Enhancement in higher education budget reflect govt commitment to education: Baligh

ISLAMABAD: Minister of State for Federal Education and Professional Training, Engineer Muhammad Baligh ur Rehman on Tuesday said enhancement in higher education budget reflect government' commitment toward education.

The minister was addressing at the concluding of "10th Meeting of the Committee of Board of University Grants Commission/Relevant Bodies of SAARC Member States".

He said higher education is undoubtedly one of the most important factors that impact the growth and development of a SAARC region as well as the future course of the SAARCs people as a whole. It would help open up new vistas leading to the enhancement of both individuals and group potentials. Improvements in Higher education are not only expected to enhance efficiency but also augment the overall quality of life, he added.

The minister said that it's a fact that South Asia is the home of the largest number of the world's poor community. Throughout South Asia, the persistence of hunger is directly associated with widespread and unrelenting poverty adding, in this situation the higher education seems to be the beacon light to meet the challenges faced by the poor in this region.

He hoped that the experts who have come from different SAARC Member Countries with their experiences tried to address these issues and would suggest ways and means so that we do not lag behind in ICT revolution, said the Minister.

The technical sessions would address how to meet the diverse social and infrastructural needs more or less simultaneously to ensure a region future growth and prosperity.

South Asia is a region that is home to one of the world's oldest and most magnificent civilizations. We have given forth to the world, a large number of its greatest sages, scientists, political activists, poets and artists.

"I have always believed that human beings have the capacity to achieve the most difficult and a noble goal in life, as long as there is commitment and dedication", he said.

Therefore, if we are determined enough then we, as a region, can through our own efforts, realize our full potential. We should do away with our differences and work in collaboration for the betterment of our future generations.

The delegates from Afghanistan, India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Maldives and Sri Lanka and officials of various departments attended the meeting.