Understand problems of girl children, parents told

Hundreds take part in women SHG convention in Jeppu

Addressing the gathering after inaugurating the convention of Women Self-Help Groups (SHG) organised by the Spandana Trust and Munnade Mahila Okkoota at Infant Mary’s School premises at Jeppu here on Sunday, she said that parents should always be vigilant towards the future of their girl children. Parents should try to understand the problems of their girl children and help them to rectify the mistakes, she added.

Parents should look after their children without any gender disparity. Girls also should be given equal opportunity to develop. Women organisations should also strive to empower women politically, socially and educationally, along with economic empowerment, Vijayalaxmi said.

Spandana Trust Secretary Celin Alvaris said that the Munnade Mahila Okkoota of the Trust, which was started with 50 SHGs in 1999, has grown into a federation of about 200 SHGs with 3,400 members. The federation is implementing several schemes for the empowerment of women in all sectors. SHG members under the federation celebrate Deepavali, Ramzan and Christmas together without religious bonds, she added.
Alvaris said that the organisation gives more emphasis for the education of girls. Federation offers counselling and trainings for girls who would like to continue their education, she added.

Sisters of Charity, Mangalore Regional Head Sr Irin Jane D’Souza presided. Advocate, Notary and Christian Marriage Registrar M P Noronha, Anupama magazine chief editor M Shahnaz, Infant Mary’s Convent Superior Sr Mary Emma Joseph and Mangalore City Corporation Falnir ward corporator Jacintha Alfred were the guests.