ISLAMABAD: Samina Alvi, the wife of President Dr. Arif Alvi, stated on Tuesday that it was essential for the advancement of society for women to be granted equal rights, particularly with regard to their access to healthcare and education.
Samina emphasized the importance of empowering women by giving them equal opportunities to enable them to reach their full potential while speaking at a painting exhibition by former ambassador Naela Chohan in honor of Women’s Day. The struggles of women were portrayed in the solo exhibition, “Art from the Heart,” at the Pakistan National Council of Arts (PNCA). In a “triangle of death, suffering, and hope,” Chohan’s statement piece of art, titled “Bosom,” reflected the dangers in a woman’s life.
Samina Alvi placed a strong emphasis on increasing public awareness of health issues affecting women, such as mental illness and breast cancer. She mentioned that one of the leading causes of death for women was breast cancer. Additionally, women made up the majority of the nation’s 24 percent population who experienced mild to moderate psychiatric problems. She noted the outstanding work done in the social sector by herself and President Alvi, particularly in raising awareness of breast cancer, financial inclusion for women, people with disabilities, and mental health-related issues.
The First Lady Samina said the President’s House had also initiated the task of improving access to mental health facilities in Pakistan through a collaborative effort towards the prevention of mental health disorders across the country. With the help of various stakeholders, she said, a mental health helpline and Artificial Intelligence-based chatbots were being launched to provide counselling.
She said a recent study by a screening centre in a public sector hospital revealed that 32 percent of the respondents mentioned that media was their prime source of information on breast cancer and the reason for getting themselves screened.
Samina said art could prove as an effective tool of soft diplomacy and lauded the paintings by Naela Chohan that highlighted the issues pertaining to women.
Former Ambassador Naela Chohan, who served as High Commissioner to Australia besides her diplomatic assignments in 10 countries, said her paintings have a strong visual voice to create awareness about social and women’s issues.
In recognition of her strong advocacy for women’s rights, she said, UNESCO held a solo exhibition of her paintings, which is kept on permanent display at its headquarters in Paris since 2002.
Director General PNCA Ayoub Jamali said PNCA was committed to promoting significant aspects of the country and encouraged community participation.
Naela Chohan has opted for various modes in her paintings including mixed media and oil on canvas, paper collage, and batik on silk. The themes of her artwork such as ‘Suffering since immemorial’, ‘Fading glory’, ‘Dignity of labour’, and ‘The dancing puppet’ speak for themselves about the women’s cause.
The exhibition will remain open to the public till March 9 and the proceeds will go to charity.
