18 Pakistani women graduate from US-Pakistan ‘Future of Women in Energy’ Program

The U.S.-Pakistan Women’s Council (USPWC) celebrated the graduation of its third batch of ‘Future of Women in Energy’ scholars this summer on June 14, 2024.

The graduation of 18 Pakistani women from its ‘Future of Women in Energy’ Scholars Program marks a significant milestone in empowering young women pursuing bachelor’s degrees in science and engineering across Pakistan.

At the graduation ceremony, USAID Deputy Mission Director Maura O’Brien congratulated the participants, stating, “You are exceptional individuals with a significant task ahead. You won’t just benefit from a more inclusive and sustainable energy sector; you are also key emerging leaders in creating it.”

The ‘Future of Women in Energy’ Program is an initiative by the U.S. Pakistan Women’s Council (USPWC) under the U.S.-Pakistan “Green Alliance” Framework. This year, the program brought together 18 outstanding young women from Pakistan pursuing bachelor’s degrees in science and engineering.

Hosted at Texas A&M University’s Qatar campus, these scholars underwent rigorous academic coursework in various energy sectors including fossil energy, wind energy, solar energy, and nuclear energy. They participated in laboratory experiments and engaged in open discussions with leaders and alumnae in the energy sector. Additionally, the scholars experienced rich cultural activities in Doha, Qatar, enhancing their educational journey.

The program, supported by the U.S. Department of State, Texas A&M University in Qatar (TAMUQ), the Department of Energy, USAID, and U.S. Embassy Islamabad, aims to increase the representation of women in Pakistan’s crucial energy sector. Upon returning to Pakistan, the energy scholars visited various public and private sector energy companies to learn about the country’s energy infrastructure firsthand.

To put their acquired knowledge into action, the scholars will undertake internships at some of Pakistan’s leading energy firms. This practical experience is expected to further their understanding and impact within the energy sector.

These graduates join a prestigious group of 54 alumni who have secured jobs in Pakistan’s energy sector, received competitive scholarships for graduate-level studies, and are pursuing entrepreneurial ventures. The U.S.–Pakistan “Green Alliance” Framework, which supports this program, aims to bolster bilateral collaborations in agriculture, clean energy, and water management.

The ‘Future of Women in Energy’ Scholars Program continues to empower women in Pakistan, encouraging a new generation of leaders in the energy sector dedicated to sustainable and inclusive growth.

Salma Khan
Salma writes on topics ranging from education to technology to business. She can be reached at Twitter and Facebook.

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