ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday unveiled plans to establish the Daanish University of Applied and Emerging Sciences in Islamabad, utilizing £190 million transferred from the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) to the Supreme Court of Pakistan’s account.
Chairing the Steering Committee meeting for the university’s establishment, the prime minister expressed gratitude to the Chief Justice of Pakistan for ensuring the seamless transfer of funds to the federal government’s account.
The £190 million, originally returned to Pakistan by the NCA, has now been allocated for this state-of-the-art institution as per PM Shehbaz’s vision.
The prime minister emphasized that Daanish University will offer high-quality, research-based education to deserving and talented students. He directed the early completion of legal formalities for acquiring land in Islamabad and urged swift finalization of the university’s charter and legal framework.
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He also stressed the need for the university to meet international standards in technical and applied sciences while ensuring cost-effective construction with simple architecture, primarily using red bricks to minimize expenses.
Additionally, PM Shehbaz ordered the recruitment of highly qualified faculty and the incorporation of state-of-the-art technology and advanced research facilities. He called for the curriculum to be aligned with global standards and formed committees to oversee the appointment of a Vice-Chancellor and the nomination of the Board of Trustees.
The university will be registered as a Section 42 company and operate under the Daanish Trust to maintain financial independence and limit government intervention. The university’s land has been selected in Sector H-16, Islamabad.
Furthermore, the meeting highlighted that Daanish Schools will soon be established in Shigar, Gilgit, Bagh (AJK), Neelum Valley, and underprivileged areas of Karachi.
The meeting was attended by Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, Economic Affairs Minister Ahad Khan Cheema, Education Minister Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, and senior government officials.