Islamabad, Mobilink Bank, a leader in Pakistan's digital microfinance sector, has launched the nation's first "Center of Excellence for Women" at Arid Agriculture University, marking a significant step towards women's financial inclusion and empowerment in the agricultural domain. This pioneering initiative, part of the Women Inspirational Network (WIN) program, aims to bridge gender gaps and promote economic growth by providing tailored financial services, financial literacy training, and capacity-building efforts for women in approximately 200 rural villages in the Potohar region.
According to Mobilink Bank, the collaboration with Arid Agriculture University, one of Pakistan's premier agricultural institutions, underscores the bank's commitment to supporting the agricultural sector, which constitutes a significant portion of the country's GDP and workforce. Women, who make up 45% of the agricultural labor force, often face hurdles in accessing financial services and technology. Through the WIN program and the newly established center, Mobilink Bank seeks to address these challenges, offering innovative financial solutions to empower women farmers and promote their participation in the economy.
Haaris Mahmood Chaudhary, Chief Operating Officer of Mobilink Bank, expressed the institution's dedication to enriching Pakistan's agricultural landscape and empowering rural communities. By leveraging the bank's resources and expertise, the WIN program has already made considerable progress in equipping women with essential skills and knowledge. The partnership with Arid University represents a further expansion of the bank's efforts to ensure that women, especially those in agriculture, have access to the digital and financial tools necessary for success in today's competitive environment.
Dr. Gulshan Irshad, Associate Professor at Arid Agriculture University, highlighted the significance of the partnership, noting the joint efforts to educate farmers—particularly women—on agricultural best practices and financial literacy. This collaboration not only empowers communities but also establishes a direct link between Mobilink Bank and potential customers, promising wider access to the bank's services across Pakistan's agricultural universities.
This initiative by Mobilink Bank and Arid Agriculture University sets a new precedent for the digital and financial inclusion of women in Pakistan, promising a more inclusive and equitable future for women in the agricultural sector.