In a major step towards women’s empowerment, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has launched a comprehensive IT training program aimed at equipping 27,000 rural women with essential digital skills. The initiative is led by the Punjab Skills Development Department, seeks to bridge the digital divide by offering free six-month online training in IT, web development, digital marketing, freelancing, and cybersecurity.
Empowering Rural Women Through Digital Skills
Recognizing the growing importance of technology in economic independence, this program is designed to enable women from underserved areas to secure remote jobs, freelance opportunities, and even establish their own online businesses. Many women in rural Punjab have limited access to formal employment due to social and economic constraints, and this initiative is endowing them with the right pathway to financial independence.
To guarantee equal access to learning resources, the following things will be given to the participants:
- Scholarships
- Desktop computers
- Free Wi-Fi devices
This ensures that they are well-equipped to apply their newly acquired skills without financial barriers.
Read more: Disruptive Education Project launched to empower youth with emerging tech skills
Promoting Inclusivity Beyond IT Training
Alongside this digital empowerment initiative, CM Maryam Nawaz has also introduced the Special Children Eid Gift Campaign, which aims to bring happiness to 40,000 special children across Punjab. Under this campaign, children enrolled in government special education institutions will receive Eid gifts, making sure that every child, regardless of ability, feels the joy of the festive season.
Special Assistant to the CM, Sania Ashiq, personally distributed gifts at multiple institutions in Lahore, engaging with children and ensuring they felt valued and celebrated. The initiative not only provides material support but also highlights the government’s dedication to social welfare.
A Vision for an Inclusive and Progressive Punjab
Maryam Nawaz’s vision of an inclusive Punjab is strongly reflected via it where opportunities are extended to all, regardless of gender, economic status, or ability. By equipping rural women with IT skills and ensuring that special children are not left behind, the Punjab government is actively working towards a more equitable and opportunity-filled future.
These programs are meant to make a mega shift in the lives of people, as it is permitting thousands of women to contribute to the digital economy while creating a culture of inclusivity and care for marginalized masses of the communities. This marks a significant milestone in Punjab’s journey towards prosperity and progress.