To create an environment that will help women realize their full potential and achieve self-actualization.
To build a gender sensitive and inclusive campus
To sensitize students towards the special needs of all genders.
To develop optimum physical and mental health of students and staff.
To provide insights about different kinds of violence: sexual, physical and mental and to further equip them with the knowledge and strength to fight against them.
Composition
Dr Asha Menon
(Principal)
Dr Rekha Randive
(Co-ordinator)
Mr. Shailesh Nayak
(Registrar)
Dr Madhumita Bandyopadhyay
(Teacher, Member)
Dr Shobha Bharat
(Teacher, Member)
Dr Vinod Zalte
(Teacher, Member)
Dr. Nimisha Kambli
(Teacher, Member)
Adv. Manjiri Kulkarni
(Advocate, Member)
Ms. Meenakshi Kondary
(Non-Teaching Staff, Member)
Activities Conducted
The Women’s Development Cell (WDC) of the college actively organized a range of academic, awareness, and skill-development programmes during the academic year 2025–2026, with a focus on women’s empowerment, gender sensitization, and the holistic development of students.
Women’s Development Cell comprised the following members: Prof. Dr. Madhumita Bandyopadhyay(In-charge), Mr. Raju Chauhan, Mrs. Ketaki Deshpande, Dr. Shobha Bharat, Ms. Nimisha Kambli, Mrs. Aarti Verma, Ms. Raajvi Vora, and Ms. Gitanjali Tripathi.
The following programmes were organized by the Cell during the academic year:
Women’s Hygiene and Personality Development, in collaboration with Y Connect
The cell organized a special session on Women’s Hygiene and Personality Development, in collaboration with Y Connect, Mumbai – a division of Brand Touch and Analytics Pvt. Ltd. sponsored by Whisper India and Gillette Venus on August 22, 2025. Free gift hampers were distributed to the students.
Young India Unchained – Orientation Programme
An orientation programme titled “Young India Unchained” was organized on 12th September 2025 in collaboration with the NGO Prakruthi. The session was conducted for first-year students across all departments with the objective of sensitizing them to critical social issues.
The session concluded with an interactive discussion, where students were encouraged to actively participate in awareness initiatives. The speakers also explained the enrolment process for students interested in contributing to such social causes.
The programme focused on the themes of human trafficking and sexual harassment. The resource person, Mrs. Sakshi Kaushik, delivered an informative and engaging session. A short film on human trafficking was screened, offering deep insights into the methods used by traffickers to exploit victims through false promises of employment, education, or marriage. The film and discussion also addressed related concerns such as child marriage, commercial sexual exploitation, surrogacy, and forced begging.
Overall, the programme was highly impactful, educational, and inspiring, successfully fostering awareness and social responsibility among students.
October 2026
“Rebels with a Cause: The Women who fought for Equality”
An insightful session titled “Rebels with a Cause: The Women Who Fought for Equality” was organized on September 20, 2025 for third-year undergraduate students from various streams. The session was conducted by Prof. Jaswandi Wamburkar, an eminent feminist historian, who delivered a compelling lecture on the struggles and contributions of women reformers and revolutionaries who challenged entrenched social norms and advanced the cause of gender equality.
She highlighted inspiring narratives of women from different historical periods, effectively drawing connections between past reform movements and the contemporary socio-political context. Prof.Wamburkar’s engaging and thought-provoking presentation encouraged students to reflect critically on the continuing struggle for equality and their own role in fostering an inclusive society.
The session was highly interactive, with enthusiastic student participation and meaningful discussions. The programme proved to be enriching and inspiring, motivating students to uphold and promote the ideals of equality and empowerment.
Talk Show – “Shadibazaar.com”
An interactive talk show titled “Shadibazaar.com” was organized on October 13, 2025 in collaboration with the Maharashtra Stree Mukti Parishad (MSMP). The session was conducted by Dr. Kunda P. N., Coordinator of MSMP, along with her team members.
Dr. Kunda delivered a thought-provoking talk on the evolution of the women’s movement over the past five decades, highlighting the struggles, achievements, and changing realities of women in India. She critically examined how shifting social structures and the rise of consumer culture have increasingly transformed marriage into a marketplace shaped by rituals, expectations, and economic transactions.
A short film titled “Beti Aayi Hai” was screened, followed by an engaging discussion. Students actively participated, raising pertinent questions such as the persistence of the dowry system and exploring how various industries—including the gold market, destination wedding industry, and related services—are interconnected with the institution of marriage. Another film clip, “Swaddle,” was presented to encourage deeper reflection on the continued prevalence of dowry practices.
