UK university confers honorary doctorate on Sultana Siddiqui 

KARACHI: HUM Network President Sultana Siddiqui has been awarded an honorary doctorate by Buckinghamshire New University in recognition of her contributions to media and society.

The award was presented during a ceremony marking the launch of postgraduate certificate courses in Pakistan, introduced by Buckinghamshire New University in collaboration with Skillsrator and the International Centre of Excellence. The programme aims to offer Pakistani students access to the British education system through internationally accredited courses.

Speaking at the event, British Deputy High Commissioner (Acting) Martin Dawson praised Siddiqui’s longstanding service to the media industry and her social contributions.

“I’ve known Sultana Siddiqui for over three and a half years. I’ve had the pleasure of working with her not just through media platforms, but also on several social initiatives,” Dawson said. “She is truly remarkable — a real superstar — and this honour is well-deserved.”

Sultana Siddiqui thanked the university and highlighted the importance of education, particularly for girls. “If we educate girls, we secure the future of generations,” she said. “Empowering women through education will drive national progress.”

This is the second time Sultana Siddiqui has received such recognition; she was previously conferred an honorary doctorate by Pakistan’s Greenwich University.

Earlier in the event, Pro Vice-Chancellor for External Collaboration at Buckinghamshire New University Professor Sarah Williams, underscored the university’s commitment to transformative education. “We teach to improve young lives. Our goal is to equip them for the world they’re stepping into,” she said.

Executive Director of Skillsritter ICE Pakistan Incubation Dr Gulfam Khan Khalid Bughore also spoke on the occasion, encouraging educators to inspire rather than seek accolades. “Be the touchstone, not the gold. Let others turn to gold by your guidance,” he said.

The event celebrated not only educational collaboration between the UK and Pakistan but also the power of individuals like Siddiqui who continue to shape industries and inspire change.