Islamabad, A three-day “Wo-Mentoring Program: Leadership Skills Development Among Female Leaders” workshop recently concluded at the Allama Iqbal Auditorium, Faisal Masjid Campus of International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI). The event was organized by IIUI in collaboration with Fatima Jinnah Women University and aimed to enhance the leadership abilities of women in academia.
According to International Islamic University Islamabad, the workshop was part of the LCF project “Shattering the Glass Ceiling: Challenges and Opportunities for Women Academic Leaders in Pakistani Universities,” funded by the Higher Education Commission Pakistan. Prof. Dr. Samina Malik, Rector of IIUI and principal investigator of the project, led the initiative which saw participation from 30 female leaders from various universities in Islamabad, Punjab, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The sessions were filled with practical activities aimed at boosting the participants’ leadership presence and impact within their respective institutions. Training and Development Consultant Ms. Momina Dar emphasized improving communication and interpersonal skills, while Mr. Shahid M. Minhas, a certified Master Trainer, offered insights on handling academic pressures, mentorship, and professional networking. Ms. Sumbal Naveed, CEO of ILFABET, discussed the crucial balance between family support and professional leadership roles, stressing the importance of resilience and assertive communication.
The workshop culminated with an award ceremony where participants received certificates and resource persons were honored with shields. Prof. Dr. Samina Malik, addressing the ceremony, praised the participants for their active involvement and the insightful discussions generated. She extended special thanks to the Higher Education Commission Pakistan for its support and recognized the contributions of the resource persons and organizing team. Malik encouraged the attendees to apply their new skills to promote change and mentorship within their institutions, aiming to challenge existing gender biases and inspire future women leaders.