SDG 1: No Poverty

Introduction

Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering Sciences and Technology, is a prominent educational institution in Pakistan, contributing to SDG – 1 through its educational and research programs. Here’s a brief description of the commitments and efforts the GIK Institute in the context of ending poverty:

Education accessible to all:

At GIK Institute, we have established targets to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent deserving students from accessing higher education. We are committed to admitting students based on merit, regardless of their financial background. As part of this commitment, the Institute provides a range of scholarships and financial assistance options, which are detailed on our official website. These programs are designed to support students who meet the merit criteria, ensuring that no qualified applicant is denied admission due to financial constraints. Admissions are open to all candidates who demonstrate the required academic excellence, and we strive to make education accessible to all, regardless of socio-economic status.

GIK Institute offers a range of scholarships and financial assistance programs designed to support students who may face financial challenges. These initiatives are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate students and aim to reduce the barriers to education for those from lower-income households who fall into the bottom 20% of the household income group.

Our financial aid programs include need-based scholarships, merit-based awards, and specific funds for students from underprivileged backgrounds. These initiatives help ensure that qualified candidates, regardless of their financial standing, have the opportunity to benefit from the high-quality education offered at GIK Institute.

For further information on specific eligibility criteria, application processes, and the scope of financial assistance available, prospective students are encouraged to consult the university’s financial aid office or visit the official GIK Institute website.

• https://giki.edu.pk/admissions/admissions-undergraduates/scholarships-fa/
• https://giki.edu.pk/admissions/admissions-graduate/grad-aid-scholarships/

Need Based Scholarships

GIKI provides need-based financial assistance to students who face financial hardship, ensuring that no capable student discontinues their education due to economic constraints. These funds are disbursed after a detailed assessment of household income and expenses, specifically targeting students from low and lower-middle income families.

Donor-Funded and Alumni Scholarships

Numerous scholarships are funded by GIKI alumni, philanthropists, and partner organizations, such as:

• The GIKI Endowment Fund Scholarships – established to support financially disadvantaged students.
• Alumni Association Scholarships – offered by GIKI alumni chapters globally to assist students from modest financial backgrounds.
• External Donor Scholarships, including support from corporate partners and charitable foundations.

Merit-cum Need Awards:

To encourage academic excellence alongside financial inclusivity, GIKI also offers merit-cum-need scholarships, enabling bright students from less privileged backgrounds to pursue higher education in science, technology, and engineering fields without financial burden.

Quality Education: The GIK Institute committed to providing high-quality education and skill development programs to students, especially in fields like engineering, sciences, and technology. By equipping students with the knowledge and skills they need to excel in these areas, the institute help reduce poverty by increasing employability and income-earning potential.

Research and Innovation: Through its research initiatives, the GIK Institute focus on projects and studies that have a direct impact on poverty reduction. This includes research on sustainable technologies, and other areas relevant to the economic development of impoverished communities.

Community Outreach: The GIK Institute engaged in community outreach programs to support nearby underserved communities. This involve providing entrepreneurial support to help residents improve their livelihoods and overall well-being.

Scholarships and Financial Aid: The institute established scholarship and financial aid programs to ensure that deserving students from disadvantaged backgrounds have access to quality education. This helps in breaking the cycle of poverty by providing opportunities for those who might not have had access otherwise.

Collaboration and Partnerships: The GIK Institute collaborate with governmental and non-governmental organizations, as well as industry partners, to work on poverty alleviation projects. By joining forces with other stakeholders, the institute have a more significant impact on addressing poverty at various levels.

Sustainable Practices: The institute promotes and implemented sustainable practices within its campus and academic programs. By educating students on sustainability and environmental responsibility, it contributes to poverty reduction in the long term by addressing environmental issues that often disproportionately affect impoverished communities.

