‘Digitisation, automation, globalisation are changing labour markets’

The Institute of Business Management (IoBM) recently brought a diverse range of thought leaders together for the second International Conference on Education. Sindh’s caretaker education minister, who is also a visionary in the field of education, was the chief guest.

IoBM President Talib S Karim was the conference patron. Addressing the theme of ‘The Changing Education Landscape’, this edition of the annual conference focused on the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 established by the UN that aims to shed light on the subject of quality education globally.

The multifaceted insights from the diverse range of speakers at various sessions held at the conference set the tone for a dialogue that transcends boundaries and envisions a future where education is not just a system but a catalyst for holistic societal development in Pakistan.

The keynote speakers at the event included Prof Stefan Krummaker from the Queen Mary University of London, a professor of leadership practice, and the deputy vice principal (education) and member of the department of people & organisations.

They also included Prof Dr Muhammad Sarwar, dean, Faculty of Education, International Islamic University, Islamabad. This unique assembly of thought leaders signified a departure from the conventional conference structure.

With respect to the SDG 4 of the UN’s 17 SDGs, ‘The Changing Education Landscape’ was not just another theme, as it encapsulated a call to arms for educators, policymakers and stakeholders to collectively navigate the dynamic challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Speaking on the occasion, the interim education minister said that effective collaboration with educational institutions is key to achieving our objectives in ensuring inclusive quality education.

“Emphasising the essential elements of people, planet, prosperity, peace and partnerships for sustainable development, we acknowledge that addressing governance and accountability gaps is crucial for the successful implementation of the right to education and SDG 4 targets in Pakistan, particularly in Sindh,” she said.

“The changing labour market, influenced by digitalisation, automation and globalisation, underscores the need for retraining and upskilling to meet the increasing demand for highly skilled individuals,” she added.

“Communication skills are highlighted as pivotal, and the importance of strong, autonomous universities as strategic partners in advancing common goals, particularly in promoting the SDGs, can’t be overstated.”

Dr Tariq Soomro, acting rector of the IoBM, noted that the chosen theme resonates aptly, recognising the relativity of the term “quality” in education. The paramount aspect in education lies in the acceptance of its graduates, he said.

“This second International Conference on Education serves as a crucial platform, uniting representatives from both public and private sector institutes in various insightful sessions, fostering collaborative participation.”