ISLAMABAD — Pak-Turk Maarif International Schools and Colleges celebrated the 103rd Anniversary of the Republic of Türkiye with a ceremony at its H-8 campus in Islamabad. The event commemorated the founding of the Republic on October 29, 1923, by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, highlighting the deep cultural heritage and diplomatic ties between Pakistan and Turkiye.

The celebration convened a high-profile audience including Chief Guest Ms. Wajiha Qamar, Minister of State for Federal Education and Professional Training; H.E. Dr. İrfan Neziroğlu, Ambassador of Turkiye; H.E. Ms. Buket Kop, Ambassador of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus; Senator Sana Jamali; and diplomatic representatives from Indonesia, Syria, Palestine, Egypt, and Turkmenistan.

Educational Partnerships and Cultural Heritage

Addressing the gathering, Ms. Wajiha Qamar emphasized that education serves as a primary pillar of the Pak-Turk strategic partnership. She commended the Turkish Maarif Foundation (TMF) for driving academic excellence, fostering innovation, and strengthening cultural understanding between both nations' youth.

Ambassador Dr. İrfan Neziroğlu underscored Turkiye's journey since 1923 and reaffirmed the unbreakable brotherhood shared with Pakistan. He highlighted key educational initiatives, noting that Pak-Turk Maarif students regularly secure scholarships to pursue higher education at top Turkish government universities.

Expanding Global Educational Infrastructure

Mr. Harun Küçükaladağlı, Country Director of Pak-Turk Maarif International Schools and Colleges in Pakistan, highlighted the foundation’s decade-long legacy of academic leadership:

• Global Footprint: TMF operates 611 educational institutions serving over 75,000 students across 66 countries.

• Presence in Pakistan: Recognised under bilateral government arrangements, PTMISC manages 27 campuses across 10 cities, educating more than 13,000 students.

• Institutional Goals: Fostering academic rigor, character building, and international student exchange programs.

  

The event featured cultural performances by students, reaffirming both nations' commitment to leveraging education, shared values, and youth engagement to deepen bilateral relations.