Collaborations for Scholarships:

Moreover, GIK Institute focuses on collaborations with various stakeholders to create more scholarship opportunities for low-income students. Some examples are given below:

Ambassador of Kazakhstan, H.E. Yerzhan Kistafin, President SOPREST, Engr. Salim Saifullah Khan, and xPresident GIKIAA and CEO Welt Konnect Barr. Engr. Habil Ahmed Khan visited GIKI to discuss academic collaboration, joint programs, and regional integration initiatives with Kazakhstan.

https://giki.edu.pk/2025/10/30/ambassador-of-kazakhstan-h-e-yerzhan-kistafin-president-soprest-engr-salim-saifullah-khan-and-xpresident-gikiaa-and-ceo-welt-konnect-barr-engr-habil-ahmed-khan-visited-giki-to-discuss-academic/

President SOPREST Engr. Salim Saifullah Khan appointed GIKI alumnus Barrister Engr. Habil Ahmed Khan as Goodwill Ambassador of GIKI, recognizing his leadership in alumni engagement, global outreach, strategic partnerships, advocacy for industry–academia synergies across Central Asia, and student support via scholarships as xPresident GIKIAA.

https://giki.edu.pk/2025/10/30/president-soprest-engr-salim-saifullah-khan-appointed-giki-alumnus-barrister-engr-habil-ahmed-khan-as-goodwill-ambassador-of-giki-recognizing-his-leadership-in-alumni-engagement-global-outreach-s/

The GIKI Alumni – UK Chapter hosted the Honorable Rector, Prof. Dr. Fazal Khalid, in London and reaffirmed its commitment to GIKI’s growth, global impact, alumni mentorship, support, and scholarship programs.

https://giki.edu.pk/2025/10/02/the-giki-alumni-uk-chapter-hosted-the-honorable-rector-prof-dr-fazal-khalid-in-london-and-reaffirmed-its-commitment-to-gikis-growth-global-impact-alumni-mentorship-support-a/

99 Technologies establishes a Rs. 10 million One-Chair Endowment Fund for scholarships to deserving students of GIKI

https://giki.edu.pk/2025/02/05/99-technologies-establishes-a-rs-10-million-one-chair-endowment-fund-for-scholarships-to-deserving-students-of-giki/

Academic Advising:

The Institute is committed to ensuring the academic success and timely graduation of all students, regardless of their financial background, through a comprehensive academic advising system.

Each student at GIK Institute is assigned a faculty advisor upon admission. These advisors play a key role in guiding students throughout their academic journey. They help develop individualized study plans, monitor academic progress, and provide ongoing support to ensure students stay on track for timely graduation. Advisors also offer valuable guidance on addressing academic challenges, improving performance, and making informed decisions about course selection.

 https://giki.edu.pk/academics/academic-setup/

 Wellness Counselling:

The Institute is deeply committed to ensuring the academic and personal success of all students, particularly those who may face additional challenges due to financial constraints. To support this commitment, GIK Institute provides a robust student counseling system. A dedicated Student Wellness Counselor has been hired to address the emotional, psychological, and well-being needs of students. The Student Wellness Counselor offers confidential counseling services to help students manage stress, academic pressure, and any personal difficulties they may encounter during their studies.

Additionally, students from all backgrounds, including those facing financial challenges, are encouraged to access counseling services to help them navigate any obstacles that might affect their academic performance or overall well-being. The counselor works closely with students to provide strategies for maintaining mental and emotional health, thus ensuring they stay focused and motivated to complete their studies successfully.

Through this holistic approach, which combines academic advising, wellness counseling, and other support services, GIK Institute aims to create an inclusive environment where every student, regardless of their socio-economic status, has the resources and support they need to succeed and graduate on time.

https://giki.edu.pk/academics/student-affairs/

Fundraising and Mess Bill Aid program by Project Topi:

The Institute is committed to providing all students, regardless of their financial background, with the necessary support to ensure their successful completion of studies. To assist students facing financial challenges, GIK Institute runs initiatives such as Project Topi, a fundraising campaign dedicated to supporting students in need. This project focuses on raising funds to help cover essential expenses, including mess bills and tuition fees for students who come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. The funds raised through Project Topi are used to provide financial assistance, ensuring that no student is forced to discontinue their education due to financial constraints.

In addition to Project Topi, the university encourages open donations and contributions from alumni, faculty, and external donors. These donations are directed towards supporting students with financial needs, helping them overcome barriers to completing their studies. The goal is to create a level playing field where students can focus on their academic success without being burdened by financial challenges.

