The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has initiated the third phase of the Allama Muhammad Iqbal Scholarships Programme for Afghan Nationals.
The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has initiated the third phase of the Allama Muhammad Iqbal Scholarships Programme for Afghan Nationals. This phase will see the awarding of 4500 scholarships to Afghan students over a span of three years, enabling them to pursue studies in esteemed Pakistani universities.
The announcement was made by Minister for Federal Education and Professional Training, during the graduation ceremony for 281 Afghan students who completed their studies under Phase-II of the Programme, held at the HEC Secretariat.
These graduates, hailing from 25 universities across Pakistan, have obtained Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in diverse disciplines, including Medicine, Engineering, Agriculture, Management, and Computer Science. Notably, the first two phases of the Scholarship Programme have already provided scholarships to 6000 Afghan students.
Addressing the Afghan students, Minister underscored that this moment marks the commencement of a new chapter in their lives. He urged them to shoulder an increased sense of responsibility upon their return to Afghanistan and to employ their intellectual capabilities in seeking solutions to the challenges facing their homeland.
The Minister emphasized the critical need for capacity-building of Afghan students and faculty members. He also acknowledged the pivotal role played by HEC in providing higher education opportunities for Afghan students through scholarships in Pakistan.
During his welcome address, Chairman HEC Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed congratulated the students on their achievements, lauding their hard work and dedication. He specifically commended the Afghan students who secured top positions in their respective degree programs and acknowledged the resilience displayed by all the students in the face of numerous challenges.
Recognizing the close bond between Pakistan and Afghanistan as neighboring nations, Dr. Ahmed emphasized Pakistan’s responsibility in supporting and aiding Afghanistan, characterizing the two countries as brothers.
He urged the students, whom he described as intelligent and industrious, to consider themselves as ambassadors of Pakistan and as catalysts for the development and prosperity of their home country.
The Chairman stressed the importance of networking in career development, encouraging the students to harness their potential while reminding them that Pakistan is their second home. He reiterated the belief that Afghanistan deserves to prosper and become a developed nation, with the present students playing a significant role in this transformation.
Dr. Ahmed praised the Vice Chancellors for fostering an environment that nurtures bright minds, ready to contribute effectively to their nation upon their return.
In his remarks, Mr. Asif Durrani, Special Representative on Afghanistan (SRA) from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reflected on the substantial impact of past initiatives, where Afghan alumni who pursued higher education in Pakistan are now actively contributing to various sectors in Afghanistan.
He congratulated the Afghan graduates and expressed hope that their return to Afghanistan would empower them to serve their nation effectively and shoulder diverse responsibilities.
Mr. Durrani emphasized that the knowledge and expertise acquired by these individuals will not only benefit their families but will also promote informed decision-making in their professional and personal lives. He underscored the significance of an educated society in facilitating societal development.
Mr. Durrani concluded by highlighting the symbiotic relationship between Pakistan and Afghanistan, underscoring the cherished bond that exists between the two countries and the positive impact it will have on their shared future.