ISLAMABAD: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has said that Islam provides clear guidance regarding the rights and status of women, emphasizing that empowering women is not only about supporting one segment of society but is essential for the progress and prosperity of the entire nation.

She expressed these views while addressing the 9th Ministerial Conference on Women of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Islamabad. The conference brought together representatives from OIC member states to discuss policies and initiatives aimed at improving the social, educational, and economic status of women across the Muslim world.

Maryam Nawaz described her participation in the conference as a privilege and highlighted Pakistan’s commitment to promoting women’s empowerment through inclusive policies. She said the government is working to ensure greater financial inclusion and expanded business opportunities for women, enabling them to contribute more effectively to the country’s economic development.

Referring to Islamic teachings, the Punjab chief minister stated that Islam clearly outlines the rights, dignity, and responsibilities of women, and that these principles provide a strong foundation for building an equitable society. She noted that empowering women should not be viewed as an issue concerning only women but rather as a national priority that benefits families, communities, and the country as a whole.

Maryam Nawaz said the Punjab government is taking practical steps to equip women with the skills needed to succeed in a rapidly changing economy. She particularly emphasized initiatives aimed at providing information technology (IT) skills to women so they can take advantage of employment, entrepreneurship, and digital business opportunities.

She added that digital literacy and access to modern technology can significantly improve women’s participation in the workforce and help them become financially independent. According to her, increasing women’s representation in the digital economy is vital for sustainable economic growth.

Highlighting the importance of fundamental rights, the chief minister said that education, healthcare, and employment are basic rights of every woman. She stressed that governments have a responsibility to ensure equal access to these opportunities and to remove barriers that prevent women from realizing their full potential.

Maryam Nawaz said special attention is being given to improving healthcare facilities for women across Punjab. She noted that better maternal healthcare, preventive medical services, and expanded access to quality treatment are among the government’s priorities for improving the well-being of women and families.

She also emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to address challenges faced by women in different sectors of society. According to her, governments, institutions, civil society organizations, and international partners must work together to develop effective strategies for promoting gender equality and creating safer environments for women.

The Punjab chief minister reiterated that providing safe and equal opportunities for women remains a key priority of the Government of Pakistan. She said creating secure educational institutions, workplaces, and public spaces is essential to enabling women to participate confidently in all aspects of national life.

Speaking about educational initiatives, Maryam Nawaz said the government is ensuring the provision of scholarships and laptop schemes for female students to support their academic and professional development. She noted that improving access to higher education and technology would help prepare young women for careers in science, technology, business, and other emerging fields.

She further said that investing in girls’ education produces long-term benefits for society by increasing economic productivity, improving family health, and reducing poverty. Educated women, she added, play a crucial role in raising future generations and strengthening national development.

The OIC ministerial conference serves as a platform for member states to exchange experiences and formulate joint strategies to improve women’s participation in social, economic, and political life. Discussions at the conference focused on expanding educational opportunities, enhancing financial inclusion, strengthening legal protections, and promoting women’s leadership.

Maryam Nawaz concluded by emphasizing that meaningful progress requires collective commitment and practical action. She expressed hope that cooperation among OIC member countries would lead to stronger policies and initiatives that advance women’s rights, increase economic participation, and contribute to sustainable development across the Muslim world.

Her address reaffirmed Pakistan’s stated commitment to promoting women’s empowerment through education, healthcare, economic inclusion, and equal opportunities, while underscoring the view that national progress depends on enabling women to contribute fully to every sector of society.