Islamabad (TDI) – The Higher Education Commission (HEC) hosted a warm reception at its secretariat in Islamabad for students from Bangladesh and Sri Lanka who are pursuing higher education in Pakistan under the Allama Iqbal Scholarship Programme.
The event was attended by HEC Chairman Dr. Niaz Ahmad Akhtar, who served as the chief guest, along with senior diplomats, university vice chancellors, and officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Distinguished attendees included Fred Senavirathne, High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Pakistan, and Md. Iqbal Hussain Khan, High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Pakistan.
In his address, Dr. Akhtar extended a warm welcome to the students and diplomats, appreciating the support provided by Pakistani universities in mentoring and hosting international students. He highlighted Pakistan’s world-class institutions, including FAST, COMSATS, Pak-Austria Fachhochschule, NUML, Quaid-I-Azam University, NUTECH, UET, and NUST, noting that they provide a competitive and nurturing environment for global talent.
Dr. Akhtar emphasized that initiatives like the Allama Iqbal Scholarship Programme are crucial for strengthening bilateral relations. He noted the long-standing ties between Pakistan and Sri Lanka and reaffirmed that Pakistan’s relationship with Bangladesh continues to grow across multiple sectors, with education serving as a key bridge for future collaboration.
Speaking at the event, the High Commissioner of Sri Lanka praised the enduring friendship between the two nations, highlighting cooperation in areas such as commerce, sports, defense, and education. He described the scholarship program as a resounding success, encouraging students to leverage this opportunity to gain knowledge and build professional networks.
Similarly, the High Commissioner of Bangladesh underscored the shared cultural and academic values linking the two countries. He remarked that the presence of Bangladeshi students in Pakistan reflects deepening trust and educational ties, praising the scholarship program for creating a platform where young minds can exchange ideas and contribute to regional socio-economic development.
Earlier, Director General (HRD) HEC Aayesha Ikram delivered the welcome remarks, providing an overview of the program’s progress. She reaffirmed HEC’s commitment to supporting students throughout their academic journey, emphasizing that they would act as ambassadors of goodwill between their countries and Pakistan.
The reception concluded on a note of optimism, with students, diplomats, and university officials celebrating the continued success of educational exchange and the role of the Allama Iqbal Scholarship Programme in fostering regional collaboration and people-to-people ties.
This initiative not only strengthens academic networks but also cements enduring friendships between Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, highlighting the power of education as a bridge for diplomacy and mutual development.
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