A One- Day Soft Skill Workshop on the theme “She leads; strengthening soft skills for stronger leadership” organized by Naga Women’s Union and sponsored by Manipur State Commission for Women was held today at Conference Hall DSSS, Mantripukhri, Imphal.
The workshop was chaired by Th. Tiningpham Monsang, Chairperson MSCW and Smt.W. Phajatombi Devi (MCS), Member Secretary, MSCW and Additional Director, IPR, Manipur. Sk. Sophia, Member, MSCW; T. Chuongsin Koireng, Member, MSCW; Lourembam Dayabati, Member, MSCW along with Ch. Priscilla Thuimai, President, Naga Women’s Union (NWU) shared the dais as presidium members.
Speaking at the workshop, Th. Tiningpham Monsang stated that Leadership is not a subject that can be taught in classrooms; but it is an innate quality that comes from within. True leaders are often looked upon as individuals who possess wisdom and clarity. That is why, in moments of confusion or uncertainty, we seek guidance from the Almighty, the ultimate source of wisdom and direction.
Monsang affirmed that as leaders, there will be immense expectations from different sections of society. It is therefore essential that you gain maximum knowledge and understanding from programmes such as this one. Although participation today may seem limited, remember that each of you represents thousands of women who look up to you for inspiration and guidance, she added.
She further maintained that the Indian Constitution has laid down various provisions and articles exclusively for the protection and advancement of women through the Women’s Commission. Unfortunately, many of these constitutional rights are yet to be effectively exercised in the hill regions of our state. Hence, it is crucial for all women leaders to understand clearly the distinction between constitutional provisions and customary laws that govern our society. Monsang urged the participants to be fully aware of and educated about women’s rights to advocate effectively for justice and equality.
Armed with knowledge from such capacity-building programmes, the Chairperson assured that leadership skills will be further strengthened, enabling to address and resolve women-related issues more effectively. Let us also remember that women’s issues and challenges are best understood and addressed by women leaders themselves with empathy, understanding, and determination, she added.
On her keynote address, Smt.W. Phajatombi mentioned that everyone doesn’t need to be highly educated or intellectual to become a leader, as every woman inherently possesses leadership qualities. Each of the participants, representing 20 different Naga villages, is a leader in their own right, she added.
She further maintained that after gaining valuable insights and knowledge from this programme, all are encouraged to return to their respective villages and share with what they have learned about women’s rights, especially with those who are less informed or come from more disadvantaged backgrounds.
Smt Phajatombi appealed to all the participating leaders to educate and empower other women not merely through words, but through actions, leadership, and example. The speaker also urged all participants to recognize that the Women’s Commission exists solely for the purpose of promoting women’s empowerment and protecting women’s rights.
In the technical session, Zeena Singh shared her insights on the topic “She leads; strengthening soft skills for stronger leadership”
The One Day workshop was also attended by leaders from various naga women communities.
