Karachi: The Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI), in collaboration with the Fehmida Begum Foundation, organized a significant event aimed at empowering women. The event was attended by prominent figures, including KATI President Johar Qandhari, Deputy Patron-in-Chief Zubair Chhaya, Senior Vice President Nighat Awan, Vice President Muslim Mohammadi, Standing Committee Chairman Zahid Hameed, Former Presidents Masood Naqi and Ehteshamuddin, Fehmida Begum Foundation President Dr. Sheikh Idris, Rukhsana Sheikh, Zainab Hameed, and UNDP Project Manager Naveed Sheikh.
President Johar Qandhari emphasized the critical role of women in industrial development and economic stability, noting that women in Pakistan are not yet receiving the recognition they deserve in business institutions, despite reserved seats for women in the assembly. He acknowledged the gradual increase in women’s participation in multinational organizations and highlighted the need to accelerate this trend. Qandhari pointed out that while educated women are increasingly visible in banks and hospitals, they still face significant challenges due to issues of credibility and security. He stressed that the empowerment of women, who constitute half of Pakistan’s population, is essential for the country’s development.
Qandhari paid tribute to Nighat Awan, KATI’s Senior Vice President, for her relentless efforts in collaboration with KATI and various welfare institutions to empower women. He underscored that empowering women through education, professional skills, and motivation will enable them to contribute significantly to Pakistan’s rapid development. Addressing the gathering, Qandhari noted the importance of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and the courage of contemporary women who are making their mark in society despite numerous challenges. He lamented the lack of government initiatives for women’s empowerment but expressed pride in women’s resilience and determination. Zubair Chhaya, KATI’s Deputy Patron-in-Chief, highlighted the increasing participation of women in the private sector, acknowledging that while opportunities are not equal, women are excelling in various fields. He commended women for managing both office and domestic responsibilities effectively, demonstrating their ability to handle multiple roles simultaneously. Chhaya also noted that, in the current economic climate, it has become essential for all household members to contribute financially. Standing Committee Chairman Zahid Hameed discussed various initiatives taken in collaboration with the Fehmida Begum Foundation to provide professional training for women. These initiatives include teaching women different skills to help them become self-reliant and organizing seminars to increase employment opportunities for women in industries. Former KATI Presidents Masood Naqi, Muslim Mohammadi, Ehteshamuddin, UNDP Project Manager Naveed Sheikh, and Fehmida Begum Foundation President Dr. Sheikh Idris also addressed the event, reaffirming their commitment to women’s empowerment.Photo Caption: Dr. Sheikh Idris, President of the Fehmida Begum Foundation, presents a shield to KATI President Johar Qandhari, with Zubair Chhaya, Nighat Awan, Muslim Mohammadi, and others in attendance
