Faisalabad, November 2,2026: Pakistan and Tajikistan have agreed to strengthen academic and scientific cooperation, with Tajik Ambassador to Pakistan Yusuf Sharifzoda visiting the University of Faisalabad on Monday to attend the opening ceremony of the 4th International Conference on Advanced STEAM Education (ICASE-2026).
The conference, held under the theme “STEAM Education for a Future-Ready Society,” brought together participants to discuss the role of science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics in preparing societies for future challenges.
Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Sharifzoda highlighted the growing importance of science, education, digital technologies and innovation amid rapid global transformations. He noted that artificial intelligence, robotics, biotechnology and renewable energy were increasingly shaping economic and social development, creating new demands for education systems.
The Ambassador said that under the leadership of President Emomali Rahmon, Tajikistan attaches particular importance to advancing science and education, improving educational standards, strengthening research capabilities and preparing highly qualified professionals.
Highlighting Pakistan-Tajikistan relations, he said the two countries had established a foundation for academic engagement and cooperation between their higher education institutions.
He stressed the need to further expand these ties through student and faculty exchange programmes, joint scientific research projects, academic conferences and direct institutional partnerships.
Ambassador Sharifzoda reaffirmed the readiness of the Embassy of Tajikistan to facilitate stronger links between higher education and research institutions in both countries and support joint initiatives in education, science, technology and innovation.
On the sidelines of the conference, the Ambassador visited various facilities of the University of Faisalabad, where he was briefed on its academic activities, research capabilities and institutional infrastructure.
He also met with the university’s leadership to discuss ways to strengthen academic and scientific cooperation with higher education institutions in Tajikistan.
The discussions focused on establishing direct inter-university partnerships, facilitating student and faculty exchanges, launching joint academic programmes and research initiatives, and expanding cooperation in digital technologies, artificial intelligence, engineering and other priority fields.
Both sides expressed interest in exploring new opportunities for institutional collaboration, reflecting the shared commitment of Pakistan and Tajikistan to promoting educational and scientific ties.
