A significant milestone was reached in the realm of education as The 66 Scholarship Foundation and ILM Fund joined hands in a momentous Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This partnership heralds a new era of support for less fortunate students at the University of Management and Technology (UMT), ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder their pursuit of education and dreams.

The signing ceremony, held at the UMT campus, was graced by notable figures from both organizations. Mr. Akhtaruddin Ahmad, Director of TSF, alongside Mr. Naveed Afraz as a witness from the Foundation, joined Mr. Salman Ahmad Malik, Advisor of ILM Fund, in sealing this collaborative effort. With their collective vision and commitment, this partnership is poised to create opportunities for countless deserving individuals.

The collaboration between TSF and ILM Fund underscores a shared commitment to breaking down barriers and making education accessible to all. By pooling resources and expertise, the two organizations aim to provide comprehensive support systems that empower students to excel academically and realize their full potential.

“We believe that education is the most powerful tool for social change and progress,” remarked Mr. Akhtaruddin Ahmad, expressing optimism about the impact of this partnership. “Through this collaboration, we are not only investing in individual students but also in the future prosperity of our society.”

Mr. Salman Ahmad Malik echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the transformative power of education in shaping lives and communities. “By combining our efforts, we can reach greater heights and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most,” he affirmed.

This historic collaboration between TSF and ILM Fund marks a pivotal moment in the journey towards a more equitable and inclusive education system. As barriers are dismantled and opportunities are unlocked, it paves the way for a brighter future where every student has the chance to thrive and contribute to society.

In the words of Mr. Naveed Afraz, “Together, we are not just signing a memorandum, but we are signing a promise—to support, uplift, and empower the next generation of leaders and changemakers.”

As the partnership takes flight, it is poised to leave a lasting impact on the lives of students at UMT and beyond, exemplifying the collective power of collaboration in advancing educational equity and opportunity.

Related: UMT Scholarships empowering Youth to achieve their dreams

The Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training (MoFEPT) is preparing to launch the National Nutrition Programme in Islamabad, marking a significant stride in advancing child education and healthcare initiatives.

Set to kick off on May 1, the program stems from directives by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, demonstrating a strong commitment to tackling vital socio-economic issues impacting children’s development. Collaborating with the esteemed Allah Walay Trust (AWT), the National Nutrition Programme aims to have a substantial effect by catering to the nutritional requirements of students enrolled in government primary schools across Islamabad.

Education Secretary Mohyuddin Wani detailed the program’s goals, emphasizing its comprehensive approach to improving student welfare. Initially, the focus will be on furnishing free meals to students, recognizing the pivotal role of proper nutrition in fostering physical health and academic performance. By ensuring access to nutritious meals, the initiative aims to alleviate learning obstacles associated with food insecurity and malnutrition.

The introduction of the National Nutrition Programme signifies a crucial juncture in the government’s dedication to holistic education and healthcare. It showcases a proactive stance toward addressing the underlying socio-economic factors that could impede children’s educational achievements and overall wellness. By prioritizing students’ nutritional needs, the program aims to foster an environment conducive to optimal learning outcomes and holistic growth.

Moreover, the collaboration with the Allah Walay Trust underscores the significance of partnerships between government bodies and civil society organizations in tackling complex social issues. Through this collaboration, the program harnesses the expertise and resources of both sectors to extend its reach and impact, ensuring that no child is left behind due to nutritional discrepancies.

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The University of Karachi (UoK) has chosen to bestow an honorary PhD upon Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi during his upcoming visit to Sindh’s provincial capital on Tuesday, April 23rd.

Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori, who serves as the university’s chancellor, proposed granting the degree to the Iranian president. This decision gained approval during the syndicate’s meeting on Saturday. UoK Vice Chancellor Khalid Iraqi announced that a special ceremony will be held to confer the degree.

Governor Tessori will present the honorary doctorate to President Raisi, marking the first visit of a head of state to Pakistan following the formation of the new government.

In light of this event, Tuesday will be observed as a public holiday in the city, as per a notification issued by the administrator. All government and private offices, as well as educational institutions, will be closed except for essential services and emergency duties personnel.

Additionally, the government has announced its intention to temporarily take control of one of the city’s prominent hotels, Movenpick, for three days. The hotel management has consequently cancelled all bookings and will close all shops during this period.

