Karachi: In a strategic move to bolster design education in Pakistan, the Pakistan Institute of Fashion and Design (PIFD) has partnered with the National Book Foundation (NBF) to launch a new campus in Karachi. This initiative, formalized through a Letter of Understanding, aims to expand educational opportunities in fashion and visual arts, addressing the industry’s growing demand for skilled professionals.

According to Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training, the signing ceremony featured prominent figures such as Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, Minister for Federal Education, and Professor Ms. Hina Tayyaba Khalil, Vice Chancellor of PIFD, among others. The new campus, located on the 2nd floor of the National Book Foundation’s Braille Complex Building near the PTV Station, will offer an array of training courses, including diplomas and certificates in Fashion Design, Textile Design, Jewellery Design, and Visual Arts.

The curriculum is designed to provide state-of-the-art training facilities that will help bridge the gap between educational outcomes and market needs. Additionally, the campus will include a 2% quota for partially blind students, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity. The Federal Government, along with industry partners, will support the campus with the necessary resources to ensure its success.

Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui lauded the efforts of PIFD and reiterated the Ministry’s support for the project. Professor Khalil emphasized the significance of the Karachi campus in the broader context of PIFD’s expansion, aiming to foster talent and skill in the creative industries. The campus is slated to begin operations in September 2024, marking a significant milestone in the advancement of specialized education in Pakistan.