France has opened its doors for Pakistani students after signing an MoU with Pakistan in which the former would provide 200 scholarships to underprivileged Pakistani students. These scholarships would be provided in a wide variety of subjects and the initiative would begin next year. These bilateral programs aim to foster strong ties between the two countries.
French Ambassador to Pakistan Martine Dorance and Chairman of Higher Education Commission (HEC) Dr Mukhtar Ahmed signed the MoU at the residence of the French Delegate.
According to the French Ambassador, higher education was one of the keys to build Pakistan-French cooperation. As a result, these scholarships will only be given to those who do not have enough means to complete their education.
The event was followed by a dinner which was given in the honor of Pakistan-France Alumni Network (PFAN). Secretary Science and Technology Fazal Abbas, members of the PFAN and vice chancellors of various universities were also present at the dinner. The Chairman of PFAN President Dr Khalid Saleem, also showed gratitude towards the French envoy and pledged to provide constant support in this regard.
The French Ambassador said that almost 500 Pakistani students are already studying in many French universities as it the world’s third most popular destination for international students.
Pakistani delegation of educationalists
Martine said last year a team of talented educationalists visited France to discuss bilateral educational programs which was led by the Chairman of HEC himself. Successful meetings were held with concerned French officials and it was planned that educational programs would act as the road map to strengthen ties. A couple of Pakistani universities have also showed interest to initiate new programs and start information hubs in major cities to enhance awareness of the current opportunities in France.
While praising the efforts of PFAN, the French Ambassador said that PFAN members were Pakistan’s ambassador to France whenever they visit there and vice versa. She also stated:
“We want to forge long lasting relations between France and Pakistan. We wish you will return to France as businessmen and as investors”
Moreover, she also thanked the Chairman HEC for his commitment to strengthen Pakistan-French arrangement in the education sector. Additionally, she announced that a French Day was also on the cards after the great success of Pakistan Day in France earlier this year. Similarly, the HEC Chairman highlighted the efforts of the French envoy in promoting long term relations between the two countries.
Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed revealed his plans that a conference on Archaeology would be arranged next year in Lahore and another on Gandhara Art in 2018. Subsequently, these events would bolster cultural connect. He stressed that knowledge centers would be established in Pakistani universities to raise awareness. The ground work for an advanced study on climate has been done and French counterparts have also given a nod of approval for their support.
Source: Brecorder
