OKARA – The University of Okara (UO) organized a prestigious seminar to pay tribute to the lifelong services of renowned German artist and educationist, Professor Dr. Senta Siller, for her dedication to gender equality, women’s empowerment, and the promotion of entrepreneurship among rural women.
The event was jointly hosted by the Directorate of External Linkages and the Directorate of Public Relations at the university.
Highlights of the Event
The seminar featured distinguished guests and speakers who reflected on the socio-economic impact of Dr. Siller’s work in Pakistan:
Distinguished Guests: Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Wajid Mehmood (referred to in local reports as Dr. Sajjad Mubeen), Dr. Senta Siller, and her husband, Professor Dr. Norbert Pintsch, graced the occasion.
A Lasting Legacy: In recognition of her services, the Vice-Chancellor announced that the university’s newly constructed girls’ hostel would be named after Dr. Senta Siller.
The “Thatta Kedona” Success Story: Amjad Ali, a representative of a German broadcasting house, briefed the audience on the Thatta Ghulamka Dhiroka (Thatta Kedona) project initiated by Dr. Siller in the 1990s. He highlighted how the project transformed the lives of thousands of village women by teaching them doll-making and handicrafts, turning the village into a global model for rural development.
Key Addresses
During her keynote speech, Dr. Senta Siller shared the motivations that inspired her to dedicate her energies to the women of Pakistan. Her husband, Dr. Norbert Pintsch, detailed their long journey and the challenges they overcame to establish sustainable economic opportunities in rural areas.
The Vice-Chancellor emphasized that education and skill development are the most vital investments for the social and economic progress of any society. He lauded Dr. Siller as a bridge between Germany and Pakistan, fostering a culture of self-reliance.
“Investing in women’s education and entrepreneurship is the best way to ensure the long-term prosperity of our communities,” the Vice-Chancellor remarked.
Attendance and Moderation
The seminar saw a large turnout of faculty members and students. Prominent members of civil society, including Aslam Tahir Al-Qadri and Chaudhry Maqsood Ahmed Jatt, also addressed the gathering.
The proceedings of the event were moderated by Sharjeel Ahmed, Deputy Director of the Press and Media Department at the University of Okara. The ceremony concluded with the presentation of souvenirs to the honorary guests as a mark of gratitude from the university.