Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal has urged young engineers to look beyond their university degrees, embrace new technologies and help transform Pakistan’s economy ahead of the country’s 100th independence anniversary in 2047.
Addressing the convocation of the University of Engineering and Technology (UET) Lahore on November 10, he described young graduates as “Gen 47 2.0” and said they would play a major role in shaping Pakistan’s future.
Iqbal said technical knowledge alone would not be enough to succeed in a rapidly changing world. Graduates would also need innovation, integrity, independent thinking and a commitment to public service.
He highlighted artificial intelligence, robotics and advanced materials as technologies reshaping the engineering profession and global competition. He urged graduates to keep updating their skills and adapting to technological changes throughout their careers.
The minister told graduates that their degrees represented what they had learned so far, while their future careers would depend on their ability to continue learning.
Iqbal also stressed the need for Pakistan to develop its capacity to manufacture and export competitive products and technological solutions.
He identified industrial productivity, energy reliability, water management, climate-resilient infrastructure, digital technology and agricultural innovation as important areas where young engineers could contribute.
Linking these priorities with the government’s URAAN Pakistan initiative, he said economic progress should translate into stronger businesses, better institutions, employment opportunities and improvements in people’s lives.
The minister also called for greater cooperation between universities and industries to connect academic education with practical requirements. He encouraged institutions to provide equal opportunities for women engineers and urged Pakistani professionals working abroad to support the country through investment, research and knowledge sharing.
Iqbal emphasised that engineers must maintain professional integrity because their decisions can directly affect public safety. He also advised graduates to develop disciplined work habits, verify information before sharing it and avoid losing confidence in Pakistan’s future.
He concluded by challenging the graduating students to consider what they would have contributed to the country when Pakistan celebrates 100 years of independence in 2047.
