Celebrating International Women’s Day on 8th March, 2024
International Women’s Day 2024 Theme – Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress Joint Press Release Thimphu, March 8th 2024:
A Momentous event is set to unfold as the world comes together to commemorate International Women’s Day on March 8, 2024. This global platform celebrates the achievements and contributions of women worldwide and this year’s UN theme, Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress, underscores the pivotal role women play in propelling societal advancement. The imperative to achieve gender equality and enhance women’s well-being in all facets of life has never been more pressing, essential for building thriving economies and fostering a sustainable planet. Furthermore, the overarching global theme for International Women’s Day is Inspire Inclusion & encouraging others to recognize and appreciate the value of women’s inclusion as it paves the way for a more inclusive and harmonious world. Organised jointly by National Commision for Women and Children (NCWC), and Respect, Educate, Nurture, Empower Women (RENEW), with support from UNFPA, UNDP, JICA, and IPPF, this celebration not only reflects on past accomplishments but also envisions a future where women’s empowerment is not just a goal but a lived reality.
Gyalpozhing College of Information and Technology (GCIT) in Kabesa, Thimphu is hosting this significant gathering, graced by Her Majesty the Gyalyum Sangay Choden Wangchuck, Royal Patron of RENEW and Goodwill Ambassador of UNFPA, as the guest of honour. Her Majesty will deliver a keynote address highlighting the significance of Women Empowerment in shaping the future. The event will feature an address by the Prime Minister with attendance from newly elected eminent members of the parliament and esteemed national and international dignitaries. As Bhutan embarks on its 13th five-year plan and achieves graduation from the group of least developed countries, the unveiling of the Gelephu Mindfulness City project, initiated by His Majesty the King, symbolises a significant chapter in Bhutan’s history, setting its role as a dynamic global economic gateway. In our pursuit of a transformative agenda spanning economic, social, and technological progress, the emphasis on investing in women takes centre stage. Technology is recognized as a crucial tool to open new avenues for women, fostering additional income, expanding employment opportunities, and access to knowledge and skills. Simultaneously, recognising the evolving technology landscape, there is commitment to preparing the next generation while prioritising the protection of women from technology -facilitated gender based violence. The event will witness the unveiling of RENEW’s 20th-anniversary logo, signifying two decades of steadfast commitment to empowering women in Bhutan. Concurrently, the launch of RENEW coffee table book, celebrating 20 years, and a reflective journey through Bhutan’s advancements in gender equality. Highlighting the resilience and ingenuity of Bhutanese women, a generative AI presentation will be showcased, crafted by women entrepreneurs trained by GCIT. This event holds additional significance as it commemorates the 20th anniversary of the NCWC, underlining two decades of unwavering dedication to women’s causes.