President Dr Arif Alvi has said universities have a crucial role in human resource development and economic growth of the country.
He was speaking at a presentation by Rector International Islamic University Prof Dr Masoom Yasinzai in Islamabad on Thursday.
The President pointed out that new technologies of fourth Industrial Revolution are powerful agents of change. However, he said, new ideas and initiatives from educational institutions are required to meet the requirements of technological advancements.
He emphasized that only research and development activities can enable Pakistan to join the ranks of technologically advanced countries.
He also underlined the importance of creating linkages between academic research and public policy formulation process.
Dr Arif Alvi stressed that in addition to academic achievements, universities must also focus on the character-building of the students.