ISLAMABAD, 06 OCT (DNA) —The Signature Impact (Private) Limited, in collaboration with the Federal College of Education (FCE), Islamabad, organized a high-level dialogue and commemorative ceremony to mark World Teachers’ Day 2026, recognizing the pivotal role of teachers in national development and social transformation.
Supported by Meezan School System and Cheezious Pakistan, the event was held at the FCE Campus, H-9 Islamabad, and brought together distinguished parliamentarians, institutional heads, education scholars, and media professionals.
Coinciding with the 60th anniversary of the 1966 ILO/UNESCO Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers, the event was built around the global theme: “Standing with Teachers: 60 Years of Defending the Profession, Advancing Teacher Dignity, and Shaping the Future.” Discussions focused on teacher welfare, institutional governance, education policy reforms, and the integration of innovative digital teaching methodologies into local classrooms.
Ms. Rabia Naseem Farooqui, MNA, Parliamentary Secretary for the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training, attended as the Chief Guest. In her address, she reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening the education system, promoting Continuous Professional Development (CPD) for teachers, and addressing educational disparities across Pakistan.
She emphasized that sustainable social and economic progress is directly linked to teachers’ self-esteem, professional dignity, and overall well-being. The event was also graced by distinguished guests including Ms. Afshan Tehseen, former Chairperson of the National Commission on the Rights of the Child (NCRC), and Ms. Noreen Bano Leghari, Chairperson of the National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW). Both leaders underscored the importance of empowering teachers to advance child protection standards and promote gender equity within educational institutions.
A key highlight of the seminar was the Intergenerational Panel Discussion, which explored the evolution of teaching from traditional classrooms to technology-enabled learning environments, while reflecting on society’s perception of educators. The esteemed panel included:
Dr. Samiya Rehman Dogar, Director, Federal College of Education, who emphasized the need to modernize both pre-service and in-service teacher training frameworks in line with contemporary educational demands. Engineer Dr. Lt. Gen. (R) Muhammad Afzal, CEO, The Signature Impact, who presented strategic insights on institutional partnerships, leadership development, and scaling educational impact.
Mr. Muhammad Adnan Mukhtar, CEO, Meezan School System, who highlighted the importance of early childhood education frameworks, quality assurance mechanisms, and teacher motivation across private education networks. Dr. Shahzad Ali Khan, Vice Chancellor, Health Services Academy and Member of the Advisory Board of Meezan School System, who discussed teacher mental health, professional well-being, and the integration of health-focused policies in educational institutions.
Ms. Fariha Idris, Senior Journalist and Television Anchor, who spoke about the role of electronic and digital media in restoring the social prestige and public respect historically associated with the teaching profession. Professor Dr. Jamil Bajwa, renowned educationist and former Director of FCE, who reflected on educational heritage, mentorship traditions, and the ethical foundations of the teaching profession.
The event also featured an inspiring session titled “Then and Now,” which facilitated dialogue between veteran educators and newly inducted teachers. The discussion was followed by a cake-cutting ceremony honoring both long-serving and emerging educators for their contributions to the profession.
The seminar concluded with a formal vote of thanks, followed by a networking reception hosted by Cheezious Pakistan, the event’s hospitality partner. The gathering closed with a renewed commitment from The Signature Impact, FCE Islamabad, Meezan School System, and all partner organizations to work collectively for the welfare, professional growth, and brighter future of teachers across Pakistan.— DNA
