Islamabad, Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Masood Khan, emphasized the nation’s significant progress in the education sector and lauded the efforts of The Citizen Foundation (TCF)-USA in contributing to this advancement.

According to a news release by Press Information Department, Ambassador Khan spoke at the Annual Gala event of the DC chapter of TCF-USA. He noted the improvements in accessibility, quality, achievements, and gender parity in Pakistan’s education system. Yet, he pointed out the ongoing challenges to ensure quality education for every child, aligning with both national goals and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Khan underlined the need for increased investment in infrastructure, qualified educators, modern curricula, and contemporary educational technologies.

The fundraising gala, hosted by esteemed Pakistani-American entrepreneur Hasnain Aslam, saw the attendance of nearly 700 influential figures, including leading businessmen, professionals, and community leaders of Pakistani descent. The event successfully raised $3,510,400, with commitments from the Pakistani-American community members of TCF-USA to establish seven new schools.

Ambassador Khan expressed gratitude for TCF-USA’s significant contributions, highlighting the construction of 1,900 schools that cater to nearly 300,000 students. The DC chapter alone has pioneered the establishment of 43 schools in Pakistan’s underserved regions, enabling more than 5,000 children to pursue brighter futures. Khan noted the transformative impact of these initiatives, stating, “You have unlocked those opportunities which were not available to these underprivileged children before.”

Khan also recognized TCF’s invaluable aid during last year’s severe flooding in Pakistan and the COVID pandemic. Special acknowledgment was given to Ms. Shimmi Kidwai, TCF’s President, who was awarded the distinguished Tamgha-e-Khidmat for her sustained dedication to humanitarian efforts. Ambassador Khan concluded his address by urging continued unity and support from the Pakistani community in the US, sharing quotes from Maya Angelou and Epictetus to encapsulate the essence of giving and the importance of education.