Kamalia; Toba Tek Singh Thursday 23 January 2025: PODA Multan Team organized two activities, including a role model visit and a poster competition, in Government Girls Higher Secondary School Kamalia, in which around 50 girls participated. The activities were undertaken as part of a 3-year project by PODA, supported by the Norwegian Embassy in Islamabad. This project employed a life-based skills education approach, emphasizing practical skills and knowledge to empower school girls in their personal and professional lives.

PODA organized a motivational visit by two policewomen, Sub-Inspector Abida Parveen, who is in-charge of SSOIU-Cell, and Ms. Maria Ahmed. They shared their experiences, encouraging the girls to pursue education, join the workforce, and achieve economic empowerment. Ms. Abida Parveen shared her personal story, recounting how her brothers initially opposed her decision to join the police force, but her father’s unwavering support helped her overcome the challenges. She raised awareness among the girls about sexual harassment, providing them with practical strategies and steps to address and combat the issue.

The students were thrilled to see policewomen among themselves and were greatly inspired to pursue the path of education for their development so that they could work for the progress of the country as full-fledged citizens.

The team also simultaneously arranged a poster competition on different themes, aiming to enhance their understanding regarding the importance of education, climate change, cleanliness, health, and hygiene, and for their better prospects and future.

The School Incharge, Ms. Shazia Naheed, commended PODA for their invaluable contribution to the students’ wellbeing. “In government schools, especially in far-flung areas, students often miss out on opportunities to explore their creative potential,” she noted. “The poster competition has been a game-changer, inspiring them to create outstanding artwork and uncover their hidden talents.”