In a bid to promote self-confidence, personal safety and empowerment of female students in and out of campus, St. Xavier’s University’s (Kolkata) Women and Gender Development Cell in collaboration with Kolkata Police, has introduced an invigorating Unarmed Combat Training Program for the female students at the university.

The initiative, aiming to equip women with essential self-defense techniques was inaugurated in the month of September by the Honorable Vice Chancellor, Rev. Father Dr. John Felix Raj in presence of the Women and Gender Development Cell and the training personals of Kolkata Police.

Rev Father inspired the participants with his words, “We believe that equipping women with self-defense skills is a vital step towards fostering a safe and empowering environment. This program empowers women to be proactive and assertive in challenging situations.” Dr. Antara Ghatak, Convenor of the Women and Gender Development Cell expressed her enthusiasm about the positive impact the program aims to achieve.

The training program designed by Kolkata Police and led by Inspector Prasant Heto, explained that the program not only focuses on physical techniques but also emphasizes mental preparedness and awareness of one’s surroundings.

Open to all female students at the university the training program encompasses a wide array of self-defense techniques, including martial arts, tactical maneuvers and situational awareness. Thirty-five female students are being educated on identifying potential risks and appropriate responses, promoting a proactive approach to personal safety.

Students and staff have welcomed the initiative with enthusiasm. Tithi Basu Ray, a student participant, shared her thoughts, stating, “I feel more confident and secure knowing that I possess the skills to protect myself if the need arises. It’s an empowering experience.”

The Unarmed Training Program is running on a regular schedule and is expected to witness increasing participation as awareness of its benefits spreads across the university community. St. Xavier’s University with its vision to create responsible citizens engages in such exercises cultivating a culture of empowerment and safety, ensuring a brighter and more secure future of women on campus and beyond.

Dr. Antara Ghatak