On December 10, 2024, Shikharapur Community Learning Center (SCLC), in partnership with ONGD-FNEL Luxembourg, organized a self-defense training program in Dakshinkali Municipality, as part of the 16-day Campaign against Gender-based Violence.
The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence is a global campaign emphasizing the need to eliminate violence against women and girls. This initiative is critical to raising awareness, fostering community dialogue, and creating safe spaces for women and adolescent girls. Programs like these empower participants by equipping them with knowledge and skills to combat violence and challenge societal norms that perpetuate inequality.
The one-day training (simulation and orientation) program, organized in coordination with Dakshinkali Municipality and facilitated by the Academy of International Self Defense (AISD), trained over 500 girl students from various schools. Ms. Sanju Maharjan, Founder of AISD facilitated the overall event while activities related to Zumba techniques and practical self-defense techniques were led by Ms. Prabha Maharjan and her team. Participants learned how to respond to violence effectively, gaining confidence and resilience.
Self-defense training plays a vital role in empowering girls and women, providing them with the tools to protect themselves both physically and mentally. It helps build self-confidence, reduce vulnerability, and ultimately make them stronger and more independent.
Dignitaries, including the Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Dakshinkali Municipality including chief of education, ward chairpersons, school headmasters, teachers and representatives of different organizations attended the program, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts to combat gender violence. This initiative underscored the necessity of life skills education beyond traditional classrooms, fostering empowerment and awareness within the community.
SCLC’s commitment to promoting gender equality and safety continues to make a tangible impact in Dakshinkali Municipality, ensuring women and girls are equipped to lead confident, violence-free lives. Through initiatives like the self-defense training, SCLC upholds ONGD-FNEL’s vision of enabling individuals to succeed in life. By empowering girls with essential life skills, SCLC continues to foster a safer and more equitable community, ensuring women and youth can thrive with confidence and resilience.
Link for YouTube Video of the grand event by SCLC: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w7-NpXH9Tuw
Written By: Lalita Lamichhane, Field Coordinator
Translated/Edited by: Niroj Shrestha, Director