MLCU’s Activism event promotes sexual health education and awareness

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaDecember 10, 2024

Martin Luther Christian University (MLCU) observed the ‘16 Days of Activism: Unite to End Gender-Based Violence’ on December 9, at its Nongrah campus. The program aimed to raise awareness about gender-based violence and foster conversations around this pressing issue. The event also featured the launch of the ‘Demystifying Sexuality Handbook,’ published by MLCU in collaboration with Enfold, Bangalore.

The program commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Larilin Kharpuri, Dean of Research at MLCU, who underscored the importance of collective action in addressing gender-based violence. Students from the School of Language and Cultural Communication performed a northeast chant, which set an introspective and inspiring tone for the event.

Dr. Glenn C Kharkongor, chancellor of MLCU, delivered the keynote address on ‘Addressing Reproductive Health and Sexuality in the Context of Northeast.’ He focused on pregnancy among teenagers and college students.

The segment titled ‘A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words’ was presented by careen joplin langstieh and balaiamon kharngapkynta from the Community Centre for Arts, Craft & Culture. Their presentation creatively depicted the issue of gender-based violence through their own experiences, leaving a lasting impact on the audience. They visually portrayed women who struggled to find safety and understanding in society.

A panel discussion moderated by patricia mukhim, editor of The Shillong Times, was the highlight of the event. The panelists included shannon d. Massar, director of Faith Foundation, and dr. ardonister lyngdoh, controller of evaluation and examination at MLCU.

The discussion explored how the lack of proper education about sexuality leaves young people, particularly females, vulnerable to misinformation and harmful societal expectations. In many cultures, the discussion of sexuality is still considered taboo, and topics like contraception, safe sex, and consent are often brushed aside, leaving women to navigate the complexities of their sexual lives without proper guidance or support. Women must be empowered with the knowledge, resources, and support to make informed choices about their bodies. Before one can effectively teach children about sexuality, it’s essential to start by educating adults.

At the conclusion of the panel discussion, the vice-chancellor, Prof. TK Bamon, presented tokens of appreciation to the panelists and moderator as a gesture of gratitude for their valuable contributions.

Dr. Lavinia Mawlong, head of the Centre for Gender at MLCU, spoke about the book ‘Demystifying Sexuality: A Collaboration with Enfold.’ This segment provided an informative exploration of sexual health and well-being, drawing connections to the larger theme of the event.

The ‘Demystifying Sexuality Handbooks’ were officially launched during the event. The launch was led by the panel members alongside Dr. Glenn C. Kharkongor, chancellor; Prof. TK Bamon, vice-chancellor; and Malcolm D Roy, pro-chancellor of MLCU. This handbook represents a significant resource in advancing discussions around gender and sexuality.

The program concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by bansiewdorlang mylliemngap from the Centre for Publications and Communications at MLCU. He expressed gratitude to the speakers, panelists, organizers, and attendees for their contributions in making the event a success.

The observation of the ‘16 Days of Activism’ at MLCU successfully brought together students, academicians, and practitioners to foster meaningful discussions and collaborations in the fight against gender-based violence.