Shoolini University and Pehal Foundation Empower Rural Women through Project Pragati
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Solan, September 16 – Shoolini University’s Centre for Leadership Coaching, in collaboration with Pehal Foundation, has launched Project Pragati – Rural Women Entrepreneurs Development Programme, an initiative dedicated to empowering women in nearby villages through training, education, and self-reliance. Supported by the vision of Pro-Chancellor Vishal Anand, the first phase concluded today with an equipment handover ceremony.
The programme, which began in November 2024, has already created inspiring stories of transformation. Under the aegis of V-Empower, Centre for Leadership Coaching, two self-help groups from Salogra and Sanhol panchayats have been adopted for training and development. Women participants, referred to as “sakhis,” received skill enhancement and confidence-building training through innovative methods, including video conferencing and hands-on workshops.
Saroj Khosla, President Shoolini University and Chairperson SILB, attended as the Chief Guest, while Manorama Anand was the Guest of Honour. Distinguished guests included Chancellor Prof. P.K. Khosla, Pro-Chancellor Vishal Anand, Director of Innovations and Marketing Prof. Ashish Khosla, and Registrar Dr. Sunil Puri.
Prof. P.K. Khosla emphasized Shoolini University’s strong commitment to social responsibility, highlighting efforts not only in education but also in supporting farmers and agriculturists by sharing knowledge and resources. “At Shoolini, we encourage our students to embrace the value of serving society. Women’s empowerment and community development are integral to our vision,” he said.
In her keynote, Saroj Khosla recalled the University’s vision since its inception. “When Shoolini was established, our primary goal was to be a research-oriented institution. Over time, we felt a strong responsibility to work for the betterment of society. This initiative is another step towards uplifting women and helping them become self-reliant,” she noted.
Certificates were distributed to the trained women by Saroj Khosla and Manorama Anand. Concluding the ceremony, Pro-Chancellor Vishal Anand inspired the participants, saying, “We are witnessing the energy and potential of Gen Z. Think big, think positively, and positive change will surely follow.”
The programme also recognised women entrepreneurs from Tikar and Salogra panchayats for their active participation. Sharing her views, Kusum Lata, Pradhan of Sanhol Panchayat, said, “It is often difficult for women to step out of their homes, but these hardworking women have shown they can achieve remarkable things. We will include more women in this programme, and with the support of Shoolini University, they will secure meaningful opportunities.”
Highlighting the broader vision, Payal Khanna, Director, Centre for Leadership Coaching, remarked that the programme is a shining example of academia joining hands with social organisations to drive positive change. “By empowering women, Shoolini University is nurturing individuals, strengthening families, and contributing to holistic rural development,” she said.
