Prominent Speakers Address Climate Action, Education Reform, Digital Innovation, and Financial Inclusion at the Summit
STAFF REPORTER
ISLAMABAD: The 6th Edition of the Leaders in Islamabad Business Summit (LIIBS) concluded on a high note, with a focus on the theme “The BIG Rethink.” Organized by Nutshell Conferences Group and Martin Dow Group in partnership with the Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI) and Unity Foods Limited, the Summit brought together more than 50 speakers from national and international organizations across various sectors.
The second day of the Summit featured four sessions, consisting of 11 addresses, 2 conversations, and 2 panel discussions. Topics covered a wide range of subjects, including the digital future, the landscape of education, shaping narratives, and climate change.
Senator Sherry Rehman, Federal Minister for Climate Change, emphasized the need for environmental sustainability, urging big hotels to eliminate the use of plastic bottles. She also highlighted Pakistan’s role as a frontline state for climate change and called for greater inclusivity and media support in addressing the issue.
Gen Zubair Mahmood Hayat, N.I. (Rtd), Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (2016-2019), stressed the power of narratives in shaping a better future for Pakistan. He encouraged the nation to think deeply and take ownership of their political, social, and economic aspects, drawing inspiration from transformative leaders like Prophet Muhammad, Martin Luther King Jr., and Nelson Mandela.
Education emerged as a significant topic of discussion during the Summit. Shafqat Mahmood, Former Federal Minister for Education, emphasized the government’s role in promoting skill-based education and a unified national curriculum to ensure social mobility for all. Dr. Amjad Waheed, CEO of NBP Funds, highlighted the issue of out-of-school children and the need for innovative approaches to address educational challenges.
The session on the digital future featured notable speakers discussing topics such as the metaverse, blockchain, and leadership models. Michael Foley, Regional Director of Airtel Africa, spoke about the untapped potential of the metaverse in Pakistan. Muhammad Salman Anjum, Founder & CEO of InvoiceMate, stressed the importance of building trust through technologies like blockchain and AI for efficient financial transactions.
Another session focused on financial inclusion, with panelists highlighting the importance of access to education, healthcare, and finance in driving societal development. The panelists emphasized the need to challenge conventional modalities and promote social inclusion for achieving financial inclusion in Pakistan.
The Summit concluded with Air Chief Marshal Sohail Aman (Rtd.), Pakistan’s former Chief of Air Staff (2015-2018), delivering the vote of thanks. He emphasized the country’s potential and the importance of embracing technology and combating climate change through a collective rethink.
The 7th Edition of the Leaders in Islamabad Business Summit was announced to take place on March 6 and 7, 2024, further solidifying its position as the largest and most sought-after corporate event in Pakistan.
