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Muzaffarabad: Azad Jammu & Kashmir The Higher Education Department of Azad Jammu & Kashmir and the Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry (WCCI-AJK) have announced a strategic collaboration aimed at promoting women entrepreneurship and economic empowerment across the region.
A high-level meeting between Madam Tehzib un Nisa, Secretary Higher Education, and the WCCI-AJK leadership explored innovative avenues to strengthen women-led businesses and enhance female participation in economic development. The Chamber’s delegation included Board of Governors members Ms. Maria Gillani, Ms. Khizra Manzoor, Ms. Momina Batool, Ms. Tayyaba Bukhari, Ms. Amber Qayyum, and Mr. Muhammad Zahid Khan, Secretary WCCI-AJK.
Madam Tehzib un Nisa commended the Chamber for establishing the first institutional platform for women entrepreneurs in Azad Jammu & Kashmir, highlighting its pivotal role in inspiring women to actively engage in business and entrepreneurship. She emphasized:
“Educated women possess tremendous potential to drive the economic development of Azad Jammu & Kashmir. Linking higher education institutions with entrepreneurship platforms can create sustainable opportunities for young women to transform innovative ideas into successful enterprises.”
The meeting underscored the importance of creating opportunities for female graduates from colleges and universities, recognizing their role as key contributors to economic growth and social development. Plans were made to launch advocacy campaigns across higher education institutions, including training workshops, skill development programs, seminars, and startup incubation initiatives to nurture innovation among women.
Additionally, both sides agreed to develop a strategic action plan to equip women with modern skills and exposure to information and communication technologies (ICT), enabling them to explore digital entrepreneurship, e-commerce, and online business avenues. These efforts align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly gender equality, quality education, and inclusive economic growth.
Representatives of the Women Chamber expressed appreciation for Madam Tehzib un Nisa’s visionary leadership. Ms. Maria Gillani stated:
“Through collaboration with the Higher Education Department, WCCI-AJK aims to mobilize the immense potential of educated women, guiding them toward sustainable entrepreneurship and innovation.”
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to strengthen institutional coordination between the higher education sector and the business community, ensuring women in Azad Jammu & Kashmir play an increasingly prominent role in economic development and innovation.
