Islamabad, Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) is steadfastly pursuing its national mission of promoting literacy and making education accessible to every individual in the country. In line with this vision, the university is providing completely free education from matriculation to PhD level to the transgender community across Pakistan as well as to prisoners incarcerated in jails nationwide. Admissions for these programs are currently open.
Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood stated that education is a fundamental right of every citizen and that for the formation of a civilized and developed society, it is essential to bring marginalized and deprived segments of society into the educational mainstream. He expressed the desire that as many prisoners and transgender persons as possible should benefit from this facility, acquire knowledge and bring positive change into their lives through education, thereby playing their role in national development as dignified and productive citizens.
The Vice Chancellor further informed that Allama Iqbal Open University is also providing free matriculation-level education to children in Balochistan, Gilgit-Baltistan and the tribal districts (former FATA) with the aim of eliminating educational deprivation in remote and underdeveloped areas and ensuring equal opportunities for progress for every child.
He emphasized that the university’s objective is not merely financial gain, but national service, social welfare, and the promotion of education for a bright future for Pakistan. This initiative by Allama Iqbal Open University is a strong and hopeful step toward building an educated, empowered, and harmonious society.
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.
