Pakistan’s higher education system is grappling with systemic challenges, including insufficient intellectual rigor, financial constraints, and weak long-term strategies, which have hindered institutional progress.
Speaking at the launch of the Institute of Design Thinking, Entrepreneurship, and Leadership (IDEAL), Professor Wasif Rizvi, President of Habib University, emphasized that recognizing these gaps prompted the university’s Board to develop sustainable solutions. Over the past ten years, Habib University has worked to establish an educational model tailored for a fast-evolving world.
Reflecting on Pakistan’s academic history, Professor Rizvi noted that in the 1960s, universities primarily trained professionals in medicine, engineering, and business. While these fields remain vital, the rigid focus stifled creativity, critical analysis, and intellectual growth.
A turning point came after 9/11, exposing the limitations of Pakistan’s education system in addressing complex global challenges. Universities lacked interdisciplinary approaches, social awareness, and innovative thinking.
Professor Rizvi pointed out that a major obstacle is the absence of a coherent national education policy. Public universities face excessive bureaucratic interference, while private institutions, despite greater autonomy, grapple with governance and strategic planning issues.
Another critical problem is the disconnect between academia and industry, leaving graduates unprepared for real-world demands. IDEAL seeks to bridge this gap by uniting educators, business leaders, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to reshape learning.
Central to this initiative is design thinking—a problem-solving approach that fosters creativity, teamwork, and empathy. IDEAL will equip students with critical thinking, communication skills, and adaptability for dynamic environments.
Professor Rizvi stressed that universities must transform into hubs of exploration, experimentation, and leadership, rather than mere vocational centers. The goal is to cultivate future leaders capable of solving global challenges and driving societal progress.
Susan Giesecke, Director of Engagements at UC Berkeley’s Sutardja Center for Entrepreneurship & Technology, emphasized how design thinking enhances innovation and cross-sector collaboration. Sarah Stein Greenberg, Executive Director of Stanford’s d.school and Habib University Board member, added that flexible, innovative learning environments are crucial for fostering creativity in students and faculty.
As Pakistan moves forward, reimagining education is imperative. Universities must shift from being job factories to nurturing thinkers, innovators, and leaders who can shape a better future.