Punjab launches ‘She Threads’ scheme to empower rural women

The Punjab government has approved Rs310 million for the “She Threads” program that aims to enhance the economic empowernment and vocational skills of women in rural areas by training them in the textile industry.

The initiative is for women of 18 to 45 years of age from rural parts of the province with at least medium level education. Each participant will get a monthly stipend of Rs 15,000 throughout training and will also be provided with transportation support.

The program offers training in 10 distinct textile-related areas to boost women’s employability and establish pathways to financial independence.

Textile training courses are now being offered in Lahore, Sialkot, Sheikhupura and Faisalabad, officials said.

In the last two years over 2,500 women have graduated from the program and 773 of them got jobs shortly after graduation.

Authorities reported that 1,150 women are now being trained under the She Threads initiative, and another 1,350 women are anticipated to enrol next year.

Courses cover operation of industrial sewing machines, quality inspection of fabrics, fabric cutting, planning and merchandising of apparel, supervision of apparel, pattern making and cutting, pattern drafting and grading, quality control, finishing of garments, packing and washing of garments.

The administration is committed to making women financially independent and empowered. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz stated. She said competent women may be a valued national asset and pointed out that there are huge career opportunities for trained women in the textile industry.