ISLAMABAD, Nov 1: Chairperson National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW) Justice Majida Rizvi (retired) on Saturday said every field of life is open to girls and they should never underestimate themselves on gender grounds.

She was speaking as chief guest at the oath-taking ceremony of the students’

council office-bearers at the Federal Girls College for Women, F-7/2.

She said under Islamic injunctions and the Constitution of the country, women had equal rights to live an honourable life according to their wishes.

“Therefore, every profession, be it defence services, medical or engineering, is open to women,” she said, adding “now it’s up to you to what extent you explore these (professional) opportunities”.

Islam is the only religion which has brought women at par with men and in spite of societal and cultural impediments women should not feel insecure, she added.

Justice Rizvi also impressed upon the girl students that

they should know their rights so that they could defend themselves.

Recalling her personal experience, she said gone were the days when parents would think one hundred times before allowing their daughters to work with men.

“Now you are lucky enough that time has substantially changed and one can see women participating in every walk of life and at times taking leads over men in certain fields,” the chairperson of the NSCW said.

Being appreciative of the students of the college, she urged them to work day and night and show commitment in whatever fields they selected for themselves.

“I am really happy to see the strength of confidence among you people and I have no doubts that with this conviction one can achieve anything he wants.”

Earlier, Justice Rizvi administered oath to the office- bearers of the students council 2003-04.

Rabia Siddiqui president, Syeda Sana vice-president, Rabia Malik general-secretary, Sundas Sharif joint secretary, Sadia Sharif debating secretary, Ammara Nawaz dramatic secretary and Bushra Khan sports secretary were the new members of the students council.

Principal of the college Tazeen Muzaffar presented the college crest to Justice Rizvi and praised her services for women development and gender equality in the country.