Islamabad, July 25, 2024: For the third consecutive year, Pakistan has been ranked first in the world for the number of scholarships awarded under the Erasmus Mundus scholarships for the year 2024. As many as 189 Pakistani students have won this prestigious scholarship.
The Delegation of European Union in Pakistan held a pre-departure event to celebrate the awardees who are set to study under the Erasmus+ Programme at different European countries. A total of 2,603 students in 137 countries have been selected for the Erasmus Mundus scholarships this year.
Addressing the audience as chief guest, Chairman HEC Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed congratulated the Pakistani students on their selection and advised them to act as ambassadors of Pakistan to portray the true image of Pakistan to the world. He appreciated the efforts of EU alumni for guiding the scholars in matters relating to scholarship. He urged the scholars to exploit the opportunity and take up research projects which are beneficial for the betterment of humanity.
In his remarks, Mr. Philipp Oliver Gross, Chargé d’Affaires, Delegation of European Union in Pakistan, briefed the audience about the history of Erasmus+ Programme, which was initially limited to European countries but later expanded to the rest of the world. He expressed his pleasure that Pakistan is continuing to win the highest number of scholarships for three consecutive years.
The Ambassador of France to Pakistan also appreciated the efforts of HEC in enhancing educational cooperation. He mentioned the collaboration between France and Pakistan on different research initiatives. He advised the scholars to make most out of their scholarship in the best interest of Pakistan.
The Erasmus scholarship award started its Pakistan operation in 2014 and HEC offered its facilitation to European Union in 2016. HEC provides support in dissemination of Erasmus+ scholarships through information sessions for higher education institutions across Pakistan.