The Department of Sociology of Virtual University of Pakistan successfully organized a two-day National Conference on "Shifting Paradigms: Uniting for Women’s Empowerment and Gender Equality" at COMSTECH, Islamabad. The event featured thought-provoking discussions, research presentations, and competitions aimed at addressing key gender-related challenges and solutions. The conference commenced with an inaugural session led by Prof. Dr. Arshi Saleem Hashmi, Dean FCS and Professor at National Defence University (NDU), Islamabad. In her keynote address on "Gender Equality: Ensuring Sustainable Peace," she emphasized the need for gender-inclusive policies. Dr. Shafqat Munir Ahmad, Deputy Executive Director at the Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI), delivered an insightful talk on "Beyond Awareness: Building Resilient Systems to End Gender-Based Violence," highlighting the importance of legal frameworks and institutional support.
The conference provided a platform for researchers and students to showcase their work through a Poster and Short Video Competition, thematic research presentations, and expert panel discussions. A key highlight was the panel session on "From Awareness to Action: Empowering Women in the Digital Age," featuring Ms. Syeda Viquar-un-Nisa, Mr. Irfan Mufti, Ms. Afshan Tehseen and Dr. Rabbia Aslam. The panelists shared strategies for leveraging technology to bridge the gender gap and enhance digital inclusion. Prof. Dr. Arshad Saleem Bhatti, Rector of Virtual University of Pakistan, visited the poster exhibition, commended the participants’ efforts, and emphasized the role of digital literacy and research-driven solutions in empowering women. The event concluded with a vote of thanks, acknowledging the contributions of distinguished guests, speakers, researchers, and participants.