Islamabad, [August 19, 2025] – Institute of Rural Management (IRM) proudly held the closing ceremony of its SMART STEP Programme, celebrating the remarkable achievement of 21 women who have successfully transitioned into income generation after receiving training in digital literacy and e-commerce skills.
IRM Smart STEP training has been made possible entirely through charitable support, ensuring that women from underprivileged backgrounds could access opportunities that were once beyond their reach. With the successful completion of this cohort, IRM aims to expand the programme further, bringing digital inclusion and economic empowerment to more women across Pakistan.
The ceremony was graced by distinguished guests including Ms. Shandana Khan, CEO Rural Support Programmes Network (RSPN); Mr. Tariq Nazir, Distrcit Proramme Officer National Rural Support Programme (NRSP); Mr. Raja Fakhar Munir; and Mr. Malik Fateh Khan, CEO Ghazi Barotha Taraqiati Idara (GBTI), Mr. Aasim Reza Senior Programme Manager, Ms. Samia Imran, Programme Manager and Ms. Nausheen Azam Manager Social Protection. The speakers commended IRM’s efforts and encouraged the graduating women to continue leveraging digital skills for sustained livelihoods.
Addressing the participants, Ms. Shandana Khan encouraged the graduates to pursue their ambitions with determination: “Women should strive to do their best and take on every role and opportunity that men are doing. There should be no limits to what women can achieve.”
Mr. Tariq Nazir highlighted NRSP’s commitment to women’s empowerment, noting: “For women to truly be part of decision-making at all levels, it is vital that they earn and achieve financial independence.”
Similarly, Raja Fakhar Munir assured the participants of his continued support: “I will extend my support to ensure these women can move forward successfully in their entrepreneurial journeys.”
Speaking at the ceremony, Ms. Nausheen Azam, Manager Social Protection highlighted the significance of the initiative: “This programme reflects IRM’s commitment to women’s empowerment. These 21 women are not only earning today but also inspiring others in their communities to believe in the power of digital skills.”
The closing ceremony concluded with the distribution of certificates and recognition of outstanding participants who had already begun earning sustainable incomes through freelancing, online stores, and digital services.
Institute of Rural Management (IRM) is Pakistan’s largest capacity-building and skills development organization, dedicated to empowering communities—especially women and youth—through training, education, and livelihood opportunities. For detail visit ww.irm.edu.pk
