Jamshoro, A recent seminar at the University of Sindh, Jamshoro, titled “Empowerment of Women through Promotion of Inclusion,” spotlighted domestic violence as a primary factor in women’s marginalization in Pakistani society. The event, organized by the Institute of Gender Studies, brought together academics, students, and experts to discuss the challenges faced by women, emphasizing the need for empowerment and education to combat these issues.

According to University of Sindh, speakers at the seminar, including Prof. Dr. Abdul Sattar Shah, Dean Faculty of Social Sciences; Dr. Hamadullah Kakepoto, Director; and Prof. Dr. Misbah B.B. Qureshi, Director of the Institute of Gender Studies, underscored the pervasive issue of domestic violence and its impacts on women’s health and societal participation. The seminar also addressed the broader context of women’s oppression within the patriarchal structure of Pakistani society, highlighting the critical need for education and economic independence for women.

Dr. Irfana Begum Malah of the Dr. MA Qazi Institute of Chemistry revealed a disturbing trend, noting that many of the girls and women reported missing in the country are victims of honor killings. This stark revelation underscores the urgent need for societal change and the expansion of women’s roles across all spheres of life to ensure their safety and empowerment.

The seminar challenged the misconception that the movement for women’s rights and initiatives like the Awrat March are anti-men. Instead, speakers like Professor Amar Sindhu and Dr. Amir Ali Barro advocated for recognizing women’s emotional intelligence and managerial skills, proposing increased female employment in various sectors to benefit society as a whole.

The event also showcased a documentary film highlighting the everyday challenges faced by women, with ASP Shahrbanu of Lahore cited as a national hero and role model for her contributions to women’s empowerment. The seminar concluded with a call for a concerted effort to combat domestic violence and promote gender equality, urging the implementation of the United Nations’ theme of “Investment and Acceleration of Women’s Development” in Pakistan.