Muhammad Saleem
Academia-industry collaboration is now more critical than ever for the development and growth of the national economy.
Talking to WealthPK, President of Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FCCI) Rehan Naseem said a delegation of teachers and students from the Government College University, Faisalabad, recently visited the Chamber to discuss the areas of mutual interests.
He said the chamber was pulling out all the stops to develop strong relations with the academia, enabling them to collaborate to tackle contemporary issues. The students shared their thoughts with the chamber members and also gained valuable insights into the emerging challenges that could cripple economic growth.
Dr. Abdul Qadar of the Government College University Faisalabad, told WealthPK that an effective collaboration between the industry and academia was crucial to bridge the gap between theory and practice. He pointed out that the academia was imparting theoretical knowledge and the industry was making its practical application possible.
Universities produce graduates with excellent theoretical foundations, but a closer partnership between the industry and academia can equip them with the practical skills demanded by the job market. He warned that an unskilled workforce, regardless of literacy levels, could lead to an increase in the unemployment rate in the country.
By working together, he asserted, educational institutions and industrialists could align academic programs with the emerging trends. This synergistic approach will not only cultivate a skilled and knowledgeable workforce, but also strengthen the economy and stimulate innovation, he opined. Ahmed, a student in the delegation, told WealthPK that visiting the FCCI was an awesome experience.
The chamber is considered the local industry’s backbone, serving as a crucial bridge between the government and the business fraternity. He said the universities offered modern syllabi but merely bookish knowledge was insufficient to drive economic growth. A blend of practical and theoretical learning is mandatory to tackle the business world’s complexities.
The Pakistani youth possess the energy and potential to turn the tables; however, they need a right direction with practical training to exploit their full abilities, he added. The government should make it compulsory for the educational institutions to regularly take students to various industries, which will expose them to the real-world applications.
Practical knowledge alongside theoretical concepts is essential in the current era which is undergoing a rapid transformation due to the information technology (IT). The students will understand the latest needs of the business community by speaking to them. Following the discussions, he said the students would be in a better position to understand the evolving demands of the job market.
This two-pronged approach helps foster local business while bolstering the overall national growth, he added. Rehan Naseem said Pakistan was navigating the economic challenges and all efforts were underway for sustainable growth. He said in a competitive global landscape, it’s crucial to bring all stakeholders on a single platform to find immediate solutions and embrace modern technologies.
Credit: INP-WealthPk