Governor P. Sathasivam has called for bridging the gender divide in the innovation and entrepreneurship sector.
“Women and girls should start being vocal about their innovative ideas,” he said.
Mr. Sathasivam was speaking after inaugurating Navaangana, women innovators and entrepreneurs’ meet organised by the Kerala State Women's Development Corporation (KSWDC) as part of ‘Sadhairyam Munnottu,’ a programme of the Women and Child Development Department, here on Friday. The meet is being organised as part of the International Women’s Day celebrations, the theme for which is ‘Think equal, build smart, innovate for change.’
The Governor said progress of women was central to the State’s transformation as an advanced society. These days, earning an income through a vocation or profession had become the norm for women. However, there was still a tendency to see woman's expressions of freedom as unusual. Women professionals were overcoming such issues by making their presence felt in areas traditionally seen as male domains and standing out through the quality of their work. Entry of more women into business had strengthened society’s faith in their entrepreneurial and innovative skills, he said.
Health Minister K.K. Shylaja, who presided over the function, said women in the State were looked down upon. Whatever be the financial condition of their family, they should come forth to work to increase the country’s GDP and solve economic problems. Besides familial responsibilities, they should take on social responsibilities too.
K. Muraleedharan, MLA; Women and Child Development Special Secretary Biju Prabhakar and Director Sheeba George, KSWDC chairperson K.S. Saleekha and managing director Bindu V.C. spoke.
