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ISLAMABAD, Nov 09 (APP): Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain inaugurated the Sheikhupura Regional Campus of Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU).
Addressing the ceremony, Minister stated that the establishment of the new campus will provide exceptional convenience for local students, especially girls in pursuing higher education.
“This is indeed a welcome development that will open doors of learning for the youth of Sheikhupura and its surrounding areas,” the Minister remarked.
He also emphasized the importance of distance education in Pakistan as well as in the whole world, which is increasing day by day, said a press release here on Sunday.
He underscored that during the COVID-19 pandemic, the usefulness of the distance learning system became evident to the entire world and as a result the University’s enrollment has now reached 1.2 million students.
The Federal Minister lauded the remarkable progress achieved by AIOU under the dynamic leadership of Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Nasir Mahmood, noting that the University has expanded its reach and strengthened its role in promoting inclusive education across the country.
Meanwhile, he said that government was taking serious steps to stabilize the economy and the nation is moving steadily towards self-reliance.
“Our policies are being appreciated internationally, and we are successfully reducing our dependence on the IMF,” he added.
Rana Tanveer Hussain also suggested launching computer classes at the Sheikhupura Regional Campus, saying, “I request the Vice Chancellor to initiate computer classes here so that student enrollment may further increase and the youth may have access to modern educational opportunities.”
Addressing the ceremony, Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr Nasir Mahmood said that the number of AIOU students in Sheikhupura has already exceeded 10,000, which is still less compared to the potential and facilities available.
He reaffirmed that the University’s mission is to ensure that every child in this region is enlightened with the light of knowledge and benefits fully from AIOU’s academic services.
Prof. Dr Nasir Mahmood appreciated the continuous support of the government and expressed gratitude to the Federal Minister for gracing the event.
He reiterated AIOU’s commitment to expanding educational access, especially for women and underprivileged segments of society through its vast network of regional campuses and innovative distance learning programs.
The event was attended by university officials, faculty members, students and a large number of local dignitaries, who appreciated AIOU’s efforts to make quality education accessible at the doorstep of every citizen.