UN Women Pak, Korea team up to empower women with digital skills

December 20, 2024 (MLN): The Country Representative of UN Women, Jamshed M. Kazi, expressed UN Women’s commitment to empowering women across Pakistan, showcasing a four-year program supported by the government of Korea.

The discussion took place during a meeting with Shaza Fatima Khawaja, the Minister of State for Information Technology and Telecommunications, at the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunications.

This initiative focuses on equipping women aged 18-35 from underdeveloped communities with essential digital skills, mentorship, and resources, enabling them to become tech entrepreneurs and leaders in the digital economy.

Jamshed M. Kazi shared details of gender equality projects aimed at reducing barriers and enhancing gender connectivity in Pakistan, according to the press release issued on Friday.

He emphasized, “This program is designed to leave no girl behind, creating opportunities for them to lead and innovate in the tech space.”

The meeting focused on advancing gender equality through digital initiatives and fostering closer collaboration.

Acknowledging Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja as the only female minister in the current cabinet, Kazi commended her leadership and commitment to breaking barriers for women in Pakistan.

He expressed eagerness to work closely with her team, stating, “We look forward to collaborating with your ministry to create a more inclusive digital future.”

Shaza Fatima underscored the Ministry’s focus on addressing the digital divide through the National Digital Plan, which aims to ensure greater access to the internet for all, particularly women.

She stated, “Women make up 50% of our population, and everything we do must reflect this reality. Empowering women through digital tools is a priority for our government.”

The Minister also highlighted the success of the government’s laptop scheme, under which nearly 1 million laptops were distributed, with a significant portion allocated to girls and women.

She added, “More and more women are earning their place on merit, and it is essential to equip them with the tools to excel in the digital age.”

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to enhancing gender equality through innovative programs and digital transformation.

Both sides reaffirmed their dedication to empowering women and fostering inclusivity in Pakistan’s digital journey.

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