- Recommends Modernization of Welfare Facilities to Support Women’s Empowerment
ISLAMABAD: The Special Committee on Gender Mainstreaming has urged the Federal Government to establish a new Working Women Hostel in Islamabad on a priority basis to meet the growing accommodation needs of working women and strengthen their participation in the workforce.
The recommendation was made during a meeting chaired by Dr. Nafisa Shah, MNA, at the Staff Welfare Organization (SWO), where members reviewed welfare services being provided to Federal Government employees, particularly women.
Focus on Safe Accommodation and Childcare
The Committee emphasized that safe, affordable, and secure accommodation, along with quality childcare facilities, are essential for women’s economic empowerment and align with the Prime Minister’s Women Empowerment Package.
During the briefing, the SWO highlighted its ongoing initiatives, including the modernization of Working Women Hostels, expansion of daycare centres, and digitization of welfare services to improve transparency and service delivery.
Committee Seeks Urgent Reforms
The Committee expressed concern over the shortage of hostel accommodation, ageing infrastructure, staff shortages, and financial constraints affecting welfare services. It called for increased funding, rehabilitation of existing hostels and daycare centres, filling vacant posts, and accelerating digitization initiatives.
Members also inspected the Fatima Jinnah Working Women Hostel and the SWO Day Care Centre in Islamabad, directing authorities to address deficiencies in infrastructure, maintenance, and service delivery without delay.
The Committee reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening parliamentary oversight and ensuring that working women are provided with safe accommodation, quality childcare, and a supportive environment to contribute effectively to national development.
BY: The Times Union
