ISLAMABAD: Ziauddin University and Freedom Gate Prosperity (FGP) have agreed to strengthen collaboration in research, climate action, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development to promote innovation, youth empowerment, and evidence-based policymaking.
The understanding emerged during a visit by Vice Chancellor of Ziauddin University, Karachi, Professor Dr. Muhammad Ali Shaikh, to the FGP office in Islamabad, where he held detailed discussions with senior officials on expanding cooperation between academia and the development sector.
The meeting was attended by FGP Chief Executive Officer Muhammad Anwar, Board Director Urooj Raza Sayyami, Strategic Policy Advisor Shafqat Aziz, and Head of Economy Dr. Shahbaz Tariq. Discussions focused on higher education, policy advocacy, climate resilience, youth entrepreneurship, capacity building, and women’s economic empowerment.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Muhammad Ali Shaikh said universities must extend their role beyond traditional teaching and become active drivers of innovation and national development. He stressed that stronger partnerships between higher education institutions and development organizations would equip young people with practical skills, foster leadership and innovation, and create greater economic opportunities for youth and women.
Muhammad Anwar said Freedom Gate Prosperity is committed to building partnerships that bring together academia, policymakers, civil society, and the private sector to generate evidence-based solutions and transform ideas into meaningful community impact.
Urooj Raza Sayyami emphasized the importance of closer collaboration between universities and development organizations to enhance climate literacy, public awareness, research, and informed policy dialogue.
Shafqat Aziz noted that such partnerships are essential for preparing future leaders capable of addressing Pakistan’s social, economic, and environmental challenges.
Dr. Shahbaz Tariq highlighted the need to empower youth and women through entrepreneurship, research, innovation, and skills development. He said universities play a critical role in preparing graduates not only for employment but also for enterprise creation and sustainable economic growth.
The meeting concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to institutional collaboration in research, policy dialogue, climate action, youth leadership, entrepreneurship, and capacity-building initiatives, underscoring the importance of academia-development partnerships in advancing Pakistan’s inclusive and sustainable development agenda.
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