Lahore: At a recent National Conference on Sustainable Development Goals hosted by the University of Lahore (UOL), Dr. Aribah Aslam and Dr. Ghulam Ghouse unveiled a pivotal report focused on empowering economically disadvantaged women home-based workers in Punjab. This report, titled “Working within Confines: Empowering Women Home-Based Workers in Major Divisions of Punjab,” aims to initiate policy changes that could significantly enhance the lives of these women.
According to The University of Lahore, the report was funded by the university’s Start-up Research Grant Programme (UOL SRGP 2021-22) and represents a major collaborative effort to address socio-economic challenges faced by women working from home. Dr. Aribah, serving as the Principal Investigator, alongside Co-Principal Investigator Dr. Ghulam, conducted this research from June 27, 2022, to February 12, 2023, under the university’s commitment to gender and women’s development.
The study revealed that earnings are crucial in empowering home-based female workers, impacting their health, education, and overall job satisfaction. It emphasizes the need for comprehensive policies to improve the economic and social conditions of these workers. Key recommendations from the report include enhancing access to microfinance, providing compulsory education and training, increasing awareness of labor rights and health facilities, and aiding the transition of these workers to the formal economy.
The report also acknowledged the significant support from the university’s senior management and the Office of Research, Innovation, and Commercialisation (ORIC), which backed the project as part of efforts to push for scientific excellence and impactful community research.
The launch event was not only a showcase of the completed study but also a platform to push for broader policy adoption. With detailed analysis and strategic recommendations, the report is poised to serve as a crucial resource for policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders committed to fostering gender equality and enhancing the economic and social empowerment of women in Pakistan.
The findings and proposals set forth by Dr. Aribah and Dr. Ghulam are expected to contribute to the academic discourse on home-based work and support ongoing efforts to achieve sustainable development and equitable growth within the region.