Teacher Development Conference: Ahsan for investment in teacher development, modern education, & character building

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal said Pakistan’s future strength will be determined in classrooms rather than on battlefields, calling for investment in teacher development, modern education, and character building.

While addressing the Pakistan Teacher Development Conference on Friday, the Minister emphasised the central role of teachers in shaping Pakistan’s future. He said that teaching is not merely a profession but a mission, and teachers are the true architects of the nation’s destiny.

He said that teachers play a pivotal role in giving students a sense of identity, refining their personality, and shaping their minds. He stressed that introducing children to the Urdu language and Pakistan’s cultural heritage is an essential responsibility of teachers.

The Minister highlighted that future battles among nations are no longer fought on borders but in classrooms. “The real strength of nation’s lies in knowledge and the ability to harness creativity,” he remarked.

Reflecting on Pakistan’s past, Ahsan Iqbal said that the country lost invaluable opportunities for development due to political instability on three major occasions. “This time, Pakistan is determined to achieve a sustainable trajectory of growth,” he asserted.

He further said that in the Marka-e-Haq, Pakistan shot down seven Indian aircraft - a fact repeatedly acknowledged by US President Donald Trump as well.

Highlighting global lessons, the Minister stated that successful nations are built on peace, political stability, and continuity of policies. He emphasised that Pakistan must prepare its youth in line with modern global demands, adding that observation, experimentation, and reading are the key drivers of creativity and intellectual growth.

He pointed out that education is not complete without character building - an aspect that has weakened over time and must be revived. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to modernising the curriculum to meet contemporary needs.

The Minister underscored that teachers remain the backbone of the education system and must be equipped with modern pedagogical tools and professional training. “Strengthening teacher development is essential if Pakistan is to compete in the 21st century,” he stated.

He concluded by expressing confidence that Pakistan can rise to its full potential through quality education, empowered teachers, and a youth prepared for the future.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2025