Vice-Chancellor of Jamia Millia Islamia, Prof. Najma Akhtar, was felicitated at a public reception for her achievements as a distinguished educationist, administrator, and the first woman Vice-Chancellor of a central university in India.
The event was organised by Rex Remedies Charitable Trust at the India Islamic Cultural Centre, Lodhi Road, New Delhi. It was attended by several dignitaries, including Akhtarul Wasey, President of Maulana Azad University, Jodhpur; A.P. Siddiqui, Registrar of JMI; and Sirajuddin Qureshi, President of the India Islamic Cultural Centre, along with faculty members, officers, and members of the public.
Key remarks
- Prof. Akhtarul Wasey praised Prof. Najma Akhtar’s vision, particularly her efforts to increase the enrolment of female students, and expressed support for her initiatives.
- Prof. Najma Akhtar thanked the organisers and outlined steps taken to improve the academic environment at the university over the previous months.
Institutional initiatives highlighted
- Greater administrative roles for women faculty members
- Focus on increasing hostel facilities for female students to improve access and security
- Plans to expand academic offerings, including new departments
- Proposal for establishing a medical college-cum-hospital
- Revision of syllabus in line with contemporary academic requirements
She emphasized that improved hostel infrastructure is a priority before significantly increasing female student enrolment, as it directly impacts safety, confidence, and access to higher education.
