ISLAMABAD: The Planning Ministry has geared up efforts to implement a 5E framework, a strategy to turn around Pakistan and put it on a sustained growth trajectory.
On the direction of Minister for Planning Development and Special Initiatives Professor Ahsan Iqbal, a one-day consultative workshop will be organized at the ministry within 10 days for the speedy implementation of the framework.
The decision was taken at a meeting chaired by the minister and attended by the secretary Planning Ministry and other senior officials.
The minister directed the stakeholders to invite the country’s top experts from various fields to the workshop so that their input can be taken before the implementation of the framework.
The 5Es framework is centered around five key pillars, which include exports, e-Pakistan, environment and climate change, energy and infrastructure and equity and empowerment.
The framework marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s journey towards sustainable economic growth and development as it has set the stage for transformative change, addressing key challenges and capitalizing on opportunities for the betterment of the nation and its citizens. In June last year, the National Economic Council (NEC) had approved the framework.
The first E aimed at increasing exports, is crucial as the country’s future heavily depends on how fast it becomes an export-led economy. This E, in particular, focuses on initiatives that will tackle the chronic boom-and-bust cycles and stabilize the economy. E-Pakistan, which would ultimately help in “Building a Knowledge Economy,” has a mission to harness the immense potential of IT and telecom exports.
“The fifth E related to equity and empowerment recommends a strategic blend of universal policies, affirmative action, and targeted interventions to ensure accessible and high-quality health, education, and social protection services for all citizens,” said a statement of the ministry.
In this 5 Es, one ‘E’ needs to be added and that’s education (focus on public sector education from Primary to University) level with measurable attainment and achievement targets for students. Presently , the education system is largely lacking in the production of graduates equipped with either with knowledge with good mindset, attitude and aptitude or with technical knowhow and skills for production- oriented jobs. In addition we need to work on 3 Ds that’s demography, democracy and debt- servicing. From 3 Ds I mean population control, objective and transparent working of Democracy as a form of government and consistent policy and planning for debt- servicing that is payment of foreign loans without disturbing routine functioning of the state. Just and idea for consideration.