Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif have said that teachers are central to every education system. They said that supporting teachers is an investment in the education and future of Pakistan. They said that the teachers have a pivotal role in strengthening and improving the education system. They said that the Government is committed to providing teachers with quality professional training, modern educational resources and a conducive teaching and learning environment. They said that the teachers play an indispensable role in nurturing the individuality of young people, polishing their abilities and expanding their knowledge.
This was stated by President Asif Ali Zardari and PM Shehbaz Sharif in their separate messages on World Teachers' Day. President Asif Ali Zardari said 'On the occasion of World Teachers' Day, I extend my greetings and appreciation to teachers across Pakistan and around the world for their contribution to education, human development and nation-building'.
He said that the teachers are central to every education system. They impart knowledge, nurture curiosity, shape character and help young people develop the skills and values they need to become responsible and productive members of society. Their influence extends beyond the classroom and is reflected in the lives of families and communities.
President Zardari said that this year's observance is particularly significant as it marks the 60th anniversary of the 1966 ILO/UNESCO Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers. The theme, 'Standing with teachers: 60 years of protecting the profession, advancing its status and shaping our futures,' draws attention to the need to recognise the importance of teachers and provide them with the professional support and opportunities they need.
President Zardari said that for Pakistan, strengthening the teaching profession is essential to improving the quality of education and expanding opportunities for our children and young people. We must continue to invest in teacher education, professional development and supportive learning environments so that teachers are equipped to meet the changing needs of their students.
He said that the rapid development of technology, including the growing use of artificial intelligence, is also changing the way education is delivered. Technology can support teaching and learning, but it cannot replace the human qualities that teachers bring to the classroom, including empathy, mentorship, ethical guidance and the ability to understand and inspire their students. Our teachers should therefore be supported in using new technologies while keeping the human relationship between teacher and student at the centre of education.
President Zardari said 'I particularly acknowledge the dedication of teachers serving in remote, underserved and challenging communities. For many children, the quality of their education depends directly on the commitment of the teacher in their school. Ensuring that such teachers have the training, resources and working conditions they need is essential to giving every child a fair opportunity to learn and progress. On this occasion, I call upon governments, educational institutions, parents, communities, civil society and the private sector to work together to strengthen and respect the teaching profession. Supporting teachers is an investment in the education and future of Pakistan. I pay tribute to all Pakistani teachers for their dedication, patience and service. Their work shapes the knowledge, character and aspirations of the generations that will build our country. May Allah Almighty bless our teachers and guide us in our efforts to provide every child with quality education'.
Meanwhile in his message PM Shehbaz Sharif said 'On the occasion of World Teachers' Day, I extend my heartfelt appreciation and profound respect to teachers in Pakistan and around the world who are entrusted with the sacred responsibility of educating and nurturing our youth: the architects of our future'.
He said that the teachers play an indispensable role in nurturing the individuality of young people, polishing their abilities and expanding their knowledge. Through fostering intellectual development, shaping minds and guiding generations, teachers also help define the shared social foundations and values of our societies. The dedication, knowledge and commitment of teachers are undoubtedly instrumental in shaping the future of nations. They are the cornerstone of every successful education system, fostering a spirit of inquiry among students and equipping them with the confidence and skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
PM Shehbaz Sharif said that the educational institutions and teachers, through their vital role in character-building, lay the foundations for national progress and prosperity. Pakistan's development is intrinsically linked to the quality of our education system and, above all, to the dedication and commitment of our capable teachers. Only an inclusive, future-oriented education system, responsive to the demands of artificial intelligence, climate change, technological advancement and a knowledge-based employment landscape, can ensure a brighter future.
He said that the emerging challenges of our time require us to equip our students not only with knowledge, but also with critical thinking, creativity, ethical values, adaptability and the capacity for lifelong learning.
He said that making our education system merit-based, high-quality and aligned with global standards remains a foremost priority of the Government. The establishment of Danish Schools across the country is an endeavour to make quality education accessible to capable and talented students. He said that the Government's commitment to ensuring equal educational opportunities is also reflected in the expansion of the Danish Schools network. Providing quality education to talented and deserving children, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds remains a priority.
PM Shehbaz Sharif said that the teachers have a pivotal role in strengthening and improving the education system. The Government is committed to providing teachers with quality professional training, modern educational resources and a conducive teaching and learning environment. The establishment of the National Institute of Excellence in Teacher Education (NIETE) in Islamabad is an important step in this direction. The Institute has been established as a centre of teachers' education and training with emphasis on professional development, research and innovation. It will significantly contribute to equipping teachers with the knowledge, skills and pedagogical practices required to meet the educational demands of the contemporary era.
PM Shehbaz Sharif said that the Government is also actively pursuing curriculum reforms through the National Curriculum of Pakistan. In this regard, the Government, in collaboration with the provinces and other relevant stakeholders, is working towards a coherent national framework of educational standards and a sound curriculum focused on competency, critical thinking, creativity and the needs of the future.
He said that alongside academic education, the Government is also placing particular emphasis on technical training and enhancing the skills and productive capacity of our youth. The National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC) and the Prime Minister's Youth Skills Development Programme are among the significant initiatives providing opportunities for vocational and professional training. These programmes are aimed at enhancing the technical capabilities of young people in line with industrial demand and the evolving requirements of the job market.
PM Shehbaz Sharif said 'On World Teachers' Day, I call upon our esteemed teachers to continue performing their responsibilities with sincerity and dedication as exemplary educators and nation-builders. I particularly pay tribute to the commitment and spirit of service of teachers serving in remote, underdeveloped areas of the country. Their services constitute a great national endeavour and deserve our collective appreciation and support. A new generation imbued with the values of integrity, compassion, tolerance, discipline, creativity, mutual respect and patriotism will, Insha'Allah, be capable of shouldering the responsibilities of the future'.