(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
FMC Hosts Inspiring Self-Defense Workshop to Empower Women with Confidence and Courage
Islamabad – Fazaia Medical College (FMC), Air University, in collaboration with the Pakistan Martial Arts Association (PMAA) and IFMSA-Pakistan, successfully organized a two-day self-defense workshop that left a lasting impact on students, faculty, and professionals alike.
The event was more than just training in defensive skills — it carried a powerful message of empowerment: women must be equipped with knowledge, confidence, and resilience to protect themselves in any situation.
Leadership Support and Vision
The workshop was inaugurated by Maj Gen (R) Muhammad Tahir Khadim, HI(M), Principal FMC, who described the initiative as a “shield of confidence” for young women.
“Every participant who leaves this hall today will be stronger, braver, and better prepared for life,” he said, stressing that mental resilience is as vital as academic achievement.
Vice Principal Brig (R) Prof Muhammad Mazhar Hussain, SI(M), praised the sessions as transformational. “Seeing our daughters blocking, disarming, and defending themselves was a moment of pride. Pakistan needs more initiatives like this, and FMC is proud to lead the way,” he noted.
Courage as a Collective Force
Keynote speaker Ms. Qurrat-ul-Ain from the Pakistan Sports Board delivered a powerful address on the theme “Courage is Contagious.” She emphasized how one empowered woman can inspire and uplift countless others.
Real-World Training
The workshop was technically led by PMAA President and Chief Trainer, Anwar Mohiuddin, with support from Faiza Rashid and co-instructors Sumaiyya, Sarah Gill, Noor-ul-Huda, and Maheen Sheikh. Unlike traditional martial arts demonstrations, the sessions focused on practical, real-world tactics including:
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Knife and pistol disarming
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Pressure-point strikes
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Situational awareness
“Self-defense is not about aggression, it is about survival and dignity,” Anwar explained. “Every participant here is learning how to protect her future.”
Students from NUST, FAST, NDU, Bahria University, Air University, IIUI, Federal Medical & Dental College, and FMC actively participated, many experiencing this kind of training for the first time.
Industry Recognition and Expansion Plans
Special guests Ms. Aisha Farrukh, Manager Flight Services, and Ms. Sonaina Younus, Manager Flight Operations at Serene Air, praised the initiative.
“Safety is paramount in aviation, and it must also be a part of everyday life. Self-defense should be included in every institution’s curriculum,” Ms. Aisha said, announcing that Serene Air will soon launch specialized self-defense training for female crew and staff in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad.
Ms. Sonaina added: “This initiative is inspiring. These students are not just learning defense, they are learning courage. Such programs must be celebrated and expanded nationwide.”
A Movement for Empowerment
The event concluded with a grand ceremony where certificates and prizes were awarded. In his closing remarks, Anwar Mohiuddin urged participants to spread the knowledge:
“This is not the end, but the beginning of a movement. Every participant here is now an ambassador of courage. Share these skills with your families and communities — that is how we build a stronger Pakistan.”
The workshop ended with a standing ovation, while Principal Tahir Khadim summarized the spirit of the event:
“When you empower women, you empower families. When you empower families, you empower nations. The future of Pakistan is not only educated, but courageous.”
