In a landmark initiative aimed at uplifting education in Pakistan’s coastal regions, the federal government has announced the establishment of a Maritime Education Endowment Fund to support bright but underprivileged students.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Junaid Anwar Chaudhry unveiled the plan on Sunday, highlighting the government’s commitment to providing quality education and brighter futures for deserving youth in remote coastal areas.
“Our mission is to ensure students in coastal areas receive standard education and opportunities,” Chaudhry stated during the announcement.
The endowment fund will initially focus on students from coastal communities such as Gwadar, Ormara, Pasni, and Karachi’s fishing neighborhoods, with plans to eventually expand the program nationwide.
To ensure transparency and merit-based selection, a dedicated oversight committee will manage the distribution of scholarships. Minister Chaudhry assured the public that the process will be free of bias and political influence.
“No discrimination will be tolerated,” he emphasized, adding that the initiative is rooted in the principle of equal opportunity for all.
The move has been widely praised by education advocates and community leaders, who say the fund could play a crucial role in bridging the education gap between urban centers and marginalized coastal populations.
With this step, the government signals a renewed focus on inclusive development and human capital investment, particularly in regions often left behind in national educational planning.
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The Maritime Education Endowment Fund is expected to begin accepting applications later this year.