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Thursday, December 5, 2024

AWKUM and UNFPA Pakistan Sign MoU on Gender-Based Violence Integration

 

United Nations Fund for Population (UNFPA) Pakistan and Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan signed an MOU on Gender-Based Violence integration in curriculum, Research, and Partnerships

 

UNFPA Assistant Representative Dr. Rubeena expressed her views that in Pakistan, 28% of omen aged 15-49 years have experienced physical violence while 34% of ever-married women have experienced spousal physical violence. It is alarming that among the victims, 56% women are not seeking any help and even they have not talked to anyone about the violence they faced. It is an established fact that without the support of university leaders, faculty and students it is hard to prevent gender-based violence in Pakistan. The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Zahir Shah discussed that academia is one of the important places to produce better localized knowledge and evidence-informed policy for preention and response to Gender-Based Violence in Pakistan.

On the occasion, Dr. Hussain Ali Assistant Professor of Sociology expressed his views that in a few disciplines GBV-related topics are taught in gender studies courses for students' understanding but there is no specialized course on Gender-Based Violence and GBV Case Management. In the meeting he stressed the establishment of a resource lab to set a research agenda on GBV, GBViE and GBV Case Management. In Resource Lab researchers will produce research-informed policy recommendations for all government line departments and agencies to prevent and respond to GBV. To achieve gender equality and to mitigate the risk of GBV in Pakistan a Memorandum of Understanding is signed between UNFPA and Department of Sociology Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan. UNFPA will provide technical assistance to the University for Prevention of GBV in the province.









Tuesday, November 26, 2024

AWKUM Hosts Successful Alumni Meetup to Celebrate Achievements and Foster Connections

 

Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan (AWKUM) hosted a successful Alumni Meetup on November 21, 2024, bringing together graduates from various fields and graduating years for an evening of connection, celebration, and inspiration. The event, held at Alhamra Banquet Hall was a testament to AWKUM’s commitment to fostering lifelong ties with its alumni community.

The gathering saw an impressive turnout of former students, now accomplished professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders, along with current faculty and staff. The event aimed to celebrate the achievements of AWKUM alumni, strengthen bonds, and explore collaborative opportunities to further the university’s mission of excellence in education and research.

Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Zahir Shah welcomed the alumni, emphasizing the significance of their contributions to society and the university’s pride in their accomplishments. "Our alumni are our ambassadors, representing the values and education they received at AWKUM. This event is a step towards building a vibrant network that fosters growth for individuals and the institution alike," said the Vice-Chancellor. AWKUM extends its heartfelt gratitude to the generous sponsorship of the Accountability Lab. Their support was instrumental in creating an enriching experience for attendees and ensuring the success of the Alumni Meetup. "We deeply appreciate Accountability Lab for their commitment to our vision and their contribution to fostering a strong community-driven initiative and promoting sustainable development" said the honorable Vice Chancellor. He further thanked USAID HESSA for their creating a robust higher education ecosystem in Pakistan that produces graduates who are not only academically proficient but also equipped with the skills required to drive economic growth and innovation.

The Alumni Association of AWKUM was also formally launched during the event, with an invitation to all graduates to join and contribute to various initiatives supporting students, research, and community development. A cultural segment, showcasing the rich traditions of the region, added a festive touch to the evening.

The Alumni Meetup concluded with a commitment to making this an annual tradition, strengthening ties within the AWKUM family, and leveraging the collective potential of its alumni for the greater good.