The past few days saw improved educational linkages between Pakistan and the international community, particularly the United States, the United Kingdom, and Mauritania. As a result, Pakistanis now have more educational opportunities to grow intellectually and professionally.
The University of Essex’s academic partnership was recently inaugurated at a leading university in Pakistan. Royal Trade Commissioner for South Asia Oliver Christian was present during the inauguration ceremony. He underscored importance of these partnerships in enhancing knowledge-sharing and promoting innovation, besides contributing to the economic growth.
He remarked that the collaboration between the two sides would improve academic standards in Pakistan and lead to further cooperation in different fields. Local dignitaries and academic leaders at the event praised collaboration between the two universities, emphasizing benefits of cross-border education. They noted how this program goes along with the UK’s aim to promote education across the globe, while also supporting innovative practices.
This would benefit both the countries through expansion of learning opportunities. Prior to this announcement, the US Consulate General in Karachi launched the 2024 English Access Scholarship Program to help 200 economically disadvantaged, but academically bright students enhance their language skills. Consul General Scott Urbom inaugurated this year’s program and said that it would help the students improve their academic and career prospects.
He highlighted how this program would help Pakistan’s youth. Several Pakistani universities will partake in this program, which is designed to act as a bridge between both nations. Moreover, the students will be exposed to the American culture, alongside its values and principles. The US Mission’s Regional English Language Office is funding the program, which has been transforming lives since 2004.
Over 8,000 students have benefitted from this and have acquired skills to boost their careers, thus contributing to Pakistan’s socio-economic development. Separately, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Standing Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation (COMSTECH) launched a joint fellowship program with the National Agency for Scientific Research and Innovation in Mauritania to support young researchers and scientists.
These individuals would be given a six-month research fellowship at various institutions in the member states, including Pakistan. This initiative is aimed at strengthening collaboration between Mauritania and other Muslim states. According to an official, this program is aimed at strengthening the Pakistan-Mauritania relationship as it will allow researchers to engage with members of the scientific community to expand their knowledge while exploring research opportunities.
These individuals can then contribute to scientific development in their respective home countries. The application deadline for this program is the 10th of December. All the details can be found on the website of the Standing Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation.
