The Pakistan Martial Arts Association partnered with Fatima Jinnah Medical University to deliver an intensive self defense workshop on campus aimed at empowering female medical students and young doctors with practical protective skills and situational awareness.
Co-hosted by the Business Incubation Center JIDAAT under the leadership of Prof. Dr. Taskeen Zahra, the initiative focused on giving participants realistic, life-saving techniques while stressing safety and responsible use. The programme responded to a growing demand in Pakistan for targeted training that enhances personal security for women working in demanding professions.
The event was inaugurated by Prof. Dr. Khalid Masood Gondal (Tamgha-e-Imtiaz, Pride of Performance), Vice Chancellor of FJMU, who applauded the collaboration and underlined the value of equipping women with effective self defense knowledge as part of broader efforts to build resilience and confidence among healthcare professionals.
Sensei Anwar Mohiuddin, President and Chief Trainer of PMAA, led hands-on sessions that blended Krav Maga, Kickboxing, Aikido, and Kyokushin Karate. Training drills emphasised realistic scenarios such as shoulder grab releases, striking techniques, and controlled gun retention and disarmament, with constant attention to ethical conduct and participant safety.
Co-instructors Sempai Hanzla Mohiuddin, Zainab Sultan, Sumaiyya, and Sarah Yaqoob worked closely with participants to sharpen technique and boost confidence. Trainers and faculty alike praised the commitment and energy shown by the young women throughout the day.
A memorable demonstration saw volunteers Zainab Tariq and Hafsa Fatima lie motionless while Sensei Anwar Mohiuddin broke a heavy stone on their stomachs with a sledgehammer, an act that drew loud applause and symbolised the discipline and courage fostered through martial arts training.
In closing, Sensei Anwar expressed gratitude to organisers Mahnoor Shawal and Amna Tazeen and thanked the FJMU administration for its support, reaffirming PMAA’s National Self-Defense Training Mission to expand accessible self defense programmes for women across Pakistan and strengthen the safety of the country’s healthcare workforce.
