Rejecting everyday sexism: Lecturer from Kurram sees liberation in education

Noreen Naseer says necessary for women to be cut-throat in this society

PESHAWAR:

When education is ingrained in a child from the beginning, he or she tends to pursue it to the very end. That is the belief held by University of Peshawar Political Science department senior lecturer Noreen Naseer.

Naseer recently submitted her PhD thesis on Afghan border areas, Fata and adjacent areas for review. Since she belongs to a family of educationists from Kurram Agency, it is hardly surprising education has been a part of her life from the very outset. Back in the 70s, her mother was a university graduate and understood it was imperative for her daughters to attain an education. “When you are told from the start that education is important, you tend to appreciate it,” Naseer says.

The family never differentiated between the girls and boys when it came to education and Naseer had the chance to study in the finest schools in North America and Britain. She ultimately graduated from Jinnah College and did her master’s from the Political Science department. She also took several additional courses on peace-building as well as war and conflict.

Naseer opted for the subject as she hails from a region where there are massive political, economic and social vacuums and the area is completely isolated from mainstream Pakistan. The lecturer believes it is crucial to look into the heart of such matters.

Never on the defensive

Naseer maintains an aggressive approach with men as she believes it is necessary to be cut-throat to create a viable environment for women in this society. She sees women are insecure when stepping out of the house anywhere she goes; be it Peshawar or Karachi.

“Now the time has come where men and woman can work side by side. However, even today, she (the woman) must set certain limits for herself.” The academic points towards the patriarchal and oppressive society and says that is the reason behind a lack of enthusiasm towards education and social independence by K-P’s women.



However, she does take solace in seeing women excel in almost every field. “The flow came rather late, but better late than never.” Turning her attention to women in the tribal areas, she says culture, the patriarchal system and militancy are keeping them from an education. Naseer highlights women in the rest of the country can go to courts, lodge FIRs and fight for their rights, but not in Fata.

Economic empowerment

The educationist points out economic empowerment is crucial for girls and every single woman in K-P and Fata must understand the importance of participation, contribution and distribution.

“The more the girls socialise and get exposure, the more they will value their existence.” She says at a time when people have to fend for themselves, all women should get a degree and a job for economic empowerment.

She points out women are unable to showcase their talent in the current climate. Looking at the positives, she says more women are taking beautician courses which will ultimately lead to economic opportunities. However, Naseer stresses a platform is needed on which skills can be utilised and loan schemes are available. She adds vocational training centres will also help and the country as a whole can generate revenue.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 4^th, 2016.