Tue May 27 13:22:15 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Labour Minister Santosh Lad laid the foundation stone for a new building for the Government First College for Women in Dharwad, Karnataka. The ₹3.5 crore project aims to provide a permanent structure for the college, which started in 2014 with 10 students and now educates 450 girls. Minister Lad highlighted the importance of education for girls and emphasized the contributions of Basavanna and B.R. Ambedkar to equality and women’s rights. Deputy Commissioner Divya Prabhu noted the improvements made to address the previous building’s poor condition.

**News Article:**

**New Building to Empower Women’s Education in Dharwad**

**HUBBALLI, May 27, 2025** – A significant boost to women’s education is on the horizon in Dharwad, Karnataka, as Labour Minister Santosh Lad inaugurated the construction of a new building for the Government First College for Women. The ₹3.5 crore project promises to provide a state-of-the-art facility for the growing institution.

The college, initially sanctioned in 2014 under then Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, has seen remarkable growth, expanding from just 10 students to its current enrollment of 450. At the ‘bhoomi puja’ ceremony, Minister Lad emphasized the importance of education in empowering women and highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting their academic pursuits.

“The Constitution, largely shaped by Ambedkar, has significantly enhanced respect for women,” Lad stated. He further encouraged students to embrace the ideologies of Basavanna and B.R. Ambedkar, both champions of equality and social justice.

Deputy Commissioner Divya Prabhu addressed previous concerns regarding the college’s infrastructure, noting that temporary arrangements were made while advocating for the new structure. “This new building will be instrumental in providing a conducive learning environment,” she added.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Mayor Ramanna Badiger, HDUDA Chairman Shakir Sanadi, and Police Commissioner N. Shashikumar. The new building is expected to be completed within the year and will significantly enhance the educational opportunities for young women in the Dharwad region.

Read More