ISLAMABAD: The Senate Standing Committee on Education has approved a bill aimed at ensuring 33 per cent representation of women across federal boards, statutory bodies, public sector organisations and affiliated committees, marking a significant step toward gender inclusivity in governance.
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The meeting, chaired by Senator Bushra Anjum Butt, unanimously recommended that the Law Division take necessary measures to ensure uniform implementation of the proposed quota across all relevant institutions. The move reflects growing concern over the underrepresentation of women in key decision-making roles.
During the session, the Higher Education Commission (HEC) briefed the committee on its current board composition, which includes five male and two female members. Taking notice of the imbalance, the committee directed immediate corrective action, proposing a revised structure of four male and three female members.
Senator Butt expressed dissatisfaction over the existing disparity, calling it unacceptable in a modern governance system. However, Senator Kamran Murtaza raised concerns about fixed quotas, cautioning that merit should not be compromised and advocating for the inclusion of qualified women through a balanced approach.
The committee also reviewed the education ministry’s budget for 2025–26, noting that 15 development projects worth Rs15,799.92 million are underway, with Rs14,269 million already released. Updates were also shared on initiatives by the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission, as well as future plans including a Daanish School in Sohbatpur.
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Progress in digital transformation, teacher training, and school solarisation was acknowledged, though concerns were raised over infrastructure gaps, teacher shortages, and delays in textbook delivery. The committee directed relevant authorities to address these issues promptly to improve the overall education system.