Coordinator to Minister of State and Federal Tax Ombudsman Meher Kashif Younis on Thursday said that empowering women at grassroots level in Pakistan had great significance for fostering sustainable economic growth.

Addressing a round-table conference on “ Impact of Empowering Women in Economic Growth” here, he added that women had a pivotal role to play in the economic and overall development so prioritising their empowerment became paramount.

Kashif Meher was of the view that investing in women’s education, healthcare and economic opportunities not only enhanced their well-being but also propelled the nation towards prosperity.

He said economic empowerment involved creating opportunities for women to enter and thrive in various sectors. Micro-finance initiatives, vocational training programmes, and support for women entrepreneurs could boost economic growth by tapping the potential of women in the workforce, he suggested.

Recognizing and addressing gender-based barriers in the workplace was crucial for fostering an inclusive environment that allowed women to contribute effectively towards strengthening the national economy, he asserted.

The coordinator said that legal reforms and social awareness campaigns could challenge ingrained gender stereotypes, promoting a culture that valued and respected the rights of women. This cultural shift was fundamental for creating an environment where women could actively participate in all aspects of society without facing discrimination.

“A nation can harness the full potential of its women by ensuring their more prosperous and equitable future. Educating women is a cornerstone for empowerment.

By ensuring widespread access to quality education, Pakistan can equip women with the knowledge and skills needed to participate actively in the workforce. An educated female population contributes to informed decision-making, improved health practices, and a more robust economy,”he concluded.

Source: Associated Press of Pakistan