Srinagar: The Social Work department of Kashmir University (KU) on Monday held a series of events, including an art competition and martial arts demonstration to raise awareness about the importance of self defence for women, on the occasion of International Women’s Day.
The event under the theme, ‘Women in Leadership: Achieving an equal future in a COVID-19 world’, also included a skit, which highlighted the problems faced by women in the male-dominated society. The event was graced by the presence of several eminent dignitaries, including Dean of School of Social Science Prof Mohammad Yusuf Ganai, Head of the Department (HOD), Social Works Dr Adil Bashir, and HOD Home Science Prof Nelofar Khan.
A KU official said that the event that was held in accordance with the COVID-19 protocol was kick-started with an art competition in which female students from different schools of Kashmir valley participated, despite incessant rain since late last night. “Some of the paintings drawn by the students highlighted various problems faced by women while others portrayed the women’s power overcoming all obstacles and breaking the glass ceiling. The concept and artistry of all children were widely appreciated by the judges and participants though students from Hilltop school and Crescent school were declared winners,” he said.
Students of Music and Fine Arts, KU, were able to strike a chord with the audience by their mesmerizing performance.
Meanwhile, he said the Foundation for Sports Learning and Development (FSLD) players, which included national and international martial arts medalists, gave a breathtaking demonstration. The foundation also highlighted the importance of self defence for women in the current environment and gave basic tips of martial arts to the audiences.
The students of the Social Works department, KU, also performed a skit that highlighted various ills of the society, including dowry, unequal status of women in the society and gender inequality with society still preferring a boy over a girl.
Dr Adil Bashir, while speaking on the occasion, highlighted the important role played by women in the society. “Time is changing; women are excelling in all the fields though there is a need to raise awareness about gender equality. There are many positive changes which the society has experienced and we need to highlight those things as well,” Dr Bashir said while addressing the participants of the event.
He said women across the globe are speaking out and are getting positive responses, be it equal in salaries or promotions. But, Dr Bashir said there is a lot more which needs to be done to further the cause of women equality.
Similar views were expressed by other speakers, who highlighted the importance of an equal, unbiased society.
