CM Maryam says women’s self-employment programme is her dream

Addressing the OIC Ministerial Conference on Women in Islamabad, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz welcomed delegates from OIC member states and said Pakistan is a peaceful and hospitable country. She added that it was an honour to address the international gathering.

The chief minister said Islam clearly defines women’s rights and emphasised that empowering women is essential not only for their progress but also for the development of the country.

Maryam Nawaz said the “Apna Rozgar Programme” is her dream project, designed to help women achieve economic independence through self-employment opportunities. She also highlighted the “Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar” housing scheme, saying it is providing housing opportunities and relief to deserving citizens across Punjab.

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The chief minister said the Punjab government is equipping women with modern IT skills to help them compete in the digital economy and build successful careers. She stressed that investing in women’s education, skills and financial empowerment would strengthen families and contribute to Pakistan’s long-term economic growth.

During her speech, Maryam Nawaz also paid tribute to former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, describing her as the first woman prime minister of the Muslim world and acknowledging her valuable contributions to the country.

She said the Punjab government remains committed to introducing more initiatives that create equal opportunities for women and encourage their active participation in national development.