Activist talk on Women’s Education in Pakistan
An internationally recognized activist, Maryam Bibi, will address “Women’s Education in Pakistan” on Thursday, Oct. 20, at 5 p.m. in VINI 407. The speaker is brought in Buffalo by the regional chapter of Fulbright Association and the talk at NU is organized by the Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies program, the Women’s Studies program, and the Muslim Student Alliance. It is exciting to bring a Fulbright speaker and activist to speak on a contentious and much-needed topic. Any questions regarding the event can be directed to Dr. Mustafa Gokcek at gokcek@niagara.edu.
Maryam Bibi is the founder and chief executive of Khwendo Kor, which focuses on the development of women, children, and strong families in the remote areas of the Northwest Frontier Province (NWFP) and the Federally Administered Tribal Areas of Pakistan. Before establishing Khwendo Kor, which means “sisters’ home” in Pashto, Ms., Bibi held several leadership positions with GTZ, the international development enterprise of the German government. She was involved in policy-level decision-making around efficient energy technologies, implementing community-based training programs, and designing educational materials for Afghan refugees. Ms. Bibi’s efforts for women and children’s development have been recognized nationally and internationally. In 2005, she was one of “1000 Women” nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize; in 2001, she received the Human Rights Award from the International Labor Organization; and in 2000, she was recognized by the UN with the Recognition of Services award. The Government of Pakistan honored her in 2003 with a Fatima Jinnah Medal in 2003 for outstanding women in the social sector, and in 2001 with the Star of Excellence National Civil Award.