LAHORE: Punjab University (PU) Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Muhammad Ali on Thursday said that everyone must work together to build a safe society for women.
He expressed these views while addressing a ceremony held at Al Raazi Hall in connection with International Women's Day, organised by the PU Department of Media and Development Communication in collaboration with the Punjab Women Protection Authority. On this occasion, Chairperson of the Punjab Women Protection Authority Hina Parvez Butt, Chairperson Department of Media and Development Communication Dr Ayesha Ashfaq, Punjab Women Protection Authority Director General Kulsoom Saqib, Human Rights Commission of Pakistan Director Farah Zia, Programme Director of Shirkat Gah Humaira Mumtaz, CEO of Pink Ribbon Organisation Omer Aftab along with teachers and students were present.
Prof Dr M Ali said it is important for educated girls to understand the factors that help to empower them. He stated thateconomic stability is essential for women’s social empowerment. He also emphasised that a mother’s education is crucial because she plays a key role in shaping society. He added that although rural women contribute nearly 80% to their household economy, they still depend on men to access financial resources. He stressed that women must be given equal rights along with dignity and respect. He also appreciated the organisers for holding the event focused on women’s rights. Hina Parvez Butt said the government is striving to create a society free of violence against women where they have access to facilities related to travel, education, healthcare, employment and sports. She said that Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz had declared women a ‘red line’ in her speech and pledged that the government would take measures at every level to ensure women’s safety. She added that women now have many platforms, including social media, to raise their voices. She noted that domestic violence often begins with small issues that are usually ignored.
