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ALIGARH, January 8: Dr Najish Begum, Associate Professor of Hindi at the Women’s College, Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), was honoured by Justice MarkandeyKatju, former Judge of the Supreme Court of India, in recognition of her significant contributions to women’s education, academic leadership and social awareness.
The honour was conferred at a seminar organised by Creative Foundation at HKS Surjeet Hall near Rouse Avenue Court, New Delhi, on the occasion of the birth anniversaries of renowned social reformers Savitribai Phule and Fatima Sheikh.
Addressing the gathering as the chief guest, Justice Katju described education as the most effective instrument for social change and constitutional empowerment. He emphasised that genuine equality cannot be achieved unless women are provided access to quality education and intellectual freedom, adding that the struggles and contributions of Savitribai Phule and Fatima Sheikh remain equally relevant in the contemporary social context.
The seminar sought to promote gender justice by revisiting the historical legacy of women’s education in India, constitutional rights and present-day social challenges. Speakers recalled the pioneering educational movement initiated by Savitribai Phule and Fatima Sheikh, noting that their efforts laid the foundation not only for women’s education but also for broader social transformation.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Najish Begum highlighted the crucial role played by Fatima Sheikh in advancing girls’ education. She observed that Fatima Sheikh, along with Savitribai Phule, established a school in her own home, marking a historic milestone in the promotion of women’s education. Dr Begum stressed that Fatima Sheikh’s contributions deserve equal recognition whenever the legacy of Savitribai Phule is remembered, as both together laid a strong and enduring foundation for women’s education in India.