Islamabad: The National Assembly Standing Committee on Federal Education and Professional Training, during its 26th meeting, deferred a government bill regarding the Hyderabad Institute for Technology and Management Sciences and expressed significant concern over drug use in educational institutions. The committee, chaired by Anjum Aqeel Khan, emphasized the need for coordinated efforts among various authorities to tackle the issue and discussed enhancing vocational training programs to align with international job markets.

According to National Assembly of Pakistan, the committee highlighted the importance of collaboration between the Anti-Narcotics Force, police, Higher Education Commission, and Federal Directorate of Education to curb the supply of narcotics in schools. The committee called for comprehensive data on drug-related incidents and emphasized the need for more effective implementation and monitoring mechanisms.

The committee also focused on improving vocational training provided by the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC) to meet global labor market demands, particularly in the Middle East. The committee urged NAVTTC to update its programs to equip Pakistani youth with relevant skills for international employment.

Additionally, the Federal Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education briefed the committee on measures introduced to support students with dyslexia during examinations. The committee advocated for regular psychological support and the presence of trained remedial teachers in schools to assist students with learning difficulties.

The committee reviewed the reported leakage of Cambridge examination papers, with the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency stating there was no evidence of the breach originating from Pakistan. The committee was also informed of pending cases involving Grade-14 teachers, urging prompt resolution.

The meeting was attended by several Members of the National Assembly and officials from the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training, the Higher Education Commission, and other relevant bodies.