SHILLONG, April 5: A month-long ‘Women and Community Empowerment Programme with special reference to Social Issues’ was organised by the SPARK at Pongkung village, Mawlynrei Triashnong village and Bara Bazaar in a bid to take up issues pertaining to women and children.
According to a statement here, the programme, which was supported by the Office of the District Social Welfare Officer, East Khasi Hills, culminated on Wednesday.
The programme was organised with an objective to address the rising numbers of cases of crime against women and children, as well as to train teachers, community leaders and youths on the issue, so that further dissemination of awareness among the people on such issues is carried out.
“The objective was also to build up a collaborative effort as well as coordination among the members of the community at different levels to address the issue concerned and make them aware of their role and responsibilities in preventing and combating crime against women and children,” the statement said.
District Social Welfare Officer, East Khasi Hills, N Umdor, in her address as the chief guest during the programme, explained to the participants about all aspects concerning crime against women and children.
She also provided detailed information about the various schemes available under the Social Welfare department for welfare of women and children.
SPARK president Shima Modak, on the other hand, called upon the women participants, community leaders, teachers, youths and members of children groups to play an active role and work in tandem with other organisations and concerned departments to address the crime against women and children.
Meanwhile, other speakers spoke on cybercrime as well as the dos and don’ts to protect themselves from falling victim to the same.
They also spoke on juvenile-related issues and the importance of good parenting for a better future of the children, besides stressing on the need for education for all.
Others who were part of the programme include Secretary Shnong of Mawlynrei village, Welding Kharsohnoh, community leaders, among others.