A comprehensive five-day self-defence training initiative organised for female students in Meghalaya concluded successfully on Saturday, equipping young girls with essential personal safety skills. Conducted at the Jubilee Hall in Mission Compound, Jowai Presbyterian Church, the programme saw active participation from 134 girls enrolled at Jowai Presbyterian Higher Secondary School, all of whom received official certificates upon finishing their sessions.
Collaborative Initiative for Girls' Empowerment
The structured training ran from September 14 to September 19 under the central Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) framework. The West Jaintia Hills district administration, through the District Hub for Empowerment of Women (DHEW) functioning under the Social Welfare Department, organised the sessions in partnership with Shillong-based Happy Red Rooster. The curriculum was designed to instil confidence, situational awareness, and foundational protective techniques among young women and girls.
Building Discipline, Composure and Physical Skills
Throughout the five days, instructors focused on imparting practical defensive maneuvers that can help students respond decisively during emergencies. A Lamare, an educator at Jowai Presbyterian Higher Secondary School, commended the department for creating this platform, noting that such training ensures young girls stay prepared and resilient whenever they encounter vulnerable environments. Isaiah, the founder of Happy Red Rooster, MMA Shillong, urged the participants to maintain their training momentum through regular practice while emphasizing that staying composed, observant, and disciplined is critical during high-stress encounters.
Practical Demonstrations and Safety Guidance
The concluding day featured a recap of core self-defence routines, with participating students demonstrating their skills and reflecting on the practical value of what they learned. Chaired by S. Lamare, Gender Specialist at DHEW West Jaintia Hills, the formal closing ceremony reinforced institutional support mechanisms. F.G.N. Ryngnga, District Mission Coordinator for DHEW West Jaintia Hills, delivered the vote of thanks, encouraging the students to sharpen their defensive capabilities while actively reporting any threats, harassment, or imminent danger to the nearest police station or competent authorities without delay.
