Google for Education Implementation Will Empower Pakistani Youth

Islamabad

June 21, 2024

Google for Education and Pakistan's Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training have joined forces to propel millions of students into the digital age. This strategic partnership promises to bridge educational gaps, enhance learning environments, and foster a robust digital ecosystem nationwide.

At the heart of this initiative lies a commitment to accessibility and innovation. Through its local partner Tech Valley, Google plans to assemble over 500,000 Chromebooks locally in Pakistan by 2026. This initiative by Allied, an Australian manufacturer, will make cutting-edge classroom technology more affordable and invigorate Pakistan's manufacturing sector, creating new jobs and economic opportunities.

Central to the collaboration is deploying digital tools and resources to empower students and educators. Comprehensive training programs will equip teachers with the skills to integrate technology effectively into their classrooms, fostering dynamic and interactive learning experiences. This transformative approach aims to elevate educational standards and prepare students for the demands of a digital economy.

The partnership is not just a strategic move but a reflection of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's national commitment to education. He recently declared an 'education emergency' to tackle the challenge of millions of out-of-school children. With a vision to enroll every child in educational institutions, the Prime Minister has championed this collaboration as a pivotal step towards achieving that goal.

Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, Federal Minister of Education and Professional Training, underscores the significance of this alliance, emphasizing its role in advancing educational equity and quality across Pakistan. He envisions technology as a transformative force that can enhance learning outcomes and equip students with essential skills for future success.

Farhan S. Qureshi, Google Pakistan's country director, expresses optimism about the impact of the partnership, highlighting its potential to revolutionize education delivery nationwide. Google aims to empower Pakistani students to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world by enabling access to digital tools and creating localized tech solutions.

Kevin Kells, Managing Director of Google for Education, reaffirms Google's commitment to supporting Pakistan's educational goals. By leveraging Google Classroom and Workspace for Education, Kells envisions a future where every student, including those marginalized, can access high-quality learning opportunities that foster critical skills development.

Secretary of the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training Mr. Mohyuddin Wani and his team will be the implementation partners. It is important to mention here that he has initiated several other such initiatives. Overall, this will lead to an ecosystem supported by a digital and blended education system.

Prof. Dr. Muhammad Mukhtar, Vice Chancellor of the National Skills University Islamabad, considers this initiative highly beneficial for training millions of Pakistani youth looking for such opportunities.

As Pakistan embarks on this transformative journey towards educational equity and digital readiness, the collaboration between Google for Education and the Ministry of Federal Education is a testament to technology's power to drive positive change. Together, they are poised to unlock new educational horizons, empowering the next generation of Pakistani leaders to realize their full potential on a global stage.