The recent International Conference on Pakistan Education System Challenges and Opportunities – A 20-Year Retrospective concluded at COMSTECH. Organized by the Manhattan Strategy Group (MSG), a notable US-Pakistani social and human development organization, this conference aimed to gather both local and global perspectives to address the critical issues confronting the Pakistan education system.
Inaugurated by Prof. Ahsan Iqbal, the Federal Minister for Planning Development & Special Initiatives, the conference emphasized the importance of the diaspora in fostering national success and development. Prof. Ahsan Iqbal remarked, “It is inspiring to see the Pakistani diaspora actively engaged, as seen with Manhattan Strategy Group (MSG), in organizing such valuable events focused on education.”
He highlighted the current era of artificial intelligence and technology, stressing the need for teacher training to equip them for emerging challenges and to promote digital education skills among educators. To facilitate this, the Government of Pakistan is establishing an institution dedicated to training teachers nationwide.
The conference also brought to light alarming statistics regarding the Pakistan education system: over 26.2 million children are currently out of school, with 53% being girls. Additionally, more than 60% of children aged three to five lack access to pre-primary education.
Keynote speakers, including Mr. Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani, Secretary of the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training, and Prof. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman of the Higher Education Commission, underscored the need for cross-sector collaboration to tackle these educational challenges.
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The event featured two panel discussions moderated by leading experts, focusing on “Foundational Learning and Systems Strengthening – Challenges and Opportunities” and “Youth Workforce for Green Skills, Science, Technology, and Innovation.” These discussions aimed to promote dialogue and explore innovative solutions to reinforce the Pakistan education system.
“Education is the cornerstone of sustainable development,” stated Shezad Habib, President of MSG. “This conference serves as a platform for collaborative action, uniting diverse stakeholders to address the multifaceted challenges within the Pakistan education system.”
By highlighting these pressing issues, the conference aims to inspire future initiatives and collaborations that can help transform the Pakistan education system, ensuring a brighter future for the nation’s youth.
