Health Policies to Enhance Women’s Role in Workforce

News Desk

Lahore: Speakers underscored the importance of women’s representation in leadership roles, and advocated for policies that promote extended maternity leave, breastfeeding facilities, and the establishment of on-site daycare centres.

A symposium titled ‘Strengthening Pathways into Employment for Women through Policy Making and Implementation’ was held at Government College University Lahore (GCUL) in partnership with the University of Sunderland, UK. Panellists talked about gender-inclusive policies and strategies aimed at enhancing women’s participation in the workforce. The focal point of the discussion was the theme of gender-related health policies.

Speakers deliberated on the necessity of formulating and executing suitable organizational policies that cater to the well-being of women. A significant topic addressed was the provision of support for menstrual and (peri)menopausal concerns among female employees in Pakistan, an issue that has received inadequate attention thus far.

GCU Vice Chancellor Prof Asghar Zaidi advocated for workplaces to be accommodating to women’s health needs.

Dr Zaidi highlighted several initiatives undertaken by GCU Lahore, ranging from supplying menstrual hygiene products to offering teacher training on gender-related matters and the establishment of a daycare centre for staff children and a women’s development centre. University of Sunderland Associate Professor Dr Shujarah Ul Durar expressed an unwavering commitment to driving positive changes in Pakistan.National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) Monitoring and Enforcement Deputy Director Aqib Ali Shah highlighted the value of culturally sensitive policies and recognised women’s substantial contributions across diverse roles.

Durham University Prof Helen Gowerek discussed the impact of menopause on women’s work experiences. She called for understanding and support during this life phase, emphasising the need to destigmatise associated challenges. Leads University Lahore Vice Chancellor Dr Nadeem Ahmad Bhatti drew attention to Pakistan’s persistent gender equality challenges and urged a concerted effort to more inclusively integrate women into the workforce. Legal Aid and Justice Authority Pakistan Director General Dr Raheem Awan referred to the historical empowerment of women in Islam and strongly advocated for women’s education.