Through these efforts, GIK Institute is dedicated to fostering an inclusive academic environment and supporting the timely graduation of all students, especially those from lower-income households.

https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=1270363155137968&set=a.573649781475979

A hardworking student couldn’t pay fee, project Topi helped raise funds for him: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1062936879213931&set=a.573649784809312

Below is the case of A student of GIKI is currently facing financial crisis and is unable to pay his mess bill, which amounts to approximately 70,000PKR. Project Topi helped raise funds for him.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=807530134754608&set=a.573649784809312

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=967914392049514&set=a.573649784809312

Mentorship Programs for Academic Advising:

On 12th December 2024, the Google Developers Student Club (GDSC) at GIKI, under the Department of Student Affairs, organized the first edition of “Seekho aur Sekhou 1.0”, a mentorship program aimed at guiding students in their academic projects. The initiative provided hands-on mentorship, enabling students to enhance their technical knowledge, sharpen problem-solving skills, and strengthen their academic and professional profiles.

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.679973721770189&type=3

Support (e.g. food, housing, transportation, legal services)/Facilities for students from low income families to enable them to complete university

GIK Institute provides a range of support services to students from low-income families to help them successfully complete their studies. While the Institute primarily charges tuition fees, it ensures that students do not face additional financial burdens in other areas.

– Housing/Hostel Facilities: The Institute provides housing/hostel accommodations free of charge to students, ensuring that all students, including those from low-income backgrounds, have access to safe and comfortable living arrangements on campus.

– Transportation: GIK Institute offers transportation services at subsidized rates to students, making it more affordable for them to commute to and from campus.

– Medical Facilities: The Institute provides free medical services on campus, ensuring that students have access to necessary healthcare without financial worry.

– Electricity: Students living on campus are provided with free electricity units, reducing the financial burden of utility costs.

– Mess Bill Assistance: In addition to the above, the Institute offers mess bill assistance to students who need support, ensuring that students can access nutritious meals at affordable rates.

– Financial Aid Programs: GIK Institute runs various financial aid programs, including need-based scholarships and financial assistance, to support students who face financial challenges. These programs are designed to help cover essential academic and living expenses, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to complete their education regardless of their socio-economic background.

Through these support services, GIK Institute aims to create an inclusive environment where students from low-income families can focus on their studies without being hindered by financial constraints.

Free Accommodation with scholarships:

• https://giki.edu.pk/admissions/admissions-undergraduates/ugrad-aid-scholarships/
• https://giki.edu.pk/admissions/admissions-graduate/grad-aid-scholarships/

 Free Medical Facility

https://giki.edu.pk/campus-life/buildings/

Free Electricity Units

https://giki.edu.pk/admissions/admissions-undergraduates/fees-and-expenses/

Scholarship Aid Office/A&E Office:

Our A&E office is also working as scholarship aid office, Ms. Zile-Huma, Assistant Director A&E dealing with all scholarships related matters in order to support the needy students.

https://giki.edu.pk/academics/office-of-admission-examination/

Career and counselling services (ORIC GIK Institute):

GIK Institute has several programs and initiatives designed to assist all students, including those from the bottom 20% of the household income group, in successfully completing their studies and preparing for their careers. One of the key support systems is the Career Services Office, which plays a crucial role in helping students set clear career goals and implement real-time strategies to achieve them.

The Career Services Office works with students throughout their academic journey to enhance their employability. This includes offering career counseling, workshops on resume building, interview preparation, and guidance on how to navigate the job market. By providing students with the tools and resources they need, the office helps increase their competitiveness when applying for job opportunities, both during their studies and after graduation.

The support from the Career Services Office ensures that students are not only equipped with the technical skills required to become successful engineers but also with the professional skills necessary to launch and advance their careers. This holistic approach empowers students, including those from financially disadvantaged backgrounds, to achieve their academic and career aspirations, helping them secure employment opportunities and successfully transition from education to the workforce.

  https://giki.edu.pk/oric/career-services/

Department of Students Affairs:

The Department of Student Affairs provides a wide range of services and resources to support students in their academic and personal development. This includes offering counseling and guidance on time management, academic planning, and personal well-being. The department also coordinates financial aid programs, such as scholarships and need-based assistance, to ensure that students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds have access to the necessary financial resources to continue their studies.

