A skills and crafts training programme conducted by Female Emancipation and Skill Training (FEAST), was completed in Swat and a certificate distribution ceremony was held in the scenic valley was held on Tuesday. The programme aims at imparting training to the wvives of the militants.
Peshawar’s Corps Commander General Asif Yasin Malik distributed certificates among the participants of the training programme.
under the programme women are not only rehabilitated but also trained in different crafts and provided with tools and raw materials.
“Peace has prevailed in Swat, the process of rehabilitation and reconstruction is underway and the affected people will always be fully supported,” said Gen Malik.
“Islam has given equal rights to women and they have always played a vital role in the development of society, therefore the Pakistan Army has decided to involve them in the process of reconstruction and development in Swat.”
About the sacrifices of the people of Swat, he said, “The army came to Swat to restore order and with God’s grace, peace has been restored through the sacrifices of our soldiers and the efforts of the local people.”
“The extremists wanted to change the lifestyle of this community but they failed.”
On the presence of troops in Swat, “As the Chief of Army Staff has repeatedly said, the army will stand by your side until the Swati people reach a destination of peace, development and prosperity.” He added.
He further said that to help maintain peace, a cantonment is being set up in Swat, construction of which will start soon. On the role of FEAST in rehabilitation, he said, “To bring back misled people, women, as mothers, sisters and wives can play a vital role and FEAST is successfully helping us move towards these goals.”
“They will not only be part of the process of de-radicalisation but will also learn different skills and crafts here,” he added.
“Qualified and rehabilitated women who went back home will stay in touch with the centre and can come here at any time for further help and interaction.”
Published in The Express Tribune, January 26th, 2011.
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