OIC, University of Lahore launch fellowship for Bangladeshis

Eligible candidates can apply through the official websites of COMSTECH and the University of Lahore till March 01

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The Organization of Islamic Cooperation's (OIC) Ministerial Standing Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation (COMSTECH) and Pakistan’s University of Lahore have announced a joint fellowship program aimed at Bangladeshi students and scholars, state-run media reported on Sunday.

According to the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP), the fellowship is open to Bangladeshi nationals aged 22 to 45, regardless of their country of residence. Applicants must demonstrate exceptional academic achievements and a strong commitment to community development.

The fellowship will cover tuition fees, round-trip airfare, an honorarium, and free accommodation, providing significant support for scholars pursuing advanced education and research opportunities.

“This fellowship program is a testament to our commitment to bridging gaps in education and research across the Muslim world,” said Dr. Muhammad Iqbal Choudhary, Coordinator General of COMSTECH. “By investing in Bangladeshi scholars and students, we aim to cultivate a generation of innovators and leaders who will address the challenges of our time.”

Eligible candidates can apply through the official websites of COMSTECH and the University of Lahore, with the application deadline set for March 1, 2025.

The initiative comes amid renewed efforts by both Bangladesh and Pakistan to improve bilateral ties following the departure of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from office in August last year.

Bangladesh, formerly part of Pakistan until gaining independence in 1971, experienced strained relations with Islamabad under Hasina’s leadership, especially after her government prosecuted Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) leaders for alleged war crimes during the liberation war.

However, recent shifts in regional dynamics, including Dhaka's cooling ties with India, have opened new avenues for improved cooperation between Bangladesh and Pakistan.