Rector NUST, Dr Muhammad Zahid Latif, delivered a keynote address at the SCO Digital Economy Forum 2025 held at Nankai University, emphasizing the importance of collaborative digital development among Shanghai Cooperation Organization member states. The forum convened a broad group of education leaders, digital economy stakeholders, and technology policymakers from across the SCO region, with a focus on shaping strategies for inclusive digital transformation.
In his remarks, Dr Zahid Latif highlighted the potential of regional digital partnerships, particularly among Central Asian nations. He described the evolving technological landscape as one shaped by Generation Alpha—a generation raised in a fully digital environment, whose learning needs and career aspirations demand new approaches in education and workforce development. He pointed to the increasing necessity for flexible, modular education systems that respond to the evolving demands of digital economies and global job markets.
Pakistan’s own demographic structure, with a significant youth population, provides a compelling case for targeted skill development. Dr Latif noted that Pakistan’s youth are actively engaging in the global gig economy, where digital competencies determine access to economic opportunity. He stressed the need for SCO member countries to prioritize digital literacy, coding skills, and platform-based work readiness to prepare youth for borderless, tech-driven careers.
The keynote also underscored the value of institutional collaboration across SCO nations to drive shared innovation and policy alignment. Dr Latif called for deeper academic, research, and policy linkages among member states to promote knowledge exchange and co-create digital solutions for common challenges. By establishing frameworks that encourage multi-lateral engagement, SCO members can collectively build a more equitable and interconnected digital ecosystem.
Dr Latif emphasized that digital transformation is not solely a technological process but one deeply linked to education systems, socioeconomic inclusion, and cultural adaptability. He urged stakeholders to invest in long-term, scalable interventions that empower youth with relevant digital skills, while also ensuring that infrastructure and access are distributed fairly across urban and rural regions.
During the forum, NUST’s participation was noted as part of a growing trend of Pakistani institutions engaging in international digital economy dialogues. The university’s emphasis on innovation, interdisciplinary learning, and applied research aligns with the forum’s objectives of building digitally inclusive knowledge economies across the SCO bloc.
The SCO Digital Economy Forum 2025 served as a space for academic and policy collaboration, aiming to align national strategies with the region’s broader digital agenda. Dr Latif’s address reflected Pakistan’s commitment to playing an active role in the regional digital transformation landscape and promoting inclusive growth through education, skills development, and institutional cooperation.
