Federal Minister for Investment and Board of Investment (BOI), Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh Calls for Education Reform, Skills Development, National Consensus at International Education Summit
Federal Minister for Investment and Board of Investment (BOI), Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, on Wednesday called for modernising Pakistan’s education system, developing future-ready skills, and building national consensus to achieve sustainable economic growth and prosperity.
Addressing the opening session of the International Education Summit and Expo 2026 here at the COMSTECH Secretariat, the Federal Minister stated that education is a powerful tool for eliminating poverty, empowering young people, and transforming economies.
Held on August 19-20 under the theme “Promoting Global Education for Sustainable Growth & Economic Prosperity”, the summit brings together universities, governments, educationists, business leaders, and international stakeholders to explore opportunities for strengthening global educational cooperation. This event is organised by the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development (ICCD) in collaboration with OIC-COMSTECH, Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI), Board of Investment, and Sustainable Tourism Forum.
Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh emphasised the need for educational institutions to equip students with practical skills, digital literacy, critical thinking, communication abilities, and entrepreneurial capabilities due to rapid advances in technology, digitalisation, and artificial intelligence. He noted that the large youth population in OIC member states presents a significant opportunity for economic development.
The Federal Minister stressed the importance of coordination between universities, governments, and the private sector to align education systems with changing labour market demands. He drew on China’s success in lifting millions out of poverty, attributing much of its progress to an emphasis on education.
