Recently, Procter & Gamble (P&G) Pakistan reinforced its commitment in promoting gender equality in the country....
Gender parity
Pakistan is currently ranked 151 (out of 153) on the World Economic Forum’s Gender Gap Index and the overall literacy rate amongst girls in the country is 46 per cent compared to 71 per cent amongst men. Nevertheless, pay gaps still exist between women and men doing the same work. Women are disproportionately represented in informal jobs and jobs without decent working conditions including living wages, maternity leave, or pensions. However, it is heartening to see that some of our organisations are adopting laws to promote gender equality at work. One such organisation is P&G which is doing noticeable work for women. The organisation’s commitment to gender equality is in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal # 5 – to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.
Recently, Procter & Gamble (P&G) Pakistan reinforced its commitment in promoting gender equality in the country through the #WeSeeEqual Dialogue, aimed to spark conversations and motivate change to build a better world for everyone. The event was held in Karachi before the lockdown. It was moderated by Sidra Iqbal and was attended by foreign mission representatives, corporate and business leaders, government representatives, media professionals, and prominent personalities. In partnership with UN Women Pakistan, the event brought together business and government leaders as well as influencers to share inspiration and discuss challenges that are preventing individuals and society from accelerating the progress of gender equality in the country. The dialogue was shared by the Vice President P&G Pakistan Sami Ahmed, Portfolio Manager of Women’s Economic Empowerment and Sustainable Livelihood, UN Women Pakistan Fareeha Ummar, former Federal Minister and SenatorJaved Jabbar as well as Samina Baig, UNDP National Goodwill Ambassador and President, Pakistan Youth Outreach Foundation.
Sharing his thoughts, Sami Ahmed said, “We are pleased to continue our work to create an inclusive, gender-equal environment within the company, while advocating for gender equality externally as well, so that everyone can contribute to their full potential.” The panellists shared their perspectives on different aspects of gender equality including the need to promote women’s economic empowerment with a view to benefit the society and the role that media and advertising can play to help raise awareness and break gender-biased stereotypes.
Through its social cause programmes, the organisation has partnered with UN Women and Health Oriented Preventive Education (HOPE) for women’s skill-development and girls’ education. In collaboration with HOPE, 10,000 women and girls (over 3-year period) are to receive vocational training and quality secondary education in semi-urban/rural areas such as Badin, Sujawal, Thatta, Gadap, Ghagger, and Muzaffargarh. Five centres have been established so far, reaching over 6000 women and girls. In partnership with UN Women Pakistan, so far 52 women have received skill development and financial literacy training, enabling them to set up small-scale business ventures in Sialkot. In partnership with Health Oriented Preventive Education (HOPE) and READ Foundation, the company has provided quality education to nearly 4000 girls from underprivileged communities in Pakistan.
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