3,000 Afghan Students to Get Scholarships in Pakistan

As Pakistan prepares to announce its federal budget for the next financial year on June 10, a significant proposal has been made under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP). The government has suggested allocating Rs. 7.35 billion for awarding 3,000 Allama Iqbal Scholarships to Afghan students. This move shows Pakistan’s continued commitment to strengthening ties with Afghanistan through education and cultural exchange.

Background of the Allama Iqbal Scholarships

The Allama Iqbal Scholarships for Afghan students were first approved in 2017 during a meeting of the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC). The idea behind these scholarships is to support talented Afghan youth by providing them with opportunities to study at Pakistan’s leading educational institutions. Over the years, thousands of Afghan students have benefited from this initiative, pursuing degrees in fields such as medicine, engineering, agriculture, business, and social sciences.

Named after Pakistan’s national poet and philosopher Allama Muhammad Iqbal, the scholarship program not only supports academic growth but also symbolizes friendship and shared values between the two neighboring countries.

Purpose and Strategic Importance

This latest proposal under the PSDP is more than just a financial allocation—it’s a reflection of Pakistan’s long-term vision for regional peace, development, and cooperation. By investing in the education of Afghan students, Pakistan aims to help build a skilled and educated workforce in Afghanistan. This support is especially important given the challenges Afghanistan continues to face in its education sector due to years of conflict and instability.

Through this initiative, Pakistan hopes to create a strong people-to-people connection. Afghan students who study in Pakistan often return home with positive experiences and deep cultural understanding, which can lead to stronger diplomatic and social ties in the future. Many of them also go on to become doctors, engineers, teachers, and public officials, contributing to Afghanistan’s national development.

Part of a Bigger Picture

The Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) is Pakistan’s main tool for planning and funding projects that support national growth. These projects cover important areas like education, health, infrastructure, water resources, and energy. The inclusion of scholarships for Afghan students in the PSDP highlights Pakistan’s belief that true development goes beyond borders. It shows a focus on building strong regional partnerships, promoting education, and supporting neighbors in need.

This move also sends a clear message to the international community: Pakistan is playing a responsible role in promoting peace and stability in South Asia. At a time when global cooperation is more important than ever, initiatives like these show how education can serve as a bridge between countries.

Future Impact and Expectations

If the Rs. 7.35 billion proposal is approved in the upcoming budget, it will allow thousands of Afghan students to receive fully-funded education in Pakistan. The scholarships will cover tuition fees, hostel accommodation, living expenses, and other academic costs. This will not only ease the financial burden on Afghan families but also open up new opportunities for young people who may not otherwise be able to afford higher education.

Over the next few years, the graduates of this program are expected to play an important role in rebuilding Afghanistan. At the same time, they will also serve as ambassadors of goodwill for Pakistan, promoting friendly relations and mutual respect between the two nations.

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