The Ambassador of the Republic of Turkiye, Dr. Irfan Neziroglu has announced 200 higher education scholarships for students of Anjuman Faiz-ul-Islam (AFI) during his visit to the institution’s Faizabad campus. Expressing affection for the orphaned children residing at AFI, the ambassador described himself as their “uncle” and reaffirmed that Pakistan and Turkiye remain steadfast friends who stand by each other in times of difficulty and natural disasters.

The envoy attended an Iftar dinner organized by the Turkish Red Crescent for the children of AFI’s “Apna Ghar.” The ceremony was attended by AFI President Professor Dr. Riaz Ahmed, General Secretary Group Captain (R) Pervez Akhtar, embassy officials and other office-bearers, along with a large number of resident children.

During a briefing session, President Dr. Riaz Ahmed highlighted the historical and humanitarian role of the organization. He said AFI was established in April 1943 on the directives of Muhammad Ali Jinnah to support orphaned children from Bengal who had lost their parents in communal riots.

He thanked the ambassador, the Turkish Red Crescent and embassy staff for arranging the Iftar for the children. Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Dr. Neziroglu said being among the children brought him immense peace and satisfaction. He announced that any student of Anjuman Faiz-ul-Islam seeking higher education after matriculation would be eligible for scholarship support under the newly announced initiative for the upcoming academic year. 

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)