Pakistan Pledges to Empower Women in Science and Technology
— February 10, 2025
ISLAMABAD (AIA) Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif marked the International Day of Women and Girls in Science by reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to empowering women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.
The government acknowledged the remarkable contributions of women and girls in shaping the world through scientific discovery, innovation, and leadership. PM Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that equal participation of men and women in scientific research and technological advancement is essential for economic development and societal well-being.¹ Despite progress, women remain underrepresented in science and technology, constituting less than 30% of the world’s researchers, according to the UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS). In cutting-edge fields like artificial intelligence, the number drops to just 22%.
To address this gap, the Government of Pakistan has prioritized programs focusing on skill development, support for women-led start-ups, and greater access to research funding. Initiatives include training in robotics, AI, and digital solutions, scholarships, and programs encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship.
Organizations like WomenInTechPK are also working to bridge the gender gap in the tech ecosystem, providing a platform for women to upskill, network, and access opportunities.
Pakistan’s efforts to empower women in STEM align with the global theme for the International Day of Women and Girls in Science: “Charting Progress to Shape the Future: The Best is Yet to Come”.