Day 1 of the 18th Rural Women Conference by PODA drew strong engagement as SPO hosted a stall displaying IEC materials and publications focused on efforts to end child marriage. The stall attracted visitors from across Pakistan, with attendees travelling from Waziristan to Gilgit-Baltistan to review resources and share local experiences.
Conversations at the stall highlighted how deeply the issue of child marriage affects rural communities and the ripple effects on education, health and community wellbeing. Visitors exchanged personal stories and practical concerns, and many expressed a readiness to work together to tackle the problem in their home areas.
The exchange of ideas and commitments from participants inspired the SPO team and reinforced the importance of community-led action. Materials on display were used to guide discussions on protection measures and community mobilization strategies aimed at preventing early marriage and safeguarding children’s futures.
Organisers welcomed the energy and commitment shown on the first day and encouraged continued collaboration between local leaders, activists and civil society. Attendees were invited to join follow-up conversations and collective initiatives as the conference continues tomorrow, amplifying momentum to end child marriage across rural Pakistan.
