The OxfordAQA School Leaders’ Conference brought together distinguished educators, thought leaders, and policymakers to explore the evolving global landscape of teaching and learning, and how Pakistan stands to benefit. Held at Nishat Hotel, Lahore, the conference became a confluence of innovation, collaborative leadership, and global best practices in education. Arshad Saeed Husain, Managing Director, Oxford University Press Pakistan, welcomed the guests along with Salma Adil, Director of OxfordAQA Pakistan, who underscored the significance of transformative leadership in education. Keynote addresses were delivered by Andrew Coombe, Managing Director, OxfordAQA International Qualifications, and Dr. Turab Hussain, Principal, Aitchison College, setting the tone for the day with thought-provoking insights into leadership and change in education. A presentation by Eoin MacGabhann, International Development Manager, OxfordAQA, highlighted the significance of world-class assessment design in upholding integrity and fairness in education, while Dr. Moeed Yusuf, Vice Chancellor of Beaconhouse National University, spoke on collaborative leadership, emphasizing the importance of partnerships in enriching the higher education with research and investigative tools to broaden the horizon. Referring to OxfordAQA’s commitment towards equitable learning opportunities, Arshad Saeed Husain said, “Education is about nurturing future leaders who will shape tomorrow’s world. At OxfordAQA, we understand that every qualification we deliver represents a student’s dreams and potential. Our commitment to excellence and fairness is not just about maintaining standards; it’s about opening doors of opportunity across the globe.” Andrew Coombe, elaborated on the changing paradigm in education, stating, “Innovation in teaching and learning is not just about adapting to change; it is about leading it. At OxfordAQA, we pride ourselves on designing qualifications and assessments that meet the highest global standards so that our students will go onto thrive in higher education and be well equipped for the careers of tomorrow.” While hosting the leading educationalists at the event, Salma Adil quoted, “We are delighted to host the School Leaders’ Conferences in Lahore, followed by Islamabad and Karachi. These events aim to unite dedicated educators from across the world and provide an opportunity to engage with them. As OxfordAQA Pakistan, we are committed to supporting schools in their mission to provide high-quality education and fostering an environment where students can excel” The conference featured many impactful sessions; the panel discussion on innovation in teaching and learning, was moderated by Dr. Faisal Bari, former Dean of LUMS School of Education, while a round table with school leaders was moderated by Neda Mulji, Senior Manager, Professional Development Oxford University Press, Pakistan, and explored strategies and digital technology. The event concluded with an engaging Q&A session, featuring panelists from OxfordAQA, including Theresa Crisham-Nimmo, Head of Marketing; Amanda Ingram, Director of Exams at the British Council Pakistan; and other senior leaders. Drawing prominent education leaders and school principals from Lahore’s leading academic institutions, the OxfordAQA School Leaders’ Conference proved to be a reaffirmation of its commitment to empowering educators with tools, insights, and strategies to best optimize the potential of educational leadership and the change that it drives.
