The students of the Women's Degree College of Khariar in Nuapada district are feeling self-confident after completing a 12-day practice of self-defence programme that ended on Thursday. "We learnt many techniques and a bit about how to give a punch on the face of a foolish Romeo to defend ourselves from possible attacks, but what is important is that we also understood the value of discipline," said a girl when asked about their opinion on the programme.
Most of the students of this newly-established women's college belong to rural areas, some of the villages being located at a distance of more than ten km. A majority of them cover the distance by bicycle. "The training was a need considering the situation we face," another girl added. The programme closing ceremony held in the college precincts was addressed by a good number of speakers, who encouraged the girls to be self-confident and bold. "Women hold themselves to heights when they feel self-confident irrespective of several hurdles in the male-dominant society. They culture the ability to empower themselves even in an unfavourable situation. Opportunity makes them stronger," said the speakers.
Khariar police station IIC Sadanand Pujari, who was the chief speaker, said, "If you pray to God, ask for courage, not for a solution of your problem. The self-defence exercise should also help you fight domestic violence.”
Principal of National College, Nuapada, and district nodal officer of self defense programme Dr Ashok K Pattnaik, programme coordinator Prakash Sahu, Khariar College lecturer Dr Pl Barma, journalist Tapan Dash and staffs of the Women's College were present. Principal Priyanka Mund presided over the closing ceremony. They thanked the trainers Nilima Barik and Puja Sagar.