- Advertisement -
ISLAMABAD, Nov 06 (APP): Minister of State for Federal Education and Professional Training, Wajiha Qamar, presented Pakistan’s national statement at the 43rd session of the UNESCO General Conference in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. Representatives from 194 member states attended the session.
Wajiha Qamar reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to UNESCO’s mission of advancing education, science, culture, and communication as tools for peace, progress, and sustainable growth, said in a press release received here.
She underlined the importance of collective international action and cooperation at a time when the world is confronting challenges such as conflict, disinformation, and inequality.
Speaking on education reforms, the Minister highlighted Pakistan’s focus on building a system that equips youth with future-oriented and skill-based education through inclusive and technology-driven approaches. She noted that Pakistan’s development agenda prioritizes education that links learning to employment and innovation.
Wajiha also mentioned Pakistan’s support for educational programs in Afghanistan, Palestine, Africa, and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). She said Pakistan has awarded 4,500 fully funded scholarships to Afghan students, with one-third reserved for women, reflecting the country’s focus on empowering regional youth through education.
Calling attention to the humanitarian situation in Gaza, Ms Qamar urged UNESCO to take a central role in rebuilding the region’s educational and cultural infrastructure following the ceasefire. She emphasized the need to accelerate global efforts to provide education to the 272 million children currently out of school worldwide.
Addressing organizational challenges, Wajiha called for reform within UNESCO to make it more efficient, transparent, and responsive to member states. She urged for improved financial sustainability through predictable and flexible funding that supports the organization’s core priorities.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to UNESCO’s science and environment programs, Ms Qamar expressed support for initiatives such as the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission, the Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme, and the Man and the Biosphere Programme. She said these efforts play a vital role in building global resilience and promoting sustainable development.
Concluding her statement, Wajiha said Pakistan will continue to work closely with UNESCO and other member countries to strengthen cooperation and dialogue. She reiterated Pakistan’s support for UNESCO’s role in promoting peace and international understanding through education, science, culture, and communication.