ISLAMABAD: Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan has awarded 200 fully and partially funded scholarships to the sixth batch of Sri Lankan students under the Allama Mohammad Iqbal Scholarship Programme, says a press release issued by the HEC on Sunday.

It said that around 500 Sri Lankan students, apart from these awardees, were already pursuing their undergraduate, MS and PhD studies in leading universities in Pakistan.

“HEC in collaboration with the Pakistan High Commission, Colombo held a ceremony for the newly-selected students in Colombo. General Shavendra Silva, Chief of Defence Staff was the chief guest. High Commissioner of Pakistan to Sri Lanka Maj. Gen. (R) Faheem Ul Aziz also graced the occasion,” the press release said.

Speaking on behalf of the HEC chairman, Project Director, Pakistan-Sri Lanka Higher Education Cooperation Programme Jehanzeb Khan congratulated the Sri Lankan students and briefed the participants about various aspects of the scholarship.

He highlighted the importance of education in bringing regional economic stability and enhancing collaboration between the two friendly countries. The Pakistani high commissioner said awarding these scholarships to Sri Lankan students was yet another testament to the excellent brotherly relations between Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

He urged the students to embrace this opportunity with determination 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 said.

The ceremony was attended by prominent personalities from various walks of life including businessmen, academicians, parents of the awardee students, and government officials.

Published in Dawn, November 4th, 2024