In a landmark initiative to encourage young women to explore academic and career opportunities in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), Heritage School, in collaboration with FICCI FLO JKL, hosted an engaging seminar for girl students of Classes IX to XII on 12th August 2025. The event aimed to inspire students to take up Mathematics and Science for higher studies, break gender stereotypes and prepare them to lead in a technology-driven future.
The seminar brought together eminent speakers from academia and industry who shared their journeys, insights and practical guidance.
Opening the seminar, Ms. Varuna Anand, Past Chairperson of FICCI FLO JKL and Founder of The Splendor of Kashmir, introduced FICCI FLO’s work in empowering women across diverse fields. She highlighted how STEM can be a catalyst for innovation, entrepreneurship and social change, encouraging students to see these disciplines as tools for shaping both careers and communities.
Representing Collegify, a leading global education consultancy, Ms. Ilakshee Nath (Senior Admission Specialist) spoke about aligning academic choices with personal aspirations. She examined why many girls study STEM subjects but hesitate to pursue them as careers, discussed the value of liberal sciences, highlighted women trailblazers and emphasized the importance of male allies. She also shared strategies for profile building, leveraging LinkedIn and expanding women’s participation in STEM.
Ms. Taarika Kakkar (Senior Admissions Specialist – Career & Programs) spoke on the importance of connecting with the right people, building impactful profiles and using science and technology to enter creative fields. She inspired students with stories of Indian women in STEM who have made a global impact.
From the scientific sphere, Dr. Tuhina Dey, Professor and Head of the Division of Plant Breeding and Genetics at SKUAST-Jammu, delivered a powerful address on ‘Empowering Women in STEM – Unlock Your Potential.’ She outlined diverse career opportunities in STEM, discussed the Prime Minister’s initiatives for promoting girls in science and introduced government schemes like Vigyan Jyoti, GATI and KIRAN. Drawing from her pioneering research in developing three rust-resistant wheat varieties, Dr. Dey urged students to ‘Go, Explore, Lead the Change.’
The event was also attended by Ms. Nandita Bajaj, Executive Secretary, FICCI FLO JKL ,Ms. Sona Mehta, Treasurer, FICCI FLO JKL and Ms. Richa Taneja, Regional Manager & Head of Enrollments, Collegify, who extended their encouragement to the students.
A lively panel discussion and interactive Q&A session gave students the opportunity to clarify doubts, explore global higher education options, and learn about the many paths available in STEM careers.
Principal Mr. Akash Pradhan expressed heartfelt gratitude to all speakers and dignitaries for their invaluable contributions. As a token of appreciation, he presented school mementoes to the guests, acknowledging their role in motivating the next generation of women leaders in STEM.
Through such initiatives, Heritage School continues to inspire and empower girl students—broadening their horizons, nurturing curiosityand equipping them with the confidence to excel in diverse and impactful fields of science and technology.