Kohat: Kohat University of Science and Technology (KUST) on Friday hosted a seminar titled ‘Peace and Business Development’ under the World Peace Jirga Program (WPJP), focusing on promoting regional growth through sustainable investment, trade, entrepreneurship and employment generation.
Organized in collaboration with the university’s Youth Development Center (YDC), Khan Baba World Services (Pvt) Ltd and World Link Travels, the seminar brought together stakeholders to discuss education, technical and vocational training, women’s economic empowerment, youth skills development, research and investment facilitation.
On this occasion, while addressing the participants, Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Syed Zafar Ilyas emphasized that peace and economic development were closely interlinked, describing universities as key centres of research, innovation and social transformation.
The vice chancellor reaffirmed the university’s commitment to regional development, stressing the need to equip young people and women with modern skills and integrate them into productive economic activities. Participants identified mineral exploration and sustainable mining, modern agriculture, agricultural value chains, food security, livestock management and veterinary services as promising sectors for investment in Kohat.
Proposals were also discussed for establishing an ‘Education City’ featuring educational institutions and vocational training centres, alongside a ‘Health City’ equipped with modern medical facilities and community healthcare services.
The seminar also highlighted prospective initiatives to promote business partnerships, expand commercial activities and create employment opportunities for local residents. Organizers said Kohat University would spearhead initiatives aimed at strengthening skills development and opening new career pathways for graduates. Participants expressed hope that coordinated efforts among academia, the business community and local stakeholders would attract investment, improve livelihoods and contribute to lasting peace and prosperity in the region.