HEC Undergraduate Scholarship Programme for Gilgit-Baltistan

HEC announced Undergraduate Scholarship Programme for the student of Gilgit-Baltistan in Top Pakistani universities. Last date 30-Sep-2024

HEC Undergraduate Scholarship Programme for Gilgit-Baltistan

Latest HEC Undergraduate Scholarship Programme for Gilgit-Baltistan

The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan has introduced the HEC Undergraduate Scholarship Programme for Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) students in top Pakistani universities and institutions. This initiative aims to provide financial assistance to students from the region, helping them pursue their undergraduate studies in the best public sector universities in Pakistan. The program aligns with Pakistan's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on eradicating extreme poverty, mobilizing resources, and reducing inequality within the country. Given Gilgit-Baltistan's significant geographical importance, particularly as the terminal point of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), this scholarship program is pivotal in uplifting the region's educational standards and fostering economic growth.

Eligibility Criteria

The general eligibility criteria for the HEC Undergraduate Scholarship Programme for Gilgit-Baltistan are as follows:

1. Domicile/Local Certificate: Applicants must have a domicile or local certificate of Gilgit-Baltistan.
2. Educational Qualification: Applicants must have completed their Higher Secondary School Certificate (HSSC) or equivalent.
3. Other Scholarships: Applicants who are already availing of any other HEC or Government scholarship are not eligible to apply.
4. Current Enrollment: Students already enrolled in any BS program in public sector universities prior to the advertisement (maximum one academic year/session) may also apply.
5. Inclusivity: Scholarships are awarded irrespective of gender, caste, race, or religion.
6. Public Sector Universities: Applicants can apply to any public sector university or institution in Pakistan. However, any expenditure beyond the cost given in PC-1 will be borne by the student.

Selection Procedure

The selection procedure for the HEC Undergraduate Scholarship Programme for Gilgit-Baltistan involves several steps:

1. Advertisement: An advertisement will be published in print media and on the HEC website to invite applications from potential candidates.
2. Aptitude Test: HEC will arrange a Scholarship Aptitude Test through the Education Testing Council (ETC). Applicants must secure at least 50% marks in this test, and the test result will be valid for one year.
3. Shortlisting: Applicants will be shortlisted based on their Aptitude Test score and academic credentials, using the following weightage/formula:
   • SSC: 10%
   • HSSC: 40%
   • Scholarship Aptitude Test: 50%
4. Scrutiny: The particulars of shortlisted candidates will be scrutinized in light of the defined eligibility criteria.
5. Seat Adjustment: Dropped-out seats in a particular year will be adjusted in the next year.
6. Awarding Scholarships: Scholarships will be awarded to students studying or seeking admission for undergraduate programs in HEC-recognized public sector universities/degree-awarding institutions of Pakistan.
7. Admissions: Selected applicants must secure admission in the defined program of study in Pakistan by themselves.
8. Agreement/Undertaking: Scholars will sign an agreement/undertaking before availing of the scholarship. The terms and conditions laid down in the agreement/undertaking and award letter will be binding for both parties.
9. Final Award Letters: Final award letters will be issued after securing admission and completing all required formalities, including legal documents.

How to Apply

All students are required to apply through the HEC Online Application System. The application portal can be accessed at HEC E-Portal.

Notice

• The scholarship program aims to ensure that talented students from Gilgit-Baltistan have access to higher education in top public sector universities in Pakistan.
• Students should apply within the stipulated time frame to avoid any inconvenience.

Importance of the HEC Undergraduate Scholarship Programme for Gilgit-Baltistan

The HEC Undergraduate Scholarship Programme for Gilgit-Baltistan holds immense significance for the students and the region. Here are some key aspects highlighting its importance:

1. Educational Upliftment: The scholarship program aims to enhance the educational standards in Gilgit-Baltistan by providing opportunities for higher education. This will help in creating a knowledgeable and skilled workforce in the region.

2. Economic Growth: By fostering education and providing financial assistance, the program contributes to the economic growth of Gilgit-Baltistan. Educated individuals are more likely to secure better job opportunities, thereby improving their standard of living and contributing to the local economy.

3. Addressing Inequality: The scholarship program aligns with the SDGs of Pakistan, focusing on reducing inequality within the country. By providing scholarships to students from a less developed region, the program ensures that education is accessible to all, irrespective of their socio-economic background.

4. Geopolitical Importance: Gilgit-Baltistan, being the terminal point of CPEC, holds significant geopolitical importance. Educating the youth of this region will help in leveraging this geographical advantage for the development of the entire country.

5. Inclusivity: The program promotes inclusivity by awarding scholarships irrespective of gender, caste, race, or religion. This ensures that all deserving students have an equal opportunity to pursue higher education.

6. Long-term Benefits: Investing in the education of Gilgit-Baltistan's youth will have long-term benefits for the region and the country. Educated individuals are more likely to contribute positively to society, engage in community development, and drive innovation.

Conclusion

The HEC Undergraduate Scholarship Programme for Gilgit-Baltistan is a transformative initiative aimed at uplifting the educational standards in the region. By providing financial assistance to deserving students, the program ensures that higher education is accessible to all. This aligns with Pakistan's Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on reducing inequality and fostering economic growth. The scholarship program not only benefits the students of Gilgit-Baltistan but also contributes to the overall development of the region and the country. Students from Gilgit-Baltistan are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity and apply for the scholarship to pursue their dreams of higher education. The HEC Undergraduate Scholarship Programme for Gilgit-Baltistan is a stepping stone towards a brighter future for the region and its people.