Punjab govt invites Microsoft, Google to introduce certifications for school kids

In an effort to polish computer programming skills in children, the Punjab government has approached tech giants Microsoft and Google, inviting them to come to Pakistan.

In a television talk show, Punjab Education Minister Murad Raas, said that he is in contact with both companies and hoping to convince them to introduce Google and Microsoft certifications for children in grades 9 and 10.

From this year @SchoolEduPunjab will collaborate with Microsoft and Google for the skill development of school kids so they are equipped to find a job if they dropout. @DrMuradPTI @MehrTarar @fsherjan #PTI #EducationReforms #NayaPakistan pic.twitter.com/o8mSa2SSRY

— Tehreek-e-Insaf (@InsafPK) February 11, 2019

Raas shared that during his trip to London, he called on Google and Microsoft officials and “asked them about coming to Pakistan ─ officially coming to Pakistan.”

“They will be here this summer, hopefully,” he added.

The education minister stressed on imparting specialized skills to students as he noted that, “Not every child who drops out of school should feel compelled to take on a job that doesn’t require specialised skills.”

“The new world is [driven by] technology, so in grade 9 and 10, let’s offer them software development courses.”

Further explaining the motive behind the initiative, Raas said, “If a child drops out of school after grade 10, [they can] walk into an office with nothing else except a Microsoft certification.”

“Not all children will be continuing their schooling after the tenth grade, that’s just the way it is. It cannot be changed,” he continued.

“Technology is the future,” Raas concluded.