ISLAMABAD, Jun 18 (Alliance News): Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to advancing marine education and building a maritime-oriented mindset, particularly among coastal communities across Pakistan.
The announcement came during a meeting with Vice Admiral (R) Asif Khaliq, Rector of Bahria University, who called on the minister at his office on Wednesday.
Both discussed key strategies for strengthening Pakistan’s maritime sector through education, research, and community-focused initiatives.
Highlighting the role of Bahria University, the minister said the institution’s expertise in marine sciences and maritime education would be instrumental in raising awareness and capacity-building at the grassroots level.
He emphasized inclusive development by providing quality education access to youth from more than 70 coastal and fishing communities, especially in Sindh and Balochistan.
“Our goal is to cultivate a skilled maritime workforce that will support Pakistan’s blue economy,” said the minister.
To support this vision, the minister formally announced the launch of the Maritime Educational Endowment Fund (MEEF).
This new initiative will offer scholarships to deserving and talented students from coastal regions, aiming to eliminate financial barriers and empower future maritime professionals.
The MEEF, he noted, is a result of recommendations by the National Assembly Standing Committee on Maritime Affairs and is part of the government’s broader agenda for education-driven empowerment in underdeveloped coastal areas.
“The Maritime Educational Endowment Fund underscores our dedication to sustainable human capital development,” he said.
“By investing in coastal youth today, we are laying the foundation for a resilient and prosperous maritime sector tomorrow.”
Vice Admiral (R) Asif Khaliq welcomed the initiative and assured the minister of Bahria University’s full support in implementing the vision.
He pledged assistance in curriculum development, training programs, and collaborative research to ensure effective execution of the government’s maritime education agenda.
The collaboration is expected to generate long-term educational and economic benefits for Pakistan’s coastal regions, driving innovation, inclusion, and sustainable growth within the maritime sector.
