ISLAMABAD: The national conference titled: ‘Education for Every Woman and Girl’ has recommended to the government to establish first women’s university in Gilgit-Baltistan, expand the Benazir Taleemi Scholarships, implement menstrual hygiene management programess and enforce the five-year curriculum review mandated by the National Education Policy 2017-2025.

The conference was organised by the National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW), in collaboration with UNICEF and the British Council.

According to a statement, the event was a key initiative under NCSW’s National Women’s Agenda - ‘The Next Horizon’.

It focused on addressing educational disparities faced by women and girls across Pakistan, in alignment with the government’s Education Emergency declaration.

NCSW Chairperson Nilofar Bakhtiar opened the conference with a call to action, highlighting the critical need for inclusive and equitable education.

Secretary Ministry of Education Mohyuddin Wani reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing the educational landscape for women and girls in Pakistan.

The conference was attended by representatives from provincial ministries. Their presence underscored the collective resolve to address regional educational challenges and support the empowerment of women and girls.

Key partners, Dr. Inoussa Kabore, Deputy Country Representative of UNICEF, and James Hampson, Country Director of the British Council, highlighted the importance of international collaboration in addressing barriers to education. Mohamed Yahya, UN Resident Coordinator, and other distinguished guests contributed their insights into advancing educational opportunities for women and girls.

The conference featured focused working group sessions on four critical themes: ‘Addressing Barriers to Girls’ Enrollment and Retention,’ ‘Creating Safe and Inclusive Schools for Girls,’ ‘Expanding Adult Literacy Opportunities for Women,’ and ‘Advancing Women in Teaching and Educational Leadership.’

Published in Dawn, June 30th, 2024