Pakistan has always been a patriarchal society where you can easily see man dominating every field and house. However, during the last few decades it has evolved drastically but the truth is that notwithstanding all our societal advancement, the glass ceiling is still a major issue in Pakistan.
Currently, majority of women in Pakistan works in male dominated workplace and can expect higher rates of gender discrimination. These women also face wage gaps, lack of respect from co-workers and clients. Not only this, most of these women also have to face sexual harassment.
To be a healthcare practitioner, one has to overcome many challenges but to be a female healthcare practitioner is Pakistan, what else does it take?
According to PMDC - Pakistan Medical and Dental College, till 2016 the total number of female general practitioners with the basic degree is 75259 i.e. 47.3% . Even though the number is not so high compared to the population, still this is the only professional field where the number of women is far better. It is estimated by the Medical council that half of these practitioners drop out of practice and become a "doctor bride" and the blame for shortage of practitioners is placed at the feet of women.
Even with all the limited opportunities and resources, there are many Pakistani women who shattered the glass ceiling in the healthcare industry and soared above it. They were resilient in the face of adversity and persistent to their goals instead of surrendering to such misfortunes and challenges.
Some of these amazing women include:
Ms. Erum Shakir Rahim, is the first Pakistani woman to be appointed as a GM by GSK from the subcontinent. Currently, she is Chief Executive Officer & Executive Director at GlaxoSmithKline Pakistan Ltd. She is also on the board of The Trust For Health & Medical Sciences and Concern For Children Trust.
Dr. Rozina Karmaliani, After training as a nurse and midwife, Dr. Rozina Karmaliani has spent decades working to inspire and empower others. Her efforts are currently focused on improving adolescent health, the development and strengthening of research capacities, and the integration of research into education and practice.
Dr Sania Nishtar, is a Pakistani physician, cardiologist, author and activist who is the current Special Assistant on Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety to the Prime Minister of Pakistan, with the status of Federal Minister, and BISP Chairperson.
By looking at these wonderful and inspirational women it's clear that challenges are nothing but the part of life and we should not let them hinder our progress. With the passage of time it is becoming extremely important to invest in girls education and its is becoming equally important to provide them with job opportunities that allow them growth.
As I believe, Half of the society is made of women and the other half is raised by women.
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