Mianwali, Thursday, 17 April 2025: In a powerful display of youth engagement and social awareness, PODA, in collaboration with PODA Women Leader Mukhtiar Shaheen, Head of Noor Welfare Organization, Mianwali, organized a dynamic speech contest at a Government Girls Elementary School, Mari City. Centered around critical themes such as a Violence-Free Society, Violence Against Girls, the Right to Education (Article 25-A of the Constitution), Clean Environment, Health Lives for Healthy Future and Ending Child Marriages, the event brought together over 65 students, who passionately voiced their perspectives and solutions. The entire school staff was present to witness the thought-provoking speeches, highlighting the importance of empowering young voices to speak out on their priorities and advocate for a more equitable and safe society.
Mukhtiar Shaheen, Head of Noor Welfare Organisation emphasizes the importance of raising awareness about critical issues affecting girls, highlighting that it’s essential for improving their lives and promoting equity and equality. This awareness can help empower girls and create a more just society, she added.
Nusrat Batool, Headmistress of the school, appreciated the efforts of PODA and Noor Welfare Organization and said that such initiatives play a vital role in shaping the minds of young students. “Creating awareness about fundamental rights, social issues, and the importance of education at this stage helps instill confidence and responsibility among students. I am grateful to PODA and Noor Welfare Organization for bringing these important conversations to our school and encouraging our students to think critically and speak up for a better future,” she said.
Mukhtiar Shaheen delivered a thoughtful talk on menstrual hygiene and nutrition, and handed over a hygiene kit to the school administration. The kit will support a health club in the school, where senior students will manage it with minimal financial support to provide sanitary pads and underwear. This initiative aims to make these essentials accessible to students through the health club’s platform.
Three contestants each from grades 6, 7, and 8 participated, highlighting different topics. In the end, the Headmistress, Nusrat Batool, and Mukhtiar Shaheen awarded all the contestants with shields.
These activities are part of a larger 3-year project (Dec 2022 – Nov 2025) titled “Reduce Early Marriages to Enhance Gender Equality.” The project is supported by the Norwegian Embassy in Islamabad and implemented by PODA across 41 districts in Punjab.
