State Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, underscored the critical role of technology in empowering women and bridging the gender gap during her address at the “Digitalisation and Women in Politics” conference held in Qatar. Speaking via video link, Khawaja highlighted the government’s commitment to addressing the digital divide, emphasizing that access to digital devices and internet connectivity is crucial for women’s socio-economic empowerment in Pakistan.
In her remarks, the minister stressed that technology can serve as a powerful tool for women’s empowerment, enabling them to access education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. “Empowering women through access to technology is crucial,” Khawaja stated. “We are committed to eliminating barriers that hinder women from using mobile phones and ICT, thereby ensuring their active participation in the digital economy.”
Khawaja pointed out that the government is actively working to create an inclusive digital environment that supports women. This includes initiatives aimed at increasing access to smartphones, digital literacy programs, and affordable internet services. She highlighted the importance of enabling women to leverage technology to improve their lives, noting that closing the digital gender gap is essential for the nation’s overall progress.
During her address, the state minister also acknowledged the significant disparities in digital access between men and women in Pakistan, particularly in rural and remote areas. She emphasized the need for collaborative efforts between the government, private sector, and international organizations to enhance digital inclusion for women. “We must work together to ensure that women are not left behind in the digital age. Our aim is to foster a society where women have equal access to the tools and resources needed to succeed in the modern world,” she added.
Khawaja further elaborated on various government-led initiatives that focus on empowering women through technology, such as digital skills training, entrepreneurship support, and financial inclusion programs. These efforts, she noted, are aligned with Pakistan’s vision of a digitally inclusive society where women can contribute to economic growth and social development.
The minister’s speech resonated with the conference’s overarching theme of leveraging digitalisation to empower women in politics and other spheres. The event brought together policymakers, digital experts, and advocates from around the world to discuss strategies for enhancing women’s participation in the digital economy and political landscape.
In concluding her address, Khawaja reaffirmed Pakistan’s dedication to advancing digital equality and empowering women through technological access. “The future of our country depends on our ability to integrate women into the digital landscape,” she concluded, “and we are determined to make this vision a reality.”
