Rawalpindi Women's University Hosts National Outreach and Mentorship Programs, Highlighting Role of Women in Academia

Rawalpindi Women's University (RWU) concluded two major initiatives this week to strengthen higher education and promote gender equity: the National Outreach Program for Higher Education Faculty and the Women Empowerment and Mentorship Program.

The closing ceremony at the university's main campus brought together key figures in Pakistan's academic landscape. Prof. Dr. Zia ul Qayyum, the Executive Director of the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan, a prominent voice in education reform, served as the chief guest. He was joined by Dr. Noor Amna Malik, Managing Director of the National Academy of Higher Education (NAHE), and Mr. Tahir Abbas Zaidi, Program Coordinator at NAHE.

In his address, Dr. Qayyum urged universities across Pakistan to adopt advanced research methodologies and integrate technological tools into classrooms. "To remain competitive in today's global knowledge economy, our higher education system must evolve," he said, calling for a more research-driven and digitally enabled academic environment.

He also emphasized the role of women in shaping Pakistan's academic future. "Women are central to the progress of education and the professional sectors," Dr. Qayyum said. "Their active participation across all disciplines is essential to build inclusive and innovative institutions."

The two programs hosted by RWU were designed to address long-standing gaps in academic mentorship, faculty development, and gender representation. According to organizers, faculty from across the country engaged in capacity-building sessions, while the mentorship program provided women educators with support networks and leadership guidance.

Dr. Noor Amna Malik of NAHE praised RWU for what she described as "a timely and strategic intervention" in the country's higher education sector. "Empowering women in academia is no longer a peripheral issue; it is central to national development," she said.

Established to serve female students in the region, Rawalpindi Women's University has increasingly positioned itself at the forefront of educational reform in Pakistan. With initiatives like these, officials say, the university aims to set a precedent for other institutions nationwide.