Toolkit for Gender Diversity and Inclusion of Women in Textile Industry

Abstract

As part of the MBA final semester at COMSATS University Lahore, this project explores at gender inclusion programs in the textile sector with a particular focus on Eastgate Industries Pakistan. The project key objectives are to explore the current state of gender diversity and inclusion in textile industries and to propose practical recommendations for improving the gender diversity and inclusion initiatives for women at textile industries. The scope of the project is to evaluate gender diversity, inclusion initiatives, availability of leadership development programs, mentoring opportunities, and equal opportunities of career progression. This will provide valuable insights to Eastgate Industries and the entire textile sector about how to establish more inclusive and positive workplaces. The project is done by conducting semi-structured interviews with the employees and observing the work environment at Eastgate Industries. The findings reveal that Eastgate Industries is still working on creating inclusive work environment for women. The organization lacks formal policies and regulations on gender diversity and inclusion e.g. no flexible working arrangements, less representation of women in leadership roles and absence of structured feedback mechanism etc. Recommendations are given on the basis of benchmarking some of the best practices in this industry and some models of Gender Diversity and Inclusion, keeping in view they help in achieve the broader goals for gender inclusiveness.