Independent Report
QUETTA, June 19:
Governor Balochistan Sheikh Jaffar Khan Mandokhail has underscored the need to modernize higher education by linking academic learning with practical skills, saying the province is steadily advancing towards a more dynamic and employment-focused education system.
He expressed these views during a meeting with the Vice Chancellor of Bolan University of Medical and Health Sciences, Professor Dr. Shabbir Ahmed Lehri, at the Governor House on Friday.
The governor said Bolan University is playing a pivotal role in reshaping medical education in the province and is expected to produce nearly 10,000 doctors, healthcare workers and medical technicians every year. He noted that the institution has laid the foundation for a new model of professional education aimed at meeting the growing demands of the healthcare sector both within Pakistan and abroad.
Mandokhail said the government intends to replicate this successful framework in other public-sector universities, enabling students to acquire professional and technical expertise alongside conventional academic qualifications.
Referring to the increasing demand for healthcare professionals in international markets, he said there is immense potential for trained graduates from Balochistan to secure opportunities overseas. He stressed that integrating diploma and vocational training programmes with university education would help prepare young people for emerging employment trends without requiring major additional resources.
The governor emphasized that the future belongs to skilled individuals who can create opportunities through knowledge and innovation rather than depending solely on public-sector jobs. He said educational institutions must adapt their curricula to evolving market needs and technological advancements.
Highlighting the importance of human resource development, Mandokhail said professionally trained graduates can make meaningful contributions to social progress and economic stability. He added that although challenges related to infrastructure and institutional development remain, they can be addressed through effective planning and sustained efforts.
Reaffirming his commitment as Chancellor of public-sector universities, the governor said every effort would be made to strengthen higher education institutions and equip students with the competencies required to succeed in an increasingly competitive world.
