SMEDA calls for women's economic empowerment

Experts propose collaboration, mentorship to drive women-led businesses forward

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LAHORE:

A webinar hosted by the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) on Friday, in celebration of International Women's Day 2025, highlighted the need for a dedicated forum where women can regularly engage and address challenges in achieving economic and social empowerment.

According to a press statement, the event, themed "Inspire Inclusion – Accelerate Action," featured prominent women business leaders from the public and private sectors. It was addressed by SMEDA officials, including Nadia Jehangir Seth, General Manager Policy Planning; Saleha Saeed, General Manager Outreach; and Tania Buttar, Deputy General Manager.

Speakers underscored the urgency of advancing women's economic participation. Saira Umar, Managing Director of Punjab Small Industries Corporation (PSIC), discussed the positive impact of appointing female directors in key roles and initiatives like 'Assan Karobar Finance', which provides interest-free loans to women entrepreneurs. Nazia Seher, Senior Programme Manager at JICA, stressed the importance of mentorship in helping women transition from home-based businesses to leadership positions.

Faiza Ahsan, Additional Secretary Women Development Department, shared details of training programmes designed to enhance employability among rural women, while Faiqa Naseem, Joint Director at SBP, highlighted the success of the 'Banking on Equality policy', which has facilitated 12.2 million new bank accounts for women, boosting financial inclusion.

The session under scored the need for enhanced digital literacy and financial accessibility to support aspiring women entrepreneurs. Samina Fazil, President of WCCI-Islamabad, noted that with women comprising 50% of Pakistan's population, fostering an inclusive business environment is vital for economic growth.

As the event concluded, speakers called for stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors and targeted policy interventions.