At international or university levels, Women's Studies courses/centres generally seek to extend an understanding of women's experiences and feminist theory. However, it is rare that Women's Studies programmes integrate activism within the programme or systematically link up with the political activities of the women's movement. The Institute of Women's Studies, Lahore, is different in this sense, since its main aim is to encourage, clarify, link and integrate theoretical work into activism and be part of the women's movement at all levels.
Specifically, the Institute offers the following;
Intensive residential short courses building towards the longer Certificate and Diploma core-course. This will enable working women to pace themselves rather than having to leave work at one stretch and will enable them to expose themselves to areas of study/creativity that they may not otherwise have the opportunity for.
Multidisciplinary approach that encourages linking up with other organisations/institutes. Activism and community mobilisation, learning from each other and trying to minimise the distance between 'teacher'/ 'student'.
The Institute will recognise experience, interest, commitment and activism as basic requirements for eligibility rather than (only) formal academic background when applying either as 'student' or faculty.
Reading, writing, theatre, film-making and other creative expressions are integral to the programme. Courses will be offered to facilitate these skills.
Supervision for those wishing to conduct research; write academic essays; develop manuscripts for publishing; work on dissertations/thesis; research methodologies.
Visiting Scholars Programme:
The aim of this is to encourage Asian women (particularly Pakistanis) teaching/ working abroad to do their research and writing work in Pakistan. This will enable Pakistanis and other Asians to have access to these scholars who will also be involved in teaching/ supervising the Women's Studies courses. The programme is open for those (either from within the country or abroad) who need supervision, support or a space to complete individual academic/reflective work.
