A meeting was held at the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), Chairman Prime Minister’s Youth Programme Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, welcomed the visiting Turkish Student Delegation representing the Turkish Maarif Foundation (TMF; Türkiye Maarif Vakf?). The delegation’s visit marks a significant milestone in strengthening the cultural and educational ties between Pakistan and Turkey. The meeting focused on the Youth Cultural Exchange Program, a new initiative designed to promote mutual understanding and collaboration in fields such as education, entertainment, and language. Additionally, the discussions set the foundation for future student exchange initiatives between both countries.
The Turkish Maarif Foundation (TMF), established by the Turkish Parliament, is committed to providing educational services abroad, fostering global cultural and educational exchanges. Operating in 67 countries with a network of 332 institutions, TMF serves over 40,000 students and offers programs ranging from preschool to higher education. The Foundation also provides scholarships, dormitories, and educator training, and plays a pivotal role in international cooperation. Through fully funded scholarships and strategic partnerships, TMF supports students in broadening their academic and cultural experiences, thereby strengthening global ties.
Chairman Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan extended a warm welcome to the delegation, emphasizing the deep-rooted, brotherly relationship between Pakistan and Turkey. He highlighted Turkey’s unwavering support for Pakistan during the recent conflict with India, as well as the strong cultural ties shared between the two nations. In particular, Chairman referenced the widespread popularity of Turkish dramas in Pakistan, noting their appeal across all age groups as a testament to the growing cultural connection. He also underscored the historical ties between Urdu and Turkish, further deepening the bond between the countries.
The Chairman also discussed plans to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Turkish Maarif Foundation, aimed at fostering cultural exchanges and educational collaborations. The Youth Culture Exchange Program will provide a platform for students from both countries to engage in shared learning and explore each other's cultures in more depth.
The Turkish delegation also shared details of a new initiative by the Turkish government, offering fully funded scholarships for 250 Pakistani students. This initiative aims to facilitate academic exchanges and provide Pakistani students with the opportunity to study in Turkey, allowing them to experience its rich educational and cultural environment.
The delegation was accompanied by Pakistani host staff, including Mr. Shakir Hussain Shakir, Head of the Department of Student Affairs & Global Engagement, Ms. Zerfishan Adnan, Principal of International Maarif School, Islamabad, and Ms. Zakia Charagh, Counselling Officer at the same institution.
