KISHTWAR: District Social Welfare Department in collaboration with the Education Department and the District Hub for Empowerment of Women organised an event at Government Higher Secondary School (Girls) Kishtwar to celebrate the International Girl Child Day. The event was organized under the supervision of District Social Welfare Officer Kishtwar, Zubair Ahmed Lone.
The celebration was a significant step towards promoting the rights of the girl child, emphasizing gender equality, and raising awareness about the importance of empowering young girls. A series of activities, including debates, a painting competition, a plantation drive, and cultural performances, were organized to engage students and the community in highlighting the role of girls in shaping the future of society.
The event kicked off with a Debate Competition, where students presented their views on gender equality and the significance of providing equal opportunities to girls in all aspects of life. Their well-articulated speeches not only captivated the audience but also underscored the importance of challenging stereotypes and fostering an inclusive environment for girls to thrive.
Simultaneously, a Painting Competition was conducted, where young artists showcased their creative talents by illustrating themes that represented the aspirations, challenges, and dreams of the girl child. The vibrant artwork reflected a collective vision for a society where girls are educated, empowered, and free to pursue their goals without hindrance.
In a symbolic gesture towards environmental conservation and the nurturing spirit of the girl child, a Plantation Drive was carried out within the school premises. Students, along with faculty and dignitaries, planted saplings to signify growth, resilience, and sustainability. The drive also aimed to instill a sense of responsibility in young girls towards preserving nature for future generations.
The day’s celebrations were further enlivened by Cultural Performances, which saw girls from the school perform traditional dances and songs that celebrated their cultural heritage and the role of women in society. The performances added a vibrant touch to the event and highlighted the diverse talents of the students. In addition to the competitions and performances, an Awareness Programme on the 'SHE Box' and 'Gender Sensitization' was held.
The SHE Box, a government initiative aimed at addressing sexual harassment at the workplace, was introduced to students, teachers, and participants. Information about the portal, its functionality, and the process of reporting incidents of sexual harassment was shared to ensure that young girls are aware of the tools available to protect their rights and safety.
The gender sensitization session by District Coordinator Mansoor Mustafa along with the Resource persons from NCERT, Sudeep Sharma and Diljeet Palsar focused on creating a deeper understanding of gender-related issues, including the importance of challenging gender-based discrimination and breaking societal barriers that prevent girls from realizing their full potential. The session empowered participants to become advocates for gender equality and work towards creating an inclusive society that upholds the dignity and rights of girls and women.
Speaking on the occasion, District Social Welfare Officer Kishtwar, Zubair Ahmed Lone, lauded the efforts of the students, teachers, and organizers for making the event a success. The event concluded on a high note, with a pledge by all attendees to continue advocating for the rights of the girl child and ensuring that gender equality remains at the forefront of social development in Kishtwar. At the end, all participants who took part in the debate, painting competition, and other activities were felicitated with certificates and tokens of appreciation.
