Need for cutting-edge degrees in higher education, STEM fields stressed

LAHORE: Acclaimed career counsellor and educationist Syed Abidi while highlighting the importance of teamwork between universities and industries has stressed the need for Pakistani universities to get students ready for the future job market.

Talking to The News, Syed Abidi expressed concern that our current education system wasn't keeping pace with the evolving needs of industries, unlike more advanced countries. This gap results in a lack of collaboration between academia and industry, hindering students from obtaining degrees that align with the job market.

‘The current job world is changing fast everywhere, but our university courses don't always match what industries need. This means there's not enough teamwork between universities and industries,’ he added.

With over 30 years of experience, particularly in promoting international education in Pakistan, Syed Abidi highlighted the importance of education that fosters multitasking abilities, adaptability, and relevant expertise that directly meet the demands of various industries. He stressed not only the need for Pakistani universities to align courses with industry demands but also emphasised the significance of education in fields like science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). He highlighted how these disciplines are crucial for the evolving job market. He underlined that focusing on STEM education could better equip students with the necessary skills for the rapidly changing workforce, ensuring they meet the demands of modern industries.

According to Abidi, in Pakistan, more than 70% of young people are looking for chances overseas for studies or jobs. The industries back home need talented folks who can do many things at once, not just specific skills. They want people who can handle different tasks because work is changing fast. ‘This desire for skills is why lots of Pakistani youth are going abroad for studies and jobs. It's becoming a big thing, showing how many people are looking for opportunities outside Pakistan,’ he adds. Abidi stressed the critical role of higher education institutions (HEIs) in providing lifelong learning opportunities, updated curriculum, and training for graduates in various fields. ‘Employers globally are actively seeking candidates with innovative and knowledge-based advanced degrees that incorporate the latest technologies such as IT, Digitalization, Artificial Intelligence, and Business Analytics. Collaboration between universities and industries becomes crucial to ensure that degree content reflects modern business practices and trends,’ he added. A recipient of the coveted national civil award, Tamgha-e-Imtiaz, Syed Abidi highlighted the need for increased research and innovation in both public and private sector institutions. Graduates engaged in research throughout their academic journey bring valuable problem-solving skills to the workplace, contributing to the introduction of new products and diversification within businesses, he adds. Talking about transnational education (TNE) Abidi commended the availability of international knowledge-based degrees in Pakistan, with foreign universities establishing campuses or academic research links, offering qualifications recognised worldwide. He emphasised the importance of soft skills development through individual and group projects, presentations, and interpersonal skill workshops, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the dynamic professional landscape. Answering a question on the role of HEC in this area, he said the current chairman HEC, has a very international mindset and the provision through the Pakistan-UK Education Gateway, allowed a lot of TNE initiatives already functional and many more in the pipeline. he also urged the Pakistani universities and HEIs to greatly benefit from programmes like Pak-UK Education Gateway and US-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor. On the topic of internationalization and the establishment of international university campuses and courses in Pakistan, he suggested that Pakistan should catch up with regional counterparts in inviting cross-border education to cater to most students who cannot afford international education or are unable to leave their country for various reasons. As a career counsellor, Abidi emphasised the need for enhanced professional career counselling and regular mentoring for students during their higher education journey. Navigating the talent, skills, and knowledge of students in the right direction is crucial to helping them choose careers aligned with the needs of the industry, commerce, and business landscape of Pakistan. Addressing the brain drain issue and the increasing outward mobility of skilled youth, Abidi highlighted the importance of job creation to retain knowledge-based talent within the country.