NSU Advocates for Enhanced High Tech Skills Training Collaboration with UK Delegation through Transnational Education

Islamabad, Pakistan - April 24, 2024

Prof. Dr. Muhammad Mukhtar, Vice Chancellor of the National Skills University Islamabad, emphasized the critical importance of strengthening skills training educational programs collaboration during discussions with a visiting UK delegation, including representatives from the British Council. The discussions centered on advancing the Transnational Education Policy between universities in Pakistan and the UK.

The UK delegation, led by Sir Steve Smith, the UK Government's International Education Champion, has embarked on a five-day visit to Pakistan to bolster educational ties and foster long-term collaborative partnerships beyond student recruitment.

This visit underscores the UK's steadfast commitment to global educational cooperation, with the delegation co-organized by the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan, the British High Commission, the British Council in Pakistan, the Department for Business and Trade (DBT), and the Department for Education (DfE). The delegation comprises senior representatives from the UK government and British Council and 16 leaders from UK higher education providers and sector organizations, all dedicated to enhancing existing partnerships and establishing new connections with Pakistani counterparts.

The delegation's agenda is comprehensive, focusing on advancing areas such as Transnational Education (TNE), joint research initiatives, and faculty development programs. This reflects a concerted effort to forge mutually advantageous collaborations between universities in the UK and Pakistan, with the potential to significantly enhance educational standards and opportunities in both countries.

Prof. Dr. Muhammad Mukhtar expressed optimism about the potential of such partnerships to harness the skills and talents of Pakistan's youth, underscoring their transformative impact on the nation's economy and welfare. Pakistan can leverage its demographic dividend, which is mainly comprised of youth. Incorporating vocational/skills educational programs in the TNE initiative will greatly benefit Pakistan's economic development and bring prosperity to the country.