Rs82m approved for HU sub-campus in Battagram

BATTAGRAM: In a significant development, a Rs82 million grant has been approved for the Hazara University Sub-Campus in Battagram.The announcement came during a meeting held at the main campus in Mansehra, attended by campus coordinator Dr Tariq Khan and other key members.

The funding is attributed to the efforts of Dr Tariq Khan, who has been instrumental in advocating for the betterment of the Battagram sub campus.

With this grant, Hazara University Battagram is set to introduce new departments and programmes, including Medical Laboratory Technology (MLT), Pharmacy, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Forestry, among others. The expansion aims to provide local students with greater educational opportunities right at their doorstep.

Members of the meeting lauded Dr Tariq Khan for his efforts in securing the grant and improving the campus. The broader community, including students, political leaders, and social figures, has expressed their gratitude and appreciation for his work.

Fayaz Muhammad Jamal, a social worker, praised Dr Tariq, highlighting the impact this development will have on poor students by making higher education more accessible. He emphasized that this initiative will increase student enrollment and engagement at the Battagram campus.

“These new programmes will make higher education more accessible and encourage more students to engage with the university,” Fayaz Jamal stated.Political figure and former National Assembly candidate Saeed Malkal also thanked Dr Tariq Khan, remarking on his commitment to the people of Battagram. He noted that the introduction of programmes in AI, MLT, and Pharmacy would equip local students with essential skills relevant to today’s job market.

Abuzar Khan, a young boy from Kotgalla Battagram, shared his excitement upon hearing the news. He had long dreamed of studying AI but was unable to afford admission fees in Islamabad or Peshawar. With the new AI programme being offered in Battagram campus, he now has the opportunity to pursue his passion without the financial burden of relocating.

Saleem, another resident of Kohani village, expressed his gratitude. “My son wants to learn MLT, but as a farmer, I couldn’t afford the costs of admission and hostel fees in the cities. Now, he can attend the Battagram campus, and we are thankful to the campus administration for this chance.”

On the occasion, campus coordinator Dr Tariq Khan acknowledged the challenges faced in improving the university campus but credited the support of the local community for making it possible.Dr Khan vowed to continue his efforts and extended his gratitude to the Hazara University administration and the people of Battagram for their trust and support.