H.E. Ms. Wajiha Qamar, Minister of State for Federal Education and Professional Training and Head of the Pakistan Delegation, delivered Pakistan’s National Statement at the 43rd Session of the UNESCO General Conference in Samarkand
H.E. Ms. Wajiha Qamar, Minister of State for Federal Education and Professional Training and Head of the Pakistan Delegation, delivered Pakistan’s National Statement at the 43rd Session of the UNESCO General Conference in Samarkand, attended by representatives from 194 member countries. In her address, Ms. Wajiha Qamar reaffirmed Pakistan’s strong commitment to UNESCO’s vision of promoting peace through education, science, culture, and communication. She highlighted Pakistan’s education reforms aimed at making youth future-ready through inclusive, innovative, and skill-based learning. She underscored Pakistan’s global education initiatives, including fully funded scholarships for Afghan students—one-third of which are reserved for women—and support for students from Palestine, Africa, and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Ms. Wajiha Qamar also called on UNESCO to play a leading role in rebuilding Gaza’s education and cultural infrastructure following the ceasefire. Emphasizing the importance of reform and efficiency within UNESCO, she urged greater transparency, financial sustainability, and a renewed focus on the organization’s core mandate. She also reiterated Pakistan’s support for UNESCO’s science and sustainability programs, including the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission, Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme, and the Man and the Biosphere Programme. Her statement reflected Pakistan’s enduring commitment to multilateralism, solidarity, and global cooperation in advancing education and sustainable development for all.