Fri Feb 21 15:45:54 UTC 2025: ## Social Activist Highlights Caste, Gender Inequality’s Impact on Knowledge at Shankarghatta Convention
**SHANKARGHATTA, INDIA (February 21, 2025)** – A three-day convention on “Knowledge in Society,” jointly organized by Kuvempu University and the Journal of Dialogues on Knowledge in Society, concluded with a powerful call to address caste and gender-based discrimination hindering knowledge creation. Social activist Du. Saraswathi highlighted how systemic inequalities have prevented marginalized communities, particularly women, Adivasis, and Dalits, from fully contributing to and benefiting from the accumulation of knowledge.
Saraswathi, speaking at the convention on Friday, emphasized the vast, often unrecognized, knowledge possessed by women, particularly concerning food systems. Her field research revealed women’s extensive understanding of plants and animals, a knowledge base often dismissed in academic settings. She argued for creating environments where these women can share their expertise without societal constraints, stating the need to “create an environment where they can have leisure time to speak and share their experiences.”
Tashi Choedup, a transgender human rights activist from Hyderabad, also addressed the convention, challenging the societal rigidity surrounding gender identity. Choedup argued that questioning the very definition of “man” and “woman” is key to fostering greater acceptance of transgender individuals.
The convention, which featured dialogues on Swaraj, development, artificial intelligence, art, and knowledge, brought together scholars and intellectuals from across the country. The event underscored the need for inclusive approaches to knowledge creation and dissemination, emphasizing the vital role of marginalized communities in shaping a more equitable and informed society.
First Piper 