Introduction:
On 14th March 2023, Swabhiman Samiti, with the support of Sahyog Lucknow, organized a seminar on Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights of Adolescent Girls and Women at the project office located in Sekhui. The event was held to mark International Women’s Day (Week) and aimed to raise awareness on women’s health rights, the importance of gender equality, and encourage open discussions on sexual and reproductive health issues.

Objective:
The seminar aimed to:

  • Raise awareness about the sexual and reproductive health rights of adolescent girls and women.
  • Promote gender equality and eliminate gender-based discrimination and violence.
  • Encourage open discussions about body changes during adolescence, ensuring proper understanding and guidance for both parents and adolescents.
  • Discuss the importance of timely health check-ups for pregnant women and immunization for children.

Key Speakers and Discussions:
The seminar was graced by Dr. Preeti Shukla, the Medical Officer at Community Health Center Uska Bazar, who was the Chief Guest of the event. She addressed the audience on various issues related to women’s health and empowerment.

  • Dr. Preeti Shukla emphasized the need for societal behavioral changes to provide women with opportunities for growth and leadership. She highlighted how women have excelled in various fields when given the chance to participate.
    She also stressed the importance of parents openly discussing body changes with adolescents and advocating for the fight against gender-based discrimination and violence. Dr. Shukla encouraged the regular check-ups of pregnant women and the vaccination of children.
  • Smt. Mamta Verma spoke about the history of International Women’s Day and the significance of recognizing women’s rights. She inspired the participants to organize through groups and come forward to assert their rights.
  • Smt. Maya Singh, the Asha Sangini, shared her thoughts on women’s empowerment and emphasized the need for collective action and support in ensuring the health and rights of women and children.
  • Other key speakers, including Asha Jagdamba, Manisha, Chandni, Divya, and Zarina, also addressed the participants, sharing insights on the importance of awareness and collective effort in improving women’s health and well-being.
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Audience and Participation:
The program was attended by a wide range of participants, including community members, volunteers, and health workers. Notable attendees included:

  • Priyanka, Suman, Taramati, Anil, Vimlesh, Harinarayan, and Vinod Prajapati, Secretary of Swabhiman Samiti, who conducted the program.

The event was attended by hundreds of individuals from the community, all actively participating in the discussions and raising their concerns on women’s health issues.

Expected Outcomes:
The expected outcomes of the seminar were:

  • Increased awareness among women and adolescents about their sexual and reproductive health rights.
  • Enhanced community understanding of the importance of gender equality and the fight against gender-based violence.
  • Encouragement for parents to engage in open conversations with their children regarding body changes during adolescence.
  • A strengthened commitment to regular health check-ups for pregnant women and immunization for children.

Conclusion:
The seminar was a resounding success, marking an important occasion on International Women’s Day. It facilitated meaningful discussions on women’s health, rights, and gender equality, empowering participants to take active steps toward improving their well-being and advocating for their rights.

Acknowledgments:
Swabhiman Samiti thanks Sahyog Lucknow for their support in organizing this event. Special thanks to Dr. Preeti Shukla, Smt. Mamta Verma, Smt. Maya Singh, and all other speakers for their valuable contributions. The participation of community members, volunteers, and local leaders made this event impactful in spreading awareness about women’s health and empowerment.