Munaza Kazmi
Women, a beautiful creation of God, appointed to make and educate the generations…
Throughout history, the central role of women in society has ensured the stability, progress and long-term development of nations. Globally, women comprise 49.5 percent of the world’s population, an almost half. Out of which 43 percent are agricultural labor force – rising to 70 percent in some countries. For instance, across Africa, 80 percent of the agricultural production comes from small farmers, most of whom are rural women. However, it’s widely accepted that agriculture can be the engine of growth and poverty reduction in developing nations. Moreover, women, particularly mothers, play the largest role in developing the child physically and mentally, hence can be named as, “The makers of tomorrow”.
At the primary level, women are the major caretakers of children and elders in every country of the world. International studies demonstrate that when the economy and political organization of a society change, women take the lead in helping the family adjust to new realities and challenges. They are likely to be the prime initiator of outside assistance and play an important role in hindering changes in family life.
Along with this, Rural or Urban, women all over the globe play while taking care of the initial needs of family, play a key role in supporting their households and communities in achieving food and nutrition security, generating income, and improving livelihoods and overall well-being.
The contribution of women to a society’s transition from pre-literate to literate likewise is undeniable. Basic education is key to a nation’s ability to develop and achieve sustainability targets. Moreover, research has shown that education can improve agricultural productivity, enhance the status of girls and women, reduce population growth rates, enhance environmental protection, and widely raise the standard of living.
We can say, it is the mother in the family who most often urges children of both genders to attend – and stay – in school. The role of women is at the front end of the chain of improvements leading to the family’s, the community’s long-term capacity.
Today, the median female share of the global workforce is 45.4 percent. Women’s formal and informal labor can transform a community from a relatively autonomous society to a participant in the national economy. Despite significant obstacles, women’s small businesses in rural developing communities not only can be an extended family’s lifeline but can form a networked economic foundation for future generations.
It has been observed, in recent decades the role of women in the urban and rural workforce has expanded exponentially, however still in most of the parts of the globe we can see the gender inequality. Saddest reality is even today, not a single country can claim to have achieved gender equality. Multiple obstacles remain unchanged in law and in culture. Till date a woman can face discrimination at work, a single woman and even single woman or a divorced in society, still the rules are different for men and woman. At the time of marriage there comes a lot many questions regarding a woman character, even on slightest doubt she can be sent back to her father’s home. A single woman is seen in society as an open chest.
Seeing this, the theme for International Women’s Day (8 March) 2022 is, “Gender Equality Today for a Sustainable Tomorrow”. The day will celebrate the achievements and contributions of women and girls in different spheres. The day also spreads awareness about women’s empowerment and gender parity.
Imagine a gender equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination. A world that’s diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated. Together we can forge women’s equality. Collectively we can all #BreakTheBias.