ISLAMABAD: China’s Consul General Zhao Shiren has announced scholarships worth Rs1 million for students of the Government College Women University Sialkot (GCWUS), while urging stronger educational and cultural cooperation between Pakistan and China to deepen people-to-people linkages.
During his visit to GCWUS on the invitation of Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Shazia Bashir, the Chinese envoy reaffirmed Beijing’s commitment to supporting academic initiatives and fostering youth development through sustained collaboration.
According to a Gwadar Pro report, the visit marked the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the university and the Consulate General of China, aiming to enhance cooperation in education, research, cultural exchange, and student development programmes.
The campus hosted a vibrant celebration of Pak–China friendship, organised by the Department of Fine Arts and the Directorate of Student Affairs, featuring an art exhibition and a Chinese cultural show.
Consul General Zhao lauded the creativity and enthusiasm of GCWUS students, describing their artistic expressions as a testament to the enduring friendship and mutual respect between the two nations.
The event included a poetic tribute to Allama Iqbal and a dramatic performance symbolising the strength of China–Pakistan ties.
Vice Chancellor Dr. Shazia Bashir welcomed the Chinese diplomat, calling Sialkot the “City of Iqbal” and highlighting its role in Pakistan’s intellectual and cultural heritage. She said the growing partnership between the two countries in education and research would help prepare future generations for global challenges.
Dr. Bashir also proposed the establishment of a Chinese Language Centre and a Confucius Institute at GCWUS to promote linguistic and cultural understanding.
In his address, Zhao Shiren thanked the university for its hospitality and praised its commitment to academic excellence. He reaffirmed China’s dedication to expanding educational opportunities, promising continued support for future scholarships, research collaborations, and joint academic ventures.
The vice chancellor appreciated the efforts of Dr. Shagufta Firdous, Director of Student Affairs, and Raza Rahman, Chairperson of the Fine Arts Department, for successfully organising the event celebrating Pak–China friendship.
