In a bid to promote educational and cultural exchange between the United States and Pakistan, 189 students were awarded the prestigious Fulbright scholarship this year to pursue advanced studies and research in the United States. Most of these students started their Master’s and PhD degrees in various disciplines this fall at 82 leading U.S. universities. They are now all set to make their dreams a reality and we at USEFP wish them the best.
Essential pre-departure information
Before leaving Pakistan, this year’s cohort attended a two-day pre-departure orientation (PDO) in Islamabad to prepare for the journey, their exchange programs, life on university campuses, and American culture. U.S. Ambassador Donald Blome congratulated the grantees on their achievement.
Ambassador Blome addresses Fulbright scholarship winners at the pre-departure orientation.
“Pakistani Fulbrighters have solved social problems, written new laws, advanced policies to ensure equal access and voices to all, and so much more. They do this all for one purpose: to create a better, safer, and more prosperous Pakistan. In this goal, the United States and Pakistan are united,” Ambassador Blome said.
USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar praised the program for the value it has brought to both countries.
“The Fulbright Exchange Program represents a life-changing opportunity for its recipients, providing a top-tier academic experience and exceptional cultural and social enrichment,” noted Akhtar during the PDO. “It is a great contribution to both countries. Americans benefit from the experience and insight of Pakistan’s brightest young scholars, and Pakistanis benefit from the contribution these Fulbrighters make when they return with all their new knowledge and experience.”
A dynamic group
The 2022 Fulbright cohort is one of the largest ever for Pakistan, with students from 47 public and private universities representing all regions of the country. This year, 125 Master’s and 64 PhD students have been selected for these awards. Half of the grantees are women.
The scholarship covers travel, living stipends, health insurance, and tuition for the entire study period. Since the program began in Pakistan in 1951, 4,100 Pakistanis have received the Fulbright award to study, conduct research, exchange ideas, and contribute to finding solutions to shared international concerns. Fulbright is the flagship scholarship program of the United States Government, operating in 160 countries. Pakistan has the largest Fulbright program in the world in terms of U.S. government contribution.
