LAHORE (SNP Report): In Pakistan, women’s empowerment is often spoken of in seminars and political speeches, yet rarely translated into meaningful action. Breaking that cycle, a landmark two-day women’s self-defence workshop at Fazaia Medical College (FMC), Air University, in collaboration with the Pakistan Martial Arts Association (PMAA) and IFMSA-Pakistan, became a powerful declaration: Pakistani women deserve not just sympathy, but skills, strength, and safety.
Unlike many ceremonial events, this workshop stood apart for its seriousness and purpose. From the outset, FMC Principal Maj Gen (R) Muhammad Tahir Khadim, HI(M), underlined the initiative’s importance, stating: “Every student who attends this workshop will walk out stronger, braver, and better prepared to face the realities of life.” This was not a box-ticking exercise, it was the building of a shield for the nation’s daughters.
Practical training, real-world lessons
Under the guidance of PMAA President and chief trainer Anwar Mohiuddin, supported by Faiza Rashid and a dedicated team of female co-instructors, participants learned essential survival techniques: knife disarming, pistol defense, pressure-point strikes, and situational awareness. “Self-defence is not about aggression; it is about survival,” said Anwar, stressing that the aim was to instill confidence, not violence.
Diverse participation, united purpose
The workshop drew students not only from FMC but also from NUST, FAST, NDU, Bahria University, International Islamic University, Air University, and Federal Medical & Dental College, a clear sign that the hunger for empowerment spans campuses and cities nationwide.
Students described the training as “life-changing” and “eye-opening.” One participant said: “I never thought I could disarm someone holding a weapon. Today, I realized it is possible with the right technique and mindset.”
A ripple effect beyond academia
The initiative also attracted professionals. Aisha Farrukh and Sonaina Younus of Serene Air attended as special guests. Aisha announced that Serene Air would soon launch self-defence programs for female staff in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad — a move that could normalize such training in workplaces. “These students are not just learning techniques; they are learning courage,” Sonaina observed.
Courage spreads faster than fear
Pakistan Sports Board’s Qurrat-ul-Ain, delivering a keynote address, remarked: “When one woman learns to defend herself, she becomes a beacon of hope for ten others.”
Indeed, courage is contagious. One confident act of resistance can inspire countless others, shifting societal dynamics and sending a clear message: the era of helpless victims is over.
From workshop to movement
While FMC, PMAA, and IFMSA deserve credit, the responsibility must now extend to policymakers. Why should self-defence training remain an occasional workshop? If physical education is compulsory, why not self-defence, a skill that can save lives?
The workshop concluded with applause and certificates, but the true achievement was the newfound confidence etched on participants’ faces. Chief Trainer Anwar left them with a challenge: “This should not be the end; it should be the beginning of a movement.”
Self-defence is no longer a luxury in Pakistan; it is a necessity. To build a safer nation, women must be empowered not only with education and employment but with the ability to walk fearlessly in their own country. Empowered women strengthen families, communities, and nations. Until our daughters feel safe, Pakistan cannot truly prosper.
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