The Standing Ministerial Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation (COMSTECH) of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the University of Lahore in Pakistan have announced a joint scholarship program targeting Bangladeshi students and academics, state media reported on Sunday.
According to the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP), the scholarship is open to Bangladeshi citizens between the ages of 22 and 45, regardless of their country of residence. Applicants must demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and a strong commitment to community development.
The scholarship will cover the costs of tuition, round-trip airfare, fees and free accommodation, providing significant support to academics seeking advanced research and education opportunities.
“This scholarship program is a testament to our commitment to closing the gaps in education and research across the Muslim world,” said Dr. Muhammad Iqbal Choudhary, General Coordinator of COMSTECH. “By investing in Bangladeshi scholars and students, we aim to cultivate a generation of innovators and leaders who will address the challenges of our time.”
Eligible candidates can apply through the official websites of COMSTECH and University of Lahore, with the application deadline set as March 1, 2025.
The move comes amid renewed efforts by Bangladesh and Pakistan to improve bilateral relations following the departure of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from office in August last year.
Bangladesh, formerly part of Pakistan until independence in 1971, experienced strained relations with Islamabad under Hasina’s leadership, especially after her government prosecuted Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) leaders for alleged war crimes during the war. release.
However, recent changes in regional dynamics, including Dhaka’s cooling ties with India, have opened new avenues for improved cooperation between Bangladesh and Pakistan.
