The KOICA Pakistan Office, in collaboration with the KOICA Alumni Association Pakistan (KAAP), recently hosted its second Knowledge Sharing Seminar of the year in Lahore. The event brought together approximately 65 participants, including key KAAP members from the Lahore region, representatives from various government ministries, and Deputy Country Director Ms. Harim GO. The seminar focused on strengthening Korea-Pakistan cooperation and advancing Pakistan’s socio-economic development.
Welcoming alumni and guests, Ms. Harim GO praised the strong network among KOICA graduates and highlighted the seminar’s role in fostering not just camaraderie, but meaningful collaboration between the two countries. She reaffirmed KOICA’s commitment to supporting Pakistan through initiatives that build local capacity and promote sustainable development.
The seminar featured presentations by distinguished professionals who discussed practical ways to apply Korea’s development experience in Pakistan. Ms. Qurrat-UI-Ain Qazi, Planning Officer at the Punjab Planning & Development Board, spoke about the transformative journey of South Korea’s development, emphasizing innovations in STEM-based education and the success of public-private partnerships. Dr. Rana Waseem, Assistant Professor at Islamia University of Bahawalpur, presented strategies for implementing sustainable livestock production systems, highlighting the positive impact of KOICA training in Pakistan’s agriculture and livestock sectors. Both speakers underscored their commitment to adopting Korea’s systematic planning, accountability, and advanced technical expertise in local initiatives.
Concluding the seminar, Mr. Raja Nasir Ali Khan from the Asian Development Bank’s DREAMS Project drew attention to the core lessons from Korea’s experience, including the role of effective leadership, strong institutional frameworks, and collaboration in achieving national progress. He urged greater cooperation in areas such as disaster management, energy, sanitation, and public services, and emphasized the importance of leveraging social capital to enhance community welfare and rural livelihoods. Mr. Khan expressed optimism for ongoing exchange and partnership among KOICA, its network of alumni, and partner organizations to drive continued progress in Pakistan.
