Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal has highlighted the lasting importance of teachers in shaping Pakistan’s future.
Speaking at a Teachers’ Day event in Narowal, Iqbal said teachers do much more than deliver academic knowledge. They help students develop character, discipline, critical thinking and confidence.
He also paid tribute to teachers across Pakistan, particularly those continuing to educate students despite limited resources. According to Iqbal, every national achievement carries the contribution of a teacher behind it.
Education Must Adapt to a Changing World
Iqbal said peace, education and development are closely connected. Peace gives children the opportunity to learn, while education creates opportunities for young people.
At the same time, development gives families hope for a better future. Therefore, he stressed that Pakistan’s education system must respond to changing social and technological realities.
Iqbal said schools, colleges and universities provide the foundation for Pakistan’s future. However, he noted that teachers are what ultimately make educational institutions successful.
He also stressed the need for education to adapt to artificial intelligence, automation and climate change. These changes require students to develop skills beyond memorising information.
Teachers Urged to Encourage Critical Thinking
The minister urged teachers to encourage students to ask questions, conduct research and assess evidence. He also called for greater emphasis on problem-solving skills.
Moreover, classrooms should become spaces where curiosity is encouraged and genuine effort is valued. Iqbal said students should also view mistakes as opportunities to learn rather than reasons to lose confidence.
He further stressed that teachers must continue learning throughout their careers. They should remain familiar with new teaching methods, technologies and discoveries.
Iqbal also highlighted the importance of using artificial intelligence responsibly. Students should learn to verify information, think critically and take responsibility for their decisions.
Education Should Build Responsible Citizens
According to Iqbal, education should not focus solely on producing skilled workers. It should also prepare responsible citizens who can contribute positively to society.
Therefore, honesty, empathy and a sense of duty should remain important parts of education. Respect for others and awareness of civic responsibilities should also be developed among students.
Iqbal urged teachers to give every child a fair opportunity to progress. This is particularly important for students dealing with poverty, family difficulties or a lack of confidence.
He said a child’s present circumstances should never determine the limits of their future potential. Teachers, therefore, have an important role in helping students recognise their abilities.
Girls and Underprivileged Students Need Equal Opportunities
Iqbal also stressed the importance of building confidence among girls and encouraging them to pursue their ambitions.
Similarly, children from low-income families should understand that they have an equal right to opportunities. Teachers can play a crucial role in creating that sense of possibility.
The minister said education should also remain connected with practical life. Students should be encouraged to observe problems around them, conduct research and develop solutions.
Education and Uraan Pakistan
Iqbal linked these educational goals with the objectives of the Uraan Pakistan initiative. He said human capabilities would be essential for achieving progress in areas such as exports, technology and environmental protection.
Infrastructure and equitable development also require a capable and well-prepared population. Therefore, he called for stronger support for both students and teachers.
The minister urged authorities to improve teaching materials, educational facilities and practical training. He also stressed the need for greater professional support for teachers.
Curriculum and Exams Must Support Creativity
Iqbal said curricula, teacher training and examination systems must work toward the same educational objectives.
He warned that encouraging teachers to develop creativity would send a contradictory message if examinations continued to reward memorisation. Consequently, classroom teaching and assessment methods must be better aligned.
He added that education reforms should ultimately create a meaningful impact at the classroom and student levels.
Teachers, according to Iqbal, should identify the potential of every student and encourage them to develop it. Even a few words of encouragement can sometimes change a child’s life.
Teachers Can Shape a Child’s Future
Iqbal said students may eventually forget a particular lesson taught by a teacher. However, they are likely to remember a teacher who listened to them and treated them fairly.
More importantly, students remember those who helped them believe in themselves. This, he suggested, reflects the deeper role teachers play beyond academic instruction.
Iqbal said every classroom in Narowal should become a place where talent is discovered, character is strengthened and hope is renewed.
He expressed hope that a generation guided by dedicated teachers would help build a Pakistan confident in its identity, capable in its work and compassionate toward its people.
He also envisioned a Pakistan respected around the world, with education and teachers playing a central role in making that future possible.
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