Additionally, the Department of Student Affairs works closely with other support services, such as the Career Services Office and the Student Wellness Counselor, to provide holistic support for students. By focusing on both academic success and personal well-being, the department helps students stay motivated, overcome obstacles, and achieve their full potential.

Through these initiatives, GIK Institute ensures that students, regardless of their socio-economic background, receive the guidance and support they need to thrive academically and complete their studies successfully.

Student Societies:

One of the key initiatives in this regard is the availability of student societies, which provide students with opportunities to engage in extracurricular activities, build social connections, and develop important skills outside of the classroom.

These student societies are open to all students, and membership allows them to participate in a wide range of academic, cultural, and recreational events. By being part of these societies, students can find opportunities to socialize, network with peers, and collaborate on projects, which can help build confidence, leadership skills, and a sense of belonging. These connections also provide valuable support for students from lower-income backgrounds, as they can form a supportive community of peers to share experiences, challenges, and resources.

Moreover, student societies often organize workshops, seminars, and events that help enhance personal development and employability, contributing to a more holistic educational experience. This platform allows students, especially those facing financial challenges, to feel more integrated into the university community and helps ensure that they remain motivated and engaged in their academic journey.

https://giki.edu.pk/quality-enhancement-cell/societies-at-gik/

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092727006553&sk=photos_albums

Awareness Seminars/Activities:

Career Counselling and Emerging Technologies Session – 12th OcT

GIKI organized developmental and outreach program that enhanced students’ academic and professional growth. On 12th October 2024, the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) Society organized an outreach session on “Career Counselling and Emerging Technologies” under the GIKI Department of Student Affairs. This session aimed to guide students in exploring diverse career paths in technology while familiarizing them with the latest advancements shaping the industry. By bridging the gap between academic learning and professional aspirations, the initiative supported SDG 4 – Quality Education through skill development and career readiness.

Together, GIKI’s financial aid and academic support mechanisms, along with initiatives like the ACM outreach session, demonstrate the Institute’s commitment to empowering students from disadvantaged backgrounds to successfully complete their education and thrive in their professional journeys.

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.676647485436146&type=3

ISTIQBAAL – 14th September 2024

GIKI places great emphasis on student integration, personal development, and inclusive community building, which are vital for the success and retention of students from all socioeconomic backgrounds. On 14th September 2024, the GIKI Adventure Club, under the Department of Student Affairs, organized ISTIQBAAL, a welcoming event for the new batch of students. The event included interactive activities, ice-breaking sessions, and team-building exercises designed to help newcomers integrate into campus life. It also promoted inclusiveness, cultural appreciation, and mutual respect among students from diverse backgrounds, ensuring that every student—regardless of their financial or social background—feels supported and valued within the GIKI community.

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.659859243781637&type=3

Info & Orientation Session to Batch ’24-9th September 20

GIKI emphasizes inclusive engagement, mentorship, and empowerment programmes that help students—especially those from underrepresented or disadvantaged backgrounds—integrate smoothly into university life and build confidence in their academic and professional paths. For instance, on September 9th, 2024, the Women Engineers Society (WES), under the Department of Student Affairs, conducted an Info and Orientation Session for Batch ’24. The session introduced new members to the society’s mission, ongoing projects, and future opportunities, while providing a welcoming and supportive environment for first-year students to connect with senior peers. It also highlighted the role of women in engineering and leadership within the GIKI community, fostering empowerment, inclusivity, and equal participation.

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.649644381469790&type=3

Mental Health Seminar – Jan 29, 2024

GIKI also places a strong emphasis on student well-being and holistic support systems, recognizing that success in higher education depends not only on academic achievement but also on mental and emotional health. In this regard, Project Topi, under the Department of Student Affairs, organized a seminar in collaboration with the Akbar Kare Institute on January 29, 2024, at GIKI. The session focused on promoting mental health awareness and emotional well-being among students. It provided a safe and inclusive space for open discussions, offered guidance from mental health professionals, and encouraged proactive approaches to psychological wellness.

