LAHORE: Educational institutes of the city on Thursday organised conferences and seminars in connection with the International Women’s Day.

University of Education Women’s Development Centre organised a series of events to celebrate women’s achievements and advocate for gender equality and women’s rights.

On this occasion, the UE launched its first women’s magazine “She Shines” to represents the voices, accomplishments and aspirations of women.

UE Vice Chancellor Prof Aqif Anwar Chaudhry presided over the event while Kinnaird College for Women University Principal Prof Iram Anjum was the chief guest.

Mr Chaudhry stated that the issue of women’s rights is not just a national but a global concern, and that both men and women must be educated and made aware of it.

Prof Anjum emphasised that women need to stand strong and face their challenges with resilience.

A panel discussion on the theme “For All Women and Girls: Rights, Equality, Empowerment” was conducted.

Professionals from different fields participated, sharing their experiences and insights on gender equality, the challenges women face in various professions and strategies for empowering women and girls.

UHE: The University of Home Economics (UHE) organised a conference on “Empowering Women Through Education” in celebration of International Women’s Day.

UHE VC Dr. Zaibun Nisa Hussain emphasised women should be equipped with professional training and enabled them to contribute effectively to society.

She said that platforms for students’ were available for professional growth to ensure their readiness for future careers.

During the panel discussion, Parliamentary Secretary for Human Rights and Minority Affairs Ms. Sonia Asher underscored the indispensable role of women in Pakistan’s development. She noted that women are excelling in every sector and credited historical figures like Fatima Jinnah for paving the way for women’s empowerment.

Punjab University VC Prof Muhammad Ali Shah pointed out that the women of the Holy Prophet’s (PBUH) household were strong and empowered. He emphasised the importance of studying the Quran and the life of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) to understand women’s rights.

Dr. Shah urged that discussions on women’s rights should take place in the presence of men, so they, too, become aware and supportive of these rights.

He also raised a critical question regarding female medical graduates, stating that while 65 per cent of medical graduates are women, only 30pc actively work in the field. “Where do the remaining 35pc go?” he asked, stressing the need for strategic planning to address this issue.

Dr. Shah further announced that UHE students will have unrestricted access to Punjab University’s library, labs and academic facilities free of charge.

Human Rights and Minority Affairs Secretary Ali Bahadur highlighted government’s initiatives to provide development opportunities for women. On International Women’s Day, the government reaffirmed its commitment to economically empowering women through concrete measures.

Human Rights and Minority Affairs Additional Secretary Rizwana Naveed emphasised that women are a crucial pillar of society and their progress ensures the nation’s development.

MPA Sumbal Malik noted that Hazrat Khadija (RA) was the first female entrepreneur, demonstrating Islam’s longstanding advocacy for women’s empowerment. She stressed that professional education is essential for securing a strong future for women.

Prof Zaibun Nisa Hussain also presented shields and souvenirs to the guests.

To mark the Women’s Day, the UHE vice chancellor led an awareness walk with students and parliamentarians, calling for greater focus on women’s literacy and urging practical steps for its promotion.

The conference was jointly organised by the Women’s Development Centre at UHE and the Punjab Human Rights and Minorities Affairs Department.

Published in Dawn, March 7th, 2025