A three-day training workshop titled “Wo-Mentoring Program: Leadership Skills Development Among Female Leaders” organized by International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) in collaboration with Fatima Jinnah Women University, Rawalpindi (FJWU) ended here at the Allama Iqbal Auditorium, Faisal Masjid Campus of the varsity. This training workshop was the ultimate product of the LCF project titled “Shattering the Glass Ceiling: Challenges and Opportunities for Women Academic Leaders in Pakistani Universities” funded by Higher Education Commission Pakistan led by Prof. Dr. Samina Malik (Rector IIUI) as Principal Investigator.
The workshop focused on nurturing the leadership skills of women in academia. It brought together 30 female leaders from universities across Islamabad, Punjab, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to participate in structured sessions filled with practice-oriented activities. These sessions were designed to enhance the participants’ leadership presence and professional impact in their respective fields.
Ms. Momina Dar, a Training & Development Consultant, focused on enhancing communication and interpersonal skills, emphasizing the adoption of feminine leadership traits and the development of leadership potential tailored for the academic environment. Mr. Shahid M. Minhas, a certified Master Trainer, educated participants on handling academic abuses, the value of mentorship, and building professional networks. He also introduced techniques for stress management, mindfulness, and relaxation through group activities. Ms. Sumbal Naveed, CEO of ILFABET, highlighted the importance of family support for women’s career success and the need for assertive communication in diverse teams. She also discussed balancing domestic responsibilities with leadership roles and developing resilience to overcome professional and personal challenges.
The event concluded with the presentation of shields to the resource persons and certificates to the participants, celebrating their achievements and the successful completion of the workshop.
Addressing the closing ceremony, Prof. Dr. Samina Malik, Rector IIUI highlighted the enthusiastic participation and insightful feedback from the attendees. Special appreciation was extended to the Higher Education Commission Pakistan for funding and support. She also acknowledged resource persons for their invaluable contributions to the workshop’s success. The organizing team as well as support staff was also acknowledged for their hard work and seamless coordination. The chief guest encouraged all participants to take the knowledge and connections gained from the workshop back to their institutions and continue to push for change, challenge gender biases, and mentor the next generation of women leaders. She urged the participants to continue their journey of leadership with courage, integrity, and passion.