Strengthening Participatory Organization set up an engaging stall on the first day of the 18th Rural Women Conference hosted by PODA, showcasing IEC materials and publications focused on efforts to end child marriage. Visitors from across Pakistan, including delegates and community representatives from Waziristan to Gilgit Baltistan, stopped to study the resources and exchange views.
The display prompted candid conversations about how early marriage affects health, education and livelihoods in remote rural communities. Many attendees recounted local experiences and expressed determination to support initiatives that protect children and delay marriage, reinforcing the need for sustained community engagement to end child marriage.
SPO staff and volunteers used the conference platform to outline practical steps and resources available to rural stakeholders, while listening closely to the concerns and suggestions raised by participants. The presence of regionally diverse visitors underlined how widespread the issue is and the importance of tailored, locally led responses.
Organisers and visitors left encouraged by the level of interest and the willingness to collaborate across districts. Conference organisers invited attendees to continue the dialogue on day two, aiming to build on the momentum and translate conversations into concrete actions to end child marriage in Pakistan’s rural areas.
