Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Prof. Ahsan Iqbal, delivered a keynote address at the #WECON24Conference held at the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) Islamabad. As the Chief Guest, the Minister highlighted the transformative potential of Pakistan’s youth and female entrepreneurs, emphasizing their pivotal role in driving innovation and economic growth. In his address, Prof. Ahsan Iqbal underscored the importance of the digital revolution and knowledge-driven innovation. He noted, "The world is witnessing an explosion of knowledge and technological advancements. For Pakistan to secure its place on the global stage, we must transform ourselves into a hotspot for entrepreneurial and innovative ventures." He lauded the burgeoning startup movement in Pakistan, emphasizing the entrepreneurial spirit that has taken root across the nation. Empowering Women and Youth for a Prosperous Pakistan Highlighting the critical role of women in nation-building, Prof. Ahsan Iqbal said, “Our young women are not just excelling in startups but are making strides in science and technology globally. Their success stories are reshaping the narrative of female participation in Pakistan’s development.” He shared examples from Narowal University, where female students form a significant majority, demonstrating the power of education in transforming lives and bridging gender gaps. The Minister also reflected on past initiatives that empowered youth through technology, such as the distribution of merit-based laptops, which saw significant participation from young women. He reiterated the government’s commitment to creating more opportunities for women through education, access to credit, and skill development programs. Prof. Ahsan Iqbal outlined the government’s ambitious plans to elevate Pakistan's exports from $30 billion to $100 billion in the next seven to eight years. He emphasized that this growth trajectory is essential for Pakistan's survival and prosperity. “We must transition from a traditional economy to a technology-driven economy, where research, development, and innovation provide a competitive edge on the global stage,” he said. Addressing the challenges posed by climate change, the Minister highlighted the government's focus on water and food security and the integration of technology to revolutionize agriculture. He stressed the importance of sustainable practices and investments in environment-related initiatives, aligning with the government’s overarching development goals under the 5Es Framework. Reflecting on Pakistan’s economic journey, Prof. Ahsan Iqbal spoke of the resilience needed to overcome past crises and maintain political stability, continuity of policies, and good governance. He noted, “Countries like South Korea, Malaysia, and China achieved progress through consistent policies and long-term commitments. We must learn from their examples to ensure sustainable growth for Pakistan.” In a heartfelt appeal to the youth, the Minister urged them to stay committed to building a better Pakistan. “Leaving the country is not a solution. True strength lies in facing challenges at home, contributing to its development, and turning Pakistan into a land of opportunities,” he said. Concluding his address, Prof. Ahsan Iqbal expressed his unwavering belief in the leadership potential of Pakistan’s women and youth. “Our future will be defined by how we empower our women. With their talent and innovation, they will lead Pakistan into a new era of growth, introducing ‘Made in Pakistan’ technology and solutions to the world,” he stated passionately. The conference concluded with a commitment to implement the recommendations from experts and participants, aimed at fostering innovation, promoting gender equity, and accelerating Pakistan’s economic transformation.
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