In the heart of the serene yet conflict-ridden valley of Kashmir, a young woman embarked on a journey that would span continents, break barriers, and inspire generations. Team SheAtWork is proud to host Ms.Insha S. Qazi, an alumna of the prestigious Indian Institute of Management (IIM) and Lancaster University. She is a civil engineer, an interior designer, a successful entrepreneur and the Founder of the SSMD School of Design, an institution that encourages students to embrace the power of education and nurture creativity to transform lives. She also has SSM College of Engineering Technology and Management under her wings and both these institutions strive to equip the youth of Kashmir with the skills to compete in the global marketplace. Insha’s life story is a powerful testament to resilience, determination, and she is indeed an inspiration for many other women.
Ques. How has the education ecosystem changed in Srinagar in the last few decades?
Ans. When we talk about Kashmir valley in particular, be it the education arena or any other sphere, the scenario is very different from rest of India. Not only are the political and economic dynamics different, but the valley has mostly been in a state of turmoil. This has taken a toll on the mental health of people – including the youth and students. Again, due to lack of proper infrastructure and opportunities, students leave Kashmir in search of better education and career prospects.
Fortunately, now, we have begun focusing on extending holistic education in the last few decades. From addressing the identity crisis that students in Kashmir face, to providing mental health counseling and career counseling, growth opportunities, we are doing it all. Additionally, with Government support the situation has indeed improved, and we are on an upward trajectory.
Ques. Education levels the plains of opportunity for everyone. Against this thought, how has the scenario improved for women in Kashmir?
Ans. The impact of government policies on women’s education has been extremely positive. This in turn has accelerated the entry of women into other spheres of work, including politics. As understood, women today do not advice, they need pathways to gain knowledge, they need funding and more enterprises to show case their potential – and the varied ‘yojanas’ and Bills passed by the current Government is accelerating this action hugely.
However, despite all this, Kashmir is a conservative place where women often take a back seat due to toxic masculinity. Again, in a home set-up too, the son is prioritized over the daughter. This mindset needs to change.
Ques. Change begins at home. Do you see some changes taking place in Kashmir?
Ans. Indeed, change is inevitable. Overall, there has been a great level of advancement – today Kashmir is home to many woman entrepreneurs. That is a positive change that has taken place of late. Also, the abrogation Triple Talaq and Article 370 have brought about numerous social changes and empowered women in Kashmir like never before. Today women are aware of their rights and more importantly, they are ready to fight for their rights. Women are rapidly breaking free from the shackles of a patriarchal society.
Ques. Enlighten us about SSM College of Technology Engineering and Management.
Ans. Having taken shape 35 years ago, SSM College is the only private college in the valley. It offers premier courses in engineering and can boast of having alumni all over India and also in some places abroad. Before Article 370 non-Kashmiris did not have access to this college, but now the tides have reversed, about 10-15% of students are non-Kashmiris and it is gradually increasing by the days. The college also has a fashion and design department, which was a taboo a few years ago! This itself is an example of the advancements Kashmir is rapidly making.
Ques. Is that start-up culture in Kashmir as vibrant as it is in other parts of India?
Ans. After the abrogation of Article 370, Kashmir welcomed brands which had already made their place in other parts of India. As far as the start-up culture is concerned, it picked up very fast. Today people feel safer to do business in Kashmir – and women-led start-ups have mushroomed everywhere in Kashmir. Young women are emerging in the Hospitality industry, Automobiles industry, AI, IT, Aviation – women are everywhere today.
Avtar Madan
Poonam Sinha
Ruby Sinha
