Microsoft EduDay Highlights the Transformative Power of Technology in Education.

Through Microsoft's contributions, students and professionals in the country have gained access to cutting-edge technology and educational resources, enabling them to thrive in the digital world, said, Mr. Fahd Haroon, Minister of State and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister of Pakistan on Public Communication and Digital Platforms

Mr. Fahd Haroon, Minister of State and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister of Pakistan on Public Communication and Digital Platforms, delivered a keynote speech at the Microsoft EduDay event, emphasizing the significant role of technology in education. The event showcased Microsoft's contributions to the education sector and highlighted the successful adoption of remote learning models in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The EDU Day event was organized by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) in collaboration with Microsoft and other stakeholders.

Microsoft Edu Day is an annual event organized by educational institutions in collaboration with Microsoft. It serves as a platform to showcase the transformative power of technology in enhancing teaching and learning experiences. The event focuses on promoting digital literacy, innovation, and collaboration in education, with a particular emphasis on addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by the digital era.

Mr. Fahd Haroon emphasized the importance of technology in improving education. He noted that while digital transformation in education remains a challenge in many countries, the new era of digital learning necessitates collaboration among government leaders, curriculum publishers, equipment manufacturers, technology providers, and service organizations. Aligning these stakeholders is essential to enable comprehensive change and unlock the full potential of technology in education.

Highlighting Microsoft's active involvement in promoting digital literacy and technology integration in education globally, including in Pakistan, Mr. Fahd Haroon praised the company's commitment to enhancing higher education and K-12 education over the past five years. He expressed pride in the way K-12 institutions in Pakistan stepped up to the challenges of putting education online, utilizing the Microsoft Remote and Blended Learning Platform.

Mr. Fahd Haroon recognized the exceptional engagement and contributions of universities, colleges, public schools, and private chains across Pakistan. During his address, Mr. Fahd Haroon discussed the transformative measures taken to ensure that students did not lag behind during the COVID-19 pandemic. Collaborating with Microsoft, institutions in Pakistan swiftly adapted to the new technologies at hand. They devised strategies, resources, and solutions to quickly create online classrooms that facilitated seamless connections and enhanced learning experiences for students, teachers, and faculty.

The Minister of State/SAPM also highlighted the remarkable achievements in digital transformation witnessed in Sindh. Notably, universities such as IBA, Agha Khan, and DUHS have undergone massive-scale digital transformations, making their systems and processes more efficient. Government departments like SELD and SEF played instrumental roles in transitioning approximately 700,000 teachers and students to hybrid learning models when the COVID-19 crisis presented unprecedented challenges.

Underlining the significance of empowering educators with the skills and knowledge to effectively use technology in the classroom, Mr. Fahd Haroon emphasized the impact of initiatives like the Microsoft Innovative Educator (MIE) program. This program has created a global network of educators in Pakistan, fostering collaboration and influencing the growth and learning of students as well as teaching practices.

Speaking about the integration of Chat GPT in universities, Fahd Haroon,  expressed his enthusiasm for the possibilities it offers in revolutionizing teaching and learning processes. He emphasized the importance of adopting UNESCO's guidelines to ensure the responsible and ethical deployment of AI in educational settings. Minister of State/SAPM Haroon, highlighted the need for universities to prioritize transparency, inclusivity, and the protection of user data while leveraging Chat GPT and other technologies. He encouraged institutions to embrace these guidelines to create a conducive learning environment that harnesses the benefits of AI while upholding ethical principles and ensuring the privacy and security of students and faculty.

On the occasion of EDU Day, Prof. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman of the Higher Education Commission (HEC), shared insightful comments highlighting the significance of technology in higher education. Prof. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed acknowledged Microsoft's contributions to the education sector and commended their efforts in bridging the digital divide and providing equal opportunities for all.

UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization, has issued guidelines on the utilization of Chat GPT in universities. These guidelines serve as a crucial framework to ensure the responsible and ethical deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) technology in educational settings. Recognizing the potential of Chat GPT to enhance teaching and learning experiences, UNESCO emphasizes the importance of transparency, inclusivity, and the protection of user data. By adhering to these guidelines, universities can effectively integrate Chat GPT technology into their educational processes, fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment while upholding ethical principles.

Mr. Fahd Haroon serves as the Minister of State and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Public Communication and Digital Platforms. He believes in harnessing the power of technology to drive socio-economic growth and enhance communication in Pakistan. Mr. Haroon has been in leadership positions at National and International media outlets. He also has extensive public policy experience, especially in the media and regularity affairs.