In a landmark development for educational technology in Islamabad, the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan and tech giant Microsoft have renewed their partnership through the formal signing of the Education Transformation Agreement (ETA). This agreement solidifies their commitment to revolutionizing technological education in the country and fostering innovation among students.
The ceremony, graced by the presence of Hassan Nasir Jamy, Federal Secretary for the Ministry of Information Technology & Telecommunication, marked the launch of initiatives aimed at promoting innovation among students. These initiatives include the Imagine Cup competition, Founders Hub, and AI Skilling programs, designed to inspire students to showcase their creative ideas and entrepreneurial ventures.
Jibran Jamshad, Country Principal Officer & Regional Education Lead at Microsoft, highlighted the significance of this collaboration in the era of artificial intelligence.
“Our joint efforts with HEC through the ETA symbolize our dedication to nurturing innovation and preparing the youth with essential future skills,” he remarked.
Dr. Zia Ul Qayyum, Executive Director of HEC, set the tone for the event with a welcoming speech, emphasizing the importance of Founders Hub & AI Skilling in shaping a collaborative future in education and technology.
Hassan Nasir Jamy addressed the critical role of Information Technology and Artificial Intelligence in today’s world, stating, “Adopting IT and AI is more than a choice; it’s a strategic necessity that guides our progress and opens up new horizons, leading to a future rich in innovation, efficiency, and boundless opportunities.”
The formal signing of the ETA, a pivotal moment in Pakistan’s educational evolution, took center stage at the ceremony. Prof. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, Chairman of HEC, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating,
“Our agreement with Microsoft is a pledge to integrate technology into education and to cultivate an innovative spirit. This partnership is instrumental in creating a dynamic and adaptable learning environment for our students.”
