ISLAMABAD: President Dr Arif Alvi has called for providing health and education facilities to empower women, besides creating a harassment-free environment for their participation in the workforce so they could contribute meaningfully to economic growth.
He said this during his address at the 5th edition of the HUM Women Leaders Award 2024, where he celebrated women leaders for their achievements and appreciated men who supported the economic empowerment of women.
Quoting the saying of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) regarding the reward for raising daughters, President Alvi underscored the importance of women in society as pillars of family stability. He lamented the historical suffering of women in wars and genocides, emphasizing their resilience and contributions despite adversity.
He commended Pakistan's collective efforts in combating the Covid-19 pandemic, lauding the nation's resilience and success in managing the crisis.
First Lady Samina Alvi praised the efforts of the organizers of the award event and emphasized the importance of recognizing women's contributions across various fields. She encouraged women to take advantage of the loans offered by banks to start businesses.
At the ceremony attended by ministers, diplomats, and members of civil society, awards were presented to the outstanding women leaders in the education, health, and business sectors. Recipients included 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.