Learning and Development (L&D) has emerged as a critical driver of organizational performance, leadership effectiveness, and sustainable growth. In line with this perspective, SZABIST University Islamabad successfully organized a Learning and Development Seminar for MBA and Executive MBA students.

The session was led by Mr. Jawad Hussain Awan, Manager Learning at PTCL Group, who brings over 19 years of extensive professional experience in Learning and Development. An Organizational Leadership graduate from LUMS, Mr. Awan shared valuable industry insights on how L&D serves as a strategic enabler of business performance and leadership development.

Key areas discussed during the seminar included:

• The distinction between training, learning, and development

• Conducting effective Learning Needs Analysis (LNA)

• Aligning learning initiatives with organizational strategy

• The role of leaders as learning enablers in fostering a strong learning culture

A major takeaway from the session was the importance of leadership commitment in building and sustaining a continuous learning environment within organizations.

The seminar was organized by Executive MBA students — Muhammad Awais (Director Commercial Planning, PTCL), Muhammad Tariq (Office Manager Admin & Logistics, Thales), Nawab Khan, and Ali Riaz (Captain, CCMW) — under the guidance of Ms. Saba Butt.

SZABIST extends sincere appreciation to Dr. Muhammad Shafiq, Program Manager – EMBA & MHRM, and Dr. Fuwad Bashir, Program Manager – MPM, for their valuable presence and support, which further enriched the academic and professional learning experience.

This seminar reflects SZABIST Islamabad’s commitment to industry-integrated learning, leadership development, and preparing future-ready business professionals.