Author: Faiza Liaquat
The Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) has launched its first Social Protection Strategy (2025–2030) to strengthen welfare systems and safeguard the province’s most vulnerable citizens from poverty, economic instability, and climate risks. Developed with the support of the German Government through GIZ, the strategy establishes a unified, data-driven framework to improve coordination, reduce duplication, and enhance transparency across social welfare programs. At the launch ceremony organized by the Public Policy and Social Protection Reforms Unit (PP&SPRU) under the Sustainable Development Unit (SDU), officials from federal and provincial governments, academia, and development partners discussed implementation plans and interprovincial collaboration. Special Secretary…
In a landmark collaboration, the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) and the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen football development across coaching, youth programs, and women’s football. The agreement paves the way for coach education initiatives, player exchange programs, and joint training camps, aiming to elevate technical standards and nurture emerging talent in both countries. This partnership underscores Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to rebuild its football ecosystem while aligning with Saudi Arabia’s broader vision to expand regional football cooperation through investment and expertise sharing. For Pakistan, the collaboration offers access to Saudi Arabia’s advanced…
Pakistan has witnessed a major leap in women’s financial inclusion, with the number of active bank accounts held by women rising from 20 million to 37 million since 2021, according to Governor State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), Jameel Ahmad. Speaking at the World Bank Headquarters in Washington D.C. during the 2025 Annual Meetings of the World Bank Group, Ahmad said the gender gap in financial inclusion has narrowed from 39% to 30% in just four years — a milestone attributed to SBP’s Banking on Equality Policy. Addressing a session titled ‘Capital to Scale: Women Entrepreneurs as Job Creators’, Ahmad emphasized…
In a major step toward tech-driven policing, Karachi police on Monday made their first-ever arrest using facial recognition technology. DIG Syed Asad Raza said an alert was triggered when an emergency response vehicle (ERV) system detected a motorcycle rider with a criminal record passing through the South Zone. Acting swiftly, the ERV team intercepted the suspect and verified his identity through his computerised national identity card. The arrested individual, identified as Abdul Azeem, was wanted in six criminal cases including attempted murder, possession of illegal weapons, rioting, and terrorism. He had previously been declared an absconder. Officials described the operation…
Pakistan has achieved a major breakthrough in its space programme with the successful launch of its first Hyperspectral Satellite HS-1 from a Chinese launch facility on Sunday. The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) hailed the development as a significant leap forward in national space technology. Unlike traditional imaging satellites that capture limited RGB colour bands, the HS-1 is equipped to record data across hundreds of narrow spectral bands, allowing highly precise analysis of land, water, vegetation, and urban infrastructure. SUPARCO stated that the satellite will strengthen Pakistan’s capabilities in precision agriculture, environmental monitoring, disaster response, and urban…
The Badaling section of the Great Wall of China transformed into a stunning runway as Pakistan and China hosted their first-ever joint fashion show, marking a historic milestone in cultural diplomacy. Jointly organized by the Embassy of Pakistan in Beijing and the China International Cultural Communication Centre (CICCC), the event celebrated artistic collaboration and friendship through fashion and design. Renowned Pakistani designers Maheen Khan, Moazzam Abbasi, Ayesha Tariq, Rizwanullah, and Zain Hashmi presented collections rich in ajrak motifs, floral embroidery, and handcrafted textiles, reflecting Pakistan’s vibrant heritage. From the Chinese side, designer Liang Suyun showcased an elegant couture lineup, while…
Hania Aamir has officially been appointed as the National Goodwill Ambassador for UN Women Pakistan, marking a significant milestone in her public career. Known for her strong digital influence and connection with young audiences, Aamir will now use her platform to champion women’s rights and advocate for gender equality across the country. UN Women Pakistan announced the appointment in an official statement, highlighting her potential to drive meaningful change. “As a renowned actor and advocate, Hania will use her platform to raise awareness, inspire action, and amplify the voices of women and girls across Pakistan,” the organization shared. “Together, we…
In a major step toward strengthening digital ties between China and Pakistan, the Chinese Embassy in Islamabad hosted a special delegation of Pakistan’s most prominent digital media influencers and publishers. The visit was organized in collaboration with the Center for Regional Connectivity with Shared Future (CRCSF) to foster digital cooperation, counter misinformation, and enhance public understanding of China’s development model. Influential Delegation of Pakistan’s Digital Leaders The delegation featured well-known figures from Pakistan’s digital ecosystem, including Maarij Farooq and Moiz Farooq (Pakistan Economic Network), Laiba Farooq (Ittehad Digital Network), Kashaf e Murtaza (Pakistan TV), Talha Ahad (CEO, The Centrum Media),…
A New Era of Leadership at Pakistan Petroleum Limited Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) has entered a new phase under Sikandar Ali Memon, who took charge as Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director on September 21, 2025. With over 30 years of global oil and gas experience, Memon’s appointment marks a pivotal move toward stability, innovation, and sustainable growth. From Global Expertise to Local Impact Memon’s career spans leadership roles at BP, Saudi Aramco, Petronas, Occidental Petroleum, and United Energy Pakistan (UEP). His international experience and results-driven approach are now translating into operational improvements and renewed confidence in PPL’s capabilities within…
The European Union has opened applications for the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Scholarships 2026, offering fully funded master’s degrees across partner universities in Europe. Selected students study in multiple countries, gain international exposure, and graduate with joint or multiple degrees recognised across Europe. Scholarship Benefits Eligibility How to Apply Official portal: https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu/opportunities/opportunities-for-individuals/students/erasmus-mundus-joint-masters The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan has shared this opportunity but holds no financial or administrative responsibility. All applications must be submitted independently. Erasmus Mundus remains one of the most prestigious global scholarships, offering unparalleled academic mobility and career advancement.