Islamabad, April 24, 2025 — In a landmark initiative to foster skill development and educational empowerment in Pakistan’s growing hospitality and tourism sector, the Pakistan Education Endowment Fund (NEST-PEEF) awarded scholarships to students pursuing degrees in Tourism and Hospitality Management. The award ceremony took place at the Hashoo School of Hospitality Management (HSHM), Bahria University Campus, Islamabad.
The event was graced by the Minister of State for Federal Education and Professional Training, Ms. Wajiha Qamar, Chief Executive Officer of PEEF, Parliamentary Secretary for the Ministry of Defence, Ms. Zeb Jaffar, Chief Executive Officer of Pearl-Continental Hospitality Division, Hashoo Group, Mr. Bastien Blanc, and Executive Director – Hospitality and Education Division, Hashoo Group, Mr. Haseeb A. Gardezi. The ceremony brought together government officials, industry leaders, students, and parents in a significant demonstration of public-private collaboration to enhance education and employment opportunities.
Delivering the keynote address, Ms. Wajiha Qamar, Minister of State for Federal Education and Professional Training, emphasized the broader significance of the initiative:
“Education is the foundation of a resilient and progressive society. When financial access through NEST-PEEF scholarships, visionary government support, and industry-relevant education from institutions like the Hashoo School of Hospitality converge, we create powerful platforms for individual and national advancement. This partnership reflects our resolve to equip youth with the tools they need to succeed.”
Chief Executive Officer of NEST-PEEF, shared the organization’s commitment to inclusive education:
“Through initiatives like the Tourism and Hospitality Scholarship Program, PEEF is committed to removing financial barriers for students—particularly those from underserved regions. By offering fully funded scholarships, we aim to nurture future professionals and drive long-term growth in key sectors such as tourism, which holds immense potential for employment generation.”
Speaking at the event, Mr. Haseeb A. Gardezi, Executive Director – Hospitality and Education Division, Hashoo Group, stated:
“The hospitality sector in Pakistan is undergoing rapid transformation, and the demand for skilled, dedicated professionals has never been greater. At Hashoo School of Hospitality Management, we are proud to partner with NEST-PEEF to provide young talent with the resources and training needed to build rewarding careers. This collaboration reflects our shared vision of uplifting the industry and projecting Pakistan as a destination of excellence in hospitality.”
The ceremony concluded with the formal awarding of scholarships to deserving students, who are now set to begin their academic journeys in the dynamic and fast-growing field of tourism and hospitality.
About Pakistan Education Endowment Fund
NEST-PEEF operates under the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training, Islamabad. It is dedicated to promoting inclusive and merit-based education across Pakistan. By offering fully funded scholarships, particularly to talented students from underserved communities, PEEF aims to eliminate financial barriers and empower youth to pursue higher education, develop industry-relevant skills, and contribute meaningfully to national development.
About Hashoo School of Hospitality Management:
HSHM plays a pivotal role in nurturing future hospitality leaders. With campuses in five major cities across Pakistan, HSHM offers internationally recognised diplomas varying from Level 4 to Level 7, contributing to a four-year degree in hospitality and tourism management affiliated with world ranking universities, ensuring a skilled workforce and leadership for the burgeoning hospitality sector.
