Pakistan High Commission hosted Sri Lankan Alumni of the Allama Iqbal Scholarship Programme

The High Commissioner of Pakistan in Sri Lanka hosted a special reception on Friday for Sri Lankan alumni who have recently returned from their studies in Pakistan. The event, held at the Pakistan High Commission, celebrated the academic achievements of the graduates and reinforced the deep-rooted educational ties between the two nations.

The Allama Iqbal Scholarship Programme, a flagship initiative launched in 2019, has become a vital pillar of bilateral cooperation. The High Commissioner highlighted that Pakistan offers 1,000 fully funded scholarships at graduate, postgraduate, and PhD levels, with over 500 Sri Lankan students currently pursuing their education in Pakistan’s premier universities.

“Sri Lanka and Pakistan share an enduring friendship rooted in a shared history of mutual respect and culture,” the High Commissioner remarked during the address. “Education is the key to unlocking the success of your brilliant futures and creating bonds that extend well beyond the classroom”.

Addressing the alumni as “custodians” of a noble cause, the High Commissioner urged the alumni to act as brand ambassadors by sharing their knowledge to guide deserving students toward academic opportunities in Pakistan. He emphasized their responsibility to mentor young minds, ensuring no capable student misses the chance for a promising future. Furthermore, the alumni were encouraged to take an active role in organizing frequent educational and cultural engagements to inspire and enlighten others while strengthening the ties between the two nations.

The High Commissioner emphasized that each graduate serves as a “bridge” between the two countries, playing a meaningful role in uplifting Sri Lanka while further strengthening Pakistan–Sri Lanka relations. The alumni were invited to remain closely connected with the High Commission to facilitate future initiatives that strengthen people-to-people ties.

The evening concluded with a traditional Pakistani dinner, where the alumni shared stories of their academic growth and cultural experiences in Pakistan in a spirit of friendship and togetherness.

COLOMBO

January 19, 2026