ISLAMABAD: Federal Education Minister Rana Tanveer emphasized the government’s commitment to bringing 20 million out-of-school children into the educational system.
He expressed this during the foundation stone-laying ceremony for the academic block of Sheikhupura Regional Campus of Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU). Tanveer praised AIOU Vice Chancellor Prof Dr. Nasir Mahmood for his leadership. He stated that the university could play a crucial role in achieving the government’s educational mission.
The minister outlined the government’s initiatives for Sheikhupura, mentioning that they had laid the foundation stone for the regional campus building the previous year. He commended AIOU for its top ranking in education quality in Pakistan.
Tanveer stressed the importance of education for national development and urged the government to prioritize merit, transparency, and quality.
Tanveer directed the AIOU vice chancellor to ensure the completion of the Sheikhupura Campus construction within three months and instructed the provision of scholarships to Sheikhupura students. He also requested the establishment of an examination center in Narang Mandi. The minister mentioned that the government would focus on training teachers to enhance the quality of education nationwide.
The AIOU vice chancellor announced that the university would allocate an annual scholarship fund of Rs 2 million for Sheikhupura. Moreover, he stated to refund fees to students who achieved 80% marks.
He stated that AIOU aims to expand the educational network and construct its own campus buildings. The university was also collaborating with various institutions to bring out-of-school children into the education system.
The AIOU vice chancellor assured the federal minister that an examination center would be established in Narang Mandi.
Several officials attended the ceremony, including the Pakistan Institute of Education Director General, Regional Services Director General, Assistant Regional Director of Sheikhupura, regional directors from Lahore, Faisalabad, Narowal, Sialkot, and Gujranwala, as well as MNAs, educationists, and students.
