Islamabad: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday underscored the importance of integrating modern technology into Pakistan’s education system to align it with global standards. He said that bringing innovation to the education sector and equipping the youth with professional skills remain among the government’s top priorities.
The Prime Minister made these remarks during a meeting with a delegation from Arizona State University (ASU), led by Doug Becker, Founder and Chairman of Cintana Education. The delegation discussed collaborative initiatives aimed at advancing technical and vocational training in Pakistan.
Highlighting the government’s focus on skill-based education, Prime Minister Shehbaz said that all education-related policies are designed to create employment opportunities for youth through vocational and professional training. He termed the establishment of the **National Institute of Technology (NIT)** with ASU’s support a significant milestone in this direction.
He further stated that the NIT will train Pakistani youth to meet global workforce standards, enabling them to compete internationally. The Prime Minister also noted that comprehensive reforms have been introduced in the **National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC)** over the past year, making it more effective and productive. NAVTTC will collaborate with ASU to modernize the vocational training sector.
The meeting also included discussions on operationalizing the NIT within the current year. Doug Becker reaffirmed ASU’s commitment to providing resources and facilities to modernize Pakistan’s education landscape.
At the conclusion of the meeting, the Prime Minister unveiled the commemorative plaque marking the upcoming operationalization of the National Institute of Technology.
The meeting was attended by Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Khan Cheema, Federal Minister for Education Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, Federal Minister for IT Shaza Fatima Khawaja, and senior officials from relevant departments.
