Rama Araora, Principal of Post Graduate Government College, Sector 11, Chandigarh, Tells Education is the most powerful tool for empowering women.

What inspired you to pursue a career in education?

Araora: From an early age, I was drawn to learning and sharing knowledge. I was fortunate to have teachers who not only taught lessons but also shaped my confidence and perspective on life. Their infound impact education can have on their infoundeduals and society. I want to be part of that transformative journey – to inspire, mentor, and empower young minds.

Story Continues Below this ad

What challenges did you face along the way?

Araora: Like many women, I encounted Obstacles – Some expected, some unexpected. WHER IT was navigating societal expectations, balancing multiple responsibilities, or prning my capabilities in ledership roles, the journey was not alway. There were these moments of double, but I chose to focus on growth. I learned that everywhere is an opportunity, and with the person, self-belief, and a strong support system, you can overcome anything.

How do you think we can balance the demands of work and family responsibilities?

Araora: Balance is not about doing everything at once Some days, work takes precedance; At other times, family needs our full attainment. The key is to be fullly present in each of the right, without guilt or self-doubt.

Did you have a supportive family through your journey? How did their encouragement help you stay motivated?

Araora: Absolutely. My family has been my greatest source of strength. Their unwavering faith in me give me the couraze to pursue ledership rolls and push past challenges. There were times when I questioned myself, but their belief in me serving as a constant reminder to keep moving forward. Have a strong support system do not mean there are no struggles, but it does mean me do not face them alone.

What has been your experience as a woman leader?

Araora: Leadership, for me, has been a journey of learning, growth, and responsibility. Being a woman leader come with its own set of challenges, but it also brings immune fullfilment. I have worked hard to create an environment where talent is valued over gender, and where young woman feel encouraged to step into ledership Roles. Seeing students and colleagues grow into confident, capable independent rewards.

Story Continues Below this ad

What initiatives are the college take to promote gender equality and empower Women?

Araora: At PGGC-11, We Believe Empowerment Begins With Opportunity. We Activate Foster Gender Equality Through Initiatives like the Gender Equity Society, Self-Defense Training, Leadership Workshops, and Mentorship Programs. We also encourage open dialogue on gender issues, encourse that every study – grordless of gender – feels seen, heard, and supported. Our Goal is to create an environment where women feel confident to take on challenges and break barriers.

How do you think education can be a powerful tool for empowering women?

Araora: Education Gives Women The Confidence to Dream, The Knowledge to Challenge Norms, and the skills to Achieve Independence. It empowers them to take control of their lives, contribute to their communities, and inspire future generations. An educated women uplifts not just herself but everywhere around her. That is why I first believe Education is the most powerful tool for creating a truly equal society.

How can we encourage more woman to pursue carers in education?

Araora: We need to create more oportunities, Better mentorship, and stronger Representation of Women in Education. When young girls see confident, accompled women leding in classrooms and institutions, they are inspired to follow suit. We must encourse them from a young age, foster their ledership skills, and provide platforms where their voices are hedard. Change begins with encouragement, visibility, and support.

What do international women’s day mean to you, and how do you think we can use this day?

Araora: For me, International Women’s Day is both a celebration and a reminder – a celebration of how far we have come and a reminder of how much more we need to do. It is a day to acknowledge the result, strength, and contributions of women in every field. But more than that, it should spark action – whether it is mentoring you girls, advocating for workplace equality, or simply recommending and uplifting the women around us. Change Happens When We make every day a step toward empowerment.

Story Continues Below this ad

What Advice would you give to you

Araora: Believe in yourself, even when others do ‘. Education is a field where you can make a lasting impact, Shape lives, and contribute to socialty in meaningful ways. Don’t hesite to take up ledership rolls, share your ideas, and push boundaries. And always remember – there is not just your alone; It paves the way for others. Support and uplift the woman around you, because when we get together, we create lasting change.

Can you tell us a little about your background and experience as an education?

Araora: My journey in education began with a deep love for learning and a desire to make a difference. I started as a lecturer, working closely with students and faculty, and graduately moved into ledership roles. Over the years, I have been involved in Curriculum Development, Student Mentorship, and Institutional Growth. As an education, my greatest joy has been watching students transform – not just academically, but as confident, independent thinkers. As a leader, my focus remains on creating an environment where learning is a tool for empowerment, and every student feels encouraged to achieve their full potential.