Washington DC: The Embassy of Pakistan in Washington DC recently celebrated the arrival of 54 Pakistani students selected for the Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGRAD) for the fall 2024 semester. This event marks a continued commitment to educational exchange and mutual understanding between Pakistan and the United States.

According to Press Information Department, the reception highlighted the diverse backgrounds of the students 37 women and 17 men who will be attending 48 host institutions across 29 states. The program, funded by the U.S. Department of State and implemented by the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) and the International Research and Exchanges Board (IREX), offers full scholarships to outstanding students from underrepresented sectors in Pakistan.

Chargé d’Affaires (CDA) Dr. Fareha Bugti emphasized the importance of the program in strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing educational opportunities for Pakistani youth. She praised the diversity of the cohort and the potential of these young leaders to foster cross-cultural connections.

Karene Steiner, Strategic Programs and Resource Coordinator for South and Central Asia Press and Public Diplomacy Office; Teresa Mastrangelo, Senior Program Officer for South and Central Asian Fulbright Programs; and Michael Dyer, Senior Project Director at IREX, also attended the event. They commended the students on their selection and encouraged them to maximize their experience in the U.S. by engaging with their host communities and acting as ambassadors for Pakistan.

The Global UGRAD program has supported over 2,500 young leaders since its inception, playing a crucial role in building people-to-people connections and promoting mutual understanding. The students shared their aspirations to acquire new skills and knowledge that will contribute to Pakistan’s development upon their return.