A group of 35 Sri Lankan students recently arrived in Pakistan to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate studies under the Allama Iqbal Scholarships for Sri Lankan Students, marking another milestone in the educational cooperation between the two countries.
These scholarships are a component of the broader Pakistan-Sri Lanka Higher Education Cooperation Program, which aims to foster academic and cultural ties.
According to a report by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan, around 500 Sri Lankan students are already enrolled in undergraduate, MS, and PhD programs at leading Pakistani universities. Moreover, 42 students have successfully graduated, contributing to the growing pool of academically trained professionals under this initiative.
1,000 Scholarships for Sri Lankan Students
Under this program, the HEC is offering 1,000 Allama Iqbal Scholarships to Sri Lankan students over five years. These scholarships provide comprehensive financial support, including full tuition fees, accommodation allowances, study-related stipends, and a one-time return air ticket.
The initiative is open to candidates from all academic backgrounds, with a strong emphasis on encouraging female students to apply. Successful candidates are placed in top-ranked Pakistani universities across major disciplines such as Medicine, Engineering, Business Studies, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences.
The selection process is competitive, ensuring that all participants meet the eligibility criteria for enrollment in public-sector universities in Pakistan.
Sixth Batch Awarded Scholarships
In November, HEC awarded 200 fully and partially funded scholarships to the sixth batch of Sri Lankan students as part of the Allama Iqbal Scholarship Program.
A special ceremony for the newly selected students was held in Colombo, organized in collaboration with the Pakistan High Commission. General Shavendra Silva, Chief of Defence Staff, attended the event as the chief guest, alongside Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Maj. Gen. (R) Faheem Ul Aziz.
Project Director of the Pakistan-Sri Lanka Higher Education Cooperation Program, Jehanzeb Khan, addressed the students on behalf of the HEC chairman. He encouraged them to seize this opportunity with dedication and resilience.
“As you pursue your studies, remember that you are ambassadors of your country and culture. Engage with your peers, share your experiences, and be a bridge between our two nations. The knowledge and understanding you gain will be invaluable as we work together to address the challenges we face in the ever-changing world,” he had stated.