US consulate arranges self-defence training for girl students

PESHAWAR: To empower young women and raise awareness against gender-based violence, the US Consulate General in Peshawar in collaboration with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Police organised a two-day self-defence training for 40 female students from Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Women University (SBBWU) and the Institute of Management Sciences (IMSciences) Peshawar.

The training was held at the SBBWU and was part of the Consulate’s 16-day of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign.Public Affairs Officer (PAO) Rob Tate addressed the participants at the Eleanor Roosevelt Corner at SBBWU, Peshawar.

PAO Tate said, “Self-defence is crucial for everyone regardless of gender or location. This training underscores our commitment to empowering women and ensuring their safety so that they can thrive and contribute positively to society.”

The hands-on training was led by the Regional Security Officer of the consulate, Rory Kennedy, alongside female officers from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police Department. The programme aims to equip participants with essential self-defence skills, enabling them to train their peers and other young women in their communities.

This initiative is a joint effort of the Eleanor Roosevelt Corner, Peshawar, and Lincoln Corner, Peshawar, both part of a network of 19 Lincoln Corners across Pakistan that serve as vital forums for Pakistani youth to learn, innovate, and explore

The US Consulate General in Peshawar remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote gender equality and the empowerment of women. This self-defence training is a step towards building a safer and more inclusive community for all.