LAHORE: (Thursday, October 10, 2024): Punjab University Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Muhammad Ali has said that the social development of women is linked to their economic empowerment. He emphasized that those women are socially stronger than others who have more financial autonomy. He was addressing the opening session of the two-day international conference on ‘Women, Peace & Security: Issues, Challenges & Way Forward’ organized by Punjab University Department of Gender Studies at Al-Razi Hall here on Thursday. On this occasion, Allama Iqbal Open University Vice Chancellor Dr Nasir Mahmood, Secretary Women Development Department Sumaira Samad, Dean Faculty of Behavioral & Social Sciences Prof Dr Iram Khalid, Chairperson Department of Gender Studies Dr Ra’ana Malik, Program Manager Asia Center USIP Sadia Sabir, faculty members and a large number students were present. In his address, Dr Muhammad Ali highlighted the need of education for women and their practical role in the economic cycle of the country. He pointed out that the problems of rural and urban women are different, which should be addressed separately. He said that rural to urban migration has become an important issue of our society due to which we are facing shortage of workforce at village areas. He said that women should realize their rights. He said that a change in the mindset of the society is necessary for the development of women. He said that women are facing problems all over the world. He said that no woman has been able to become president in USA till now, while in Pakistan, we had our lady Prime Minister and now, we are proud that Punjab has got its first woman Chief Minister, who is a very capable woman. He said that women are not less than anyone in terms of capabilities. Dr Nasir Mahmood said that women do not have real representation in Pakistan. He said that many reforms have been introduced for women but problems still exist. He said that there are comprehensive laws for the welfare of women in Pakistan but the real problem is their implementation. Sumaira Samad said that a number of the initiatives taken by the Punjab government has provided relief to the women and improved their living standard. She said that the government is ensuring the welfare of women with the support of stakeholders. She said that research on women’s problems and their solutions should be promoted in universities. Dr Iram Khalid praised the DGS for the conference organized on a good topic. She said that a lot of positive things are happening in Pakistan which should be highlighted. She said that despite scarcity of resources and problems, women have proved their ability by working side by side in the development of the country. Thanking the participants and speakers, Dr Ra’ana Malik said that PU Department of Gender Studies would continue to play an active role in highlighting women’s issues. She said that without the participation of women, peace and development in the country is only a dream. On this occasion, a video based on the performance of the DGS was screened.