The University of Karachi (KU) recently held discussions with various donor organizations to enhance existing scholarship programs for its students, focusing on making higher education more accessible and inclusive. This significant meeting, chaired by KU Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Khalid Mahmood Iraqi, brought together representatives from leading organizations such as the Balochistan Education Endowment Fund, Alkausar (USA), UKAHA Houston, Pakistan Baitulmal, and Ihsan Trust.
Strengthening Financial Support for Students
During the session at the KU Vice Chancellor’s Secretariat, participants explored avenues to expand the scholarship pool to accommodate more deserving students, including those enrolled in evening programs. The meeting was attended by key academic leaders such as Professor Dr. Shaista Tabassum, Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, and Professor Dr. Musarrat Jahan Yousuf, Dean of the Faculty of Science, alongside other university officials.
General Manager of Ihsan Trust, Fayyaz Ur Rehman, highlighted the organization’s impressive track record of providing interest-free loans to over 500 KU students from various departments. He announced plans to extend this support to an additional 500 students annually. The trust also expressed its willingness to fund initiatives like acquiring buses for student transport, demonstrating a holistic approach to enhancing campus life.
Contributions from the Global Pakistani Community
Qaim Mehdi from Alkausar, USA, emphasized the commitment of the Pakistani diaspora in uplifting the education sector. He noted that Alkausar aims to enhance the quality of education at KU, recognizing the institution’s vast student body. Similarly, Feroze Iqbal of UKAHA Houston shared insights into the role of KU alumni abroad. With the signing of a memorandum of understanding, the organization has increased its financial contributions, supporting KU’s Student Financial Aid Office (SFAO) in assisting a greater number of students.
Government and Private Sector Collaboration
Assistant Director of Pakistan Baitulmal, Sadia Ashraf, reaffirmed her organization’s dedication to providing scholarships to outstanding students from public universities. She announced plans to expand financial assistance to include evening program students, reflecting Pakistan Baitulmal’s commitment to inclusivity. Furthermore, KU Vice Chancellor Dr. Khalid Iraqi acknowledged the provincial government’s increased funding for public universities in Sindh and the enhancement of the Sindh Endowment Fund, which directly benefits KU students. He also underscored the indispensable role of private donors in transforming the education landscape.
A Vision for the Future
Dr. Iraqi briefed the attendees on Karachi Univerisity Student Admission Fund project, which supports students unable to afford admission fees. He encouraged departments to engage alumni in creating better classroom facilities and promoting sustainable initiatives. Highlighting the essential role of education in national growth, he called for the collective efforts of both the public and private sectors to invest in and own the country’s education system.
Concluding the Meeting with a Green Initiative
To conclude the event, representatives and karachi university officials, including members of the Balochistan Education Endowment Fund and the KU SFAO team, planted a sapling as part of the KU SFAO Plantation Drive. This symbolic act highlighted the university’s commitment to sustainability and community-driven progress.
This collaborative effort between KU and donor organizations promises to expand financial support, ensuring that students from all backgrounds have access to quality education and a brighter future.
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