Efficient digital environment imperative for future development of women

Islamabad : Experts at the Devcom-Pakistan conference titled 'Digital Futures'2025: Bridging the Gender Divide for Women's Empowerment in Pakistan' have called for the urgent need to digitally empower women to address the gender divide and strengthen women's empowerment in Pakistan.

The conference, which coincided with National Women's Day (February 12) and International Women's Day (March 8), brought together influential policymakers, activists, and experts to discuss the role of digital technology in advancing gender equality. The conference highlighted critical recommendations aimed at empowering women through digital tools and resources.

Experts emphasised the importance of widespread digital literacy programs tailored for women, particularly in rural areas. These programs should focus on basic technology skills, online safety, and digital entrepreneurship, equipping women with the tools to thrive in an increasingly digital world. Access to affordable and reliable internet and digital devices is essential for women to participate in the digital economy. Stakeholders recommended that the government and private sector collaborate to improve connectivity in underserved areas, ensuring that women can engage in online education, e-commerce, and other digital platforms. Experts called for the development of policies that promote gender-inclusive digital spaces. This includes addressing online harassment and discrimination and creating safe environments for women to express themselves and participate in the digital economy. Women entrepreneurs need targeted support to thrive in the digital economy.

The conference advocated for incubators, mentorship programs, and access to funding specifically designed for women-led tech startups and digital businesses. They said the potential of social media to promote gender equality and women's empowerment was also discussed. Experts recommended utilizing these platforms for advocacy, awareness campaigns, and community-building, as well as to challenge harmful stereotypes and elevate women's voices in tech-related fields.

The experts and award winners included Sadaf Asim Abbasi, Riffat Ara Baig, SDPI Gender Expert Sadia Satti, Chairman Read Pakistan Farrukh Dall, CEO CPAIR & Centre for Climate Diplomacy Amna Munawar Malik, Dr. Farzana Bari, Gender and Parliamentary development Expert, Dr. Ghazala Khan, UNDP Consultant Safe Digital Environment Dr. Humaira Javed Khan, Dr Sadaf Kashif, Capital Smart City Executive Director Najmul Hassan, e-media and Businesses expert Sadia Hayat Khan, HR Expert Maham Shahid, Dr. Joharia Azhar, Aisha Khan and Zunaira Omar.