Empowering Girls, Enriching Society: SALU Observes International Day of the Girl Child.

Khairpur – An interactive session was held at Shah Abdul Latif University, Khairpur, in connection with the International Day of the Girl Child. The event was organized by the Strengthening Participatory Organization (SPO) under the project Save the Children, in collaboration with the Students Societies Center. Mr. Jamil Asghar Bhatti, Manager Project and Grants, delivered a comprehensive talk as the lead facilitator.
Mr. Bhatti emphasized the urgent need to empower girls in every segment of society. He highlighted the support civil society organizations are providing for the legitimate rights of women and girls. Due to a lack of education and health awareness, the plight of women remains dire. He called for the implementation of laws against forced marriages, and noted that media, parliament, religious scholars, academia, and youth could all contribute to advancing women's causes.
Mr. Bhatti further stated that economic, political, and social empowerment of women is crucial. Women should be included in national decision-making processes and policy affairs, and gender-based violence must be eradicated from society. Promoting a culture of gender balance is essential.
He discussed the negative impact of early marriages, which contribute to a poverty-stricken society and silence women's voices. He also cited Islamic teachings that grant women respect, reverence, and dignity, pointing to Hazrat Khadijah-Tul-Kubra as a role model for women's entrepreneurship.
The session featured contributions from Dr. Taj Muhammad Lashari, Dr. Khadim Dahot from SIVA Trust, Abdul Jabbar Islami, Advocate Khalida Riaz, Ms. Zahida Perveen from the Women Agriculture Development Organization (WADO), Sidra Jabeen, Ms. Syeda Areeba Ali, Ms. Mehrunisa from SPO, and many students.
Dr. Ali Raza Lashari, Incharge of the Students Societies Center, conducted the event proceedings and expressed gratitude to the SPO team for organizing such informative events for students and faculty members. He also thanked the Meritorious Prof. Dr. Muhammad Yousuf Khushk, Vice Chancellor of the University, for supporting the Students Societies Center in building the capacities of young minds.
A walk was also held from the Students Societies Center to demonstrate solidarity with women and girls.