ISLAMABAD, Jan 23 :Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif said the Government of Pakistan was paying special attention to the promotion of higher education and skills through various programs to make the education system effective and empower the youth.
In a message on World Education Day observed on January 24, he said, “Today, on World Education Day, Pakistan joins the world community in paying tribute to all those associated with education and training around the world, especially in Pakistan.”
He said, “Personally, today, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the people, students, teachers, parents, educators and researchers who are striving for education and training and the promotion of knowledge across the country.”
“This year, this international day is being celebrated under the very appropriate title of the power of youth in co-creating education,” he added.
The prime minister said, “This title expresses the role of the youth in our era as active partners in the education system. An education system that is compatible with the demands of the present, modern and future, comprehensive and effective. The creative abilities and innovative aspirations of the youth will definitely lead to the development of the education system in the right direction.”
“Pakistan’s talented youth are a valuable asset of our country. Providing them with quality education, quality skills and the best opportunities for skill development is one of the top priorities of the government. The Constitution of Pakistan, especially Article 25-A, will continue to guide the federal and provincial governments in the promotion and reform of education,” he remarked.
He said, “In today’s interconnected and technologically advanced world, the secret of individual and national prosperity and development lies in the absorption of critical thinking, innovation, digital skills, ethical values and practical skills in the current mode of education and knowledge.”
“These programs include expanded scholarships for higher education, merit-based financial assistance and the Prime Minister’s Laptop Scheme. The aim of these programs is to provide students with access to digital resources, enhance research capacity and integrate with the international knowledge and economy,” he added.
The prime minister said, “A key aspect of the strategy to empower youth from all walks of life is the promotion of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). So that skills and expertise are aligned with national needs and global opportunities. Under the Prime Minister’s Youth Skills Development Program, several effective and customized training initiatives are being taken across the country through the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC).”
“These initiatives include skills training in emerging areas such as artificial intelligence, robotics, automation and advanced technologies. Through national-level skilling initiatives, youth from madrassas are also being included in the national system so that they can play a positive role in society by benefiting from decent employment and business opportunities,” he added.
The prime minister said, “Special programs for women are being developed to promote technical, digital and home-based skills to strengthen women’s economic inclusion and economic self-reliance.”
“Today, on World Education Day, I appeal to all educational institutions, students, teachers, parents and civil society to come together to create an educational environment for the youth and future generations that promotes quality ideology and thought, inclusion of all classes, the greatness of hard work, modern requirements of knowledge and research, and the spirit of lifelong learning.” he added.
He said, “Let us renew our resolve to make the bright future of the youth the focus of the education and skills system and create an education system that enhances the capabilities of every individual, promotes equality and prepares future generations to lead Pakistan towards the goal of peace and stability, progress and prosperity.”
