SWABI: Speakers at a seminar on Monday emphasised that the government should play its due role in providing opportunities to women, enabling them to contribute to the country’s progress.

The seminar ‘role of women and social development’ was held at Women University Swabi organised by Pakistan Studies department.

Students of various departments and faculty members participated.

Prof Hussain Ali of Khan of Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan, who was the chief guest on the occasion, said that women empowerment was vital for development of any society.

“Provision of equal opportunities allows women to contribute to the development of the country and earn their livelihood with dignity and honour,” he said.

“Women’s role is significant in community development and progress and they should be encouraged to realise this potential,” Prof Ali said, adding that women empowerment helped gain gender equality.

“If we really want development and prosperity of womenfolk we should provide them with quality education,” he said.

Prof Attia, head of Pakistan Studies department, said that women’s role was highly critical in the country’s sustainable development. “Women’s nurturing in diverse fields is vital.”

She said that women should acquire higher education to lay the foundation of a strong and vibrant family system.

“We should take practical steps for emancipation of women,” she stressed.

Published in Dawn, March 18th, 2025