Youth’s growing interest in tech education a positive sign: Sikandar

LAHORE:Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat has said that the growing interest of youth in technical education is a positive sign.

He stated that emergency measures are being taken to promote skills-based education among students, with initiatives starting at the school level to encourage students towards technical education. At the college and university level, technology-related competitions and exhibitions are also being organised to foster innovation among the youth.

He expressed these views while addressing students at the Punjab Tech Expo, organised by the Higher Education Department (HED) and the Punjab Higher Education Commission (PHEC). The expo featured over 640 projects from students representing 48 universities and 14 colleges from across Punjab. The exhibitions included models in various fields such as chemical, civil, mechanical, electrical, IT, medical, biomedical, agriculture, science, social sciences, and more.

The education minister visited all the stalls, interacted with students about their models, appreciated their efforts, and remarked that the appointment of permanent vice chancellors at universities has begun to bring out hidden talent from academic institutions.

Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat also noted that scholarship programmes have provided further opportunities to talented youth to shine. Highlighting the purpose of the expo, the minister said it aims to bridge the gap between academia and industry and to provide opportunities for the youth. Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat stated that such initiatives allow young minds to turn their ideas into practical innovations.

On this occasion, he announced a prize of Rs500,000 for the top model in each category and Rs200,000 for the second-best model, stating that such expos served as a valuable encouragement for young innovators. Furthermore, the minister announced the allocation of Rs100 million fund to support, polish, and provide more opportunities to young talent in the near future.