ISLAMABAD: President Dr. Arif Alvi said that provision of health and education facilities are critical factors in achieving the goal of women empowerment. He emphasized the need to ensure a harassment-free environment for women to become part of the workforce and contribute to economic growth.
The President expressed these views during his speech at the 5th annual HUM Women Leaders Award 2024.
The President said: “Today we celebrate women leaders for their efforts and men who have contributed to the economic empowerment of women.
While talking about the rights of women, he quoted the saying of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) who said that a man who raised two daughters earned his place in paradise.
President Dr. Arif Alvi stated that women in human societies have been the embodiment of love and hope throughout the ages, teaching children love and keeping the family system intact. He pointed out that women suffered the most in wars and genocides, adding to the millions who lost their lives in genocides in previous centuries.
The president criticized acts of genocide by Israeli forces in Gaza, saying thousands of women and children had been killed.
The president went on to say that the genocide was committed in Gaza for self-interest and in negation of humanitarian values.
The President said that the Pakistani nation is able to overcome challenges like during the COVID-19 pandemic through collective efforts and Pakistan remained the third most successful country in fighting the deadly disease.
He called on the nation to work together and forge unity in tackling many challenges including poverty, malnutrition, stunting and maternal and newborn deaths.
The President lamented that more than 26 million children in the country are still out of school. In comparison, the number of children enrolled in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and India was higher, he said.
He said China has focused on health and education sectors to lift 700 million people out of poverty and Pakistan should follow the same path.
The President also commended the nation, especially women and youth for their participation in the voting process during the general elections.
Speaking on the occasion, First Lady Samina Alvi appreciated the efforts of the organizers and added that these awards recognize and encourage our unsung heroes; to our sisters for their valuable contribution in various areas of life. She urged women to apply and take advantage of the easy loans offered by banks to start businesses.
The organizer of the awards, Hum Television President Sultana Siddiqui, said that the Women Leaders Awards were organized every year to recognize the role of women and to thank women leaders and entrepreneurs who have overcome obstacles through constant struggle and made it big in their fields.
The President and First Lady, along with other dignitaries, presented awards to women leaders for outstanding contributions in the fields of education, healthcare and business.
Sheba Najmi, Khurshid Bano, Razia Korejo, Huma Fakhar, Bibi Amna, Sania Saeed, Sheema Kirmani, Sadiqa Salahuddin, Numaira Saleem, Dr Amany Asfour, Dr Amjad Saqib and Dr Izzeldin Abuelaish were awarded for their significant contribution to society.
The ceremony was also attended by ministers, diplomats and members of civil society.
