By Adnan Hameed TWA ___ In a powerful statement on International Women's Day, First Lady Begum Samina Alvi underscored the pivotal role of education in unleashing the full potential of women and girls. Emphasizing that education is not merely about acquiring knowledge, but a catalyst for empowering individuals to effect positive change, she addressed a gathering organized in celebration of this global occasion. Pledging a commitment to work towards gender equality across all aspects of life, including technology and innovation, First Lady Alvi envisioned a future where women have equal access to opportunities and can contribute fully to society. Despite women constituting nearly 50 percent of Pakistan's population, she acknowledged that the nation still faces significant challenges in terms of their inclusion and empowerment. Referring to the Global Gender Gap Index-2023, which placed Pakistan at the 142nd position out of 146 countries, the First Lady expressed urgency in addressing issues such as low economic participation, educational attainment, access to healthcare services, and workforce participation. She highlighted Pakistan's endorsement of the United Nations Charter, emphasizing the commitment to promoting human rights and fundamental freedoms without discrimination. First Lady Alvi stressed the importance of girls' education, positioning it as a cornerstone for equipping women to face life's challenges with mental strength. Additionally, she called for continuous efforts to provide vocational skills, protecting women from economic exploitation. Leveraging digital platforms, she advocated for increased access to resources, education, and training in technology, fostering an environment where women can excel in tech-related fields. Underlining her focus on breast cancer awareness, the First Lady advocated for improved screening and treatment services, asserting that access to quality healthcare is a social justice imperative for women of all socioeconomic statuses. Furthermore, she expressed a deep commitment to promoting inclusivity and equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Earlier, esteemed panelists Dr. Sania Nishtar, Azima Dhanjee, and Dr. Maha Noor Khan engaged in a detailed discussion on the pivotal role of women in fostering a progressive society.