Fazaia Medical College (FMC), Air University, in collaboration with the Pakistan Martial Arts Association and IFMSA-Pakistan, organized a two-day women’s self-defense workshop that drew widespread appreciation from students, faculty, dignitaries, and professionals alike.
The two-day event not only provided practical training but also carried a powerful message: women must be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to defend themselves in any situation.
The workshop commenced under the esteemed patronage of Maj Gen (R) Muhammad Tahir Khadim, HI(M), Principal of Fazaia Medical College. In his inaugural address, he lauded the initiative as a timely and much-needed step in the national journey toward empowering women. He praised the Pakistan Martial Arts Association for its role, noting that under the dynamic leadership of Chief Trainer Anwar Mohiuddin, the PMAA has proven that martial arts is not only a sport but also a life-saving skill.
“At a time when women face challenges in public spaces, such training is a shield of confidence. I believe every student who attends this workshop will walk out stronger, braver, and better prepared to face the realities of life,” he remarked. The FMC principal further emphasised the importance of mental resilience, reminding students that courage and preparedness are as essential as academic excellence for the youth of Pakistan.
Adding to his words, Brig (R) Prof Muhammad Mazhar Hussain, SI(M), Vice Principal FMC, expressed deep admiration for the young participants. He described the training as transformational, saying, “What we witnessed here was not just training, it was transformation. The sight of our daughters learning how to block, disarm, and defend themselves was a source of pride for us all. Pakistan needs more such initiatives, and FMC is proud to be part of this noble cause.”
The keynote address was delivered by Ms Qurrat-ul-Ain from Pakistan Sports Board, who spoke passionately on the theme, “Courage is Contagious.” She applauded the dedication of the students and the effort of the trainers, saying, when one woman learns to defend herself, she becomes a beacon of hope for ten others.
“Courage spreads, and this workshop has ignited that spark of strength in every participant here. Pakistan needs not only doctors, engineers, and professionals but also fearless women who can safeguard themselves and inspire their communities,” she said. Her words resonated with the audience, setting the tone for the workshop as one rooted not only in physical skills but also in mental empowerment.
The training sessions, led by PMAA President and Chief Trainer, Anwar Mohiuddin, assisted by Vice President Faiza Rashid and co-instructors Sumaiyya, Sarah Gill, Noor-ul-Huda, and Maheen Sheikh, formed the heart of the program. Unlike conventional martial arts demonstrations, the workshop focused on real-world self-defense tactics such as knife disarming, pistol disarmament, pressure-point strikes, and situational awareness techniques. Addressing the participants, Mr. Anwar remarked, “Self-defense is not about aggression; it is about survival. It is about ensuring that no young girl ever feels helpless in the face of danger. Today, you are not just learning moves, but learning to protect your dignity, your life, and your future.”
Participants, many of whom were attending such training for the first time, responded with enthusiasm and determination. Students from leading institutions including NUST, FAST, NDU, Bahria University, Air University, Federal Medical & Dental College, International Islamic University and FMC took part in huge numbers, demonstrating the collective will of the youth to embrace empowerment.
Adding further distinction to the event, two senior professionals from Karachi’s aviation sector, Ms. Aisha Farrukh, Manager Flight Services and Ms. Sonaina Younus, Manager Flight Operations at Serene Air, attended as special guests. Both guests expressed heartfelt praise for the initiative. Ms. Aisha Farrukh remarked, “I am amazed at the level of professionalism displayed by the trainers and the confidence of these young girls. In aviation, safety and preparedness are paramount. Similarly, in life, every woman must be equipped to protect herself. Workshops like this should be replicated across the country. I strongly believe self-defense should be made part of every institution’s curriculum.”
She further announced that Serene Air, in collaboration with PMAA, will soon be launching specialized self-defense training programs for its female crew and office staff in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad.
Echoing similar sentiments, Ms. Sonaina Younus added: “What I have witnessed here is inspiring. These students are not just learning techniques; they are learning courage. This initiative of PMAA and FMC must be celebrated. As a woman professional, I feel proud to see such a program in Pakistan.” Their words highlighted the growing recognition of self-defense as both a professional necessity and a social responsibility, extending beyond the realm of sports.
The student participants themselves were glowing in their praise. Many remarked that the experience changed their perspective on personal safety. One FMC student said, “I never thought I could actually disarm someone holding a weapon. Today, I realized that with the right technique and mindset, it is possible.”
Students from NUST and Bahria University described the workshop as “life-changing,” while those from FAST and NDU highlighted how such sessions promote unity and shared courage among young women from different institutions.
The workshop concluded with a grand closing ceremony where certificates and prizes were distributed among participants. The dignitaries, including Principal FMC Maj Gen (R) Tahir Khadim, Vice Principal Brig (R) Prof Mazhar Hussain, PMAA Chief Trainer Anwar Mohiuddin, and VP Faiza Rashid, jointly awarded the certificates.
In his closing remarks, Anwar Mohiuddin once again underlined the importance of continuity. “This should not be the end; it should be the beginning of a movement. Every participant here is now an ambassador of courage. Take what you learned today and spread it, to your sisters, your friends, your communities. That is how we build a stronger Pakistan.” The audience gave a standing ovation, acknowledging the dedication of the trainers and the courage of the participants.
The success of the event reaffirmed that self-defense is no longer a luxury but a necessity. With rising awareness across Pakistan, workshops like these are bridging the gap between fear and confidence. From the words of the dignitaries to the passion of the students, one message was clear: empowering women with self-defense training is essential for building a safer, stronger, and more resilient nation. As Principal Maj Gen (R) Tahir Khadim aptly summarised: “When you empower a woman, you empower a family. When you empower families, you empower nations. This workshop has shown us that the future of Pakistan is not only educated but also courageous.”
