Islamabad
Federal Minister for Education and Professional Training, Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui stated that early childhood education and upbringing form the foundation of national development. According to him, quality education and positive nurturing during early years play a fundamental role in shaping children’s personalities, cognitive development and future success. He further said that investment in this sector is in fact a guarantee of a strong and prosperous future with long-term positive impacts.
He expressed these views while addressing the closing ceremony of the 5th International Conference on “Early Childhood Development” held at Allama Iqbal Open University.
On this occasion, Chairman of the Higher Education Commission, Dr. Niaz Ahmed Akhtar said that early education is the foundation of a child’s life and the stronger and higher-quality this foundation is the more confidently children will succeed in later stages of education. He added that the first ten years of life are extremely important for children’s cognitive, social and emotional development, therefore providing quality education and positive upbringing during this period is essential.
The Federal Minister and the HEC Chairman congratulated the organizers, especially the Vice Chancellor of Allama Iqbal Open University, Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood on this important initiative.
The conference was attended by national and international education experts, researchers and policymakers who held detailed discussions on the challenges facing early childhood education and their solutions. The speakers agreed that the early education sector in Pakistan requires greater attention, particularly in ensuring access to facilities in rural and underprivileged areas.
At the event, modern teaching methodologies, teacher training and parental involvement were also highlighted as key factors. At the conclusion of the conference, participants reaffirmed their commitment to continue joint efforts to promote early childhood development in order to provide children with a better and brighter future.
The conference was organized through collaboration between the Ministry of Planning and Development, Allama Iqbal Open University, Rupani Foundation, Pakistan Alliance for Early Childhood, and UNICEF.
Director of the Pakistan Alliance for Early Childhood Development, Dr. Naeem Zafar presented a comprehensive overview report of the conference. The Vice Chancellor of the Open University, Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood presented the conference recommendations while Chairman of Rupani Foundation, Nasruddin Rupani, delivered the welcome note.
The organizers reiterated their commitment to strengthening and continuing collaborative efforts for the promotion of early childhood development. They emphasized that such partnerships play a vital role in laying the foundation for a better future for children.
Furthermore, they expressed heartfelt gratitude to all partner organizations and stakeholders whose support made these efforts possible.