References to popular culture, including scenes from “2 States” and “Change is Beautiful,” were effectively used to connect cinematic representations with real-life attitudes towards dowry and gender equality.
Students responded enthusiastically, sharing their perspectives on gender norms, particularly the notion of women as a liability, while also asserting the importance of women’s equal property rights. Throughout the session, Dr. Kunda and her team encouraged students to critically question traditional perceptions of marriage. She emphasized that marriage should be a union based on mutual happiness rather than societal pressure, and highlighted the contradiction wherein dowry practices often undermine women’s rights and autonomy.
Overall, the talk show was highly interactive and intellectually stimulating. It provided a platform for students to reflect on the cultural and economic dimensions of marriage while fostering critical thinking. The session successfully encouraged students to challenge stereotypes and envision relationships grounded in equality, dignity, and mutual respect.
Women’s Personal Hygiene in collaboration with Y Connect, sponsored by Whisper
The Women’s Development Cell organized a session on “Personality Development and Women’s Personal Hygiene” on 18th December 2025 in the college auditorium, in collaboration with Y Connect and sponsored by Whisper. The programme was attended by students from FY, SY, and TY across all faculties.
The session aimed to promote awareness of personal hygiene practices while also enhancing students’ confidence, self-esteem, and overall personality development. It was conducted in three segments between 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., with active and enthusiastic participation from students. The resource persons provided practical insights, facilitated interactive discussions, and addressed students’ queries effectively, creating an engaging learning environment.
Gift hampers were distributed to the participants, adding further value to the programme. Overall, the session was informative and engaging, contributing positively to the personal, social, and psychological development of the students.
Awareness Lecture on One Stop Centre
An Awareness Lecture on “One Stop Centre” was organized on 3rd February 2026 in the college auditorium for third-year undergraduate students.
The programme was coordinated by Ms. Kimaya Kamble, Representative of Prakruti Organisation, whose efforts ensured the smooth conduct of the session. The lecture was interactive and engaging, with students actively participating through questions and discussions, which enhanced the overall effectiveness of the session
The programme aimed to create awareness about One Stop Centre services, women’s rights, and the legal and emotional support systems available to women facing violence. The resource person, Ms. Snehal Mhatre, Counsellor at Stree Mukti Sanghatana, delivered an informative and insightful session. She explained the concept, objectives, and services offered by One Stop Centres, including medical assistance, legal aid, counselling, police facilitation, and rehabilitation support. She also sensitized students to issues related to women’s rights and encouraged them to actively participate in spreading awareness within society.
A total of 265 students attended and benefited from the lecture. The programme successfully achieved its objective of promoting awareness and empowering students with essential knowledge about support systems available for women. It concluded with a vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the resource person, organizing team, and participants.
Self-Defence Workshop
A Self-Defence Workshop was organized on 6th February 2026 at the Dome, from 10:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., in collaboration with Prakruti Organization. The programme was primarily conducted for NCC cadets, with active participation from NSS volunteers.
The session commenced with the felicitation and introduction of the resource person, followed by an introductory address highlighting the importance of self-defence for women in contemporary society. The resource person, Mr. Sanjay Sigroha, an ex-serviceman, emphasized the significance of awareness, confidence, and personal safety.
He provided theoretical insights into the importance of self-defence, particularly in emergency and unsafe situations, and explained how alertness, presence of mind, and self-confidence are crucial for personal protection. This was followed by a practical demonstration of various self-defence techniques, including basic defensive postures and movements.
Participants actively practiced these techniques under expert guidance, making the session highly interactive and engaging. Queries raised by NCC cadets and NSS volunteers were effectively addressed, enhancing their understanding and confidence.
Overall, the workshop was informative and empowering, reinforcing the importance of self-defence as an essential life skill for women.
The United Nations–LinkedIn Training Programme
The United Nations–LinkedIn Training Programme, conducted from February 5, 2026 to February 28, 2026 in a blended mode (online and offline), was facilitated by trainers Adrija Shaikha, Jayant Franklin, and Harshada Mane. It was successfully organized as a comprehensive skill-development initiative aimed at enhancing students’ professional, digital, and interpersonal competencies. The programme focused on preparing students for career readiness, with special emphasis on emerging areas such as Artificial Intelligence and Cyber Security.
