Punjab Minister for Women Development Hameeda Waheedud Din has said besides proper look after, basic education and training is also being ensured to the children of working women in daycare centres set up in different institutions of the province.
She was speaking at the inauguration of a daycare centre established at FC College (FCC) University with the cooperation of Punjab Women Development Department on Tuesday.
Hameeda said that 61 daycare centres of international standard have so far been set up throughout the province. She said that participation of women in development process results in economic prosperity. She said that there is dire need of changing the mindset to ensure economic empowerment of women of developing countries.
Referring to the measures taken by the Punjab government for the welfare and betterment of women, the minister said that job quota for women in various departments has been increased from five percent to 15 percent while women can also apply for jobs on open merit.
She said that for the purpose of encouragement of women towards participation in business activities, loans on soft-term are being provided to them.
She said daycare centres and working women hostels are being set up with the endowment fund of Rs 600 million.
The minister further said that the Punjab cabinet and the standing committee have given approval to the Violence Bill while amendments are also being made in Harassment Act.
Moreover, she said, provincial ombudswoman is being given more powers. She stressed upon women to take benefit from the steps taken by the government and play their due role in national development. She also appreciated the academic and extra-curricular activities of the FCC University.
Dr James, rector of the university, also spoke on the occasion and highlighted the aims and objectives of the daycare centre. He also appreciated this step of the government.