International Women's Day 2024

On March 7, 2024, the Women’s Study Society of Loreto College, Kolkata, in collaboration with the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), organised a special programme to commemorate International Women’s Day. The two-part event, featuring a significant recognition and a thought-provoking lecture, aligned with the UN theme of International Women’s Day 2024, “Invest in women: Accelerate progress.” The programme began with a graceful prayer dance by Ms. Souraja Chatterjee of the Eastern Cultural Society.

A highlight of the event was the presentation of the prestigious Lakshmi Chatterji Memorial Lifetime Achievement Award, which is annually conferred upon a distinguished alumna of the college. This year, the award was presented to Mrs. Mari Marcel Thekaekara to honour her impactful contributions as an independent writer, journalist, and activist and her steadfast advocacy of gender equality, human rights, and environmental sustainability. Mrs. Thekaekara inspired the audience by sharing her experiences of grassroots engagement with marginalised communities in India, particularly as a co-founder of ACCORD (Action for Community Organisation, Rehabilitation and Development) in Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu.

In the next segment of the programme, Dr. Anuttama Banerjee, noted psychologist, poet, and columnist, delivered a compelling lecture on “Women and Right to Safe Space.” She drew on her professional expertise and personal experiences to explore the critical importance of creating safe and supportive environments for women in all spheres of life. Her insights resonated deeply with the audience, prompting meaningful discussions on ways to enhance the security, dignity, and equal participation of women in various domains. The event was therefore successful in providing a platform to recognise outstanding contributions and inspire collective action for the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of women.