Related: UoK bans all political student groups after brawl

In a groundbreaking development, Government College University (GCU) Lahore, one of Pakistan’s oldest and most prestigious educational institutions, has witnessed a significant milestone in its 160-year history. Prof. Dr. Shazia Bashir, an esteemed female academician, has been appointed as the acting Vice Chancellor of the university, marking the first time a woman has held this position.

Dr. Shazia Bashir, currently serving as the Dean of the Faculty of Mathematical and Physical Sciences at GCU Lahore, steps into her new role with a wealth of experience and a profound dedication to academia. The appointment comes as a momentous occasion for both the university and the wider academic community in Pakistan.

The decision to entrust Dr. Shazia Bashir with the responsibilities of the Vice Chancellorship was made by the Punjab governor, who bestowed upon her the additional charge for a period of four months or until the appointment of a regular Vice Chancellor. This move underscores the recognition of her exemplary contributions to the field of education and her outstanding leadership within the university.

Dr. Shazia Bashir’s academic journey is illustrious, marked by her deep-rooted commitment to learning and research. An alumna of GCU Lahore herself, she holds a Master’s degree in Physics from Government College Lahore, followed by an MPhil from the University of Engineering and Technology (UET) Lahore. Her pursuit of knowledge led her to complete her PhD at the Technical University of Vienna (TU Wien) Austria.

Since joining GCU Lahore in 1996, Dr. Shazia Bashir has been an integral part of the institution’s academic fabric. She has served in various capacities, including as the Director of the Centre for Advanced Studies in Physics and the Institute of Physics, as well as Chairperson of the Department of Physics. Her scholarly endeavors have resulted in over 150 research publications in esteemed international journals, showcasing her dedication to advancing scientific knowledge.

The appointment of Dr. Shazia Bashir as the acting Vice Chancellor has been met with widespread acclaim from the faculty, staff, and students of GCU Lahore. It represents a significant step towards gender inclusivity and diversity in leadership roles within the realm of higher education in Pakistan. As the university embarks on this new chapter under her stewardship, there is a palpable sense of optimism and excitement for the transformative impact she will undoubtedly bring to the institution.

Related: GCU holds 6th International Biosciences Conference

The Pakistan Federation Baseball (PFB) successfully inaugurated the Chief Minister Punjab Baseball League 2024 at the Forman Christian College (FCCU) Lahore’s Baseball Ground marking a significant moment in the sports calendar of Punjab.

The grand opening ceremony was graced by esteemed dignitaries and passionate sports enthusiasts, who came together to celebrate the spirit of baseball. Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikander Hayat honored the occasion as the chief guest, expressing his fervor for sports, especially baseball.

The Chief Minister Punjab Baseball League 2024 demonstrated four days of intense competition, featuring renowned teams such as Lahore Lions, Multan Mustangs, and Faisalabad Falcons. Both male and female divisions competed for top honors, showcasing the depth of talent in the region and providing a platform for emerging players to showcase their skills on a national scale. The championship was won by Faisalabad Falcons in women category and by Multan Mustangs in men’s category.

On the last day of the league i.e. Sunday, April 21, 2024, a special field dedication ceremony took place. The baseball field was dedicated to Steve Devoss, president and CEO of GSP Consulting. Dr. Jonathan S. Addleton, Rector FCCU commended the winning team while encouraging all participants of the league. He emphasized FCCU’s baseball field as Pakistan’s finest, noting that there were only two dedicated fields in the country, the other being in Islamabad. He also highlighted the collaborative efforts of all the participating departments that guaranteed the event’s success.

Throughout the four days of the Chief Minister Punjab Baseball League 2024, a massive gathering from FCCU and outside witnessed and enjoyed the thrilling baseball matches, adding to the excitement and fervor of the event.

Related: Distinguished Guests Gather at FCCU Alumni Reunion 2024

In the wake of Quaid-i-Azam University (QAU) Islamabad’s outstanding performance in the recent QS World University Rankings, alumni have come together to urge the federal government to designate the institution as a “Flagship Institution.” The demand was made during a significant gathering of the Core Committee of the QAU Alumni Association Founders Group, chaired by Dr. Abdul Basit.

The alumni, comprising esteemed former students of QAU, emphasized the need for the government’s support to address the institution’s annual deficit of over 500 million rupees. They underscored that with adequate financial backing, QAU could continue to excel on regional and international platforms, bringing further recognition to Pakistan’s educational landscape.

During the meeting, attended by senior Quaidians, a series of initiatives were outlined to bolster the university’s standing and support its current and future students. These initiatives include establishing the Quaidians Commoners Academy under the supervision of Mr. Khalid Masood, former Principal Secretary to the President of Pakistan, aimed at providing guidance to young Quaidians.

