US envoy ties Pakistan's economic development to higher education

ISLAMABAD: US Chargé d'Affaires Andrew J Schofer on Monday emphasised the crucial role of higher education institutes in driving Pakistan’s economic development.

"Higher education institutions have an essential role to play in Pakistan’s development. When universities deliver equitable education, provide youth with employment-ready skills, and lead in applied research and innovation, both individuals and society prosper," Chargé d'affaires Schofer said in his opening remarks while addressing the three-day International Summit on Higher Education.

Schofer inaugurated the three-day event in Islamabad alongside Higher Education Commission of Pakistan (HECP) Chairman Dr Mukhtar Ahmed, and professors from the University of Utah.

The USAID-funded summit brings together over 180 Pakistani and American university leaders and faculty to collaborate, exchange knowledge, and build partnerships to improve the quality of higher education and student employability.

The summit is part of USAID’s $19 million Higher Education System Strengthening Activity that supports 16 Pakistani public universities to improve higher education management, market-relevant instruction, and student support services.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Mukhtar Ahmed appreciated this robust partnership between the University of Utah and Pakistani universities to exchange ideas and share innovations across borders.