The Women’s Studies Centre of Thiagarajar College, Madurai – 09, organized a Self-Defense Workshop on 25.11.2025 at the Open Ground in commemoration of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal – 5 Gender Equality. The programme aimed to equip students with essential self-defense skills, promote physical preparedness, build confidence, and empower young women against violence through practical training.

Dr. R. Aruna, Director of the Women’s Studies Centre, delivered the Welcome Address where she highlighted the importance of self-defense knowledge for personal safety, the role of educational institutions in empowering young women, and how martial arts nurtures confidence and discipline.

The training session was led by Sensei Dr. S. Sundar, Chief Examiner of Kofukan-Shito-Ryu Karate School and Founder of Kalam Traditional Arts Academy, assisted by Mr. M. Sathya Pandi and a team of trained karate students.

The workshop began with an orientation on the significance of self-defense, followed by demonstrations and hands-on training in six major techniques such as elbow strike, knee strike, side kick, hammer fist, headbutt, and basic blocking techniques. Students actively participated in all sessions, practiced the movements attentively, and interacted with the trainers to deepen their understanding.

Notably, two visually challenged students also participated with great enthusiasm, and the trainers provided them with personalized guidance to ensure they effectively learned the techniques to defend themselves with confidence.

Dr. R. Selvakumar, Head & Director of Physical Education, delivered a special address encouraging students to develop self-defense as a lifelong skill, engage in regular physical activity, and strengthen themselves as a step toward women’s empowerment.

The workshop concluded with impactful outcomes—students gained practical and applicable self-defense skills, increased awareness on violence prevention, enhanced confidence, and a stronger sense of personal safety. The programme effectively contributed to promoting Sustainable Development Goal – 5 Gender Equality and reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to women’s empowerment and well-being.