The 2017 Pakistan National Human Development Report states that currently Pakistan has more young people than ever before. The report also highlights how the country’s youth can be a critical force for development, if they are empowered with education and knowledge. Therefore, in line with the findings of the report, Microsoft has collaborated with the Government of Sindh, School Education and Literacy Department, Information Science and Technology Department and Sindh Education Foundation and hosted a ‘Microsoft Edu Day’ at the Movenpick Hotel in Karachi.
The seminar consisted of delegates from across the region that showcased the latest technology designed specifically for education, which promotes immersive, inclusive and 21st century learning.
The Minister, Information Science and Technology, Taimur Talpur, attended the event as the Chief Guest. At the seminar he spoke about the initiatives that are being unfolded by Government of Sindh in a bid to speed up e-governance in the province. The Secretary Education and his team also showcased the work on management and monitoring solutions at the event. The Sindh Education Foundation also gave a presentation on the ICT based Teaching & Learning Initiative.
Chief Guest Provincial Minister IT, the Government of Sindh speaking on the occasion said, “Developing digital skills from primary school age has become a necessity, as young people navigate an increasingly technological world. With technology in the classrooms, learners can develop digital skills in a digital way. While it’s essential that learners are upskilled, it’s also important that educators are empowered and provided with adequate resources to successfully carry out lessons in the classroom.”
Office 365, Azure and the Microsoft enterprise resource planning (ERP) and Campus Management Solutions were also showcased at the seminar.
Abid Zaidi, Microsoft Country Manager for Pakistan speaking about the technologies said, “Technologies such as Skype, Minecraft and OneNote have played a big part in redefining learning through creating immersive and inclusive learning experiences that inspire lifelong learning. They are also designed to make an educator’s job simpler, so that they can devote time and resources to what matters most. We’re committed to doing our part to ensure that every learner and educator has access to the best technologies in the classroom.”
Speaking on the partnership with the Government of Sindh, Abid Zaidi added that the Sindh Education Foundation, School Education & Literacy and IT Department shares their vision of driving the digital transformation agenda in education, and empowering young people with a highly relevant education that positively impacts their future employability.
Furthermore, at the showcase, Microsoft also announced the E2 Educators Exchange competition for local Microsoft Innovative Educator Experts (MIE). The competition will give local education leaders the opportunity to attend E2 in Paris, France in 2019, and meet with global educators to explore industry trends and emerging technologies.
Speaking about the MIE, Abid Zaidi said, “We are really excited to provide local MIEs with the opportunity to travel to Paris and engage with over 400 innovative educators from around the world. Each MIE today received support and training on applying for E2, which has a series of important criteria. Overall, we are confident that delegates have left today’s event with new ideas, a revived hope in what digital transformation can do for the next generation, and a sense of belonging to an important global effort.”
For more information about the competition and how to enter you can visit their website.
