"A woman is the full circle. Within her is the power to create, nurture and transform." Indeed, women play a significant role in society—a wife, a mother, a sister, a caretaker etc. They have a better understanding of the social structure and are more compassionate towards the needs of others. Only an educated mother will weigh the importance of female education and women's empowerment. Talking about women's empowerment, it refers to providing women with all the rights in order to live freely without any fear. Women have been facing issues since the day they were born -- fighting for their rights and freedom. In a country like Nepal where goddesses are worshipped, at the same time a woman faces sexual abuse, harassment, gender violence, is denied the right of education and becomes the next case of domestic violence.
Though the work is made up of both men and women, men have been regarded as the family's most powerful members. They were the family's decision makers and financially in charge whereas women are believed to be responsible for household chores and taking care of family. Nevertheless, women have the right to participate equally in education, society, the economy and politics. Almost all countries, regardless of how progressive, have a history of mistreating women and Nepal belongs to one of those. In ancient Nepal, Sati tradition was deeply rooted. Social problems such as Chhaupadi and the dowry system are still deeply rooted in the society causing various mental and physical problems leading to many injustice to women. Some of the practices are still being followed in some places of Nepal. Many girls and women are raped, sexually abused, attacked with acid. The state has not been able to give justice to Nirmala Panta, who was raped and murdered. The acid attack victims are coping up with mental and physical problems.
Women should not stay behind someone's shadow. They should come forward and express themselves. The first step towards women empowerment starts by supporting their opinions and providing education. A well-educated woman is confident, outspoken and is able to make decisions. Improved female education leads to higher levels of economic growth. Women's empowerment is the need of the hour in all the countries because awareness among women is important for them to understand their rights. If they are aware of their basic rights only then women will be able to fight for it. Women should be encouraged to pursue their dreams, self-esteem and confidence.
Women empowerment is not just a fight for equal rights. It is the upliftment of women from a society constantly pulling them. Women have the ability not only to shape their lives but also to shape their lives.
The government should eliminate violence against women, end illiteracy by educating all girls and women, equally treating men and women, should have equal participation in politics and political decision making and in economic activities so that no female will have to be deprived of their rights. Alisha Sapkota Grade: 9 Campion School
