Pakistan reaches out to uplift Sri Lankan youth through scholarships

In order to enhance younger generation’s capacity building for better educational opportunities, the Government of Pakistan through its High Commission awarded scholarships to 308 Sri Lankan students under the prestigious Jinnah Scholarships Scheme at a local hotel in Kandy on June 19, 2018.

Vice Chancellor, University of Paradenyia, Prof. Upul B. Dissanayake was the Chief Guest on the occasion while Mayor of Kandy, Mr. Kesara Senanayake was the Guest of Honour.

While applauding the successful students, the Acting High Commissioner of Pakistan, Mr. Janbaz Khan reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to contribute in enhancing younger generation’s prospects for better educational opportunities. The Acting High Commissioner expressed the hope that both countries would continue to tread the path that leads to greater cooperation and greater understanding in the years to follow.

The Chief Guest, Vice Chancellor, University of Paradenyia, Prof. Upul B. Dissanayake, in his remarks, said that Pakistan is a close friend of Sri Lanka and has helped the country in times of need throughout the history. He said that this scholarship programme has benefited students from all communities for past 12 years to create better professionals for the future benefit of this country.

The Guest of Honour, Mayor of Kandy, Mr. Kesara Senanayake in his address, praised the leadership of Muhammad Ali Jinnah who devoted his life to the relentless struggle to realize his dream of an independent Pakistan.  He further added that Jinnah’s legacy of wisdom was worthy of the Quaid-i-Azam, who lived a life honouring justice and fair play.

Mr. Kesara Senanayake thanked the people and Government of Pakistan for the scholarship scheme. He also thanked the High Commission of Pakistan to arrange the ceremony at Kandy.

The Government of Pakistan is awarding these scholarships under Jinnah Scholarship Scheme since 2006 and since then 1800 students have been awarded.