Chief Minister Punjab has begun important initiatives to give women independent, dignified, and empowering employment opportunities. Several driving schools have been established in key locations, including Greater Iqbal Park, Kahna Misaq Centre, Township, and the Police Khidmat Center in Bahria Town.
In addition, other driving schools have been set up at Liberty Khidmat Markaz, Manawan Traffic Lines, Defense Khidmat Markaz, and Barkat Market. Furthermore, the Abshar Driving School on Jail Road and the Women on Wheels School on LOS Ferozepur Road are designated specifically for women.
Chief Traffic Officer Lahore Amara Athar highlighted that these driving schools are run by women and only serve women. Alongside driving lessons, women will receive training in electrical and mechanical skills as part of the course. The “Ride for Change” initiative also offers scooter training across various universities and colleges, aiming to empower women through mobility.
Recently, The ‘Women on Wheels’ program, launched by Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Beenish Fatima in Rawalpindi, aims to empower women by offering scooter and motorcycle driving training. The program, aligned with Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s vision for women’s empowerment, invites women from the Girls Guide House to participate, with training sessions conducted within the institute.
The launch event featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony, and approximately 25 girls are expected to benefit from the initiative initially.
CTO Fatima emphasized that the program’s goal is to help women become independent by teaching them how to drive. This independence will allow them to travel to educational institutions or workplaces without relying on others for transportation. The initiative also extends to women teachers in Rawalpindi and nearby areas, encouraging them to enroll in driving courses to further enhance their mobility and independence.