The University of Chakwal and Akhuwat Foundation (Akhuwat College for Women, Chakwal) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen academic collaboration, enhance the professional capacity of students and faculty, and expand community service initiatives.
The MoU was signed by Professor Dr. Farrukh Arsalan Siddiqui, Vice Chancellor of the University of Chakwal, and Dr. Amjad Saqib, Founder and Executive Director of Akhuwat Foundation, at a ceremony attended by senior officials from both institutions.
Under the agreement, Akhuwat Foundation will cover the full educational expenses of **two deserving female students of the University of Chakwal every year**, supporting women's access to higher education and helping reduce financial barriers to learning.
The partnership will provide University students with opportunities to participate in community service, fieldwork, surveys, and research activities through Akhuwat's extensive social network. It will also promote student-led initiatives aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly quality education, gender equality, decent work, and reduced inequalities.
Special emphasis will be placed on providing Economics students with practical exposure to socioeconomic activities and internship opportunities within Akhuwat's Islamic microfinance and educational programmes. The collaboration will also facilitate special lectures, academic exchange sessions, teacher training, professional development workshops, and joint educational events.
Furthermore, students and faculty members of both institutions will collaborate in academic competitions, student societies, literacy promotion, public awareness campaigns, and internship programmes, fostering knowledge-sharing and professional growth.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Amjad Saqib expressed his confidence that the partnership would contribute significantly to educational advancement, youth development, and community service. He announced the annual educational support for two deserving female students at the request of the Vice Chancellor.
Professor Dr. Farrukh Arsalan Siddiqui emphasized the University's commitment to quality education, research, and regional development through collaboration with educational institutions and welfare organizations. He highlighted the importance of joint efforts to promote women's education and enhance students' practical skills, research capabilities, and professional competence.
The ceremony concluded with an exchange of commemorative shields between the heads of the two institutions.
