CHENNAI: Stressing the importance of women’s empowerment and education, Padma Bhushan awardee and chairperson of Cancer Institute, Chennai, Dr V Shantha said, “School is about being empowered. But empowerment is not a licence. With freedom, we have a greater sense of responsibility.” She was speaking at the Golden Jubilee Celebrations of the MWA Higher Secondary School held at the Music Academy here on Saturday. Dr Shantha, who was the chief guest, released a souvenir commemorating the ocacasion. She advised the school management to add self-defence classes to the curriculum, as she felt it was important to the students.As a doctor who pioneered the idea of specialised oncology care in India, Dr Shantha said, “When I started out, it was an era where cancer meant a death sentence. Now we have progressed to a point where cancer is not only considered curable, but also preventable.”Reiterating the correlation between religious education and worldy knowledge, Uzma Nahid, Founder Director of Iqra Education Foundation, and an advocate of Muslim women’s rights said, “The value of gathering knowledge of the world and in your religion is unparalleled. Both are equally important in being a good citizen.” Dr Preetha Reddy, MD, Apollo Hospitals spoke on the “three Is” in the philosophy of growth as she said one should “invest in Intellect, secure your Integrity and let fly your Innovation.”Encouraging young women to pursue management studies, VL Indira Dutt, Joint Managing Director (KCP) said, “Education should be the first priority for women, as it gives them financial freedom. History has shown that women are capable managers.” Other present included Dr Sujatha Mohan Rajan, Associate Medical Director, Rajan Eye Care hospital, Dr Asma Zehra, Executive Member of Muslim Personal Law Board, Tara Murali, Trustee, Citizen Consumer & Civic Action Group, and Fathima Muzaffer, Editor of Peace Voice.
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