Higher education is essential for women’s empowerment: Mushaal Mullick

News Desk

Rawalpindi: The systematic obstacles women have faced in accessing higher education in the past said Mushaal Hussein Mullick, the Special Assistant to the Prime Minister for Human Rights and Women Empowerment.

She emphasized the importance of higher education for women’s empowerment. She was speaking at the opening ceremony of a two-day international conference at Fatima Jinnah Women University in Rawalpindi on Wednesday.

|She acknowledged that some progress has been made, but challenges such as gender bias, cultural norms, and economic disparities persist.

She pointed to several legislative initiatives undertaken by the government to protect and empower women, including the Zainab Alert Response and Recovery Act, the Enforcement of Women’s Property Rights Act, the Anti-Rape (Investigation and Trial) Act, and the Protection Against Harassment of Women at Workplace (Amendment) Act.

Mullick stressed the connection between women’s education and economic progress. She asserted that investing in women’s higher education strengthens the economy by fostering a more diverse and innovative workforce and reducing poverty rates.

She emphasized that education goes beyond academic achievements and encompasses critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, which are essential for effective leadership. She noted that educated women not only contribute economically but also serve as catalysts for social transformation.

Sharing her personal commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment, Mullick outlined a 100-day action plan to address these issues. She also mentioned the Ministry of Human Rights’ efforts to develop a national gender policy in collaboration with stakeholders to eliminate violence against women.

Mullick underscored the importance of extending women’s empowerment beyond the classroom to mentorship and supportive networks. She commended the establishment of Provincial Commission on Status of Women (PCSW) helplines, KPK Bolo helpline, Sindh Women Development Department helpline 1094, and Tele Psychosocial Support Services for their role in combating gender-based violence (GBV).

Addressing the situation in Indian-occupied Kashmir and Palestine, Mullick expressed solidarity with Kashmiri and Palestinian women facing the consequences of prolonged conflicts. She acknowledged the loss and trauma they have endured amidst the militarized environments. Despite these challenges, she praised their resilience and active participation in their communities.

Mullick concluded her speech by calling for a future where every woman has access to higher education. She affirmed that the transformative power of higher education can empower women and bring about positive change in the world.