Cambridge University Press & Assessment, in partnership with Afkar-e-Taza (ThinkFest), hosted a landmark conference in Lahore to address the evolving role of education in an era of rapid global transformation.
The highlight of the event was a keynote address by Peter Phillips, Chief Executive Officer of Cambridge University Press & Assessment, titled “Excellence with Purpose: Education’s Role in a Changing World.” Phillips underscored the urgent need for education systems to adapt to technological disruption, climate change, and rising global uncertainties, while staying rooted in principles of integrity, equity, and excellence.
“Education must be more than just a pathway to knowledge — it must be a force for good,” Phillips said. “At Cambridge, we believe in excellence with purpose: ensuring that every learner, everywhere, has access to high-quality education that empowers them to shape a better future.”
Opening the conference, Uzma Yousuf, Country Director for Pakistan, International Education at Cambridge University Press & Assessment, stressed the importance of blending local innovation with global best practices. “Pakistan’s educators and learners are navigating extraordinary challenges with resilience and creativity,” she said. “By fostering partnerships and sharing global expertise, we can create education systems that are agile, inclusive, and transformative.”
The conference also featured three dynamic panel discussions on responsible use and governance of technology, especially artificial intelligence; environmental sustainability and climate education; and organisational resilience, agility, and efficiency in education.
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Bringing together thought leaders, policymakers, and innovators, the event provided a platform to explore how education can respond to global challenges while ensuring excellence and relevance for future generations.