Everyone Must Play a Role in Building a Safe Society for Women: VC

By Farzana Chaudhry | Lahore, Pakistan
LAHORE: Vice Chancellor of University of the Punjab, Prof Dr Muhammad Ali, has said that everyone must work together to build a safe and secure society for women.
He expressed these views while addressing a ceremony held at Al Raazi Hall in connection with International Women’s Day. The event was organized by the PU Department of Media and Development Communication in collaboration with the Punjab Women Protection Authority.
The ceremony was attended by Hina Parvez Butt, Chairperson of the Punjab Women Protection Authority; Dr Ayesha Ashfaq, Chairperson of the Department of Media and Development Communication; Kulsoom Saqib, Director General Punjab Women Protection Authority; Farah Zia, Director of the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan; Humaira Mumtaz, Program Director of Shirkat Gah; Omer Aftab, CEO of Pink Ribbon Organization; and renowned anchor and broadcast journalist Zunaira Azhar, along with faculty members and a large number of students.
In his address, Prof Dr Muhammad Ali said it is important for educated girls to understand the factors that contribute to their empowerment. He emphasized that economic stability is essential for women’s social empowerment and highlighted the critical role of mothers in shaping society through education and upbringing.
He further noted that although rural women contribute nearly 80 percent to their household economy, they still depend on men to access financial resources. He stressed that women must be granted equal rights along with dignity and respect, and appreciated the organizers for arranging an event focused on women’s rights.
Speaking on the occasion, Hina Parvez Butt said the government is striving to build a society free from violence against women, ensuring access to facilities related to travel, education, healthcare, employment, and sports. She stated that Maryam Nawaz, Chief Minister of Punjab, had declared women a “red line” in her speech and pledged that the government would take measures at every level to ensure their safety.
She added that women now have multiple platforms, including social media, to raise their voices. She also highlighted that domestic violence often begins with minor issues that are ignored and emphasized that youth must act as ambassadors of peace so women can feel safe and confident in society.
Hina Parvez Butt also noted that although women make up about 52 percent of Pakistan’s population, their voices are still not heard strongly enough. She said that since the establishment of the Punjab Women Protection Department in 2016, several laws and initiatives have been introduced to safeguard women’s rights, freedom, and security. She emphasized that women must be aware that in cases of domestic violence, the abusive individual can now be legally required to leave the house.
Meanwhile, Dr Ayesha Ashfaq said that real change in Pakistan will come when society focuses on transforming individual mindsets. She stressed the need to break outdated stereotypes and traditional attitudes prevalent in society.
She said that respect, equal rights, and protection for women are not favors but social responsibilities. When individuals adopt positive attitudes in their homes, workplaces, and social circles, it creates a chain of change that encourages progressive thinking.
She concluded by thanking the participants and stated that the department will continue its efforts to promote awareness about equal rights and empowerment for women in society.