Pakistan has reaffirmed its dedication to the Palestinian people by going beyond symbolic solidarity and offering tangible academic support. Federal Minister for Education and Professional Training Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui announced that Pakistan is expected to provide 5,000 scholarships and fellowships to Palestinian students, helping them pursue higher education, research, and technical training.
The announcement emerged during the opening session of the first-ever Palestine–Pakistan Rectors’ Forum, titled “Higher Education and Scientific Research in Gaza: The Way Forward.” The event was held at the OIC-COMSTECH Secretariat, bringing together leading rectors, academics, and education policymakers from both countries.
Knowledge as a Path towards Reconstruction
Dr. Siddiqui described the initiative as more than a gesture of solidarity. He claimed that Pakistan intends to play a direct role in rebuilding the academic and scientific capacity of Gaza by empowering its youth through education.
He emphasized that the forum represents a joint determination to rebuild Gaza “through knowledge, peace, and progress.” As per him, higher education is not only a pathway to individual growth but also a critical tool for societal recovery in conflict-affected regions.
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COMSTECH’s Role Highlighted
The minister has showcased massive admiration for the efforts of the OIC Standing Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation (COMSTECH) for organizing the forum and supporting Palestinian youth through training and academic partnerships.
He specifically commended COMSTECH’s initiatives, including:
• 5,000 fellowships for Palestinian students and researchers
• Technical and vocational training programs
• Basic Life Support and Trauma Management courses, designed to build lifesaving skills among Palestinians living under crisis conditions
Dr. Siddiqui said these programs reflect Pakistan’s long-term vision of supporting Palestine not only diplomatically but also through capacity-building and human development.
A Milestone in Academic Cooperation
The forum is being seen as a turning point in academic collaboration between Pakistan and Palestine. Participants expressed hope that the partnership will lead to joint research project, academic exchanges, and support for rebuilding institutions destroyed in Gaza.
Pakistan is deciding to nurture the upcoming generation of scientists, innovators, educators, and leaders who can contribute to the reconstruction and resilience of their homeland.