The Minister of State for Federal Education and Professional Training, Ms. Wajiha Qamar, met with Ms. Natalie A. Baker, Chargé d’Affaires of the United States to Pakistan, in Islamabad to discuss deepening TVET collaboration and broader education partnerships.
Participants reviewed opportunities to scale up skills development programs, strengthen teacher training, and expand digital education platforms that reach learners across Pakistan. The meeting included members of the U.S. delegation, Mr. Andrew Halus, Minister Counselor; Ms. Heidi Smith, Public Affairs Officer; and Mr. Sabir Sharif, Program Management Specialist, who outlined ongoing initiatives and potential areas for joint investment.
Ms. Wajiha Qamar welcomed continued U.S. support and underscored the government’s focus on aligning education and training to market needs, promoting inclusive learning and girls’ education, and preparing youth for a changing economy. She emphasized that effective TVET collaboration will be central to equipping Pakistan’s young workforce with practical skills and improving employment outcomes.
Ms. Natalie A. Baker reiterated the United States’ commitment to support educational reform, innovation, and technical training in Pakistan. She cited the success of existing U.S.-funded education programs and expressed interest in expanding cooperation on research, teacher development, and the digital learning ecosystem to reach underserved communities.
Both sides agreed to explore new partnerships to enhance access, equity, and quality across Pakistan’s education and TVET sectors. The dialogue aims to translate shared priorities into concrete projects that strengthen human capital and contribute to long-term socio-economic progress.
