Ahsan Iqbal gets lifetime achievement award by ICESCO

Islamabad:In a historic moment for Pakistan, Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Prof. Ahsan Iqbal, has been conferred with the Lifetime Achievement Medal of Honour by the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO). The award ceremony took place at the 6th Vice Chancellors’ Forum of Universities in the Islamic World, held at ICESCO Headquarters in Rabat, Morocco.

The honor recognizes Prof. Iqbal’s visionary leadership and pioneering contributions to human capital development, higher education reform, and technological innovation. Under his leadership, Pakistan has witnessed significant expansion of its higher education sector, with the number of public universities increasing from 99 to 154 between 2013 and 2025.

Prof. Iqbal’s initiatives have prioritized education, science, and innovation, including the establishment of National Centres of Excellence in AI, Robotics, and Cybersecurity. His vision for a knowledge-driven development agenda has led to the launch of cutting-edge institutions, such as the National Center for Nanotechnology and the Center for Quantum Computing.

The ICESCO recognition follows recent international accolades, including the 2024 Asian Productivity Organisation’s Distinguished Award. Prof. Iqbal expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, attributing the recognition to the Prime Minister’s visionary leadership and support for a knowledge-driven development agenda.

This honor reflects Prof. Iqbal’s personal achievements and underscores Pakistan’s growing international recognition in advancing education, innovation, and inclusive development. It highlights the importance of long-term public service and investing in people, their intellect, potential, and opportunities.