Historic International Girls Education Conference in Pakistan
The “International Conference on Girls’ Education in Muslim Communities” in Islamabad is a powerful message of progress, equal opportunities for men and women, and inclusion. Held from January 11 to 12, 2025, this groundbreaking event not only championed the cause of girls’ education but also dispelled lingering stigmas about the status of women in Muslim communities.
This conference is more than a symbolic gesture for the Muslim world; it will further strengthen equality, equity, and respect for women. Islamic teachings also make it obligatory for men and women to have education and equal opportunities. By fostering dialogue and showcasing tangible efforts, this conference is the commitment of Muslim nations to creating an environment where young girls can pursue their dreams without constraint.
The significance of the “International Conference on Girls’ Education in Muslim Communities” is that it was inaugurated by Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Mian Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif. Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, former Prime Minister and current Chairman of the Senate, will chair the concluding event.
Pakistani Nobel laureate and global education advocate Malala Yousafzai has joined the distinguished roster of attendees. Her presence symbolizes the resilience and potential of young women in the Muslim world and amplifies the conference’s mission to create equitable opportunities for girls.
A central theme of the conference is the imperative to revamp curricula to ensure Muslim women can fully participate in contemporary society. This effort will open new avenues for girls across the globe, particularly those from marginalized communities, to achieve academic and professional excellence.
The event was made more prominent by the presence of His Excellency Mr. Hissein Ibrahim Taha, Secretary General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), who also visited the Secretariat of COMSTECH/ the OIC’sOIC’s Ministerial Standing Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation before the conference. At the COMSTECH launching ceremony for its Expert Service Initiative, leaders pledged to mobilize expertise from across the Muslim world to address critical healthcare, agriculture, energy, and education challenges.
His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Muhammad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa, Secretary General of the Muslim World League, is attending the conference along with several other dignitaries.
This collaboration, spearheaded by distinguished scientists such as Prof. Dr. Muhammad Iqbal Choudhary and Prof. Dr. Shahid Baig, exemplifies the OIC’s spirit of innovation and unity. It reflects a shared determination to harness the collective talent of Muslim nations to address pressing global challenges while ensuring no one, especially women, is left behind.
During his meeting with the OIC Secretary General, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Mukhtar, Vice Chancellor of the National Skills University Islamabad, suggested continued reskilling programs for both men and women, emphasizing that adaptability is essential in a fast-changing world. This appeal was met with encouragement, further cementing the OIC’s commitment to advancing education and skill development across its member states.
The success of the International Conference on Girls’ Education in Muslim Communities is mainly due to the diligent efforts of Pakistan’s Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training, leadership, and the entire team. Their work has set a benchmark for future initiatives to empower Muslim women and girls through education. Delegates, scholars, and ministers from almost 50 countries participated in this conference.
As this momentum grows, the global community will undoubtedly witness the transformative power of educated, empowered Muslim women reshaping the world, bringing hope and progress to all corners of the globe.
