Karachi (HRNW)– Vice Chancellor of the University of Karachi, Professor Dr. Khalid Mahmood Iraqi, has said that this debate is of utmost importance in the context of Pakistan because even today in our society we are failing to give equal rights to women. We have failed to protect women and especially our performance in terms of “workplace protection” has been very disappointing. He said that although there is legislation related to harassment, the institution of Women Ombudsman is also active which was established to protect women from harassment, but unfortunately we are failing to protect women and even to register harassment cases. And even if a case is reported, the law has so far failed to provide complete protection to God knows how many people.
He expressed these views while addressing a program titled: “Empowerment of Women in Science, Technology, Education, Arts and Management. Leading Life with Strength and Self-Awareness” organized by Dr. A. Q. Khan Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, University of Karachi, in collaboration with ODBSD Pakistan National Chapter and Pakistan Academy of Sciences at the auditorium of Dr. A. Q. Khan Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, University of Karachi.
Dr. Khalid Mahmood Iraqi further said that in educational institutions, we need to provide more freedom to every individual, be it a man or a woman. Especially, there is a need to empower and strengthen women so that they can play their full role in society and institutions. He said that this responsibility becomes more difficult for women because they simultaneously shoulder the responsibility of home, family and performing their professional duties.
He said that as the Vice Chancellor of the University of Karachi, my priority has been to provide equal opportunities to women and men and to give women their rightful place in decision-making so that they can play their role with dignity at all levels. He emphasized that opportunities should not be determined on the basis of gender or sex, but should be based on the ability, determination and dedication of the individual. Dr. Khalid said that we personally need to look at the role of women in a broader perspective. If you study different nations, the real reason for their progress and success is equality.
Dean of the Faculty of Sciences, University of Karachi, Professor Dr. Bilquis Gul said that today’s topic is in the name of our confident, empowered women who are achieving remarkable achievements in fields like science, technology, engineering, mathematics and arts. These are women who move forward with strength, clarity and self-awareness while maintaining balance in their lives. She said that whenever a new invention, discovery or breakthrough emerges in the fields of science, technology, arts and mathematics around the world, there is a real human story behind it—a story of perseverance, courage and an unwavering belief in their purpose. For many women, this journey is extremely difficult, shaped by societal expectations and sometimes professional difficulties.
Dr. Bilquis Gul added that a strong and successful woman not only maintains a balance in her life, which includes work, family and personal well-being, but also goes beyond her limits and achieves more than expectations. She faces life’s challenges with courage, confidence and a deep understanding of herself, her abilities, her emotions and her goals. Dr. Gul said that when women move forward, science advances; when women rise, societies rise. And when women lead with balance and self-awareness, they redefine the true meaning of progress.
Addressing the young women, she said, “You can achieve everything you never imagined. Bring balance to your aspirations and self-awareness to your personality. Align your journey with integrity and believe that true strength lies not in perfection but in consistency and perseverance.” Dr. Gul said that the future of science, technology, engineering and mathematics for women is not only promising but also extremely transformative.
The event was also addressed by OWSD President Prof. Dr. Benais Siddiqui, Prof. Dr. Humabqai, Prof. Dr. Iqbal Afridi and others.
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