RAWALPINDI: Speakers at a seminar have stressed the need for strengthening the education sector and establishing universities in every nook and corner of the country so that no one was deprived of knowledge.

The seminar, titled ‘Poverty Alleviation’, was organised by Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi in collaboration with Pakistan Baitul Maal.

They also underlined the importance of vocational education as well as liaison between universities and industry.

The basic aim of the seminar was to provide a platform to the citizens to identify the problems and suggest viable remedies for poverty alleviation and sustainable development.

Arid varsity Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Rai Niaz Ahmad was the chief guest while faculty members, beneficiary students of Pakistan Baitul Maal (PBM) scholarship programme were also present.

The university and PBM signed a MoU in 2013 regarding provision of educational assistance to the needy and deserving students and every year 50 students avail PBM scholarships.

Speaking on the occasion, the university vice chancellor appreciated the topic of the seminar, and said the university was the right platform to discuss, identify issues and evolve an action plan, which could be followed by the society for poverty alleviation.

He said Pakistan Baitul Maal scholarship programme was an excellent opportunity and a hope for the talented & deserving students. He further said in 2015-16, a total of 218 students got funding from the Baitul Maal amounting of Rs500,000.

He said no nation could progress without education and advised students to work hard and contribute in economic development of Pakistan after completion of their studies.

He also thanked the PBM for providing scholarships to deserving students of this university who are unable to continue their studies due to financial hardships.

University Registrar Prof. Dr. Sarwat Naz Mirza while giving address of welcome, highlighted the aims and objectives of the seminar and informed the gathering that the university offered a range of scholarships for deserving students to overcome their financial hardships during their academic career.

Published in Dawn November 3rd, 2016