LAHORE: (Thursday, March 05, 2026): Punjab University Vice Chancellor Prof Dr. Muhammad Ali said that everyone must work together to build a safe society for women. He expressed these views while addressing a ceremony held at Al Raazi Hall in connection with International Women's Day, organized by the PU Department of Media and Development Communication in collaboration with the Punjab Women Protection Authority. On this occasion, Chairperson of the Punjab Women Protection Authority Hina Parvez Butt, Chairperson Department of Media and Development Communication Dr. Ayesha Ashfaq, Director General Punjab Women Protection Authority Kulsoom Saqib, Director Human Rights Commission of Pakistan Farah Zia, Program Director of Shirkat Gah Humaira Mumtaz, CEO of Pink Ribbon Organization Omer Aftab, renowned anchor and broadcast journalist Zunaira Azhar, along with teachers and a large number of students were present. In his speech, Prof Dr. Muhammad Ali said it is important for educated girls to understand the factors that help empower them. He stated that economic stability is essential for women’s social empowerment. He also emphasized that a mother’s education is crucial because she plays a key role in shaping society. He added that although rural women contribute nearly 80% to their household economy, they still depend on men to access financial resources. He stressed that women must be given equal rights along with dignity and respect. He also appreciated the organizers for holding the event focused on women’s rights. Hina Parvez Butt said the government is striving to create a society free from violence against women where they have access to facilities related to travel, education, healthcare, employment, and sports. She said that Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz had declared women a “red line” in her speech and pledged that the government would take measures at every level to ensure women’s safety. She added that women now have many platforms, including social media, to raise their voices. She noted that domestic violence often begins with small issues that are usually ignored. She said that young people must become ambassadors of peace so that women can feel safe and confident everywhere. She further stated that the responsibility of raising children largely falls on mothers. In the past, violence against housewives was often suppressed as a private household matter, but since the establishment of the Punjab Women Protection Department in 2016, many steps and laws have been introduced to safeguard women’s rights, freedom, and security. She emphasized that women should know that now, in cases of domestic violence, the abusive man may be required to leave the house. She also pointed out that although women make up 52% of Pakistan’s population; their voices are still not heard loudly enough. Dr. Ayesha Ashfaq said that real change in Pakistan will come when society focuses on changing individual mindsets. She explained that it is necessary to break outdated stereotypes and traditional attitudes present in society. She stated further that respect, equal rights, and protection for women are not favors but social responsibilities. When individuals adopt positive attitudes in their homes, workplaces, and social circles, a chain of change begins and new thinking emerges. Such thinking can help build a society where women can confidently use their abilities and contribute equally to the country’s development,” she said. She concluded by thanking the participants and said that the department would continue to play its role in spreading awareness about equal rights for women.