Islamabad: Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood, VC of Allama Iqbal Open University, has emphasized the value of a well-rounded approach to early childhood education and the idea that learning shouldn’t be limited to scholastic evaluations. He emphasized that in order to lay a strong basis for children’s future, equal attention must be given to their social, emotional, and psychological development.
These statements were presented at the conclusion of the seminar at AIOU titled “Foundational Learning Assessment in Pakistan: Challenges and Opportunities.” Dr. Mahmood argued that in order to develop well-rounded, responsible citizens, educational changes must go beyond academics and promote the development of a “enabling environment” in schools. “Today’s children are tomorrow’s architects,” he declared, adding that a better future for the country depends on their holistic development.
The seminar was jointly organized by Allama Iqbal Open University and the Pakistan Institute of Education. The event aimed to evaluate the current landscape of foundational learning in Pakistan, identify key challenges, and explore avenues for improvement.
During the opening session, Director General of the Pakistan Institute of Education, Dr. Muhammad Shahid Surayya, presented the National Education Assessment Report. He expressed optimism that the introduction of a new assessment policy would significantly enhance the overall quality of education in the country.
Other prominent speakers included Azza Farukh from the World Bank, Prof. Dr. Adnan Zafar of LUMS University, and Dr. Abdullah Firdous, an education expert from the American Institute for Research. They shared in-depth analyses of the foundational education system in Pakistan, discussing critical issues such as educational equity, teacher training, infrastructure, and student inclusion.
Speakers also stressed the importance of aligning assessment reforms with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG-4), which calls for inclusive and equitable quality education for all.
