Azma calls for ending gender-based stereotypes, says women breaking barriers across every profession

Lahore (Web Desk): Punjab Information Minister Azma Zahid Bukhari has called for an end to gender-based stereotypes, saying women are demonstrating their abilities across virtually every field and should not be restricted by the notion that certain professions or tasks belong exclusively to men or women.

Addressing the two-day 'Industry Meets Academia (IMA ) 2026' exhibition organised by Superior University, Bukhari praised the institution for introducing innovative approaches in the education sector.

She said bringing students and academia together on a common platform was a positive and constructive initiative that could help strengthen the link between education and practical opportunities.

The provincial minister said women had made remarkable progress in a wide range of professions over the years.

She recalled that there was a time when women were largely encouraged to pursue careers such as medicine or teaching, but noted that women today had established themselves through their talent and hard work in almost every sphere of life.

Azma Bukhari also highlighted the importance of art and design, stressing the need to provide students in the field with better resources and meaningful opportunities. 
She said creative design could transform even ordinary clothing into something distinctive and aesthetically appealing.

The minister observed that people in the modern era should have access to products, clothing and other facilities according to their individual preferences and needs.

Culinary arts, she added, played an important role in presenting food attractively, while art and design offered an effective platform for nurturing and showcasing creativity.

The information minister reiterated that society needed to move beyond the perception that particular tasks could only be performed by either men or women.

Bukhari asserted that people without any discrimination of gender can excel in any profession through skill, dedication and ability.

The information minister congratulated the students, teachers and organisers associated with the art and design programme for holding the exhibition and appreciated their efforts in promoting creativity and providing students with an opportunity to display their talent.