Women in Learning & Leadership Training I – Women University Swabi
This training was designed around conscious raising on women’s rights and gender-inclusive socio-economic development and issues. The training was the first of its kind for the students of the university, who are now eager to formulate a Critical Thinking Circle at their campus and be future torchbearers.
Former MPA and Education Minister, Ms. Meraj Khan, Chairperson of Women Wing PMLN Khyber Pakhtunkhwa spoke to the students to help them rise above the socio-cultural barriers and break the glass ceilings, through her story of struggle and strength. In her address, she mentioned ‘Educating and empowering a woman is equal to empowering a society’. Mr. Qibla Ayaz, Chairman Council of Islamic Ideology was invited to the session ‘Men as Change Agents and Allies’ which shed light on women’s empowerment and Islam. In his session, Mr. Qibla Ayaz encouraged women to progress and prosper to achieve high standing from themselves through examples of Hazrat Khadija(RA). Ms. Sofia Hussain and Ms. Sonia Irum delivered training on Social Inclusion, Gender, and Women Empowerment. Dr. Munazza Yaqoob, the Lead Consultant spoke to the students about the importance of Critical Thinking. Entrepreneur Ms. Qurat Ul Ain shared her story and engaged with students as a Financial Service providing entrepreneur. On the third day, Ms. Jennifer Lee, a writer, and filmmaker from the US engaged with the students to elaborate on stories of feminist struggles from the US. The participants asked pertinent questions about the US feminist struggle and were able to develop a correlation with activists in Pakistan. Ms. Rehma Riaz, Regional Business Coordinator SMEDA – Pakistan, encouraged the students on enhancing their entrepreneurial skills and coming up with social enterprises. She highlighted various opportunities and economic empowerment platforms available for women.
