UK Announces Scholarships for Pakistani Madrassa Students

The United Kingdom has offered assistance to Pakistan to help provide modern technical education and skills training to students enrolled in religious seminaries (madrassas).

British High Commissioner Jane Marriott made the offer during a meeting with Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf.

During the discussion, Sardar Yousaf emphasized Pakistan’s pride in its rich traditions and cultural heritage, noting the country’s deep respect for religious diversity and commitment to inclusive values.

He stated that Pakistan views its relationship with the UK as highly valuable and looks forward to expanding cooperation in the future.

Sardar Muhammad Yousaf also expressed concern over the increasing state-backed oppression of Muslims and other minorities in India.

He highlighted that Christians, Hindus, Sikhs, Parsis, and followers of other faiths in Pakistan form an integral part of the nation’s social fabric.

The minister added that Pakistan has taken broad and positive steps to increase minority participation in all sectors to promote interfaith harmony.

He pointed out that the UK is home to around 2 million Muslims and 1.7 million Hindus, and said that both countries can benefit from sharing their experiences in fostering interfaith understanding.

British High Commissioner Jane Marriott, on behalf of the UK, offered to support Pakistan in providing modern technical education and skills to madrassa students. She said the UK could offer exchange programs and scholarships to graduates of religious seminaries.

Marriott noted that there are over 18,000 registered madrassas in Pakistan and that providing their students with technical education is a pressing need. She also referenced the Prime Minister’s Youth Program, which is already working to equip madrassa students with modern skills and training.

Both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation to counter extremism and promote interfaith harmony.