A recent event in Pakistan showcased the potential of digital access to empower women and in turn people with disability in the country. The event was an AI-powered fashion show, where digital avatars or virtual models displayed clothing and garments created by women artisans who were part of PTCL’s “Ba-Ikhtiar” program.
The program provides women with smartphones, digital wallets, and training in e-commerce and financial management. Similarly, digital inclusion initiatives can empower people with disability, providing them with equal opportunities for education, employment, and entrepreneurship. By leveraging AI and e-commerce, individuals with disability can overcome physical barriers and participate fully in the digital economy.
For example, digital platforms can enable people with physical disability to showcase their skills and products to a global audience, without having to navigate physical spaces. AI-powered tools can also assist individuals who are blind or with low vision, providing them with accessible ways to engage with digital content and services.
By bridging the digital divide and promoting inclusive access to technology, Pakistan can unlock the potential of all its citizens, including women and people with disability. Initiatives like “Ba-Ikhtiar” demonstrate the power of digital inclusion to drive social and economic change, and highlight the importance of ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate in the digital economy.
For more information, please read World Economic Forum’s article on Pakistan’s AI fashion show.