LARKANA: Women will have to break taboos, which prevent them from participating in social activities as without getting their right to choose and work freely at home and outside, they cannot participate in the development of the society.

This was stated at a panel discussion held in connection with the International Women’s Day organised by SZABIST, Lark­ana Campus, in partnership with Marie Stopes Society and with the collaboration of the Sindh Rural Support Orga­nisation (SRSO). The theme of the event was “Inspire Inclusion and Women Empowerment”.

The panellists were; SZABIST executive director Lubna, Larkana campus director Dr Zahida Abro, Gynae­cologist Dr Erum Naz and women protection cell incharge at DIG office Najma Mazari.

Discussing various issues the woman was confronted with at home and society, they said they had to break the social taboos. If some women were seen in the forefront at various places and institutions today that was because of their own talent, confidence and resilience, they said, adding that the new generation should follow them to achieve empowerment.

There were numerous challenges for them in society, but the working women and particularly the young ones should be determined to overcome and reach their destination.

They said the women should have the courage to convince their families about their rights and dreams.

The additional deputy commissioner-II shared her memories of flood devastation, saying that during her posting at Bakrani, she witnessed that despite being the worst sufferers and having lost all their belongings, the women were braving those odd days.

She said that living in shanty shelters, they faced the flood trauma littered with the multiple issues of their children. It was a general impression that the women could not deliver at the important administrative seats, but history was witness that in difficult situations, if the women were entrusted responsibility, they performed excellently.

The speakers were of the opinion that society had started changing. Speaking about gender equality, they urged the young generation to make up their minds to fight for their constitutional rights.

Speaking as a guest speaker, Knowledge Centre founder Prof Mukhtiar Ahmed Samo said the empowered men and women together could make a beautiful, prosperous and peaceful society.

He further said that it augured well that parents in smaller cities as well now facilitated their daughters to come out from home for higher education and work. The present time was much better for women to flourish in comparison to the past.

Dr Daiyali Gul, president of the Pakistan Medical Assoc­iation Larkana district, said if the women were given chances and safe work place, they could play their role in different capacities very effectively.

In the end, the guests were presented with souvenirs and traditional Ajraks.

Published in Dawn, March 7th, 2024