the program for valuable insights and growth opportunities.

 “An inspiring turnout of 95 eager learners, including Heads of Departments, faculty members, and dedicated research scholars, enthusiastically registered and actively engaged in our transformative Leadership Development Program, titled ‘Empowering Women For Leadership: Progressing Together.’

 In a heartfelt Vote of Thanks, Prof. Sanjana Vij extended her gratitude to the esteemed speakers, dignitaries, and participants whose presence and contributions enriched the Leadership Development Program.

Worldwide EndoMarch, Endo Run to raise mass awareness on Endometriosis

Hyderabad, 22nd February 2024: As a continuation of the efforts during Endometriosis Awareness Month of March, PAIR Academy along with Dr Rooma Sinha, arranged a flagship initiative at the open-air Amphitheatre, Apollo Hospitals Jubilee Hills Hyderabad, today. This was a mass awareness initiative that brought together EndoWarriors and their families, healthcare providers, researchers, and patient advocates. The goal is to raise awareness about endometriosis, spark a national conversation around the condition, and call for greater support and resources for individuals and families affected by it. The awareness initiative saw more than 150 participants from the general public, patient groups, medical students and nursing colleges.

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Dr Rooma Sinha (standing – 7th from left), Sr. Consultant, Robotic and Laparoscopic Surgeon; Mrs Divya Devarajan (standing – 8th from left), IAS, Director, Municipal Administration; Mrs Upasana Kamineni Konidela (standing – 9th from left), Vice Chairperson – CSR, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Limited; Dr Ratna Devi (standing – 10th from left), Director, Pair Academy; along with Doctors and staff participating in the mass awareness campaign on Endometriosis, a common, chronic, gynaecological condition, affecting over 42 million women in India; hosted by Endometriosis Society of India & Apollo Hospitals, today at Apollo Hospitals.

Endometriosis awareness events are being organised for the last 7 years under Senior Gynecologist, Dr Rooma Sinha’s leadership and Apollo Hospitals.

Endometriosis is a common, chronic, gynaecological condition, which affects over 247 million women globally and 42 million women in India1. It is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus2. Women with endometriosis suffer from chronic pelvic pain, fatigue, depression, and infertility. Diagnosis of the condition is often delayed by 6-10 years, significantly reducing a woman’s overall quality of life.

The event was graced by Dr Sangita Reddy, Joint Managing Director of Apollo Hospitals, Mrs Divya Devarajan IAS, Director of Municipal Administration, Mrs Upasana Kamineni, Vice Chairperson, CSR, Apollo Hospitals Enterprises, Dr K Manohar, Dean of Apollo Medical College, Dr Rooma Sinha, Senior Gynecologist, Robotic Surgeon and Endometriosis specialist Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad and Dr Ratna Devi, Director, Patient Academy for Innovation and Research. They spoke on the importance of endometriosis awareness, the current challenges faced by women, and the need for clinical advancements in this area.

“Endometriosis is a health condition affecting millions of women in India and across the globe. We are delighted to partner with Worldwide EndoMarch, Endometriosis Society of India and PAIR to support initiatives that will contribute to helping women access better healthcare solutions. As we commemorate EndoMarch and EndoRun today, I commend the traction and engagement this initiative has garnered. Such initiatives encourage open conversations about women’s health issues ” said by Dr Sangita Reddy.

Dr Divya Devarajan said, IAS Director Municipal Administration said, women form 50% of our society. Their health and wellness should be a priority if we have to keep the community and family healthy. Prioritising issues of pain, infertility and stigma associated with conditions like Endometriosis will help dispel myths about endometriosis.

Mrs Upasana Kamineni said, women need to speak up more and come forward to share their stories. It is through stories of change that we can bring a shift in mindset and help women receive the care they deserve in a timely way.

Dr Rooma Sinha said, the gathering and stressed the importance of coming forward to discuss such sensitive problems so that early diagnosis can be made. She said the treatment of Endometriosis requires a multi-disciplinary effort of medical and surgical treatment but one must not forget the help that dieticians, Physiotherapy yoga and psychologists can provide to help women cruise through their lives with this chronic disability. If advised a surgery- Please ask Why- When- Where and Who should do the surgery? The first surgery gives the best outcome and repeated surgeries should be avoided.

Dr Ratna Devi said, “Raising awareness is crucial to address the issue of delayed diagnosis and treatment for women experiencing severe symptoms and excruciating pain. Unfortunately, their voices often go unheard or are dismissed as women’s health takes a backseat in many households. It is imperative to advocate for improved early detection and treatment options. Creating a safe and supportive environment where women can openly discuss their experiences and provide mutual support is urgently necessary.

A coffee table book which is a collection of patient stories, detailing their personal experiences, to empower the community to connect with gynaecologists to understand their condition better was also relaunched. The book will equip fellow endometriosis patients to understand their condition through the perspectives of these women.

Dr Carman Nezhat, Clinical Professor of OBGYN at Stanford Health, San Francisco, USA & Director, Centre for Special Minimally Invasive and Robotic Surgery; in his video message appreciated the efforts of Dr Rooma Sinha as the India Captain for the Worldwide EndoMarch and Apollo Hospitals, for joining hands for last several years creating this awareness.

Dr Pramathes Das Mahapatra, President of the Endometriosis Society of India, says, “While conditions like polycystic ovarian disorder (PCOD) are widely discussed, endometriosis is still not talked about. “The first step is making doctors aware of the extent of the disorder and ensuring accurate and timely diagnosis. In most cases in India, diagnosis is generally delayed because painful periods are considered normal.”

The main messages are

1. Don’t Suffer with pelvic or period pain in silence- You are not alone!

2. Early diagnosis can help the progress of disease

3. Although medical and surgical treatment are the mainstay, Exercise, Yoga, Diet and Mental well-being can help women cruise with this chronic debilitating disease

4. If in doubt ask for Apollo second opinion!