The Social Work Club of Thames International College, in collaboration with Astitwa Nepal, the U.S. Embassy, and supporting institutions Kadambari Memorial College and National College, hosted a powerful Panel Discussion on November 25, 2024, in observance of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
This insightful session facilitated informed discussions on Gender-Based Violence (GBV), its impact on young students, causes, effects, preventive measures, as well as legal frameworks. Engaging with prominent stakeholders in the field, students gained invaluable perspectives from experts and survivors, making the discussion an essential platform for awareness, advocacy, and action.
Distinguished panelists included Ms. Beenu Thapa (National Federation of Disabled-Nepal), Ms. Pramada Shah (Co-founder, SAATHI), Ms. Jenny Khadka (Violence Survivor), Ms. Sushma Gautam (Lawyer), Ms. Rupa Thapa (Nepal Police), and Ms. Manushi Yami Bhattarai (Educator & Politician). These speakers shared their expertise on the rights of disabled women, challenges of violence and suppression, and the broader fight against GBV in Nepal.
As part of Astitwa Nepal's ongoing campaign—Empower, Educate, Enforce: Bridging Practice and Policy to Prevent Gender-Based Violence—this discussion provided college students with practical approaches to combating GBV and a deeper understanding of Nepal's legal framework. In alignment with this initiative, the School of Social Sciences and Social Work Club of Thames collaborated to promote awareness and advocacy, marking the beginning of the global 16 Days of Activism Against GBV campaign, observed from November 25 to December 10.
Overall, the event was a resounding success, with meaningful dialogue, collective actions, and encouraging future collaborations among like-minded individuals and organizations committed to eliminating Gender-Based Violence.
