Islam Guarantees Women’s Rights, Young Generation Must Learn Islamic Teachings: Prof. Dr. Zaib-un-nisa Hussain

Lahore (Thursday, March 6, 2025): Islam is the ultimate protector of women’s rights, and society must treat women with respect in all roles, stated Prof. Dr. Zaib-un-nisa Hussain, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Home Economics (UHE) Lahore.

She shared these views while addressing a conference on “Empowering Women Through Education” in celebration of International Women’s Day.

In her speech, Dr. Zaib-un-nisa Hussain emphasized that UHE not only provides education but also equips women with professional training, enabling them to contribute effectively to society. She highlighted that UHE offers platforms for students’ professional growth, ensuring their readiness for future careers.

During the panel discussion, Ms. Sonia Asher, Parliamentary Secretary for Human Rights and Minority Affairs, underscored the indispensable role of women in Pakistan’s development. She noted that women are excelling in every sector and credited historical figures like Fatima Jinnah for paving the way for women’s empowerment.

Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali Shah, Vice-Chancellor of Punjab University (PU), pointed out that the women of the Prophet’s (PBUH) household were strong and empowered. He emphasized the importance of studying the Quran and the life of the Prophet (PBUH) to understand women’s rights.

Dr. Shah urged that discussions on women’s rights should take place in the presence of men, so they, too, become aware and supportive of these rights.

He also raised a critical question regarding female medical graduates, stating that while 65% of medical graduates are women, only 30% actively work in the field. “Where do the remaining 35% go?” he asked, stressing the need for strategic planning to address this issue. Dr. Shah further announced that UHE students will have unrestricted access to Punjab University’s library, labs, and academic facilities, free of charge.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Ali Bahadur, Secretary for Human Rights and Minority Affairs, highlighted Punjab government’s initiatives to provide development opportunities for women. On International Women’s Day, the government reaffirmed its commitment to economically empowering women through concrete measures.

Ms. Rizwana Naveed, Additional Secretary for Human Rights and Minority Affairs, commended the Punjab Chief Minister’s vision for women’s empowerment, emphasizing that women are a crucial pillar of society, and their progress ensures the nation’s development.

Ms. Sumbal Malik, Member of the Punjab Assembly (MPA), noted that Hazrat Khadija (RA) was the first female entrepreneur, demonstrating Islam’s long-standing advocacy for women’s empowerment. She stressed that professional education is essential for securing a strong future for women.

Prof. Dr. Zaib-un-nisa Hussain also presented shields and souvenirs to the guests.

To mark International Women’s Day, UHE Vice-Chancellor led an awareness walk with students and parliamentarians, calling for greater focus on women’s literacy and urging practical steps for its promotion.

The conference was jointly organized by the Women’s Development Centre at UHE and the Punjab Government’s Department of Human Rights and Minorities Affairs.

The event was attended by Nabila Khan, Punjab Ombudsperson, Professor Tasneem Kausar, Principal, Pakistan Law College, Rashida Lodhi, Parliamentary Secretary, Dr. Amara Khan, Head of Punjab World Food Program, Dr. Iram Rabab, In-Charge, Women Development Centre, Laiba Butt, along with senior faculty members from Punjab University.