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.623931617374400&type=3

Teach For Pakistan Session – Dec 14, 2023

The Character Building Society, under the Department of Student Affairs, organized a session with Teach For Pakistan on December 14, 2023, at GIKI. The session aimed to raise awareness about educational inequality in Pakistan and introduced students to opportunities where they can contribute meaningfully through leadership and teaching fellowships. It provided insight into the impact of youth-led initiatives in transforming education across underserved communities.

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.623720724062156&type=3

Seekho aur Sekhou 1.0 – 12th December 2024

On 12th December 2024, the Google Developers Student Club (GDSC) at GIKI, under the Department of Student Affairs, organized the first edition of “Seekho aur Sekhou 1.0”, a mentorship program aimed at guiding students in their academic projects. The initiative provided hands-on mentorship, enabling students to enhance their technical knowledge, sharpen problem-solving skills, and strengthen their academic and professional profiles.

This program directly contributed to Quality Education (SDG 4) by promoting practical learning opportunities, and also aligned with Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17) by fostering collaboration between students, mentors, and the broader tech community.

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.679973721770189&type=3

Key initiative is the support extended to Palestinian students

One such key initiative is the support extended to Palestinian students through the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan.

GIK Institute collaborates with HEC to offer scholarships and financial aid to Palestinian students, enabling them to pursue higher education in Pakistan. These initiatives are part of a broader effort to provide educational opportunities to students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds in low-income countries, including Palestine.

GIK, DoST and KPITB sign MoU for establishing a Venture Capital Fund for the Development and Growth of Startups in KP

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute (GIKI), the Department of Science and Technology (DoST), and the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Information Technology Board (KPITB) to establish a Venture Capital Fund for the development and growth of startups in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) directly supports Sustainable Development Goal 1 (SDG 1): No Poverty.

This initiative aims to foster entrepreneurship, innovation, and economic growth by providing critical financial resources to emerging startups in the region, particularly in the technology and innovation sectors. By facilitating access to venture capital, the MoU helps create new business opportunities, promote job creation, and stimulate economic development, which are essential drivers of poverty reduction.

Startups play a key role in economic development, and by supporting these businesses, the partnership seeks to empower local entrepreneurs, especially in underdeveloped regions like KP. The fund will help address economic disparities, support sustainable business practices, and promote inclusive growth, ultimately contributing to poverty alleviation. Through this collaboration, GIKI, DoST, and KPITB are not only nurturing a thriving startup ecosystem but also working toward reducing inequalities and enhancing local economic opportunities, in alignment with SDG 1’s objective of eradicating poverty and promoting shared prosperity.

GIK Institute Collaborates with Akhuwat Foundation:

Akhuwat – Poverty Alleviation Through Higher Education (PATH) is an initiative designed to provide financial and academic support to students from disadvantaged backgrounds, helping them pursue higher education and break the cycle of poverty. Recently, Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering Sciences and Technology (GIKI) and Akhuwat Foundation have explored potential collaboration through the PATH program. This partnership aims to empower students from underprivileged areas by offering them access to quality education and the resources necessary to succeed academically, ultimately fostering social mobility and economic growth in underserved communities. 

Project Topi Ramadan Ration Drive 2024

Project Topi has successfully donated 333 ration bags to families in need during this blessed month of Ramazan. These bags, which provide essential food items, are already making a significant difference in the lives of many struggling families. However, there are still over 250 families waiting for assistance, and we need your continued help to ensure no one is left behind. Each ration bag costs Rs. 5340, and your donation can bring relief to those who need it most. Together, we can make this Ramazan a little brighter for our community.

Alumni Association Financial Assistance Program

Support of need-based financial assistance has been the key element of GIKI Alumni Association goals and objectives to enable students at GIK Institute to fulfill their dreams. Since inception in 2003, GIKI Alumni Association has supported more than 200+ students to fulfill their dreams. Some key performance indicators are mentioned below from the last three years.

