News Detail
Event Title: Acting President Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani Attending a Reception of Delegation Headed by The Pro-Vice Chancellor (Education & Partnerships), University of London, as Chief Guest in Islamabad
Event Date: 2026-01-14
Education Diplomacy is a Powerful Bridge Between Nations: Gilani
Acting President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan has said that education diplomacy is among the most enduring and effective instruments of international engagement, creating lasting bonds rooted in shared values, knowledge, and mutual respect.
He expressed these views while addressing a reception hosted by the University of London at a local hotel in Islamabad, where he was the Chief Guest. The event was attended by the Federal Minister for Information, Atta Tarar, Justice Ayesha Malik, member National Assembly Ali Muhammad Khan, senior academics, diplomats, educationists, and members of the University of London delegation, including Professor Phil Allmendinger, Pro Vice-Chancellor, and Mr. Saad Wasim, Regional Head for South Asia.
Welcoming the distinguished delegation, the Acting President said that the visit symbolized far more than an academic exchange, describing it as a bridge of knowledge, aspiration, and partnership between Pakistan and the United Kingdom. He lauded the University of London’s nearly two-century legacy of academic excellence and its immense contribution to global intellectual and human development.
Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani highlighted with pride that numerous eminent Pakistanis are alumni of the University of London and have made outstanding contributions in public service, law, medicine, academia, business, and diplomacy. He noted that this shared academic heritage forms a strong foundation for deepening bilateral educational cooperation.
The Acting President particularly appreciated the University of London’s long-standing commitment to Pakistan, stating that its International Programmes and Recognised Teaching Centres across the country have provided thousands of Pakistani students access to world-class education. He said this transnational partnership has democratized learning and enabled Pakistani youth to compete globally while remaining connected to their homeland.
Speaking candidly about Pakistan’s education sector, the Acting President acknowledged the structural challenges facing the system, including high out-of-school numbers, gender and regional disparities, and the impact of climate-induced disasters. He recalled that the government declared a National Education Emergency in 2024 to address these issues and introduced the National Education Policy Development Framework 2024, alongside social protection initiatives such as Benazir Taleemi Wazaif, to ensure equitable access and improved learning outcomes.
Reflecting on his own public service, Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani said that education had remained a central national priority during his tenure as Federal Minister, Speaker National Assembly, and Prime Minister. He emphasized that institutions like the University of Swat were established with the firm belief that education is the most effective response to extremism, conflict, and underdevelopment.
As Chairman of the Senate since 2024 and presently serving as Acting President, he reaffirmed his conviction that investment in education is not a cost but the foundation of sustainable national progress. He noted that the Senate of Pakistan continues to play a proactive legislative and oversight role to safeguard and strengthen education policy and funding.
Highlighting Pakistan’s preparedness for the future, the Acting President said that recent approval of the AI Policy 2025 and the Digital Sector Roadmap 2025–2035 reflects the country’s commitment to equipping its youth for the digital economy. He added that Pakistan’s IT exports have reached USD 3.8 billion, with consistent annual growth, underscoring the country’s expanding innovation ecosystem.
Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani called for deeper collaboration with global institutions like the University of London to build capacity, enhance pedagogical practices, and promote academic excellence. He stressed that international partnerships should be viewed as complementary to local institutions, raising standards across the entire education ecosystem.
Concluding his address, the Acting President expressed deep appreciation for the University of London’s historic and continued engagement with Pakistan. He commended Mr. Saad Wasim and the University’s leadership for their dedication to strengthening educational ties and expressed confidence that the visit would open new avenues of cooperation for the benefit of future generations.
He wished the visiting delegation a productive and memorable stay in Pakistan and expressed optimism that the partnership between Pakistan and the University of London would continue to reach new heights.
“Through education, we are building bridges that will endure for generations,” he remarked.