In his thought-provoking TEDx talk, “What If We Taught Communication Before Math?”, Muhammad Shayan Azmat challenges the traditional educational focus on mathematics over communication. He proposes a radical shift in priorities, advocating for the teaching of effective communication skills as a fundamental part of education. Azmat envisions a world where individuals express themselves clearly and are understood deeply, potentially reducing conflicts and enhancing learning experiences both in classrooms and everyday interactions.
Drawing from personal experiences and observations, he highlights the discomfort many face when called upon to speak, suggesting that this hesitation often stems from a lack of communication skills, not a lack of knowledge. Azmat emphasizes the importance of listening and understanding in conversations, urging that mastering communication could forge more respectful and empathetic relationships.
His talk underscores the idea that effective communication—like breathing—is essential to life, suggesting that if we prioritize teaching these skills, we might cultivate a society of empathetic listeners and articulate speakers. Azmat ultimately invites us to rethink our educational framework with a call to prioritize communication, potentially transforming our interpersonal interactions for the better.
Watch the video by TEDxTalks
Author Video Description
In a world driven by human connections and collaboration, what if we reimagined the foundation of education? This thought-provoking talk explores the idea of prioritizing communication skills over mathematics in early education. The speaker delves into how teaching empathy, active listening, conflict resolution, and effective expression could transform not just individual lives but entire societies. By equipping children first with the tools to understand and connect with others, could we create a generation better prepared to collaborate and innovate? The talk challenges traditional education systems, emphasizing that emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills could be the true building blocks for a more harmonious and successful future. Through compelling stories and research, this topic invites us to rethink what truly matters in the foundational years of learning. Muhammad Shayan Azmat is an award-winning leader in climate change, gender-inclusive development, and disaster risk reduction. He has represented youth voices at national and international platforms, including Radio Pakistan, and currently serves in ADB funded Khyber Pakhtunkwa Cities Improvement Project. Beyond policy and advocacy, Shayan is a seasoned public speaking and IELTS coach, with a passion for empowering young people to communicate with confidence and lead with purpose. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
About TEDxTalks
TEDx is an international community that organizes TED-style events anywhere and everywhere — celebrating locally-driven ideas and elevating them to a global stage. TEDx events are produced independently of TED conferences, each event curates speakers on their own, but based on TED’s format and rules.
Video “What If We Taught Communication Before Math? | Muhammad Shayan Azmat | TEDxUniversity of Peshawar” was uploaded on 09/25/2025 to Youtube Channel TEDx Talks