In a recent international conference hosted by Donghwa Campus Credit Union in Taiwan, Dr. Nandini Azad, a prominent cooperative figure from India, shed light on the transformative role of cooperatives in empowering women across the Asia-Pacific region.
Dr. Azad, representing the Working Women’s Forum in India and the Indian Cooperative Network for Women, emphasized the significant impact of cooperatives in providing social protection, housing, healthcare, and childcare to millions of women.
During her keynote address on the theme ‘Importance of Cooperatives for Rural Women in India and Experience Sharing of Indian Cooperative Network for Women Organizations,’ Dr. Azad highlighted the strides made by women-led cooperatives, which have facilitated the establishment of 267 businesses tailored to women’s needs.
These cooperatives have not only fostered economic progress but have also contributed to the overall empowerment and self-reliance of women globally, she added.
The conference aimed to facilitate the sharing of experiences among grassroots organizations, with a focus on supporting rural women’s self-reliance at a global level.
Representatives from various regions, including India, Hong Kong, Britain, and Taiwan, were invited to share their inspiring journeys and success stories in empowering economically marginalized women through cooperative movements.
Dr. Azad reiterated the importance of collective efforts in empowering women, stating that through cooperative initiatives, they are collectively embarking on a journey towards prosperity.
More than 26 delegates from across the Asia-Pacific region actively participated in the conference, underscoring the growing momentum of cooperative movements aimed at women’s empowerment.
The conference served as a platform to exchange ideas, strategies, and solutions to overcome the challenges faced by women in different parts of the world. Dr. Azad’s message resonated with participants, inspiring them to continue their efforts in driving socio-economic transformation through cooperative endeavours, claims a release.