Muhammad Asad Tahir Bhawana

Gender divide has caused low participation of Pakistani women in digital economy. The country can benefit from their huge potential by seriously addressing this challenge, said Malik Zakaullah, Senior Data Engineer and HR Recruiter for Teradata GDC Pakistan.   He told WealthPK that the government must improve digital connectivity and consider an affordable internet access a citizen's right. “It is difficult for our women entrepreneurs to operate in the digital space due to the prohibitive cost of the internet. To encourage greater competition in the telecom sector, the government need to partner with the private sector to expand broadband coverage in underserved areas,’’ he added.

“Development of digital economy for women entrepreneurs in developing countries requires a multifaceted approach that involves the government, business, and civil society collaboration. The goal of this approach should be to give women access to digital resources, education, skills, and financial support.” In his opinion, increased participation of women and girls in digital technology and innovation along with their engagement as students and professionals in science and technology is imperative for improving the economy and sustainability in a country. With new business opportunities, efficiency gains, and better access to markets and global value chains, digital entrepreneurship can provide new pathways for women's inclusion in the digital economy, he added.

“Improving digital education for women and producing more women IT professionals will not only allow them to work remotely but also provide them with better online learning opportunities through freelancing. However, unfortunately, technology continues to be underrepresented among women and girls in Pakistan in terms of its creation, use, and regulation. They are less likely to use digital services or enter tech-related careers and are significantly more vulnerable to online harassment and violence. This limits their digital empowerment and the potential of technology as a whole to transform lives,” said Zakaullah.

Inclusion of women and other marginalized groups in technology opens up a greater range of potential innovations that meet women's needs and promote economic well-being along with gender equality, he added. Women’s participation in digital economy is low compared to their population. Only 52 percent of adult women use mobile phones and women are 49 percent less likely than men to use mobile internet. According to some studies, nearly 6 in 10 women face some sort of restrictions in using the internet.In this regard, the Senate of Pakistan recently unanimously passed a resolution urging the government to develop and implement a national action plan for integrating gender into innovation, technology, and digital education.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan-WealthPk