The Challenge Of Preparing The Next Generation of ICT Leadership In Pakistan
Of the many challenges that our nation faces, educating and training of our youth is one of the most important. We need to prepare the next generation of information and communication technology professionals who are skilled, knowledgeable and competitive. We need to cultivate leadership from the next generation who can solve problems through research and innovation.
Currently we face a shortage of skilled engineers and researchers. Even if you combine the graduates of all tiers of universities and colleges, the numbers are far below the need. But there’s an even bigger challenge - are we producing the right quality of resources? The answer is a definite NO.
There is work to be done in many areas. Funding the right programs, education policy, quality of existing education, training fresh graduates to transition to a professional life etc. I get plenty of mails and comments from students looking for internship or ideas for projects. It is evident from these interactions that many do not have the training to do fundamental research. They also lack the necessary communication skills which are critical to meet the global workforce standards. The lack of information about what opportunities are available to them further hinders their prospects.
On a positive note there are groups and agencies which are working to make a difference. I recently heard about a promising effort: The National ICT R&D Fund. Here are some excerpts from an email from the General Manager Solicitation and Evaluation, of this Fund.
National ICT R&D Fundwas created in January 2007 by Ministry of IT with the vision to transform Pakistan’s economy into a knowledge based economy by promoting efficient, sustainable and effective ICT (IT and Telecommunications) initiatives through synergy of industrial and academic resources. We have significant funds available for proposals that are geared towards creating ICT related technologies. We have a very positive and nurturing attitude and would like to fund projects that enhance the state of the art and create opportunities by solving industrial problems.
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