Additionally, plans were set forth for the enhancement of social welfare projects, such as the installation of new water filtration systems at QAU hostels, the revival of the Quaidians Mentorship and Scholarship Programs, and the strengthening of the Blood Donors Forum Pakistan (BDFP). These endeavors are geared towards fostering a sense of unity among Quaidians and giving back to the alma mater in practical terms.

The committee commended Vice Chancellor QAU, faculty, employees, alumni, and students for their collective efforts in securing impressive rankings in the QS subject ranking 2024. They also urged the establishment of a Psychological Counseling Centre on the QAU campus to provide continuous support to students, demonstrating their commitment to the well-being of the university community.

As the alumni continue their advocacy for QAU’s elevation to flagship status, they pledge their unwavering cooperation to ensure the institution’s sustained growth and prominence in the global academic arena.

Related: QAU Leads the country in QS Subject Ranking 2024

In a significant move towards fostering sustainable peace and development, the University of Swat (USwat) and the Sustainable Peace and Development Organisation (SPADO) Islamabad, inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The signing ceremony, marked by enthusiasm and anticipation, saw the convergence of academia and activism in pursuit of a common goal.

The event, graced by prominent figures from both institutions, including Prof. Dr. Hassan Sher, the esteemed Vice-Chancellor of the University of Swat, and Raza Shah Khan, the Chief Executive of SPADO, showcased a shared commitment to collaboration in research, education, and development initiatives.

Imtiaz Ali, Registrar of the University, along with distinguished faculty members such as Prof. Dr. Anwar Hussain, Director of OCRIC, and Prof. Dr. Najeeb Ur Rehman, Dean of the Faculty of Chemical Sciences, joined the occasion, underlining the collective resolve towards meaningful engagement.

The partnership, outlined in the MoU, is poised to catalyze joint research endeavors, educational exchange programs, and community development initiatives. With a focus on addressing the pressing issues of the region, the collaboration seeks to empower local communities and promote sustainable practices conducive to peace and prosperity.

Both institutions expressed optimism regarding the potential impact of their joint efforts, believing that synergy between academia and grassroots activism holds the key to unlocking transformative change. By leveraging expertise, resources, and networks, the alliance aims to bridge academic insights with on-the-ground realities, thereby contributing to the broader discourse on sustainable peace and development.

As the University of Swat and SPADO embark on this collaborative journey, they invite stakeholders from diverse backgrounds to join hands in advancing the cause of peace and prosperity in the region. With shared vision and collective action, they envision a future where education, research, and community empowerment converge to build resilient societies founded on principles of peace and sustainable development.

Related: University of Swat holds Moot Court

In a bid to cultivate global citizenship among Pakistani students, the University of Education (UoE) Lahore, hosted the inauguration ceremony of the project titled “Cultivating Global Citizenship: Empowering Teachers to Become Change Makers in Pakistan”. The event, held at the Township Campus, witnessed the esteemed presence of Prof. Dr. Muhammad Alam Saeed, Vice Chancellor of the University of Education, Lahore, as the chief guest.

Led by Professor Meng Tian, Associate Professor of Educational Leadership and Director of Global Engagement at the College of Social Sciences, University of Birmingham, UK, and co-led by Dr. Naima Qureshi, Assistant Professor at the University of Education, Lahore, the project aims to equip teachers with transformative pedagogies to foster global citizenship among students. Project partners include the UoE Lahore, the Ali Institute of Education (AIE) and the Academic Leaders Innovation Forum (ALIF).

Over 60 pre-service and in-service teachers from 15 different universities, along with representatives from public and private schools across Lahore, participated in the inaugural ceremony. The project promises to provide participating educators with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to instill global citizenship values in their students.

Dr. Naima Qureshi, co-lead of the project, emphasized the significance of empowering teachers as catalysts for change within their communities. She highlighted, “By investing in the professional development of teachers, we are investing in the future of Pakistan.”

Expressing his support for the initiative, Prof. Dr. Alam Saeed, Vice Chancellor of the University of Education, Lahore, extended a warm welcome to the project and acknowledged the need to shape a new generation of global citizens who are not only academically proficient but also socially conscious and ethically responsible. He thanked the University of Birmingham, UK, for their generous funding, which enables the realization of this impactful endeavor.

