On the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, I pay tribute to the talent and resolve of Pakistani women and girls who are contributing to our progress through science, technology and innovation. Their work reflects confidence in our future and faith in knowledge as a force for national strength.
As a State Party to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Pakistan remains committed to equality in education, research and scientific leadership. This commitment is taking visible shape. Women now form more than half of enrolment in our universities and higher education institutions, marking a meaningful shift in opportunity and aspiration.
Across laboratories, universities and centres of excellence, Pakistani women are leading research in engineering, health sciences, computing, biotechnology and emerging fields. Through COMSTECH initiatives, they are also contributing to scientific cooperation, health innovation and climate resilience across the Muslim world. Pakistan takes pride in women scientists who have earned global recognition, including Nergis Mavalvala, Tasneem Zehra Husain and Maheera Abdul Ghani, whose achievements inspire younger generations to pursue science with purpose and confidence.
This progress carries real meaning for families and communities. When women enter science and research, healthcare improves, practical solutions emerge for environmental and technological challenges and young girls see education as a pathway to dignity and opportunity. Each classroom entered and each laboratory led strengthens the social and economic fabric of our country.
While challenges remain, including the continued task of raising female literacy, the direction is clear. Our daughters are stepping forward with skill and ambition, ready to serve Pakistan through knowledge and discovery.
Pakistan’s scientific future is inclusive, and it is being shaped by its women.
Pakistan Zindabad.
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