**NUST Rector Urges Stronger Digital Collaboration Among SCO Member States**
Dr. Muhammad Zahid Latif, Rector of the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), has called for greater digital cooperation among Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) member states, emphasizing the need for innovative education systems and digital skills training to prepare the region for a rapidly evolving future. Dr. Latif delivered his keynote address at the SCO Digital Economy Forum, hosted by Nankai University and attended by higher education leaders, policy experts, and digital innovators from across the SCO network.
In his speech, Dr. Latif highlighted the significant opportunities that digital collaboration could unlock for SCO countries, particularly in Central Asia. He pointed to the emergence of Generation Alpha—the first to grow up fully immersed in digital technology—and underlined the necessity for educational paradigms and modular learning systems to keep pace with their evolving needs.
The Rector also drew attention to Pakistan’s burgeoning youth population and their increasing participation in the gig economy. He urged policymakers and institutions to prioritize equipping young people with relevant digital skills, which he identified as essential for harnessing demographic dividends and driving sustainable economic growth in the region.
Dr. Latif concluded by advocating for stronger institutional linkages and collaborative frameworks among SCO countries. He called for united efforts under the SCO umbrella to help build a more equitable, connected, and future-ready digital ecosystem, positioning member states to thrive in the digital age.
