On 3rd December, P@SHA Vice Chairman Raheel Iqbal attended the Lahore Garrison University Open House and Career Fair as the keynote speaker, where he shared detailed insights on the evolving needs of Pakistan’s IT sector and the opportunities available for young professionals preparing to enter the workforce. His visit attracted significant interest from students, faculty members, and industry professionals, reinforcing the role of P@SHA in guiding upcoming talent and shaping the conversation around the future of the local technology landscape. His address encouraged participants to consider the broader shifts taking place in the IT market and the importance of aligning academic growth with real time industry requirements.
During his keynote, Raheel Iqbal spoke extensively about the direction in which Pakistan’s IT industry is moving and highlighted the skills currently in high demand across both local and global markets. He encouraged students and fresh graduates to focus on continuous learning and to engage in hands on experience through internships, projects, and practical exposure. He emphasised that emerging technologies are reshaping how organisations operate and that young professionals should remain proactive in understanding these changes. His remarks underlined that staying updated with new tools, platforms, and methodologies is essential for anyone seeking to remain competitive in an increasingly dynamic digital environment. The guidance was particularly relevant for students preparing to transition into their first professional roles, offering clarity on what employers expect and how academic preparation can be complemented with real world practice.
During his visit to Lahore Garrison University, Raheel Iqbal also held a meeting with Maj Gen Muhammad Khalil Dar, HI(M) (R), Vice Chancellor of the institution. Their discussion centred on new opportunities to strengthen collaboration between academia and the technology industry, with a focus on ensuring that students receive exposure to current trends, industry challenges, and the types of skills required to contribute effectively to Pakistan’s digital sector. Both sides acknowledged the value of partnership driven initiatives that connect educational institutions with companies, industry bodies, and technology leaders. These discussions are seen as part of ongoing efforts to help bridge the gap between classroom learning and workplace expectations, a topic that continues to shape strategic conversations across Pakistan’s tech community.
At the event, the Vice Chancellor presented Raheel Iqbal with a shield of appreciation in recognition of his contribution and presence. The gesture reflected the university’s acknowledgment of the role P@SHA plays in supporting the next generation of technology professionals and fostering deeper engagement between institutions and the national tech ecosystem. Attendees responded positively to the session, noting that interactions such as these contribute to building confidence among students and help them identify the pathways available to them as they prepare for careers in IT. The engagement also demonstrated how industry stakeholders and academic leaders can work together to support future talent and advance the development of Pakistan’s technology sector through consistent dialogue, mentorship, and shared initiatives.
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