In a major step toward expanding access to higher education for underprivileged communities, University of Peshawar (UoP) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Pakistan Bait-ul-mal (PBM) to provide financial assistance to deserving students.
Under the agreement, Pakistan Baitul Mal will fund 60 scholarships annually for students enrolled in the Department of Sociology. The initiative will see an allocation of approximately Rs. 3.6 million each year, aimed at supporting students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds and ensuring that economic constraints do not hinder their academic pursuits.
The scholarships will be awarded on a combination of financial need and academic merit, enabling talented students to continue their education without interruption. University officials emphasized that the partnership reflects a shared commitment to promoting inclusive and equitable access to higher education.
To ensure effective implementation and transparency, Dr. Syed Owas, Chairman of the Department of Sociology, and Sheraz, Director Finance at Pakistan Baitul Mal, have been designated as focal persons. They will oversee the scholarship process and ensure that funds are distributed in accordance with the agreed criteria.
The signing ceremony was attended by Professor Dr. Anwar Alam, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, and Dr. Noor Sanauddin, Associate Professor, along with faculty members and administrative officials.
Speaking at the event, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Peshawar commended Pakistan Baitul Mal for its continued efforts to support students nationwide. He directed the focal persons to develop clear Terms of Reference and a transparent mechanism for reviewing applications, stressing the importance of accountability and proper utilization of funds.
To further streamline operations, the Vice Chancellor proposed the formation of a dedicated committee comprising representatives from the Sociology Department, Pakistan Baitul Mal, and the university administration to manage the scholarship program efficiently.
Officials from Pakistan Baitul Mal welcomed the formalization of the partnership, noting that it builds on years of informal collaboration between the two institutions. They also expressed interest in expanding cooperation beyond scholarships, including facilitating student fieldwork placements and collaborating on research initiatives addressing social issues.
Related: Peshawar University Shuts Nine Programs Over Low Admissions
The initiative is expected to open new opportunities for students from marginalized communities, reinforcing the role of academic institutions and welfare organizations in fostering social mobility and educational inclusion.
