Our team recently concluded extensive outreach across Gilgit-Baltistan to promote U.S. government-funded academic exchange programs such as the Fulbright scholarship and Hubert H. Humphrey fellowship. Led by Executive Director Dr. Peter K. Moran, the delegation included Director of Programs Saleem Razaque, Director of Alumni Mazhar Q. Awan, and Alumni Engagement Specialist Shahram Niazi.
The carefully planned itinerary, featuring a mix of university visits and networking events, aimed to strengthen institutional partnerships and expand educational access in this historically underserved region. USEFP reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that talented students and professionals in every corner of Pakistan have access to world-class educational opportunities in the United States.
Building bridges
The first stop was University of Baltistan (UOBS) in Skardu, where Team USEFP met with Vice Chancellor Dr. Abdul Matin to discuss collaboration on promoting U.S. exchange programs. The group then visited Karakoram International University (KIU)’s Hunza campus and KIU’s main campus in Gilgit, where they called upon Vice Chancellor Dr. Attaullah Shah. These meetings were followed by visits to the Lincoln Corner and the Education Building at KIU, both symbols of longstanding U.S. academic cooperation in the region.
At each campus, the delegation held interactive information session for students and faculty, covering scholarship eligibility, application procedures, and scholarship benefits, including fully funded U.S. study and research opportunities.
A community like no other
USEFP also hosted a series of Fulbright Connect events in Skardu, Hunza, and Gilgit, gathering Fulbright alumni, faculty, and university leaders to strengthen academic, social, and professional ties. Vice Chancellors from both UOBS and KIU were also in attendance.
Fulbright Connect events are central to USEFP’s ongoing efforts to engage alumni and foster collaboration across sectors. Pakistan’s Fulbright alumni network spans government, academia, civil society, and the private sector.