The inauguration ceremony marked the beginning of a collaborative effort aimed at nurturing a generation of students equipped with the skills and mindset to address global challenges and contribute positively to society, both locally and internationally. Through the collective efforts of educators and institutions, the project aspires to make strides towards a more interconnected and harmonious world.

Related: UoE Hosts Successful ‘Youth Support Programme’

Speakers at the Sixth International Conference on “Advances in Biosciences” emphasized the significance of interdisciplinary research and innovation in addressing global challenges and improving quality of life. The two-day conference was organized by the Dr. Ikram ul Haq Institute of Biotechnology at the Government College University (GCU) Lahore. Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Ahmad Adnan chaired the inaugural session, which was addressed by eminent experts in the field, including Professor Dr. Anwar Malik, President of the Biological Society of Pakistan.

In his opening remarks, Professor Dr. Ikram ul Haq S.I, the Secretary General of the Biological Society of Pakistan, noted the overwhelming response to the call for research papers for the conference, with 128 submissions from universities and research institutions nationally and internationally.

In his keynote address, the former federal minister on food security, Prof. Dr. Kauser Abdullah Malik, reflected on the historical significance of the Pakistan Biological Society and its enduring presence as one of the country’s oldest scientific societies. Dr. Malik praised the expertise in biological sciences cultivated in Pakistan through a period of liberalization and strong government support, which led to significant capacity building and the development of skilled professionals across the country.

Professor Dr. Anwar Malik also highlighted the pivotal role of the Biological Society of Pakistan, championing scientific inquiry and collaboration since its establishment in 1955. He envisioned the conference as a platform for exchange, innovation, and friendly competition among peers, noting revolutionary advancements in biological sciences, from genetic research editing technology to the innovative applications of artificial intelligence in bioinformatics, opening limitless possibilities.

Dr. Malik emphasized the potential for developing resilient crops, personalized medicine, innovative drug delivery systems, and solutions for pollution mitigation and ecosystem restoration. Highlighting the power of collaboration across borders and disciplines, Dr. Malik emphasized the collective knowledge and efforts needed to address the grand challenges facing humanity. He encouraged attendees to ignite their passions, spark new ideas, and forge lasting connections throughout the conference.

Concluding the event, Professor Dr. M. Nauman Aftab, Director of the Dr. Ikram ul Haq Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all participants, organizers, and sponsors for their contributions to the success of the conference.

Related: GCU Seminar Amplifies Student Voices for Palestine and Kashmir

In a bid to address the pressing issue of youth unemployment in Pakistan, Punjab University (PU) Vice Chancellor, Prof Dr Khalid Mahmood, underscored the importance of producing skilled youth aligned with emerging trends in relevant fields. Speaking at an awareness seminar organized by the Transport & Masstransit Department, Government of Punjab, and Bank of Punjab, Prof Dr Khalid Mahmood highlighted the pivotal role universities play in shaping the future workforce.

The seminar, held at the PU Institute of Education and Research’s Waheed Shaheed Hall, aimed to shed light on the provision of motorbikes to students under the Chief Minister’s Youth Initiative. Present at the event were key figures including Secretary Transport Dr Ahmad Javed Qazi, Registrar Dr Ahmad Islam, Director Students Affairs Dr Muhammad Ali Klasra, and Director General Information Technology Dr Kamran Abid, alongside faculty members, officials from PHEC, PITB, Punjab Bank, and a multitude of students.

Prof Dr Khalid Mahmood commended the government’s initiatives, particularly highlighting the significance of schemes such as the laptop distribution program, free internet access, and now, the e-bike scheme, all implemented with stringent merit criteria. He emphasized the need for such initiatives to cater to the increasing student population and address transportation challenges faced by the university, particularly underscoring the benefit for female students.

Secretary Transport Dr Ahmad Javed Qazi echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that facilitating education for young students is essential for the future prosperity of Pakistan. He reiterated the government’s commitment to providing ease of access to education and ensuring quality learning environments. Dr Qazi emphasized the interest-free and easily accessible nature of the scheme, aligning with the vision of the Chief Minister Punjab.

During the seminar, Dr Wasim provided detailed insights into the intricacies of the scheme, further emphasizing its potential impact on student welfare and educational accessibility.

The event concluded with a resounding call for students to seize the opportunities provided by such schemes, thereby contributing to the nation’s development through acquiring expertise in their respective fields.

With initiatives like these, stakeholders aim to not only empower the youth but also pave the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for Pakistan.

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