Central Women’s University Hosts Public Lecture on Women’s Rights and Political Leadership

Central Women’s University (CWU) successfully hosted a thought-provoking public lecture titled “Backlash against Women’s Rights and Ways to Strengthen Women’s Political Leadership” on 15 October 2026 at the university auditorium. The program brought together distinguished speakers who shared valuable insights into the challenges facing women’s rights, the growing backlash against gender equality, and the ways to strengthen women’s participation and leadership in politics. The distinguished speakers were Prof. Khawar Mumtaz, Chairperson of the National Commission on the Status of Women, Pakistan, and former Coordinator and CEO of Shirkat Gah Women’s Resource Centre; Afra Jalabi, Affiliate Assistant Professor in the Department of Religions and Cultures at Concordia University and Board Member of the Metta Center for Nonviolence, California, USA; and Engr. Nabila Tasnid, Convenor of the Dhaka District National Citizen Party (NCP). The session was moderated by Ms. Pinky Das Mukta, Adjunct Faculty, Department of English Language and Literature, Central Women’s University. Students from all departments actively participated in the program, engaging with the speakers and contributing to meaningful discussions on women’s rights, equality, and political empowerment. The program concluded with closing remarks from Mr. Elias Ahmed, Registrar of Central Women’s University, who highlighted the significance of dialogue, awareness, and collective efforts in advancing women’s rights and strengthening women’s leadership. The event reaffirmed CWU’s commitment to fostering an inclusive academic environment that encourages critical thinking, active student engagement, gender equality, and women’s empowerment.