In Pakistan’s educational sphere, the 75th anniversary of the Rhodes Trust represents a significant milestone. The Rhodes Scholarships are one of the most prestigious postgraduate awards to support study at the University of Oxford. Established in 1903, they are the oldest international graduate scholarship program in the world.The announcement of the Trust’s secondScholarship for Pakistanisn’t merely a financial opportunity; it signifies an avenue for comprehensive growth and leadership development, extending beyond academic pursuits.
Since its inception in 1949, Rhodes Scholars from Pakistan have left an indelible mark on Pakistan and the world at-large. The scholarship has previously been awarded to79students from Pakistan, with 2024 awards bringing this total to 81.Tanyah Hameed, a Rhodes Scholar alumna from Pakistan, exemplifies the Scholarship’s capacity to nurture global change-makers. Tanyah is making waves in public policy through her work at not-for-profit Social Finance, where she advises the UK government on research and policy analysis. Likewise, Khansa Maria, a current Scholar who is a strong advocate for disability rights, epitomizes the commitment to inclusivity, fostering a more diverse and equitable future.
Two exceptional students from Lahore, Asmer Safi and Iman Iftikhar, have just been awarded the Rhodes Scholarships for Pakistan this year. Both the selected Scholars exemplify Rhodes’ unwavering commitment to leadership and public service. Asmer’s researchdelves into the intellectual history of Islamic and Marxist political thought in South Asia. Asmerhas also chaired the 2020 Harvard Pakistan Forum, showcasing his interest in global issues. Similarly, Iman, a historian and artist from Lahore, focuses on the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement and the ethics of violence in her studies, embodying a dedication to scholarly pursuits that contribute meaningfully to societal understanding and progress.
Rhodes Scholars like Mr. Mohammed Khaishgi, along with his partner Ms. Faheen Allibhoy, who are among the donors funding the second Scholarship in Pakistan, embody a culture of philanthropy, bolstering the Scholarship’simpact by nurturing future scholars and fostering a broader societal influence.The Rhodes Scholarship transcends traditional education paradigms; it’s a dynamic network where figures like Babar Sattar, the National Secretary for Pakistan and a respected Judge of Islamabad High Court, stand ready to guide aspiring candidates.
his network isn’t just about academic brilliance, but about embracingdiverse perspectives and encouraging young peopleto serveas global ambassadors for their country.The Rhodes experienceis transformative. Scholars have the opportunity to engage with students from an array of cultures and beliefs and celebrate the power of the‘unlikemindedness,’ nurturing distinctive perspectives and forging lifelong connections. Academic excellence is pivotal, but the Scholarship’s selection process delves deeper. It seeks individuals of impeccable character and inspiring leadership, celebrating action and service, not justwords or ideas.The Scholarshipdoesn’t conclude with financial aid; it opens doors to diverse opportunities. Eventsand gatherings within the Rhodes Trust community foster discussions, uniting minds towards a brighter, more inclusive future.This includes the Trust’s recent Forum on Technology and Society, which delved into the heart of purpose-driven technology in the 21st Century. Next year, the Trust will also host its Global Impact Day, where Scholars– and the Trust’s partner organisations – are invited to undertake a day of volunteering to help support local and global charities and causes.
For the passionate youth of Pakistan, the Rhodes Scholarship isn’t just an educational pursuit. It’s an opportunity to cultivate values of leadership, service, and diversity. The Rhodes Trust commemoration of 75 years of the ScholarshipPakistan, signifies a long history of commitment to the country’s most exceptional students. The Scholarships are much more than just a funding program; it generates a platform nurturing global leaders. As Pakistan continues to produce remarkable minds, the legacy of the Rhodes Scholarship transcends generations, fostering a legacy of excellence and change for a brighter, more inclusive world.
