FAST hosts Send Off Ceremony for Afghan Students

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FAST NUCES Chiniot-Faisalabad Campus hosted a heartfelt send-off ceremony for Afghan students selected under the Higher Education Commission’s (HEC) prestigious Allama Iqbal Scholarship Programme. This event marked the beginning of a transformative journey for these young scholars, who, after completing their zero semester, will pursue higher education in Pakistan.

A total of 91 Afghan students were welcomed by FAST-NUCES Chiniot-Faisalabad Campus, while another 94 students were housed at NUTECH, Islamabad. The zero semester offers a refresher course in basic subjects, helping students connect with the university community while exploring various academic and extracurricular opportunities.

The event was attended by notable figures, including Executive Director of HEC Dr Zia Ul-Qayyum, Special Representative of the Prime Minister for Afghanistan Mr Asif Durrani, and senior management from both universities. The Afghan students were also present, reflecting the vibrant academic and cultural exchange fostered through this initiative.

Dr Zia Ul-Qayyum emphasized the significance of the Allama Iqbal Scholarship, describing it as more than just financial aid. “It is a bridge between our two nations,” he said. “We are committed to nurturing the potential of these Afghan students, who will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in the development of their country and in strengthening the ties between Afghanistan and Pakistan.”

Special Representative Mr Asif Durrani expressed hope that the scholarship programme would foster deeper understanding and cooperation between the two countries. He emphasized that education was key to building a more peaceful and prosperous region.

Dr Aftab Maroof, Rector of FAST-NUCES, echoed these sentiments, stating, “Education is the cornerstone of progress, and through this scholarship programme, we are contributing to the development of a brighter future for both Afghanistan and Pakistan.” Brigadier Adnan from NUTECH highlighted the role of these Afghan students as ambassadors of peace and progress, whose success will inspire future generations in both nations.

The efforts of key individuals, including Dr Shahzad Sarfraz, Director of FAST-NUCES Chiniot-Faisalabad Campus, Mr Jehanzeb Khan, Project Director HEC, Mr Waqar Baig, Coordinator, International Office FAST, and Brigadier Muhammad Yasin of NUTECH, were widely applauded for making this initiative a success.

The Allama Iqbal Scholarship Programme represents a powerful initiative to build lasting connections between Afghanistan and Pakistan, fostering education, understanding, and collaboration for a brighter future.