
Islamabad,- Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) under its vision of “Education for All,” is providing free education at the matriculation level to students from Balochistan, Gilgit-Baltistan and the merged tribal districts (former FATA). This landmark initiative demonstrates AIOU’s dedication to ensuring equal educational opportunities for children in underprivileged and remote areas, enabling them to contribute actively to national development.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood reaffirmed the university’s commitment, emphasizing that no child in Pakistan should be deprived of education due to financial barriers. He instructed the heads of regional offices to actively promote this program and ensure its message reaches every village, settlement, and household, so the maximum number of eligible students can benefit.
This historic step by AIOU not only furthers educational equity but also contributes significantly to improving literacy rates in some of the most underserved regions of the country. The university administration has urged parents, teachers, and community leaders to support and encourage children to take full advantage of this opportunity.
Admissions are currently open for all programs from Matric to PhD for the Autumn 2025 semester. Eligible students from the specified areas are advised to contact their nearest regional office at the earliest to begin their educational journey.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.