OICCI, in collaboration with UNDP Pakistan, hosted an engaging workshop on “Driving Gender Equality: Awareness and Adoption of the Gender Equality Seal for the Private Sector” on November 12, 2025.

The session brought together voices from across the corporate and development sectors to discuss how organizations can move beyond commitment and take real, measurable steps toward achieving gender balance at work.

Opening remarks were given by M Abdul Aleem, CE/Secretary General, OICCI, followed by Dr. Samuel Rizk, Resident Representative, UNDP Pakistan, Van Nguyen, Deputy Resident Representative and Sudha Gooty (virtual), Regional Advisor – Gender Equality, UNDP HQ, who emphasized the global importance of inclusive workplaces. The session was moderated by Umer Malik, OIC/Policy Analyst, Development Policy Unit, UNDP.

Experts including Nadia Tariq Ali, Gender Specialist UNDP, Shahbano Khan (virtual), SDGs Specialist, UNDP, Andrea Castaño de la Torre (virtual), Gender Policy Analyst, UNDP, shared insights on the status of gender equality in Pakistan, the framework of the Gender Equality Seal program, and the steps companies can take to begin their certification journey. This was followed by a Q&A session including OICCI member group representatives.

The workshop concluded with closing remarks from Kashif Shafi, Executive Director, OICCI, who reiterated the shared responsibility of both the public and private sectors in shaping a more equitable future for all.

Together, we’re moving towards workplaces where every individual has the opportunity to grow, lead, and contribute, regardless of gender.