The unemployment challenge for women in Pakistan

In Pakistan, many women face a significant challenge when it comes to finding employment. As we look around we notice that about 70 % of women in the country are still unemployed. This is a concerning issue that impacts not only individual women but the overall development of nation. The high unemployment rate among women in Pakistan is a complex issue.

Gallup & Pride Research reveals

Approximately 70% female engineering graduates

residing in the country are either unemployed or out of labour force.

Bilal Gilani, the Executive Director at Gallup Pakistan, expressed dismay regarding this troubling situation. Let’s look at cities about 24.0% of female engineering graduates have jobs, and 16.8% don’t. Sadly, in cities, more than 59.2% of female engineering graduates are not working.

Now, let’s compare the numbers of employed engineering graduates in different areas. In cities, 67.2% of female engineers have jobs, while in villages, it’s only 32.8%. This means that female engineering graduates have better job opportunities in cities compared to villagesIn villages, fewer engineering graduates choose not to work.

Women Unemployment — Approximately 70% female engineering graduates. (Photo:WorldAtlas)

Major issues that cause unemployment

Limited Job Opportunities:

Many women in Pakistan face unemployment because there are not enough job options available for them. This scarcity of opportunities makes it challenging for women to find suitable work.

Educational Barriers:

Some women in Pakistan encounter difficulties in accessing quality education. Without proper education and skills, it becomes harder for them to compete in the job market and find employment.

Gender Discrimination:

Women often face discrimination in the workplace based on their gender. This unfair treatment can affect their chances of getting hired or receiving equal pay for the same work.

Unequal Family Responsibilities:

Balancing work and family responsibilities can be challenging for women. Societal expectations place a heavier burden on them in terms of caregiving, making it difficult to fully engage in the workforce.

Lack of Supportive Policies:

Absence of policies that promote gender equality in the workplace contributes to the unemployment of women. Implementing fair wages, equal opportunities, and supportive work environments is crucial for addressing this issue.

This ratio of unemployment can reduce

Promoting Education:

Encourage and support women in gaining education and skills. Education opens doors to better job opportunities and women needed to compete in the job market.

Equal Job Opportunities:

Advocate for equal job opportunities for women. Work towards creating a fair job market where women have access to the same employment options as men, without facing discrimination based on gender.

Family Support:

Promote a supportive environment at home where family members share responsibilities. This allows women to balance work and family life more effectively, reducing the challenges they face in pursuing employment.

Government Policies:

Advocate for and implement policies that promote gender equality in the workplace. This includes measures such as fair wages, equal opportunities for career growth, and protections against gender-based discrimination.

Skill Development Programs:

Establish skill development programs organized for women. These programs can focus on providing practical skills and training that align with the needs of the job market, making women more competitive in various industries.

Entrepreneurship Opportunities:

Encourage and support women in starting their own businesses. Entrepreneurship can be a powerful way for women to create employment opportunities for themselves and others, contributing to economic growth.

Community Awareness:

Increase awareness within communities about the importance of women’s participation in the workforce. This can help change perceptions and foster a more inclusive environment that values and supports women in their professional endeavors.

By addressing societal norms, improving educational opportunities, and promoting workplace equality, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and prosperous society where women have the chance to contribute to the nation’s growth and development.