Punjab University (PU) Vice Chancellor, Professor Dr. Khalid Mahmood, underscored the pivotal role of women in forging a robust society, emphasizing the imperative of investing in women’s empowerment and safeguarding their rights. His remarks came during an awareness walk commemorating International Women’s Day 2024, convened on Friday.
Joined by Member of the National Assembly, Malik Saiful Malook Khokhar, Chairperson of the Department of Gender Studies, Professor Dr. Raa’na Malik, President of the PU Academic Staff Association, Dr. Amjad Magsi, alongside faculty members and a sizable cohort of students, the rally commenced from the Department of Gender Studies to the Vice Chancellor’s office, with participants brandishing placards adorned with slogans advocating for women’s rights.
In his address, Dr. Khalid Mahmood emphasized the imperative of affording women every opportunity to excel, noting Islam’s historical precedence in championing women’s rights, including inheritance. He highlighted the notable presence of women in the university, constituting 50% of the student body and securing a remarkable 90% of gold medals at convocation ceremonies. Dr. Mahmood stressed the pivotal role women play in addressing societal challenges.
Malik Saif echoed Dr. Mahmood’s sentiments, citing the prophetic example of reverence towards women, underlining his commitment to women’s empowerment through initiatives like establishing eight women’s degree colleges in his constituency. He emphasized the transformative potential of educating women for national prosperity.
Simultaneously, a seminar titled “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress” was convened by the PU Institute of Social and Cultural Studies. Director of ISCS, Professor Dr. Rubeena Zakar, underscored the imperative of women’s empowerment for societal advancement. Sabiha Shaheen, Executive Director of Bargad Organization for Youth Development, highlighted the significance of female solidarity and elucidated the challenges women encounter daily.
Basit Khan, former Director of the National Institute of Population Studies (NIPS), shed light on the disparities and vulnerabilities faced by women in rural Pakistan, while also celebrating the contributions of female leaders. He urged students to facilitate equitable opportunities for women, heralding a future of inclusivity and progress.