January 31, 2025@ 04:24 AM
As we celebrate the birth anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founding father of Pakistan, we reflect on his visionary leadership, which laid the foundation of a progressive and independent nation. Among his many contributions, Jinnah's emphasis on education especially technical and vocational education stands out as a forward-thinking approach to nation-building.
Jinnah's Vision for Technical Education
Quaid-e-Azam was acutely aware of the importance of education in shaping a nation's destiny. However, he did not advocate for traditional education alone. Instead, he recognized the critical role of technical and vocational training in fostering economic independence, technological progress, and societal uplift. He believed a skilled workforce was essential for the newly formed Pakistan to compete globally and become self-reliant.
In one of his speeches, Jinnah eloquently stated, "There is an immediate and urgent need for training our people in scientific and technical education in order to build up our future economic life, and we should see that our people take to science, commerce, trade, and particularly well-planned industries. We shall have to compete with the world, which is moving very fast in this direction." These words reflect his deep understanding of the transformative potential of technical education for both individual empowerment and national progress, and the urgency of the need for it.
The Relevance of Jinnah's Ideals Today
While celebrating the birthday of our national hero, his vision for technical education remains profoundly relevant. In a world increasingly driven by technology, innovation, and specialized skills, the emphasis on technical education has become more critical than ever. Countries that have invested in vocational training and technical education have reaped immense economic benefits, fostering innovation, creating job opportunities, and addressing unemployment challenges.
In Pakistan, the need to prioritize technical education is paramount. With a majority youth population, equipping the younger generation with market-relevant skills is essential for harnessing their potential and steering the country toward sustainable development. Programs that combine technical training with entrepreneurship can help create a self-sufficient society aligned with Quaid's aspirations.
A Tribute to Jinnah's Legacy
As we honor Quaid-e-Azam on his birth anniversary, we must renew our commitment to his ideals, particularly in education. Establishing institutions like the National Skills University Islamabad, NAVTTC, and the Technical Education and Vocational Training Authority (TEVTA) is a testament to his vision's enduring relevance. However, there is much more to be done.
Policymakers, educators, and industry leaders must come together and collaborate to revamp technical education curricula, integrate digital skills, and foster innovation to meet the demands of the modern era. Only by doing so can we truly pay homage to Jinnah's legacy and build an economically robust, socially equitable, and technologically advanced Pakistan. This collective action is the key to realizing Jinnah's vision for technical education.
Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah's emphasis on technical education was a cornerstone of his vision for Pakistan. It was about creating a skilled workforce and laying the groundwork for an independent, prosperous, and forward-looking nation. As we celebrate his birth anniversary, let us pledge to transform his dream into reality by investing in the technical education sector, empowering our youth, and positioning Pakistan as a leader in the global economy. In doing so, we honor his legacy and secure a brighter future for generations to come.
January 31, 2025@ 04:24 AM
National Skills University is the first platform to provide opportunities for youth benefitting from several ongoing initiatives.
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