Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan has issued a stark warning, stating that Pakistan must undertake immediate and sweeping reforms in its industrial and educational sectors, comparing the failure to act now to a medical ailment whose treatment costs escalate with delay.
Addressing a gathering of senior faculty, students, and industry representatives as Chief Guest at the National University of Technology (NUTECH), the minister underscored the urgent need to align academia with industry to prepare the nation for a rapidly advancing global technological landscape, according to a statement issued by the federal information ministry today.
In his keynote address, Jam Kamal Khan articulated that an unprecedented technological transformation is underway, driven by artificial intelligence, quantum computing, automation, and data analytics. He asserted that nations investing heavily in engineering, research, and technical human capital are the ones shaping the future global economy.
‘Technology is no longer optional; it is foundational,’ the Minister declared, observing that modern tools like AI are fundamentally changing decision-making, governance, and business models. He stressed that Pakistan must proactively position itself within this emerging AI-driven ecosystem.
Drawing comparisons with other nations, the Commerce Minister noted that countries which prioritised engineering and technical skills have achieved rapid industrial competitiveness. He called for Pakistan to strengthen its engineering base and foster greater collaboration between industry and academic institutions to remain competitive.
He further identified data centres, digital infrastructure, semiconductors, and energy efficiency as critical components of the future economy. Referring to Pakistan’s significant mineral resources, including copper and rare earth elements, he said this untapped potential must be strategically leveraged through modern technology and policy reforms.
Emphasising that policy frameworks must evolve in tandem with technological change, the minister insisted, ‘Reforms cannot be delayed.’ He highlighted governance reforms, industrial modernisation, agricultural transformation, and digital policy upgrades as essential pillars for national progress.
Speaking directly to the students, Jam Kamal Khan urged them to venture beyond traditional career paths into emerging fields such as robotics, industrial automation, data science, and advanced engineering. He encouraged universities to champion practical skills, incubation platforms, and industry-linked research.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to facilitating an innovation-friendly environment and fostering synergy between government, academia, industry, and the youth, stating that a unified direction could lead to rapid technological advancement.
Also addressing the audience, Senator Nauman Wazir praised NUTECH”s contributions to technical education. He called for policy stability, sustained investment in research and development, and stronger institutional linkages as critical for Pakistan’s economic future.
The event concluded with the presentation of souvenirs to the distinguished guests.