The second meeting of the Steering Committee on Digital Gender Inclusion, chaired by Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja, evaluated the ongoing implementation of Pakistan’s Digital Gender Inclusion Strategy. The session underscored the government’s objective of building a gender-inclusive digital society, in line with the Prime Minister’s broader digital vision. During the meeting, updated data from GSMA revealed that the gender gap in mobile internet usage in Pakistan has reduced significantly, falling from 38 percent to 25 percent.
The minister pointed out that mobile internet usage among women has increased from 33 percent to 45 percent, a key indicator of the progress being made. She highlighted the successful deployment of digital wallets for 800,000 women under the Prime Minister’s Ramadan relief package, noting this as a major step toward enhancing digital financial access and promoting economic empowerment for women. The pilot is viewed as a practical example of how digital tools can directly improve lives and financial autonomy for underserved segments.
Shaza Fatima instructed all departments and sub-committees operating under the Ministry of IT to provide quarterly progress updates that align with the strategic goals of the inclusion framework. She stressed that key performance indicators must be defined by measurable outcomes and supported by clear timelines. She also called for increased budget allocations specifically directed toward women-focused digital initiatives, asserting that financial prioritization is essential to create sustained impact across digital services and access.
Reinforcing the government’s position, the minister emphasized that the digital gender agenda goes beyond formal strategies or meetings. She remarked that when women are empowered digitally, the benefits extend across their families and communities. Her comments reflected a shift in how digital inclusion is being integrated into national planning—not only as a policy issue but as a mechanism for wider social development.
The meeting was attended by senior officials and stakeholders from public and private sectors, including PTA Chairman, whom the minister acknowledged as a key ally in promoting gender-focused digital access. PTA reaffirmed its support for the strategy and commended the Secretariat’s efforts in ensuring structured implementation. The session also saw participation from UNESCO, GSMA, GDIP, ISOC, APEC, NCHR, NCSW, Jazz, LUMS, HEC, Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, and the Ministry of Federal Education.
These stakeholders discussed ways to enhance inter-agency coordination and expand programs focused on women’s digital literacy, accessibility, and representation in the ICT workforce. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to scale gender-responsive programs and deepen collaboration among institutions. As digital connectivity expands in Pakistan, efforts under the Digital Gender Inclusion Strategy continue to play a critical role in reshaping access, participation, and opportunities for women across the country.
