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Federal Minister for Education and Professional Training Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui has said that Pakistan’s development is directly tied to Karachi’s transformation, urging the youth to reclaim their right to education and embrace skills and innovation as tools for national progress.
Addressing a certificate distribution ceremony organized by the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC) in Karachi, Dr. Siddiqui said, “If Karachi progress, Pakistan will progress.”
He lamented that the city’s residents, especially its youth, have been deprived of access to quality education for too long, adding, “We are making efforts to restore that right.”
The minister highlighted the importance of technical and vocational education, encouraging youth to take full advantage of NAVTTC’s skill development programs.
He said the quota system no longer poses a barrier, and that both formal and informal education are essential in today’s world. “In the future, skills will matter as much as degrees,” he noted.
Dr. Siddiqui also emphasized the transformative power of emerging technologies, stating, “Artificial Intelligence will change the world. Nations that don’t evolve will be left behind.” He called Pakistan’s youth the country’s biggest asset and stressed the need to empower them to drive innovation.
In a special message to female graduates, the minister expressed his surprise and delight at the high female participation in the program and encouraged women to play an active role in the economy and nation-building. “The contribution of women is crucial for Pakistan’s development,” he added.
Dr. Siddiqui also addressed the broader educational challenges facing the country, citing that 25 million children remain out of school. He called for non-formal education to be taken to streets, towns, and villages, stating, “There is no better way to eliminate ignorance.”
Earlier, NAVTTC Executive Director Aamir Jan and NAVTTC Sindh DG Fida Bazai spoke on the organization’s goals and successes. Dr. Siddiqui later distributed certificates and laptops among trained students at the ceremony.
