Karachi, May 21, 2025 : Federal Minister for National Heritage and Chairman QMMB, Mr. Aurangzeb Khan Khichi attended a high-level seminar organized by the Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF) at the Marriott Hotel, Karachi. The event, titled “Sustainable Ecosystem for Women Entrepreneurs,” was part of the Growth for Rural Advancement and Sustainable Progress (GRASP) initiative, bringing together stakeholders from government, civil society, the private sector, and grassroots communities to promote inclusive economic development through women’s empowerment.
CEO of PPAF, in her keynote address, highlighted the transformative potential of supporting rural women entrepreneurs.
“Our goal is to create an environment where women are supported not just through access to finance, but also mentorship, digital tools, and strong market linkages,” she said.
She emphasized that more than 15,000 jobs have been created through this initiative, showcasing the vast potential of women in agriculture, enterprise, and community development.
She also stressed the importance of developing full value chains and equipping rural women with the knowledge and capacity to meet European Union export standards, positioning Pakistan for greater international competitiveness.
Sindh Minister for Women Development, Ms. Shaheena, delivered a heartfelt address on the importance of collaboration and inclusivity in the empowerment journey.
“The women of Sindh are not waiting for change—they are leading it.”
“When we invest in women, we invest in families, in communities, and in the future of Pakistan.”
“Through collaboration with the federal government and initiatives like GRASP, we can ensure that rural women are no longer left behind.”
She added a crucial dimension to the conversation by emphasizing the role of men:
“We must also educate and empower our men—fathers, brothers, and husbands—who often play a pivotal role in supporting their daughters and families.”
“There are many unsung heroes who have stood up to feudal systems and jirgas, challenging regressive norms so their daughters can go to school, run businesses, and participate in society.”
“These men are setting an example, and they too deserve our recognition and support as allies in this movement for gender equity.”
Federal Minister for National Heritage, Mr. Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, in his concluding remarks, praised the collective efforts on display and reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to women’s development:
“We will provide every necessary facility and extend full support at the federal level to help the women of our country thrive,” he said.
“Listening to the panelists, and especially the contributions of Ms. Shaheena, it is clear we are on the right path.”
“What is needed now is sustained national support, and in doing so, we will unlock far-reaching benefits for our country.”
