Strategic Partnership to Enhance Digital Literacy
Islamabad, Pakistan – Quaid-i-Azam University (QAU) and the International Computer Driving Licence (ICDL) Foundation have entered into a strategic partnership designed to elevate digital literacy and foster innovation across the Pakistani educational landscape. This collaboration signifies a crucial step towards equipping students with the digital competencies necessary to succeed in the rapidly evolving 21st-century job market.
Formalizing the Partnership with a Memorandum of Understanding
On February 16, 2024, a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed at QAU, solidifying the commitment of both institutions to this shared vision. The signing ceremony was attended by prominent dignitaries, including Prof. Dr. Muhammad Idrees, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences and Acting Vice-Chancellor of QAU, and Mr. Jehan Zada, Chief Operating Officer of ICDL Asia Local Programme Partner, Danubius Consulting. The event marked the beginning of a partnership poised to drive significant advancements in digital education within Pakistan.
Integrating ICDL Programs into QAU’s Curriculum
As part of this strategic collaboration, QAU will integrate ICDL certification programs into its curriculum, providing students with a comprehensive foundation in essential digital skills. These programs will encompass key areas such as computer fundamentals, word processing, spreadsheets, databases, presentations, online communication, and IT security. ICDL will support this integration by offering necessary learning resources, a user-friendly learning management system, and internationally recognized certifications upon the successful completion of the program.
Enhancing Employability and Fostering Innovation
The primary objective of this partnership is to enhance student employability, foster innovation, and contribute to Pakistan’s digital transformation. By equipping students with ICDL certifications, QAU aims to prepare them for leadership roles in the digital economy, ensuring they possess the skills needed to navigate and excel in an increasingly technology-driven world. The partnership will also facilitate knowledge sharing, faculty development, and research collaboration, further enriching the academic environment at QAU.
Leadership’s Commitment to a World-Class Education
“This collaboration is a testament to QAU’s commitment to providing students with a world-class education,” said Prof. Dr. Muhammad Idrees. “By integrating ICDL programs into our curriculum, we are empowering our students to become digital leaders and contribute meaningfully to society.” His statement underscores the university’s strategic vision to align its educational offerings with global standards, thereby producing graduates who are not only knowledgeable but also digitally proficient.
Bridging the Digital Divide in Pakistan
Mr. Jehan Zada, expressing enthusiasm for the partnership, remarked, “We are delighted to collaborate with QAU to bridge the digital divide in Pakistan. By equipping students with ICDL certifications, we are investing in the future of the country.” This partnership reflects a shared commitment to addressing the digital skills gap in Pakistan, with a focus on preparing students to harness technology for societal advancement.
Inspiring a Nationwide Digital Transformation
The collaboration between QAU and ICDL is expected to serve as a model for other educational institutions in Pakistan, inspiring similar initiatives aimed at addressing the digital skills gap. Through this partnership, QAU and ICDL are working together to create a digitally empowered generation capable of leveraging technology to drive innovation, economic growth, and social development.
