Empowering Future Generations: A Workshop on Combating Violence Against Women
On September 21, 2024, I had the privilege of conducting a transformative workshop at VIT Pune, aimed at combating violence against women. This session marked my second interaction with the talented second-year BTech students at this esteemed institution. My first visit in 2022, as part of an impactful initiative, rolled out in collaboration with JOSH TALKS and their client TVS, involved engaging engineering students across twelve states in India on this crucial topic.
Read about the in-person workshops with VIT Pune
Understanding Gender-Based Violence
At the core of this workshop was a comprehensive understanding of what gender-based violence entails. Participants delved into its various forms, recognized the phases of life where such violence can occur, and discussed effective prevention strategies. We highlighted the importance of understanding these elements and taking action to eradicate this grave societal issue and ensure justice for victims.
A key highlight of the session was the inclusion of insights from IPS Chhaya Sharma, the head of the Special Unit for Women and Child in the Delhi Police. Her instrumental role in cracking the infamous Nirbhaya case provided the students with a real-world perspective on the urgency and complexity of addressing violence against women.
Read more here यौन उत्पीड़न के मामले में क्या करना है – What to do in case of Rape ?
Insights from the Pre-Workshop Survey
Before the workshop, we surveyed 36 participating students to gauge their knowledge of gender-based violence. The results were revealing:
- Over half of the respondents (19 out of 36) believed that at least one in every three women faces some form of violence in their lifetime.
- About half of the respondents (14) thought that only two out of ten victims ever seek justice.
- A similar number (13 respondents) felt that violence against women begins in infancy.
These statistics underscore the pervasive nature of violence and the critical need for ongoing education and awareness on this issue.
A Platform for Inquiry and Inspiration
The hour-long workshop encouraged an open and engaging dialogue among the students, regardless of gender. Their eagerness to ask questions demonstrated a shared commitment to understanding and combating violence against women. Many expressed the need for continued discussions and workshops, highlighting the importance of integrating these conversations into educational settings.
Meet the Facilitator
The session was led by Suparnaa Chadda, widely known as Simply Suparnaa, the founder of the Simply Suparnaa Media Network. A notable UN Women Awardee, Suparnaa has dedicated her career to advocating for women’s rights and empowering communities through education and awareness. Her passion and expertise were pivotal in guiding the workshop, inspiring countless students to become advocates for change. Suparnaa also acknowledges SDG-aligned initiatives through the annual SABERA Awards which includes लैंगिक समानता (Gender Diversity & Inclusion).
Conclusion: A Call to Action
As we concluded the workshop, it became clear that knowledge and awareness are the first steps toward making a tangible impact in the fight against violence against women. By instilling these values in young minds, we can foster a generation of leaders who are committed to creating safer environments for all.
This workshop not only educated students but also equipped them with the tools to inspire change in their communities. It’s time to turn awareness into action! For hosting a workshop with your university students write to womanendangered@gmail.com or suparnaa@simplysuparnaa.com
