Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari, President of Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI), emphasized the critical need for fostering entrepreneurship in Pakistan to drive job creation, introduce innovations, and boost economic growth. Speaking at the Pakistan National Finals of the Global Student Entrepreneur Awards (GSEA), Bakhtawari called for government policies conducive to entrepreneurship and low-cost business loan schemes to support young entrepreneurs.
Bakhtawari highlighted the growing population and the challenge of providing jobs to all youngsters, emphasizing that fostering entrepreneurship is a key solution. He praised the Entrepreneurs Organization Islamabad for promoting student entrepreneurs and providing mentorship and networking opportunities.
The GSEA Pakistan National Finals witnessed Saad Siddiqui of Edversity emerging as the winner, followed by Javeria Faraz of Dollat as the first runner-up and Muhammad Ahmed of Inlights as the second runner-up. The winners will represent Pakistan in the regional competition in Oman.
Jehan Ara, Founder and CEO of Katalyst Labs, stressed the increase in entrepreneurial ventures in Pakistan but noted challenges in establishing multi-billion-dollar companies. She highlighted the volatile economic environment and the need for strategic support for startups.
Muhammad Mugheez Farooq, Energy Auditor at National Productivity Organization (NPO), emphasized the importance of productivity, quality, and innovation for a strong economy. Farooq called for optimizing productivity tools and human resources to enhance trade globally.
Pakistan is at a crucial juncture, and unlocking entrepreneurial potential is seen as vital for sustainable growth and prosperity. The focus is on overcoming obstacles and nurturing a culture of innovation to drive economic development.
