Leadership skills: Women learn how to lead in local govts

PESHAWAR:

The newly-elected female councillors in Peshawar got a head start in how to do their new job. Many of them attended a day-long workshop in Peshawar where they learned about effectively leading and heading their governments.

The workshop was organised by Peace, Education and Development (PEAD) Foundation on Monday. PEAD Executive Director Sameena Imtiaz emphasised the role women play in governments and said they need to be prepared to stand up for their rights and the populations they represent.

“It is important for you to attend these leadership trainings as it will help improve your performance as leaders and prepare you to meet the challenges of the political world head on,” she said.

Project Manager Ammad Khaliq and Senior Coordinator Shagufta Gul trained the councillors on different subjects and issues like leadership, peace-building and conflict resolution. At least 24 women from the city participated in the workshop, representing all major political parties, including Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, Awami National Party, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl and Jamaat-e-Islami.

Imtiaz said councillors will be forming a network comprising individuals from different walks of life, including minorities, parliamentarians and councillors to promote peace and harmony in the region. “In this war-torn province, women in the local government system must contribute to peace-building efforts and conflict resolution by creating awareness among their communities,” said Gul.

Participants found the workshop helpful and informative. Tooba Khalil, a district council member, appreciated PEAD’s efforts. “This is the first time, I believe, when a workshop has been held specifically to train women for political leadership roles,” she said.

Another district council member Asia Saleh Khattak said she learned a lot about leadership through the workshop. “I feel empowered and believe I can motivate people to do more good,” she added.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 20^th, 2015.