HEC launches 4,500 scholarships for Afghan students

ISLAMABAD: Caretaker Minister for Federal Education and Professional Training, Madad Ali Sindhi, announced the launch of the third phase of the Allama Muhammad Iqbal Scholarships Programme for Afghan nationals by the Higher Education Commission (HEC). This phase will provide 4,500 scholarships over three years for Afghan students to pursue studies in leading Pakistani universities.

Addressing the graduation ceremony for 281 Afghan students who completed their studies under Phase II of the Programme, Minister Madad Ali Sindhi encouraged these graduates to embrace a greater sense of responsibility upon their return to Afghanistan. He urged them to apply their acquired knowledge to address the nation’s challenges.

Chairman HEC, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, applauded the graduates for their dedication and academic achievements, especially noting those who secured top positions in their fields. He highlighted the symbiotic relationship between Pakistan and Afghanistan, urging these students to become ambassadors for their home country’s development.

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Special Representative on Afghanistan, Asif Durrani, talked about the positive impact of educated Afghan alumni returning to contribute to various sectors in Afghanistan. He expressed hope that these graduates would effectively serve their nation and stressed the importance of education in societal development.

All speakers underlined the strong bond between Pakistan and Afghanistan, and the graduates’ potential as catalysts for their nations’ shared future.