In a significant move towards fostering inclusive education, the University of Management and Technology (UMT), in collaboration with the Office of Internationalization (OIN), has forged a strategic partnership with Inspire Pakistan, a non-profit organization dedicated to Human Rights, Education, Women Empowerment, and Community Mobilization.

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The memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed on May 14th, 2024, marks a pivotal moment in the realm of education in Pakistan. Attended by key stakeholders including Mr. Qaiser M. Siddiqui, CEO of Inspire Pakistan, Mr. Tashfeen Shah, Project Manager of Inspire Pakistan, Mr. Salman Ahmed Malik, Advisor to ILM Fund, and Mr. Irfan Bajwa, Head of OIN, the ceremony highlighted a shared commitment to providing equitable educational opportunities.

Inspire Pakistan has been at the forefront of educational initiatives, notably the Refugee Initiative Fund (DAFI), in partnership with UNHCR and GIZ, since 2014. This fund has been instrumental in supporting refugee students across various Pakistani institutions. Now, with the collaboration with UMT and OIN, this initiative is set to reach new heights.

The primary focus of this partnership is to extend educational support to Afghan refugee students studying at UMT. Through scholarships covering tuition, accommodation, books, and travel allowances, the aim is to remove barriers to education and empower marginalized communities. Additionally, plans are underway to launch a comprehensive “Digital Skills Development Training Program” tailored to the needs of refugee students, equipping them with essential skills for the future job market.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Mr. Qaiser M. Siddiqui emphasized the transformative power of education in shaping the future of individuals and communities. He stated, “This partnership represents a beacon of hope for refugee students, demonstrating our collective commitment to building a more inclusive society where education knows no boundaries.”

Mr. Salman Ahmed Malik expressed optimism about the impact of the initiative, stating, “By providing access to quality education and equipping students with digital skills, we are not only empowering individuals but also fostering socio-economic development.”

Mr. Irfan Bajwa echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of collaboration in addressing educational inequities. He remarked, “Through partnerships like these, we can create a ripple effect of positive change, unlocking the full potential of every individual.”

As the world navigates through unprecedented challenges, initiatives like the UMT-Inspire Pakistan partnership serve as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the transformative power of education in building a more inclusive and equitable society.

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