Chairperson NCSW, Noureen Bano Lehri, emphasized sustained engagement with Gender Focal Persons and the need for collaborative institutional mechanisms to advance gender-responsive governance across federal structures. She further stressed that trained Gender Focal Persons and project wings must work in close coordination to ensure the gender responsive development and review of PC-1s, as well as gender-responsive budgeting processes across government institutions.

Secretary NCSW, Humaira Zia Mufti, highlighted the importance of integrating gender perspectives within planning, budgeting, and development frameworks, particularly through strengthened review mechanisms for PC-1s and PSDP-related processes. The Secretary also underscored that Gender Focal Persons must work in close coordination with NCSW on upcoming policies in line with NCSW’s mandate, ensuring that gender is mainstreamed across the policies and projects of the Government of Pakistan.

The meeting also included valuable technical inputs from UNICEF staff and experts on practical tools and approaches for Gender Responsive Budgeting, and institutional accountability mechanisms. Participants shared ongoing initiatives and progress within their respective institutions, including efforts related to women’s participation, digital inclusion, gender-responsive planning, and inclusive workplace practices.