QUETTA: Governor Balochistan Jaffar Khan Mandokhel on Wednesday distributed laptops among university students under the Prime Minister’s Laptop Scheme, reaffirming the government's commitment to promoting digital literacy, modern education, and technology-driven learning across the province.
Addressing the laptop distribution ceremony, Governor Mandokhel said his four decades of political experience had taught him that education is not a static system but a continuously evolving process that must adapt to the changing needs of society.
He stressed that educational institutions must align their curricula with modern demands, emphasizing that academic degrees alone are no longer sufficient in today’s competitive world.
“Modern skills, professional training, and diploma courses have become equally important. There is a strong partnership between academic qualifications and practical skills, which together enhance employment opportunities and professional growth,” he said.
The Governor highlighted how the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of online learning across the world, particularly in European universities. He noted that digital education and online lectures have become essential components of modern learning systems.
Mandokhel appreciated the support of the European Union and Sukkur IBA University in helping establish online education systems at the University of Balochistan and the University of Turbat. He called for similar initiatives to be expanded to other public-sector universities in the province.
The Governor said it was encouraging that the performance and rankings of government universities in Balochistan had improved significantly, increasing from 40 percent to 80 percent in recent years.
He credited the federal government, provincial government, Higher Education Commission (HEC), and partner institutions for their support in strengthening higher education standards.
Highlighting the importance of technology, Mandokhel said digital literacy, artificial intelligence, and online learning are crucial tools for preparing students for future challenges.
“We must continuously update our education policies according to modern requirements so that traditional disciplines can grow alongside emerging fields such as technology, medicine, and social sciences,” he said.
Speaking on the occasion, Member of National Assembly Nawabzada Jamal Raisani urged students to become creators and innovators rather than mere consumers of technology.
“Artificial Intelligence is shaping the future. Our youth must equip themselves with modern knowledge and skills to compete globally,” he said.
The ceremony concluded with Governor Mandokhel distributing laptops among students and presenting commemorative shields to university administrators. He also inaugurated a Smart Classroom, aimed at enhancing digital learning and improving educational outcomes for students.