KARACHI: According to the Pakistan National Human Development Report-2017, Pakistan currently has more young people than ever before recorded in its history and the country’s youth can be a critical force for development if they are empowered with education and knowledge.
In line with this, Microsoft, in collaboration with the Sindh government, School Education and Literacy Department (SELD), Information Science and Technology Department (ISTD) and Sindh Education Foundation (SEF), hosted the ‘Microsoft Edu Day’ at the Movenpick Hotel here on Tuesday.
The seminar, which brought together delegates from across the region, showcased the latest technology designed specifically for education, which promotes immersive, inclusive and 21st-century learning.
Information Science and Technology Minister Taimur Talpur graced the occasion as the chief guest. He spoke about the initiatives being unfolded by the Sindh government in a bid to speed up e-governance. He appreciated the event and acknowledged that such events can lead to massive dividends for collaboration on the technology front.
The education secretary and his team showcased the work on management and monitoring solutions whereas, the SEF gave a presentation on ICT based teaching and learning initiative.
“Developing digital skills from primary school age has become a necessity, as young people navigate an increasingly technological world. With technology in the classrooms, learners can develop digital skills in a digital way,” said the chief guest.
“While it’s essential that learners are upskilled, however, it’s also important that educators are empowered and provided with adequate resources to successfully carry out lessons in the classroom,” he added.
Some of the technologies on show included Office 365, Azure and the Microsoft enterprise resource planning (ERP) and Campus Management Solutions, which are designed to drive better learning outcomes, more productive classroom time, and budget management.
“Technologies such as Skype, Minecraft and OneNote have played a big part in redefining learning through creating immersive and inclusive learning experiences that inspire lifelong learning,” said Microsoft Country Manager for Pakistan Abid Zaidi.
“They are also designed to make an educator’s job simpler so that they can devote time and resources to what matters most. We’re committed to doing our part to ensure that every learner and educator has access to the best technologies in the classroom,” he concluded.
