The University of London is set to launch academic programs in Lahore, marking a major step toward enhancing educational opportunities in Punjab. This initiative follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in response to Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s proposal to introduce world-class education to the province.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif aims to provide students in Punjab with access to internationally acclaimed education, with further plans to attract more global universities to the region.
In pursuit of this objective, Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb recently met with University of London Vice Chancellor, Professor Wendy Thomson, to discuss the introduction of a semester exchange program. The meeting, attended by education experts from the university, explored opportunities for academic collaboration and student exchange between Punjab and the UK.
As part of the initiative, Maryam Nawaz Sharif invited the University of London to establish an office in Punjab to facilitate stronger educational partnerships and enhance accessibility for students.
Maryam Aurangzeb emphasized the government’s commitment to expanding scholarship opportunities, with 60% reserved for female students. The number of scholarships has now been increased to 50,000 from the previous 30,000, reinforcing efforts to promote gender equality in education. The Chief Minister’s broader education reform agenda also includes curriculum development, teacher training, and the renovation of educational institutions across Punjab.
Additionally, the provincial government is working on establishing a National University in Murree, aligning with the Chief Minister’s vision to improve educational infrastructure across the province.
Professor Wendy Thomson lauded the efforts of the Punjab government, describing the initiatives as highly commendable. She expressed optimism about the collaboration between the University of London and Punjab’s academic institutions.
This partnership is expected to open new avenues for students in Punjab, providing them with access to top-tier educational resources without the need to travel abroad.