ISLAMABAD: Inspired by the empowering stories of Kalash girls, a youth group led by footballer Saeed Nisa from the Kalash community highlighted the crucial role of sports in fostering leadership and confidence among girls during the 18th Rural Women Leadership Training Conference at Lok Virsa.
The group, which also included Tehzeeb Khan, Tamadun Khan, Mohammad Arbaz, Nazia Shabbir, and Rabia Hameed, challenged widespread myths about female athletes, particularly the misconception that girls who play sports may face difficulties in motherhood. Their message resonated strongly as over 500 women leaders from more than 100 districts across Pakistan gathered at the conference to address critical issues affecting rural women.
On the second day of the three-day event organized by the Potohar Organisation for Development Advocacy, the women unanimously adopted a resolution demanding that 18 years be set as the minimum legal age for girls to marry, aiming to protect girls’ rights and promote gender equality nationwide.
Speakers including Deputy Attorney General Advocate Hifza Bukhari, Federal Ombudsperson Fauzia Viqar, and Prof Brigadier Dr Mamoona Mushtaq emphasized the importance of effective enforcement of child marriage restraint laws and the need for uniform legislation across Pakistan.
The conference also featured a session titled “Dialogue with Women Diplomats on Journey of Empowerment,” where ambassadors from Ireland, Tunisia, Rwanda, and Nepal shared insights on education, healthcare, and policy reforms to advance women’s rights.
Safia Saeed, MPA from Punjab, stressed the urgency of stronger laws and enforcement to combat gender-based violence, linking it directly to the campaign for raising the marriage age. The event will conclude with a recognition ceremony celebrating the dedication of rural women leaders toward the progress and development of their communities.
