Curriculum Reform Summit Pakistan: Ahsan Iqbal Pushes Education Overhaul

At the curriculum reform summit, Ahsan Iqbal called for urgent education reforms in Pakistan. He spoke at the Decade of Learning Conference. British High Commission and Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office organised the event. He stressed the need to align curriculum, exams, and teacher training. This step, he said, will improve learning outcomes across the country.

Aligning Education Reforms

Iqbal said education reforms must move together. For example, updated curricula should match modern exam systems. In addition, teachers must receive proper training to deliver new content. Without this alignment, reforms may fail.
He also encouraged public participation in policymaking. Therefore, citizens can help protect long-term reforms. Civil society can push governments to stay consistent. He warned that past policies suffered due to political shifts. As a result, progress slowed down.

Strengthening Systems and Innovation

Iqbal highlighted weak district management as a key challenge. Frequent staff changes affect performance. Therefore, he suggested hiring skilled professionals to lead district education systems. These leaders should receive market-based salaries to ensure quality.
Moreover, he stressed adapting to the fourth industrial revolution. Traditional teaching methods no longer meet modern needs. Instead, schools should promote creativity and critical thinking. This approach will prepare students for future careers.
Iqbal, a leader of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz, also praised international support in education. However, he noted that implementation remains a major issue. Poor execution weakens even the best plans. Strong management can solve this problem.
He concluded that policy continuity supports sustainable development. Consistent efforts can improve public sector performance. Therefore, Pakistan must focus equally on planning and execution.