As part of its continuing community-level engagement, the Shahoshini Team conducted 30 village-level training programmes with office bearers of MCDF groups during the recent reporting period. The sessions focused on strengthening participants’ understanding of patriarchal systems, discriminatory social practices and their impact on women’s empowerment.

Through participatory discussions, participants explored how gender-based inequalities can influence women’s decision-making, mobility, opportunities and overall wellbeing. The sessions encouraged them to identify discriminatory practices within their communities and understand the importance of promoting gender equality, dignity and women’s rights.

A significant focus of the training was gender-based violence (GBV). Participants were sensitised to different forms of violence and introduced to ways communities can help prevent, respond to and address GBV. The sessions also provided information on available support mechanisms, including the emergency response system and the Shahoshini crisis helpline, so that participants know where to seek assistance during emergencies.

By working closely with MCDF office bearers, the programme aims to strengthen community-level awareness and develop informed local representatives who can help women access appropriate information and support when required.

Alongside its village-level engagement, Shahoshini also continued to strengthen its digital outreach. Between 2 and 15 September 2026, the team published 15 YouTube Shorts, which collectively generated approximately 10,500 views and brought 14 new subscribers to the channel. As of 16 September 2026, the channel had reached 1,034 subscribers.

The combination of direct community engagement and digital communication is helping Shahoshini extend awareness on gender equality, women’s rights, prevention of gender-based violence and available support systems to a wider audience, while strengthening connections with women and community representatives at the grassroots level.