Lahore: The University of Management and Technology (UMT) has set a new benchmark in educational philanthropy by allocating Rs 11 billion towards scholarships, significantly enhancing access to quality higher education across Pakistan.

According to University of Management and Technology, under the leadership of Ibrahim Hasan Murad, President of ILM Fund/UMT, the university has dramatically expanded its financial aid program. This initiative has raised the percentage of students receiving scholarships from 40% to 61% over the past five years, reflecting UMT’s commitment to breaking financial barriers to higher education.

Murad emphasized that this increase in scholarship funding is part of a broader strategy to address Pakistan’s low Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER), which trails behind many other nations. He cited comparative figures, noting that while the United States has a GER of 85% and South Korea 70%, Pakistan’s stands at only 10%. This disparity highlights the critical need for improved educational opportunities in the country.

The surge in scholarship support, from Rs 2.5 billion in 2018 to over Rs 11 billion today, represents a 400% increase in financial aid, making a profound impact on students, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds. This financial commitment has allowed UMT to support around 1,000 orphans and focus on women’s empowerment, recognizing the transformative role of educated women in society.

Murad also credited the combined efforts of UMT’s faculty, staff, leadership, students, and alumni for these achievements, underscoring the collective effort required to advance the cause of higher education in Pakistan. He called for continued advocacy of the value of higher education as a means of fostering social mobility and empowering communities.