ISLAMABAD: A painting and computer poster competition, titled “Empower Women—Empower Pakistan,” aimed at promoting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations, with a special focus on gender equality and women’s empowerment, was organised here on Tuesday.

The International Governance and Sustainability Institute (IG-SI), in collaboration with the Federal Directorate of Education, organised the Painting and Computer Poster Competition at Islamabad College for Girls F-6/2. The competition witnessed the active participation of 34 girls from 17 colleges across Islamabad.

Inspector General of Police (retired) Dr Sultan Azam Temuri, Founding Director and CEO of IG-SI, addressed the gathering, emphasising the underutilization of nearly half of the population in Pakistan. Quoting the World Economic Forum’s Gender Gap Report 2023, he expressed concern about Pakistan ranking 142 out of 146 countries in gender equality.

Dr Temuri outlined both local and international efforts, especially within the police force, to empower women and bridge the gender gap. Highlighting the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, Dr Temuri stressed the importance of SDG-5, which focuses on gender equality and women empowerment.

He advocated for comprehensive strategies, including education, economic participation, and technological empowerment, to create an inclusive and supportive environment.

Helena Iqbal Saeed, a law enforcement and gender expert at IG-SI, echoed the importance of education and economic participation. She urged women to break free from gender stereotypes, pursue their interests, and excel in their careers despite challenges.

Esin Gulsen, Director of Operations at IG-SI, delivered a video message, extending greetings to participants from Turkiye. She emphasised the crucial role of women’s empowerment in Pakistan and motivated young students to empower their beliefs and contribute to the progress of the nation.

Professor Saba Faisal, principal of Islamabad College for Girls, expressed gratitude to IG-SI for organising the program. The best paintings and computer posters on “Empower Women — Empower Pakistan” were awarded prizes.

Eman Asif from IMCG F-7/4 secured the first prize in the painting competition, while Afzeen Fatima from IMCG I-10/4 claimed the first prize in the computer poster competition. Abeeha Adnan, ICG, F-6/2, Hina Javed, IMCG, I-14/3, and Esha Rehman, IMCG, F-10/2, received the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th prizes in the painting competition.

Fatima Habib IMCG G-10/4 stood in 2nd place, and Maimoona Daud IMCG F-6/2 secured 3rd in the computer poster competition.

The judges for the painting and poster competitions were Zareen Gul, Najia Farhat, Sadaf Shaheen, and Abdul Wahab. They announced the results. The judges were also honoured with souvenirs.

The event concluded on a positive note, celebrating the creativity and commitment of young participants towards the important cause of women empowerment in Pakistan.

Published in Dawn, January 31st, 2024