24 PhD scholars return from US

Islamabad

Twenty-four PhD scholars who received their degrees in the United States with US government assistance shared their experiences at an event here. Upon graduation, the scholars returned to Pakistan to serve as faculty members at Pakistani universities.

The US government through the US Agency for International Development (USAID) funded 35 scholars to receive their PhD degrees in education.

Two scholars reflected on their experiences during the event. In their remarks, the scholars discussed the gap between traditional Pakistani teaching practices and internationally standardised teaching methodologies promoted in their PhD programmes.

Both scholars expressed their commitment to using their training to improve the quality of education instruction and curriculum development in Pakistan. They discussed the value of the “multiplier effect model,” where academic leaders unleash the genius of their students and colleagues.

The event was attended by USAID Pakistan Mission Director John Groarke and representatives from Higher Education Commission.

Mr. Groarke encouraged the graduates to think about their futures as educators. “You have experienced first-hand some of the best teaching and educational resources the world has to offer,” he said

He said, “I encourage you to use your experiences as a launching pad to create meaningful change that will serve future generations.”

The PhD scholarship programme is one of several USAID initiatives that strengthen the quality of education and research in Pakistan. Through the training for Pakistan project, USAID has committed US$33.9 million to provide training to Pakistani professionals across sectors, including education.  The programme also serves other sectors, including economic growth, agriculture, health, energy, and governance.