Mentorship, partnerships and collaboration are essential to advancing women’s leadership and economic participation, speakers said at a roundtable organised by International School Dhaka (ISD) to mark International Women’s Day 2026.
The discussion titled “Give to Gain: Empowering Women, Empowering the Nation” brought together women leaders from business, education and social sectors to discuss opportunities and barriers to women’s empowerment, ISD said in a press release.
Participants highlighted the need to increase female participation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), address leadership gaps in both private and public sectors, and expand initiatives supporting employment and economic independence for women.
Among the participants were ASK Telecom Ltd Managing Director Sayma Shawkat, fashion brand Sarah Karim Couture Founder Sarah Karim, ISD Robotics Teacher Anna Yang, Thrive Board Vice President Amna Rahman, Thrive Board Member and Senior Advisor Sadia Moyeen, and TRZ Garments Director Zarin Rashid.
Encouraging girls to pursue careers in STEM should begin early, said ISD Robotics Teacher Anna Yang.
“STEM education is critical for empowering the next generation of girls. We must give them the independence to explore their interests and the confidence to try new things,” she said.
Expanding access to technology and training is essential for many girls, particularly in rural areas, said ASK Telecom Ltd Managing Director Sayma Shawkat.
“Education and training are essential to unlocking opportunities for them, and the private sector can help by investing in skills development and creating pathways for young girls to gain confidence and enter the workforce,” she said.
Speakers also emphasised that cooperation between educational institutions, businesses and social organisations can strengthen mentorship networks and expand opportunities for women professionals and entrepreneurs.
ISD Primary Years Programme (PYP) Coordinator Towhida Afsar moderated the roundtable, while ISD Corporate Relations Representative Faresta Ali Malick delivered the opening remarks.
The school said more than 300 women alumni are currently pursuing careers in different fields, while initiatives including scholarships and mentorship programmes aim to support female students in pursuing higher education and professional development.
