focus on the government panel
Throughout the two days of the Experiential Workshop II, insights from different perspectives were well-gained, since students had their own role to play in simulating the process of policy making. The theme of the workshop is to simulate the policy making process of the New Territories Land (Exemption) Ordinance. Students are assigned to groups with different roles including media, government panel, clansman federation, political parties and citizens and women’s coalition/village women. Participants are briefly introduced to the process of policy making, then identified their roles with certain events. Regarding the controversy of the above ordinance, different stakeholders will be prepared for being interviewed by the media on day 1, then being prepared for the “City Forum” of day 2 and so on. Therefore, preparation will be done by the participants with their roles as stakeholders. Assignment group 5 consists of the students from being the role of media, government panel and women’s coalition/village women.
And here are the example of the women’s coalition/village women.
During the experiential workshop, we observed that women in the village were confronted with challenges regarding inheritance rights. Over time, the younger, well-educated women of the village have been actively raising awareness about women’s rights and advocating for the rights they rightfully deserve. However, it is crucial to delve into the historical background that shaped the experiences of the older generation of rural women. Traditionally, these women were expected to dedicate themselves solely to housework and childcare, which severely limited their educational opportunities and hindered their ability to accumulate personal assets. As a result, their social and family status remains underestimated and confined to a lower level. This situation leaves me feeling helpless, as it becomes evident that these problems cannot be solved by the women alone.
There are numerous approaches to addressing and overcoming the challenges faced by rural women and preventing them from experiencing financial hardships. Primarily, we must prioritize providing high-quality education to women in the village. It is important to note that many women in rural areas have limited access to education or have not received any formal education at all. Education plays a crucial role in empowering women as it enhances their literacy and communication skills, while also boosting their confidence. The knowledge acquired through education serves as a foundation for creating more opportunities and fostering their overall development.
In addition, it is crucial to offer training and skill development programs specifically tailored for rural women. These programs should focus on addressing the lack of professional skills commonly observed among rural women, who often find themselves limited to low-skilled jobs such as agricultural work or taking care of their husbands. By providing training that enhances their vocational skills—such as accounting, tailoring, and first aid—we can empower rural women to access a wider range of employment opportunities and increase their potential income. As a result, they can develop a sense of financial security and enhance their overall well-being.
Lastly, alongside providing education and training to rural women, it is crucial to raise awareness and garner support from both society and the government. Collaborating with organizations that champion women’s rights, such as the HONG JONG WOMEN’s COALITION, becomes imperative. This organization acts as a powerful bridge between women’s groups, advocating for women’s movements, gender justice, and relevant policy initiatives. Working in partnership with such organizations can offer practical support and also impart diverse education to rural women.
