March 08, 2007

If there were more women in the boardroom, greater equality in legislative rights, and an increased critical mass of women's visibility as impressive role models in every sphere of life, one could then think women have gained equality, writes Afroza Bhamani

On March 8, events are held around the world to celebrate women’s achievements. Rich and diverse fabric of local activity connects women ranging from political rallies, government activities and networking events to local craft shows and performances.

The new millennium has witnessed a significant change and attitudinal shift in both women's and society's thoughts about women's equality and emancipation. Many from the younger generation feel that all the battles have been won for them, while many feminists from the 1970’s know only too well the longevity and ingrained complexity of patriarchal society.

If there were more women in the boardroom, greater equality in legislative rights, and an increased critical mass of women's visibility as impressive role models in every sphere of life, one could then think women have gained equality.

However, the unfortunate fact is that women are still not paid as much as their male counterparts, and women's education, health and the violence against them continues to dismay people who care.

Dr Muhammad Yunus, winner of the 2006 Nobel Peace Prize says, "Empowering women is the best antidote to extremism anywhere. Women don't go off to drink away their money at the bar or gamble it away at cockfights."

Muhammad Yunus, has made a difference to the world, our developing world needs to seriously concentrate on women development. They need to start the scientific process:

1. Needs Assessment

i. Living conditions of the women
ii. Academic level
iii. Developable skills
iv. Heritage of the area

2. Skills development

i. Develop the skills by establishing training centres
ii. Facilitating trainings here and abroad
iii. Getting internship for skilled ladies

3. Enterprise support

i. Giving market exposure
ii. Establishing exhibition/ sales halls and display complexes
iii. Helping them to package and market their products
iv. Facilitating the development of financial feasibility
v. Helping them to get finance
vi. Getting like minded people together
vii. Establishing secure hostel and hotel facilities
viii. To give a support system to the working women by establishing day-care centres.

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