The sessions covered a wide range of essential skills, including effective communication, time management, presentation skills, problem-solving, networking, and empathy. Students were also trained in resume writing, LinkedIn profile creation, and interview techniques, significantly strengthening their professional preparedness. Digital literacy modules emphasized cyber safety, responsible use of digital devices, and risk management. In addition, students explored digital marketing and AI fundamentals through project-based learning, followed by reflective debrief sessions. A gender sensitization component further promoted awareness of equality and inclusivity.
The programme concluded with a final assessment on February 28, 2026, with 68 students successfully completing the training. Their commitment was noteworthy, as they actively participated alongside their academic responsibilities. A Parents’ Meet was organized on March 1, 2026 in online mode, attended by 30 parents, to share the objectives and outcomes of the initiative, receiving a highly positive response.
As part of experiential learning, a corporate visit to 1Point1, Turbhe, Navi Mumbai, was organized on March 18, 2026 for programme participants. During the International Women’s Day celebration on March 12, 2026, certificates were awarded to the successful students by Jayant Franklin and Adrija Seth, who also encouraged them to continue developing their professional and leadership skills.
A placement drive was conducted on March 30, 2026 in collaboration with UN Women Link and the College Placement Cell, resulting in the successful placement of 97 students in various multinational companies across Mumbai in diverse corporate roles.
Overall, the programme stands as a significant achievement of the Women’s Development Cell, reflecting strong teamwork, institutional support, and active student participation. It has led to visible improvements in students’ confidence, communication skills, and overall personality development, with continued mentoring and placement support assured by UN Women.
International Women’s Day Celebration
International Women’s Day was celebrated on March 12, 2026. The programme was organized under the theme “Streeshakti”, celebrating the strength, achievements, and empowerment of women.
Following the introduction of the guests, the programme proceeded with the certificate distribution ceremony for students who successfully completed the United Nations–LinkedIn Skill Building Program conducted in the college. The certificates were distributed jointly by Jayant Franklin and Adrija Seth, who congratulated the students for successfully completing the programme and encouraged them to continue developing professional and leadership skills.
Overall, the International Women’s Day Celebration 2026 was a memorable and inspiring programme that successfully highlighted women’s empowerment through recognition, cultural expression, and collective celebration.
You tube link – https://www.youtube.com/live/EZBpPnsv3ts?si=fDeHLHZyjf6EZuwn
The programme commenced with the warm welcome and felicitation of the guests by the Principal, Asha Menon. The distinguished guests for the occasion included representatives from UN Women — Mr. Jayant Franklin and Ms. Adrija Seth, along with Smt. Nivedita Mukherjee and her Aratrika dance team. All the guests were warmly welcomed by the Principal, acknowledging their valuable presence and contribution to the programme.
After the certificate distribution, the cultural segment of the celebration began with a captivating Odissi dance performance by the Aratrika Group led by Nivedita Mukherjee. The dancers presented a graceful and expressive performance reflecting devotion, strength, and feminine power, beautifully aligning with the theme “Streeshakti.” The audience highly appreciated the classical presentation and artistic excellence of the performers.
Nari Shakti Bill Campaign
An online awareness session on “Nari Shakti Bill Campaign” was organised on April 13, 2026. The session was conducted for FYBCA and FYBMS students, with a total participation of 64 students and 4 faculty members. The resource person, Mrs. Chitra Lele, Head and Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, SNDT College, delivered an insightful presentation highlighting the provisions and significance of the Nari Shakti Bill Campaign, with a focus on enhancing women’s participation in governance and decision-making processes.
The session addressed key themes such as socio-cultural barriers, under-representation of women in politics and bureaucracy, institutional challenges, and the need for inclusive governance. The speaker emphasized the importance of equitable participation in strengthening democratic values and encouraged students to recognize their role in nation-building, particularly in the context of Viksit Bharat. The programme included a welcome note, presentation with PPT, interactive discussion, and a concluding vote of thanks.
Overall, the activities of the Women’s Development Cell significantly contributed to students’ awareness, skill enhancement, and empowerment. The programmes successfully fostered confidence, critical thinking, and active participation among students, aligning with the broader objective of gender equality and holistic development.
The session was interactive and engaging, incorporating real-life examples and discussions that enhanced student understanding. It successfully achieved its objectives by increasing awareness of gender equity in governance, encouraging civic participation, and fostering critical thinking about inclusive leadership. The programme was effectively conducted through the virtual platform and widely disseminated through institutional channels. Overall, the session had a positive impact, motivating students to actively contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society.