The Sarojini Naidu Centre for Women’s Studies (SNCWS) at Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI), in collaboration with the Crime Against Women Cell of Delhi Police, organized a week- long Samagra Swa-Raksha Program—an essential capacity-building workshop for female students of the university. Held from February 10 to 14, 2025, at the MAK Pataudi Sports Complex, this year’s workshop focused on conceptual training led by gender experts and physical training provided by two female police trainers. Each day was strategically organized into two main components: engaging physical training sessions followed by ice-breaking activities, experience sharing, and meaningful discussions to deepen participants’ conceptual understanding. The workshop not only equipped participants with vital skills but also cultivated a strong sense of sisterhood and boosted their confidence, empowering them as future leaders.
The workshop commenced with an inspiring inaugural function on February 10, 2025, graced by esteemed guests, including Chief Guest Prof. Mohd. Muslim Khan, Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences, JMI, Guest of Honour Prof. Sarah Begum from the Faculty of Education, and Director of the Centre Prof. Nishat Zaidi. In her opening remarks, Prof. Zaidi highlighted the significant milestone of the Centre’s 25th anniversary, emphasizing that the empowerment of women is crucial to this celebration. She encouraged students to immerse themselves fully in the rigorous training, fostering both personal and collective growth.
Prof. Khan commended the Centre for its unwavering commitment to conducting such essential training programs for female students. He stressed the vital importance of acquiring and applying knowledge mindfully, acknowledging that while some individuals perpetrate violence, the majority of men are allies who can actively contribute to societal change. Prof. Sarah added depth to the conversation by underscoring the psychological benefits of workshops like these, advocating for tailored initiatives to support women with psychological challenges, such as autism and Down syndrome, to prioritize their safety and well-being.
After a week of intensive and impactful training, the workshop reached its culmination on February 14 with a captivating demonstration by the participants during a vibrant valedictory function. The event featured the esteemed Chief Guest Prof. Mini S. Thomas, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology at JMI. Faculty, staff, and students filled the venue to celebrate the remarkable achievements of the participants.
Prof. Thomas was visibly impressed by the participants’ demonstration, praising their skill, confidence, and poise. She further shared her real life experiences and encouraged the participants to empower themselves.
Both the Delhi Police trainers and participants shared their experiences during the workshop, advocating for the continuation of such programs for an extended duration, underlining their value and effectiveness.
In a powerful conclusion to the event, Gargi Mishra extended her heartfelt thanks on behalf of SNCWS, JMI, and the CAW Cell. The cooperative effort was made possible under the insightful leadership of Prof. Nishat Zaidi, Director of the Centre with impeccable coordination by Dr. Tarannum Siddiqui and Dr. Aparna Dixit, supported by a dedicated team of student volunteers: Vaibhav Saini, Zoyba Chaudhary, Shubhangi Mishra, Gargi Mishra, Asma Aysha, Meenal Raj, and Nida.
