In a landmark move to promote education and international solidarity, Government College University Faisalabad (GCUF) has approved 10 scholarships exclusively for Palestinian students for the academic session 2025-2026. The initiative, aimed at supporting higher education and skill development for Palestinian youth, was announced during a high-level visit by a delegation from the Organization of Islamic Cooperation’s Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation (COMSTECH).
The COMSTECH delegation, comprising vice chancellors, rectors, and presidents from 12 member countries, visited GCUF to discuss collaborative efforts in education and research. The delegation lauded the university’s decision, calling it a noble and timely gesture to support Palestinian students amid ongoing challenges in their homeland.
Speaking at the event, Prof Hussein Shanak, President of the Palestine Technical University-Kadoorie (PTUK), expressed gratitude for the initiative. “This generous support will provide displaced scholars and scientists with the opportunity to pursue their research and studies at GCUF,” he said. “Such efforts are crucial in empowering Palestinian youth and fostering hope for a brighter future.”
The scholarships will be awarded to students in science and technology disciplines, reflecting GCUF’s commitment to advancing education in critical fields. Additionally, Palestinian students will have access to short courses in engineering and allied health sciences, further enhancing their skills and employability.
Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Rauf-I-Azam emphasized the broader significance of the program. “This is not just a scholarship initiative; it is a gesture of solidarity with the people of Palestine,” he said. “Education is a powerful tool to uplift communities in distress, and we are proud to contribute to this cause.”
The scholarship package is comprehensive, covering tuition fees, free hostel accommodation, and monthly stipends. Female students will receive PKR 10,000 per month, while male students will be granted PKR 25,000 monthly. This financial support is designed to ensure that deserving students can focus on their studies without the burden of economic constraints.
The announcement has been widely applauded by academic and humanitarian circles, with many praising GCUF for its leadership in fostering international collaboration and supporting marginalized communities. The initiative is expected to strengthen ties between Pakistan and Palestine while providing Palestinian students with the tools to build a better future for themselves and their communities.
As the academic session approaches, GCUF is preparing to welcome the first cohort of Palestinian scholars, marking a new chapter in its mission to empower students through education and global solidarity.