Staff Reporter
Peshawar
Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Mahmood Khan has stated that the incumbent government is determined to strengthen the higher education institutions of the province in order to enable them to meet national economic priorities and compete in the global knowledge economy.
While addressing the 5th Convocation of University of Malakand, Mahmood Khan stated that efforts should be undertaken by the academia for promoting research of world reckoning and chalking out roadmap for the coming decades in various disciplines in order to establish a strong base for indigenous research. Liaison should be established with the local industry for sustainable growth and development of research for strengthening the Universities economically and academically.
He revealed that all kinds of educational institutions including Universities are being established in Malakand Division aimed to make this region a hub of education adding that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has rich potential for Tourism, Hydro power, Agriculture and development of the Mining & Minerals sectors. The Chief Minister expressed satisfaction that the University of Malakand is currently working for the promotion of teaching and Research activities in these sectors.
The Chief Minister also inaugurated the newly constructed science block and Student Service Centre in the University and assured that the requirements of University regarding development projects would also be fulfilled in the next Annual Development Program.
Commenting on the Economic Development of the province, the Chief Minister stated that the after the completion and opening of the Phase-I of Swat Motorway project this year, millions of tourists turned to Malakand Division through this route which generated tremendous economic activity benefiting local residents. In the next phase, the project will also be extended to Madian and Chitral, he revealed.
Mahmood Khan said that Pakistan is faced with multiple challenges, both internally and externally. However, under the sincere leadership of Prime Minister Imran Khan, Pakistan is destined to become a hub for economic activities in the entire region. He assured that the economic problems being faced by the country would resolve soon.
The Chief Minister distributed degrees and medals amongst the graduates on this occasion. 184 students were awarded with degrees while 60 students, who passed with distinctions, were awarded with medals.
Addressing the ceremony, the Chief Minister expressed his satisfaction over the speedy progress of the University adding that this University started its teaching journey with only six departments but is now providing degrees in 28 different disciplines.