ISLAMABAD, Nov 24: Bringing world class learning opportunities to Pakistani students, an educational exhibition of UK universities was held at a Rawalpindi hotel on Friday.

With representation from 57 UK institutions, the exhibition brought together for the first time the largest number of foreign institutions under one roof in the country’s history.

About 5,000 students visited the exhibition during the day long event that was part of British Council’s initiative to make learning opportunities in the UK more accessible to Pakistani students.

It was organized in collaboration with local educational institutions, which brought their students to meet the delegates and explore study options in the UK.

British Council Director Sue Beaumont gave the welcome speech which was followed by an address by Deputy British High Commissioner Simon Butt.

“The event was part of building Pakistan-UK partnership, and education was at the heart of it. British Council is trying to increase opportunities for Pakistani students to gain access to the best educational institutions in the UK,” Mr Beaumont said.

The deputy high commissioner encouraged students to apply at the right time and to good institutions. In this regard, he said the British High Commission would facilitate Pakistani students in the visa process.

Seminars conducted by education experts on studying and living in the UK ran parallel to the exhibition.

Students were briefed on how to apply to the UK institutions, work opportunities during and after studies, and the Fresh Talent Scheme in Scotland which was designed to facilitate students in getting employment after completing studies.

Representatives from Universities and Colleges Admission Services were also present to assist students on how to go through the system.

The exhibition would travel to Lahore and Karachi.