Dr Shabana Safdar Khan
Across the globe, women have proven time and again their immense potential. From leading nations to making groundbreaking scientific discoveries and transforming entire communities, women’s contributions are unparalleled. Yet, despite these extraordinary achievements, millions of women and girls continue to face significant barriers that hinder their progress. Whether due to societal norms, limited access to resources, or systemic inequalities, the fight for gender equality remains an ongoing struggle.
In regions like South Asia, almost half of young women are neither in education, employment, nor training, a stark reminder of how widespread gender inequality remains. In East Africa, despite some advancements, many young girls are still deprived of opportunities to receive an education. This lack of opportunity is not only an injustice; it is an impediment to societal development. The reality is that we cannot afford to wait any longer to act. Investing in women is not just a moral obligation; it is essential for the growth and prosperity of societies worldwide.
At the heart of empowerment lies education. Education is the most powerful tool for unlocking potential, and it is through education that women gain the knowledge and skills to improve their own lives and contribute meaningfully to society. When girls have access to high-quality education, they are more likely to earn higher wages, participate in the workforce, make informed decisions within their households, and lead independent lives.
Furthermore, educated women are less likely to become victims of domestic violence. They are more likely to ensure that their children thrive, not only surviving childhood but also excelling in health and education. The ripple effect of educating women is immense. UNESCO highlights the economic and social costs of limited educational opportunities for girls, which amount to trillions of dollars globally each year. These costs are not just financial; they are societal, affecting future generations and the broader economy.
Currently, we are witnessing a positive shift as women now make up over half of the student body in many universities worldwide. However, ensuring equal access to education is only part of the solution. True empowerment requires a holistic approach—one that starts in early childhood with access to proper nutrition, healthcare, and safe spaces for children to learn and grow. For women, it means addressing workplace structures that often fail to accommodate their diverse roles as both professionals and caregivers.
Achieving gender equality requires more than just policies; it requires a comprehensive approach that encompasses every facet of life. This includes rethinking societal structures to ensure that women and men have equal opportunities to succeed. Gender equality is not solely the responsibility of women; it is a shared responsibility between men and women. Both must play an active role in fostering gender equity, from shaping the perspectives of the next generation to advocating for fair practices in the workplace.
In homes, parents have a crucial role in shaping the attitudes of their children. It is within families that children first learn about the value of equality, respect, and fairness. As these children grow, they bring these values into their professional and personal lives. In workplaces, leaders must commit to creating an inclusive environment where women have the same opportunities as men to succeed and thrive. For women to take on leadership roles and challenge outdated stereotypes, they must be given the tools and opportunities to prove themselves in decision-making positions.
When women hold leadership roles, they create new opportunities for others and inspire young women to pursue their ambitions. The visibility of women in leadership not only challenges traditional gender roles but also promotes the idea that gender should never be a barrier to success. As women become mentors, they provide guidance and pave the way for the next generation, ensuring a more inclusive society for all.
Boys also benefit from growing up in an environment that values gender equality. When boys see their mothers, sisters, and female peers excel in all areas of life, they internalize the message that men and women are equals. This reshapes their expectations, both for themselves and others, leading to more inclusive and equitable workplaces in the future.
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International Women’s Day serves as a global reminder to reflect on the progress made toward gender equality. While it is important to celebrate achievements, it is equally crucial to recognize the work that still lies ahead. This year’s theme was a call to action, urging us to move beyond rhetoric and toward tangible action. To create a world where gender equality is a reality, we must act deliberately and strategically to break down the barriers that continue to limit opportunities for women and girls.
Action starts with recognizing the challenges that women face—both overt and subtle. The absence of female role models in textbooks, for instance, can significantly affect young girls’ career choices. Research shows that when girls see women excelling in fields like science, engineering, and mathematics, they are more likely to pursue those careers themselves. Institutions, schools, and workplaces must actively work to create spaces where women are encouraged to succeed and lead.
One such institution making strides in empowering women is the Aga Khan University (AKU), which has prioritized women’s leadership across various sectors. Women at AKU lead the way in fields such as research, education, healthcare, and governance. The university’s success illustrates what is possible when women are given the opportunity to lead. It is essential that this model be expanded to other institutions and organizations around the world.
Women have the power to take on critical challenges and create innovative solutions to some of the world’s most pressing issues. They are pioneers, driving progress in areas such as healthcare, technology, and education. Their leadership transforms industries and communities, shaping the future for generations to come. The goal must be to ensure that no woman or girl is left behind, particularly in underserved areas where access to education and opportunity remains limited.
Change is not instantaneous. It requires sustained effort and commitment from leaders, institutions, and individuals alike. This means making deliberate investments in women’s education, healthcare, economic participation, and leadership development. Such investments have the potential to create a ripple effect, improving not only the lives of women but also the health, wellbeing, and prosperity of entire communities and nations.
The collective efforts of governments, private sectors, and civil society are needed to ensure that women are no longer marginalized or excluded from opportunities. We must work together to create a world where every woman and girl can reach her full potential, contributing to a more inclusive, equitable, and prosperous society. This is the future we must commit to—a world where rights, equality, and empowerment are not just ideals, but the reality for women everywhere.
Accordingly, investing in women is not merely a matter of justice or fairness; it is an investment in the future of humanity. By empowering women, we are empowering societies to reach new heights of progress and success. Gender equality is essential for the sustainable development of our world, and it starts with each of us—acting now to ensure a better future for women and girls globally.
