Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, delivered a keynote address at Google Pakistan’s HERStory Webinar on International Women’s Day, emphasizing the crucial role of women in the country’s digital transformation. In her speech, Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja expressed her honor in addressing the forum, highlighting the pivotal role of technology in shaping Pakistan’s economic, educational, and employment landscapes. She stressed that inclusivity in the digital age is critical, noting that technology is the ultimate equalizer, particularly for women. "Pakistan, with over 240 million people, has a young population—68% under the age of 30 and 49% of the total population being women. Many of these women live in areas where traditional institutions cannot reach them, making technology an essential tool for inclusion in education, employment, and financial empowerment," she stated. The minister outlined key government initiatives aimed at bridging the digital gender divide, including- Expanding digital access in schools, ensuring 100% of the 422 schools under Islamabad’s jurisdiction having internet connectivity and smart classrooms. Increased women’s access to mobile phones and the internet, reducing the gender gap in internet awareness from 16% to 11%. Promoting women-led startups and entrepreneurship, with 30% of all startups incubated under the Ministry of IT & Telecom’s National Incubation Centers being led by women. Providing free digital skills training through the DigiSkills and Women Digital Empowerment programs, allowing thousands of women to develop skills for freelancing and online entrepreneurship. Launching Pakistan’s first 100% women-led incubation center, fostering innovation and economic participation. Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja also highlighted the Prime Minister’s recent initiatives to support women-led small businesses and e-commerce ventures, aiming to remove socio-cultural barriers that hinder women’s economic participation. She acknowledged the importance of AI and emerging technologies, emphasizing that rather than replacing jobs, AI-enabled individuals will drive future progress. Farhan Qureshi, Country Director of Google Pakistan, praised Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja’s leadership in the IT sector, stating: "A Federal Minister in the area of IT globally is a remarkable achievement, and we are really, really proud. Even in the world of Google, as we work with multiple countries, I always boast about you and feel proud that Pakistan has such strong women leaders. Please continue this important mission." The event concluded with a call for continued collaboration between Google and the Government of Pakistan to expand digital opportunities for women and strengthen Pakistan’s position as a global leader in freelancing and technology-driven economic growth.
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