By Our Correspondent
LAHORE: The closing ceremony of the eight-week Pre-College Summer Coaching Program for minority students was held at Forman Christian College University (FCCU), Lahore, celebrating the successful completion of an educational initiative aimed at empowering minority youth. The program, conducted under the supervision of the Church Relations Office, FCCU, supported 192 boys and girls from various minority communities to prepare them for future academic pursuits.
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Ramesh Singh Arora, Provincial Minister for Minorities attended as the Guest of Honor. In his keynote speech, he congratulated the students and lauded FCCU for promoting inclusive education and nurturing potential among marginalized communities.
In his address, said that this program is a significant step toward ensuring that no student is left behind due to their background. Education opens doors, and we are committed to providing every opportunity possible for our minority youth to excel.
Highlighting the broader vision of the Punjab Government, he shared several initiatives currently being implemented as first time in the history of Punjab that 15 minority youth have recently been enrolled in a CSS Academy, with all expenses fully covered by the Department of Human Rights and Minorities Affairs under a dedicated program to prepare them for competitive civil service exams. Through the Government of Punjab’s Digital Learning Program, minority students are being equipped with modern tools and access to online educational platforms, leveling the playing field in the digital age.
The Scholarship Program for Minority Students continues to expand, ensuring financial assistance for deserving students from matriculation to higher education levels.
“These initiatives are a reflection of our government’s commitment to the betterment of the education sector for minority youth,” Mr. Arora emphasized. “We will continue to create pathways for academic success, skill development, and professional excellence.”
He also praised FCCU for its long-standing dedication to diversity and character-building, acknowledging the role of faith-based institutions in community upliftment.
In their remarks, Dr. Addelton and Dr. Tebbe congratulated the students and expressed hope that this experience would be a turning point in their academic journeys. Dr. Nayyer Firdos and Dr. Farzand Masih appreciated the dedication shown by students and the tireless efforts of the organizing team. Parents of the students were also in attendance and expressed heartfelt thanks for the positive impact the program had on their children’s confidence, vision, and motivation.
The event concluded with a certificate distribution ceremony and group photographs, marking the end of an inspiring and transformative summer.
The ceremony was attended by respected academic leaders, including: Dr. Jonathan S. Addelton, Rector, FCCU, Dr. James Tebbe, Former Rector, FCCU, Dr. Nayyer Firdos, Registrar, FCCU, Dr. Farzand Masih, Director, Church Relations Office, Ms. Abeeha Shaloom, Campus Counsellor, Kinnaird College and others.
