Islamabad, A pioneering conference focusing on gender-inclusive solutions to some of the globe’s most critical issues, such as climate resilience, entrepreneurship, and sustainable water management, concluded today in Islamabad. The four-day event, organized by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in collaboration with the National Rural Support Program (NRSP), has made significant strides towards fostering inclusivity and diversity in line with the International Women’s Day theme for this year, ‘Inspire Inclusion.’
According to Embassy of The United States of America, the conference was led by the All Pakistan Women Universities Consortium (APWUC) and brought together 18 women’s universities from across Pakistan. The event saw the participation of approximately 250 individuals, including representatives from U.S. Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs), high-ranking Pakistani government officials, international donors, private sector representatives, and members of civic organizations. It aimed to tackle local development issues by leveraging localized research and methodologies, all within the framework of the “Green Alliance.”
U.S. Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Andrew Schofer, during the closing ceremony, emphasized the importance of inclusivity in driving societal progress. He expressed hope that the commitment to ‘Inspire Inclusion’ shared by all participants would lead to a future where every contribution, whether from individuals, communities, or partnerships, is recognized and celebrated.
The conference featured a variety of activities, including keynote speeches, interactive workshops, and networking sessions. These engagements provided a platform for attendees to exchange ideas, build strategic partnerships, and contribute to a unified goal of creating a more sustainable and inclusive future. This gathering stands as a testament to the collaborative effort required to address complex global challenges and highlights the critical role of inclusivity in developing transformative solutions.
This event marks a significant moment in the international effort to promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA), demonstrating USAID’s continued leadership in spearheading initiatives that aim to build a more inclusive and sustainable world.