Only education can truly transform a society and that’s absolutely true. A lack of the right kind of education is responsible for many of the issues and crimes we see in the world today.
One such deeply concerning issue is crime against women — something we hear about far too often in the news, with the stories only seeming to get worse.
Strict laws already exist to punish such crimes. From time to time, celebrities, public figures, and women’s organizations raise awareness through tweets, podcasts, and other platforms.
But why does the problem still persist?
The main reason is the absence of proper education. Most people attend school, college, or university simply to earn degrees that serve their academic or professional careers.
What’s missing from our curriculum is social and moral education which is essential for every individual. It’s this kind of learning, values-based, empathy-driven education that can help reduce crime and create a society where women feel safe and respected.
So how do we educate society in this direction?
Here are some actionable steps that can help build a culture of respect, awareness, and safety for women:
- Our first school is our home. It’s the responsibility of parents to teach their children good values and respectful behavior towards women from an early age.
- Schools must make social education mandatory. Topics like empathy, respect, gender equality, and consent should be introduced at a young age.
- Colleges and universities should host regular seminars on social issues, moral values, and women’s safety to help shape more responsible citizens.
- Sisters should educate their brothers on women’s issues and how to treat women with dignity — both in private and public life.
- Governments must launch nationwide educational programs on women’s issues, working closely with local village heads and community leaders to ensure these initiatives are effectively implemented.
- Residential societies should hold regular meetings — weekly or monthly — to discuss women’s safety and social behavior within the community.
- Celebrities shouldn’t only speak up when something bad happens. They should consistently use their influence to promote awareness and education on women’s issues.
- YouTubers and influencers must act responsibly, creating meaningful content like podcasts or short videos that educate people about social and women’s issues.
- The government should strictly regulate sexual content across the internet and OTT platforms, as it often promotes objectification and contributes to unhealthy mindsets.