TOBA TEK SINGH: The University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF) hosted a two-day symposium titled “Competency-Based Career Development: Right Skills, Right Outcomes”, organised by the Institute of Agri-Extension Education and Rural Development.

Addressing the symposium, Nawaz Khalid Arbi, an ex-PMS officer, emphasised that today’s professional landscape required individuals who possess not only academic qualifications but also practical competencies, leadership abilities and ethical values.

Institute of Agri-Extension Director Prof Dr Babar Shahbaz stressed that universities must move beyond traditional teaching approaches and adopt innovative learning models that link education with real-world challenges.

Imran Khalid, chief executive officer of a private company, shared the industry perspective and said that employers increasingly sought graduates who demonstrated practical skills, adaptability and professional confidence.

Prof Dr Ijaz Ashraf noted that focusing on analytical thinking, teamwork, innovation and leadership would enable students to become productive professionals capable of contributing to national development.

The symposium further highlighted the importance of career counseling, skill mapping and continuous professional development to guide youth toward productive career paths and enable them to play a meaningful role in societal progress.

The speakers stressed that competency-based career development could bridge the gap between education and employment by equipping students with the right skills for the right outcomes.

EXHIBITION: A two-day art exhibition “Hun Na Rahya Hunera” was held at the Government College Women University Faisalabad (GCWUF) in collaboration with the Punjab Council of the Arts. Artworks created by teachers of the varsity were presented in the exhibition.

Commissioner Raja Jahangir Anwar while inaugurating the exhibition said that women played a key role in the development and prosperity of any society.

He said that art was a powerful medium of expression that played an important role in raising social awareness and promoting positive thinking. He appreciated the artworks created by the teachers of the GCWUF.

GCWUF Vice Chancellor Prof Kanwal Amin also spoke on the occasion.

Published in Dawn, March 11th, 2026