ISLAMABAD, Feb 19 (APP):Minister of State for Federal Education and Professional Training Ms. Wajiha Qamar on Thursday met Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt, Dr Ihab Abdel Hamid, along with the Political Officer, and discussed measures to enhance bilateral cooperation in the education sector.
The meeting followed the Minister’s earlier engagement with the Egyptian Minister of Education and focused on advancing key areas of collaboration between the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the Arab Republic of Egypt.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening strategic cooperation in education, particularly in quality enhancement and institutional development.
During the discussion, Egypt shared its experience in curriculum rationalization, including efforts to simplify curricula while maintaining learning outcomes.
Models of collaboration with international partners such as UNICEF and the British Council were also highlighted. Pakistan expressed interest in learning from the Egyptian approach.
The Egyptian side briefed the Minister on its government-led Baccalaureate System aligned with international standards. It was agreed that Pakistan would explore the feasibility of developing a similar model for A-Level and O-Level streams.
Matters relating to Pakistani medical students studying in Egypt were also discussed. Both sides agreed to improve coordination and follow-up mechanisms to facilitate students.
Egypt shared its “re-organization” strategy to address classroom overcrowding, and Pakistan agreed to study its applicability in local contexts.
The meeting also discussed Egypt’s fully digitized national curriculum initiative, known as the “Great Book.” Pakistan showed interest in learning from the platform design, exploring joint software development, and considering open-source collaboration.
In the field of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), both countries exchanged views on international partnerships, private-sector engagement, and initiatives aimed at enhancing graduate employability. Priority sectors for cooperation were identified.
Cooperation in the teaching of Arabic language was also discussed, with Egypt offering technical support and training expertise.
The two sides further agreed to promote exchange programmes involving students, trainers, and education specialists to strengthen institutional linkages.
The meeting concluded with a shared resolve to translate discussions into practical initiatives for further deepening educational ties between the two brotherly countries.