11/12/2023
Gilgit,
Sensitization Workshop for Honorable Members of GBA
Gilgit-Baltistan, [07- DEC - 2023]
Karakorum Area Development Organization (KADO) in collaboration with World Food Programme (WFP) successfully conducted a sensitization workshop for Honorable Members of the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly, addressing critical issues related to women's rights and gender-based violence. The event, held at Gilgit Serena, was a key component of the 'Advancing Gender Equality through Civil Society' (AGECS) project under the Foundations for Health and Empowerment (F4HE) initiative, generously funded by the Aga Khan Foundation Canada (AKFC) and Global Affairs Canada (GAC)
CEO Khayam Beg welcomed esteemed guests and highlighted the importance of inclusive policy making and ensuring public-private partnerships to mitigate issues like GBV. Following that, Mr. Yaqub Ali, Head of WFP in Gilgit-Baltistan, reaffirmed commitment to 16 Days of Activism, emphasizing WFP's support for GB government in areas like food security, nutrition, and emergency preparedness. He highlighted WFP's role in the BISP-Nashonuma Program, addressing child stunting through nutritious food and cash transfers, aligning with broader goals for child well-being. WFP actively collaborates with the Department of Health across all 10 districts of GB in this government-led initiative.
Honorable Speaker Assembly Nazir Ahmad, Minister for Women Development and Social Welfare Ma'am Dilshad Bano, IT Minister Suraiya Zaman , Minister excise & Taxation Mr. Rehmat Khaliq, Chairman Standibng Commeetiiee GBA Mr. Javaid A Manwa , Secretary WDD Mr. Fida Hussain, and Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Mines and Minerals Kulsum Zaman were among the distinguished guests present.
The speakers highlighted the importance of addressing gender-based violence, Workplace safety, safeguarding policies and discussed ongoing efforts, including the development of rules and laws under the Anti-Harassment at Workplace Act.
The Honorable Speaker encouraged women to step up for their rights, assuring full support for their endeavors.
The workshop featured engaging and interactive sessions on understanding women's rights, gender equality, and related issues in Gilgit-Baltistan. Representatives of various organizations partisipated. Mr. Israr uddin Israr from HRCP, Ms. Munira from AKRSP, Ms. Sadia Mehboob from Women Development Department, Rahim Jan from Social Welfare Department, Mr. Masood Ali Khan from AKHSP ,Gender Advisor Ms. Yasmeen Karim held meaningful discussions on human rights, mental health and gender-based violence.
The workshop provided valuable insights necessary to advocate for the advancement of women's rights and the prevention of gender-based violence in the region. By addressing these critical issues, Gilgit-Baltistan takes a significant step towards a more inclusive and equitable society, where women's rights are protected and upheld.
Gilgit Baltistan Assembly
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