On 30 September 2021, Pakistan High Commission in London hosted the launch of the “Oxford Pakistan Programme.” The initiative, spearheaded by Pakistani students, academics and alumni of Oxford University establishes a framework for support, scholarships and facilitation for students from Pakistan for academic and research pursuits in the world renowned University. In addition to promoting Pakistan-centric research, the Programme will also sponsor a lecture series on eastern philosophy.
The event was attended by a large number of Oxonians, senior Oxford academicians, scholars, and writers including Malala Yousafzai; former editor of The Guardian, Alan Rusbridger; President of Wolfson College, Sir Tim Hitchens; Principal of Lady Margaret Hall, Prof. Christine Gerrard; and Principal of Linacre College, Prof Nick Brown; and renowned author Victoria Schofield.
Professor Adeel Malik, the academic lead for the Programme, and two Oxford alumni and founders of the initiative, Haroon Zaman and Talha Pirzada gave an overview of the Programme, its aims and objectives, and the ways and means proposed for achieving these.
Warmly welcoming the strong contingent of Oxfords academics and students, High Commissioner of Pakistan to the UK, Moazzam Ahmad Khan said that Pakistan had abiding linkages with Oxfords and counted among its luminaries many eminent personalities including leadership. He termed the Oxford Pakistan Programme a timely initiative that would help address the critical challenges of lack of resources and guidance faced by many bright Pakistanis aspiring to secure admission in the prestigious University. It would, he said, help cement academic relationships and foster understanding through in-depth research. Articulating his expectations from the Programme, he said that he wished to see it achieve its objective by allowing an increasing number of Pakistani students to break down barriers, exceed expectations and realise their potential. On behalf of the High Commission, he assured the Programme of all possible support.
