Islamabad: Federal Minister for Investment, Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, emphasized the need for modernizing education, skills development, and fostering international cooperation at the International Education Summit & Expo 2026 in Islamabad. Addressing the opening session, he outlined the critical role of education and technology in driving sustainable economic growth.

According to Press Information Department, the summit, organized by Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development (ICCD) with support from various bodies including the OIC-COMSTECH and the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI), aims to connect universities with future global students under the theme “Promoting Global Education for Sustainable Growth & Economic Prosperity.”

Prominent figures, including Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary and Atif Ikram Sheikh, attended the event, which highlighted the necessity of aligning educational systems with economic demands. Minister Sheikh stressed the importance of equipping young people in the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) member states with modern skills to harness their potential for economic innovation and growth.

Drawing on his own experiences, Sheikh advocated for placing education at the center of national development strategies, noting the transformative impact of education in countries like China. He called for comprehensive reforms to ensure inclusive access to quality education, emphasizing the development of practical skills alongside academic knowledge.

The summit underscored the need for national consensus and collaboration among educational institutions, governments, and the private sector to prepare students for a rapidly evolving global economy. Sheikh reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to fostering international partnerships and creating a conducive environment for investment, aiming to enhance the country’s economic prospects through education-driven initiatives.