Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal has stressed the importance of transforming universities into hubs of innovation to ensure that graduates develop skills that meet current market demands.

He was speaking during his visit to Keele University's Denis Coates Foundation Building and Business School.

The Minister directed the Member of Science and Technology to adopt a similar model in Pakistan, incorporating industry partnerships within academic curricula and institutional frameworks.

These initiatives will provide students with hands-on experience and industry mentorship, bridge the gap between education and employment, and set a new direction for the country’s economy.

On this occasion, Ahsan Iqbal also observed an innovative model integrating industry within the academic system.