Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Prof Ahsan Iqbal, announced on Sunday that the government is launching a renewed push to modernize education and agriculture under the ambitious “Uraan Pakistan” initiative, aiming to steer the country toward sustainable national development.
In an interview with a private news channel, Iqbal emphasized that transforming the education system is central to unlocking economic potential. “We are collaborating with provinces to upgrade curricula, enhance teacher training, and reform the examination system,” he said, signaling a shift toward more integrated and forward-looking educational policies.
The minister also highlighted the role of local governance in driving national progress. He pointed out that genuine development in the post-18th Amendment era requires empowering local governments, which he believes are best positioned to address regional disparities and implement reforms effectively.
Turning to agriculture, Iqbal candidly acknowledged the growing threat of climate change to Pakistan’s already struggling farming sector. He assured that structural reforms are in progress to build climate resilience, improve productivity, and ensure food security. “Our focus is on long-term planning and provincial cooperation for meaningful results,” he added.
Related: World Bank Approves $194 Million for Pakistan’s Education
While the government’s emphasis on education and agriculture as twin engines of growth is commendable, critics argue that these goals have been repeatedly stated in past administrations with little to show in terms of implementation. The success of “Uraan Pakistan” will ultimately depend on the government’s ability to translate promises into policy, tackle entrenched bureaucratic inefficiencies, and ensure transparency in execution. The vision is clear — but the delivery will determine its credibility.