The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony has assigned approximately Rs. 60 million as scholarships for non-Muslim students for the ongoing fiscal year.
According to the representative of the ministry Muhammad Umar Butt, applications for the scholarships are set to be submitted online via the official website of the ministry.
He reported and notified that the process needs minority students to provide the following things:
- Income certificates
- Confirmation from their educational institution
- Information about their personal or joint bank account
Umar claimed the scholarships will be accessible to students studying in government institutions, extending from the primary level up to professional studies. Only non-Muslim students registered to government schools and institutions are allowed to be eligible for the scholarships, the representative also claimed.
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This scholarship initiative intends to enhance equal educational opportunities for non-Muslim students in the country of Pakistan. There are many positive impacts of this initiative.
- Firstly, by providing financial support, the program assists in alleviating the burden on families who may face high educational costs by allowing non-Muslim students to complete their studies.
- Secondly, this initiative highlights their dedication to diversity, creating a more inclusive society, and bridging gaps between different communities and minorities.
- Thirdly, providing scholarships all over educational levels, highly encourage non-Muslim students to pursue their higher education and professional studies by improving the all-inclusive skill level within the community.
- Fourthly, this educational initiative will lead to better job opportunities, permitting students from minority backgrounds to get economic stability and growth over time.
- Fifthly, on a global scale, the initiative highlights the dedication of Pakistan to securing minority rights and supporting their development and growth.
What are the causes behind the initiative?
The first cause behind the initiative was that non-Muslims were facing economic challenges, which were hindering access to quality education. This scholarship intends to counter these issues.
Secondly, by investing in the education of non-Muslim students, the government highlights its dedication to religious harmony and coexistence, and it will create unity among diverse communities.
Thirdly, this initiative is strongly aligned with the objectives of Pakistan, guaranteeing equality and rights for all citizens, as written in the Constitution and various international human rights agreements.
Fourthly, the government is looking to minimize education disparities by delivering similar opportunities for non-Muslim students by recognizing education as a universal right for every citizen.
Fifthly, this initiative encourages non-Muslim students to pursue higher education, which is expected to lead to greater representation in various professional sectors and which will highly enhance diversity in workplaces and public institutions.