ISLAMABAD, Sep 08 (APP):Minister for Federal Education and Professional Training Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui held a meeting with New Zealand’s Non-Resident High Commissioner to Pakistan, David Pine, to explore avenues for further strengthening bilateral cooperation in education and skills development. The meeting provided an opportunity to build on the Education Cooperation Arrangement signed in Wellington on August 6, 2026, which establishes a broad framework for practical collaboration in school education, …
Pakistan,New Zealand reaffirm commitment to strengthen education and skill cooperation
ISLAMABAD, Sep 08 (APP):Minister for Federal Education and Professional Training Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui held a meeting with New Zealand’s Non-Resident High Commissioner to Pakistan, David Pine, to explore avenues for further strengthening bilateral cooperation in education and skills development.
The meeting provided an opportunity to build on the Education Cooperation Arrangement signed in Wellington on August 6, 2026, which establishes a broad framework for practical collaboration in school education, technical and vocational education and training (TVET), and higher education.
Dr Siddiqui highlighted the importance of turning the arrangement into tangible programmes that can contribute to human capital development and support economic growth. Particular emphasis was placed on skills development, industry-responsive TVET and stronger institutional linkages between educational institutions in Pakistan and New Zealand.
The two sides also explored opportunities for cooperation in emerging and high-growth sectors, including information technology, services and agriculture. The discussions reflected a shared interest in ensuring that education and skills programmes remain aligned with evolving industry requirements and national development priorities.
The minister stressed the need for sustained engagement to identify priority areas and develop practical initiatives that can deliver meaningful outcomes for students, skilled workers and institutions in both countries.
High Commissioner David Pine reaffirmed New Zealand’s commitment to promoting mutually beneficial cooperation with Pakistan in education and skills development. Both sides agreed to maintain close engagement and work towards practical initiatives under the Education Cooperation Arrangement, with the broader objective of strengthening educational ties and contributing to economic and human resource development.
