How FJWU is Bridging the Gap for Women Entrepreneurs
APP
Rawalpindi: Fatima Jinnah Women University (FJWU) continues to be a beacon of academic excellence, women empowerment, and career development, according to its Vice Chancellor, Dr Bushra Mirza.
Speaking in an exclusive interaction with APP, she highlighted the university’s commitment to fostering future women leaders through quality education, skill development, and strong regional connectivity.
Dr Bushra emphasized that FJWU is not just an educational institution but a career hub that prepares women for leadership roles in Pakistan’s industrial and academic sectors.
With its distinguished faculty, diverse academic programs, and extensive research opportunities, the university is set to become a benchmark for excellence in education.
“In today’s era, there are essential skills required for women empowerment. Education is fundamental, but financial literacy, legal awareness, and digital literacy are equally crucial,” she stated.
The VC highlighted FJWU’s active participation in various initiatives, including the Higher Education Commission (HEC)’s Women Mentorship Program, which aims to develop leadership skills among students.
She personally leads this initiative alongside senior faculty members to empower young women academically and professionally.
FJWU maintains strong ties with universities, industries, and government institutions, both nationally and internationally. Dr Bushra revealed that the university is working closely with the Punjab Government’s Higher Education and Women Development Departments, as well as global forums representing Pakistan.
Recently, she engaged with government officials collaborating with the World Economic Forum to involve FJWU’s faculty and students in research projects. “We also aspire to work with UNESCO on research initiatives aligned with global academic trends,” she added.
Women Entrepreneurship
To keep pace with the rapidly evolving academic landscape, Dr. Bushra stressed the importance of revising syllabi to meet modern-day challenges. The university’s Academic Council has approved the introduction of DigiSkills training as a mandatory component of education to enhance students’ digital capabilities.
FJWU is also fostering women entrepreneurship by bridging the gap between academia and industry. The university collaborates with the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) to facilitate research, entrepreneurial training, and women’s participation in business ventures.
“We are in talks with RCCI to establish a research institute, positioning FJWU as its research wing to undertake significant studies,” she shared.
Dr. Bushra expressed optimism regarding the development of FJWU’s Chakri Road Campus. She mentioned that a formal request has been made to Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif for additional buses to address transportation challenges faced by students.
“While we are currently short on transport facilities, we are making every effort to maximize accessibility for students,” she stated.
With increased student enrollment and continued government support, Dr. Bushra remains confident that FJWU will overcome existing challenges and further solidify its role as a leader in women’s academic and entrepreneurial empowerment.
