Pakistan to Offer 500 Scholarships to Bangladeshi Students in Second Phase of Knowledge Corridor

Islamabad (TDI): Pakistan is set to launch the second phase of a major academic collaboration initiative with Bangladesh, offering 500 new scholarships to Bangladeshi students, to deepen bilateral ties through education and research.

The program, known as the “Pakistan–Bangladesh Knowledge Corridor,” was first introduced last year and aims to strengthen cooperation between the two countries in higher education, innovation, and academic exchange.

Officials confirmed that the next phase will begin “soon,” with scholarships available at leading universities across Pakistan.

The initiative builds on momentum generated earlier this year, when the first batch of Bangladeshi students arrived in Pakistan in February to pursue higher studies under the same scheme.

The program is designed not only to provide educational opportunities but also to foster long-term academic and cultural linkages between the two nations.

The second phase of the Pakistan–Bangladesh Knowledge Corridor is launching soon, under which Pakistan is offering 500 scholarships to Bangladeshi students for higher studies at leading universities in Pakistan. pic.twitter.com/tzm5BBPTCF

— Pakistan High Commission Bangladesh (@PakinBangladesh) April 22, 2026

The initiative comes at a time of gradually improving relations between Islamabad and Dhaka. Once divided by decades of political strain following Bangladesh’s independence in 1971, the two countries have taken steps to rebuild trust.

Diplomatic engagement has increased notably since 2024, when former Prime Minister Hasina Wajid was ousted, and political changes made room for friendly sentiment toward Pakistan.

Both sides have since sought to translate improved relations into tangible outcomes, including trade, connectivity, and now education.

Earlier this year, Bangladesh’s national carrier resumed regular flights to Karachi for the first time in over a decade, signaling a revival in people-to-people links.

Maritime trade between the two countries has also resumed, alongside discussions on expanding government-to-government commerce and investment.

By bringing students to Pakistani institutions, the initiative is expected to create academic partnerships, encourage joint research, and promote cross-cultural understanding.

As the second phase of the Knowledge Corridor prepares to roll out, both governments appear keen to use academic exchange as a bridge toward a more stable and cooperative relationship.