PEOPLE do not generally know when they may need to use it. It is, however, an important subject, particularly for those among the most vulnerable in our society. Some of those who are among our most vulnerable and in need of self-defence are women.

Being aware of this fact, taekwon-do experts from the group Jamaica taekwondo have developed programmes through which they aim to conduct self-defence demonstrations at several girls’ high schools. Such demonstrations are done yearly or as frequently as requested by the schools’ administrators.

The schools are visited by taekwondo students and instructors. During the demonstrations, they display self-defence techniques and discuss self-defence tools, as well as safety tips, among other tactics.

School administrators say in follow-up reports that as a result of these presentations, the students recognise the need to always be aware of their surroundings. The reports also state that they realise that they have the ability to defend themselves, no matter their size.

Students are also generally encouraged to take up the sport. Some do join taekwondo groups, many training with the taekwon-do club housed at the University of Technology, and are today still active in the sport.

Taekwondo fighters from the mentioned Jamaica taekwon-do group will be competing in the ITF Taekwon-do World Cup. The tournament will be held at the Montego Bay Convention Centre from August 26-August 30.