By Adnan Hameed
TWA
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COMSTECH, in collaboration with APSUP and member universities of the COMSTECH Consortium of Excellence, unveiled the second phase of the COMSTECH-Palestine scholarships and fellowships program during a ceremony held at the COMSTECH secretariat. The launching event, honored by the presence of esteemed dignitaries including the Federal Minister for Science and Technology, Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, marked a significant milestone in promoting educational opportunities for Palestinian scholars.
Under the visionary leadership of Coordinator General COMSTECH, Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary, the initiative aims to address the pressing need for educational support in Palestine. Prof. Choudhary highlighted the unparalleled sufferings endured by the Palestinian people and emphasized the imperative role of education in fostering hope and resilience.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui expressed his profound satisfaction in spearheading this crucial initiative, describing it as a testament to the enduring bond between Palestine and Pakistan. He commended the collaborative efforts of COMSTECH, partner universities, and relevant stakeholders in realizing this noble endeavor. He expressed solidarity with the people of Palestine and said Pakistan is standing on the right side of the history. The Minister also presented shields of recognition to the heads and representatives of various public and private universities for offering generous scholarships to the Palestinian youth.
Hissein Brahim Taha, Secretary General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, lauded the partnership between COMSTECH and leading member universities of APSUP, underscoring the program’s significance in supporting Palestinian universities and researchers amidst challenging circumstances.
In his address, Ambassador of the State of Palestine, Mr. Ahmed Jawad Rabei, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering support extended by Pakistan. He emphasized the critical role of education in empowering Palestinian youth and preserving their national identity.
He said that the Palestinian issue remains the most important issue in the conscience of the free people of the world, especially in our Islamic world, as the Palestinian blood continues to be shed on our blessed land, Palestine, as a result of the barbaric, fascist, terrorist attack carried out by the Israeli occupation forces, supported by countries – that falsely claim democracy, human rights, child and women’s rights – against our country and steadfast people in attempt to annihilate our people, displace them, abolish their national identity, take our land, and attempt to Judaize the blessed Al-Aqsa Mosque.
The ceremony witnessed participation from distinguished guests, including ambassadors, diplomats of Algeria, Ethiopia, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Maldives, Morocco, Oman, Russia, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, TRNC, Yemen, and Vice Chancellors of the CCoE member institutions, foreign fellows of COMSTECH programs, Palestine students enrolled in Pakistan.
This landmark initiative underscores COMSTECH’s steadfast dedication to promoting academic excellence and fostering international collaboration in support of humanitarian causes.
