She is a beacon of inspiration for Muslim and socially marginalised girls. Her appointment is a testament to her perseverance, dedication, and excellence, paving the way for Muslim girls and women to pursue leadership roles in academia.

Women’s representation in Indian educational institutions has evolved significantly over the years, especially in terms of enrollment. However, substantial challenges remain in achieving equity in leadership roles, faculty positions, and overall opportunities. Although the number of women in faculty roles is gradually increasing, their presence in senior academic positions still lags behind. Leadership roles such as vice-chancellors, principals, and deans are predominantly held by men, with women’s representation in these positions remaining notably low.

Traditional norms and gender biases continue to discourage many women from pursuing higher education or leadership roles in academia. In rural and underdeveloped areas, barriers like limited access to schools, safety concerns, and societal pressure to prioritize domestic responsibilities over education persist, preventing girls from attending school.

While progress has been made in increasing women’s participation, particularly at the student level, much work remains to achieve gender parity in leadership and faculty positions. Addressing these systemic challenges will require institutional reforms, cultural shifts, and stronger policy frameworks.

This struggle is exemplified by the story of Naima Khatoon. Over four decades ago, her family faced a heated debate about her future. In an era when it was highly unconventional for a young woman from Odisha to travel across state lines, the idea of Naima joining her brother, who was pursuing a PhD at Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) in Uttar Pradesh, was met with resistance. Her uncle, in particular, strongly opposed the notion, highlighting the societal challenges women faced in pursuing higher education.

Naima Khatoon’s determination and her mother’s support were pivotal in overcoming the barriers of the time. This early demonstration of resolve and commitment not only marked a significant personal milestone but also set the stage for her future achievements. Her journey to AMU was more than just a physical move; it symbolized a step toward breaking societal constraints and pursuing academic and professional excellence.

After earning her doctorate in political psychology from Aligarh Muslim University, Naima Khatoon began her professional journey as a lecturer at AMU in August 1988. Over the years, she steadily advanced, becoming an Associate Professor in April 1998 and eventually a Professor in July 2006. Before her current role, she served as the Professor and Chairperson of the Department of Psychology, and in July 2014, she was appointed Principal of Women’s College. In this position, she significantly contributed to enhancing the academic and administrative aspects of the institution. Her leadership demonstrated her capacity to drive progress and cultivate a supportive educational environment for women scholars.

Beyond her earlier achievements, Prof Khatoon made history with her groundbreaking appointment by President Droupadi Murmu, as the Vice-Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU). This appointment shattered a century-old glass ceiling, marking a pivotal moment in the university’s prestigious history. The university had been without a full-time Vice-Chancellor since April 2023, following the conclusion of her predecessor Prof Tariq Mansoor’s term. Prof Khatoon is the first woman to hold this esteemed position, representing a significant milestone in the pursuit of gender equality in leadership roles within Indian educational institutions.

Prof Khatoon’s appointment as the first woman Vice-Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) is a landmark achievement, not just for the university but for the broader Muslim community. Her rise through the ranks of academia, culminating in her appointment as Vice-Chancellor, serves as a powerful example of what is possible for Muslim girls and women aspiring to leadership roles.

In a field traditionally dominated by men, Prof Khatoon’s journey exemplifies perseverance, dedication, and excellence. Her success sends a strong message to Muslim girls that no dream is too big, and that with hard work and determination, they too can break barriers and achieve positions of influence. Her leadership opens doors to future generations of women in education, signalling a progressive shift towards gender equality in academic leadership.

As a versatile figure in both academic and administrative spheres, Prof Khatoon brings a wealth of experience and a distinguished background to her role as Vice-Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU). Her extensive academic career is marked by a deep commitment to research, teaching, and leadership, all of which have had a significant impact on her field and the broader academic community. This rich blend of scholarly and administrative expertise positions her well to lead AMU into a new era of growth and innovation.

During her tenure as Vice-Chancellor, Prof Khatoon has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to elevating academic standards at AMU. Her leadership has been pivotal in driving innovations and enhancements across the university’s programs and initiatives. She has championed a culture of inclusivity, striving to create an environment where diverse perspectives are valued and academic excellence is pursued with vigour.

Prof Khatoon has traditionally maintained an open-door policy, welcoming students and faculty to approach her freely. According to Shivangani Tandon, a history professor at AMU, “From personal experience, she doesn’t believe in hierarchy. You could always approach her with complaints, suggestions, or advice, regardless of whether she had taught or met you before.”

It is anticipated that under her stewardship, AMU will continue to build upon its illustrious legacy, seizing new opportunities for growth and advancement. Her focus on fostering an environment conducive to both scholarly and personal development has reinforced the university’s reputation as a centre of educational excellence. Prof Khatoon’s leadership not only honours AMU’s rich history but also positions it for future success, ensuring that the institution remains a beacon of progress and academic achievement.

Her role in these engagements underscores her influential presence on the international stage. Being invited to speak or collaborate with renowned institutions signifies recognition of her expertise and thought leadership in her field. It also highlights her active role in shaping the future of academic inquiry by introducing new ideas and perspectives to a broader audience, thereby influencing scholars and researchers globally.

By taking on this prestigious role, Prof Khatoon becomes a beacon of hope and inspiration, encouraging Muslim girls to pursue their passions, chase their ambitions, and believe in their potential to shape not only their own futures but also the world around them.

Furthermore, her involvement in these global academic conversations reflects a commitment to expanding the reach and impact of her research beyond local or national boundaries. This speaks to her desire to ensure that the advancements in her field have a wider application, influencing policies, practices, and innovations on a global scale. Prof Khatoon’s engagements thus become not only a testament to her individual accomplishments but also an opportunity to elevate the visibility and significance of her discipline in a rapidly evolving academic landscape.

The writer is associated with a multinational company and serves on the editorial board as the Associate Editor of the multi-lingual journal “Naqeebul Hind”.

By Dr Suhaib Ahmad Khan

Dr Suhaib Ahmad Khan