LAHORE: The Government College University (GCU) has established a centre for continuous learning and professional development (CCLPD) aimed at bridging the gap between academic education and the evolving demands of the job market.
The centre launched its activities with a professional readiness workshop on interpersonal skills for final-year undergraduate students.
GCU Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Muhammad Omer Chaudhry inaugurated the session, conducted by psychologist and organisational development expert Rafiq Jaffer, who engaged students in interactive exercises on self-awareness, effective communication, teamwork, conflict management and interpersonal relationships.
The VC said universities needed to move beyond conventional degree programmes and respond to rapidly changing workforce requirements by promoting lifelong learning, innovation and continuous professional development.
He said the centre would focus on improving students’ employability through training in freelancing, career planning, communication and leadership, while faculty and staff would receive training in digital technologies, modern teaching methods, management and institutional development.
The centre would extend its services beyond GCU to government departments, industries and private-sector organisations through short courses, specialised training, workshops and executive development programmes, he added.
Published in Dawn, October 18th, 2026