Support people of Topi/ Open donations

Project Topi, alongside its bucket of modules and programs, also has a very active miscellaneous problem and case handling system. Project Topi is an organization that works all year round and has a lasting impact in Topi and out of Topi. It takes various cases of people of Topi and does its best to help them I every way possible.
Most people in Topi have mud houses, which are always on the verge of destruction due to the heavy rains. Project Topi helps them financially to build a safe shelter for them through the donations of generous people. Whenever there arrives a need for blood, we run a campaign to arrange the blood for the person in need in the minimum time possible.
We also arrange funds for various medical cases such as kidney transplants, chemotherapy, bone fractures etc. Alongside our official modules and programs, Project Topi handles a whole lot of miscellaneous cases, and it does it across Pakistan. As it is common knowledge, being a completely student run and managed organization Project Topi have capacity bottlenecks. It does not have huge resources and our total strength is somewhere near 100. Despite all those resource constraints, Project Topi strives as much as it can to do good and help people who deserve it and even in limited available resources, Project Topi shows exemplary performance. This organization is transparent yet opaque. Project Topi keeps the identities of those it helps secret while those who help and donate recorded and documented in its database.

Project Topi collaboration with Akbar Kare Foundation

Project Topi, in collaboration with Akbar Kare Institute (AKI) held an informative session on “Bridging Healthcare and Engineering for Child Assistive Technology.” The session aimed to highlight research opportunities in the field of Assistive Technology and foster collaboration with the students and faculty of GIKI for the research and development of innovative solutions. By bringing together experts from healthcare and engineering, the event provided valuable insights into how interdisciplinary efforts could advance technologies that improve the lives of children in need of assistive devices.

Project Topi Supports GIKI Student Through Open Donations to Cover Mess Bill Crisis

Project Topi was able to successfully close the case of a GIKI student who was facing a severe financial crisis. The student, who comes from a humble background, was unable to pay an outstanding mess bill of approximately 70,000 PKR. Despite his unwavering dedication to his studies, the financial burden had become insurmountable. Thanks to the support of our compassionate community, we were able to cover the entire mess bill, alleviating a significant source of stress for the student and allowing him to continue his academic journey without worry. Your generosity has made a meaningful impact, and we are truly grateful for your continued support in helping students overcome financial challenges.

Project Topi Flood relief Campaign in collaboration with other student societies at GIK Institute

Due to heavy monsoon rain, most regions of Pakistan are experiencing floods. The flood has destroyed their lives and has left them without shelter and food. We here at Project Topi are working to provide flood relief aid to our fellow Pakistanis.

 

Clothes donation for flood affected areas in Pakistan
Project Topi under the Student Affairs Department is a completely student run, not-for-profit, non-government and volunteer-based organization situated in Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering in Topi, Swabi. Al-Khidmat Foundation Pakistan is one of the leading, non-profit organization, fully dedicated to humanitarian services since 1990. The services include disaster management, health services, education, orphan care, clean water, Mawakhat (interest-free loan) and other community services. The devastation caused by floods due to the current monsoon in Pakistan is still going on. Sindh, Baluchistan and South Punjab have been severely affected, while Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit Baltistan have also suffered massive losses. According to the data from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), 33 million population of 81 districts have been affected. To help Pakistanis recover from such difficult times, Project Topi collaborated with Al-Khidmat Foundation for a Cloth Donation Drive and funds Donation Drive. All the clothes and donations were collected, members gathered to categorize the clothes and then send to the laundry service. After that, representatives of the Al-Khidmat Foundation visited Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute to collect the donations. The response during the drive was overwhelming, and a significant amount of donations were collected and sent to the flood victims under the supervision of Al-Khidmat Foundation.

Flood Donations

      Al-khidmat  130,000 PKR

       Akhuwat      100,000 PKR

        JDC               35,000 PKR
           ——————————–
          Total         265,000 PKR

 

GIKI and AKHUWAT discussed collaboration via PATH to support the higher education journey of students from underprivileged areas.

https://www.instagram.com/officialgiki/p/DAaS6ARocCo/

GIKI and AKHUWAT discussed collaboration via PATH to support the higher education journey of students from underprivileged areas. Dr. Muhammad Amjad Saqib (Chairman Akhuwat Foundation) expressed his gratitude to the Rector GIKI, Prof. Dr. Fazal Khalid, Dr. Shahzad (Campus Dir CFD FAST), Dr. Sumaira (Campus Director FAST Lahore), Dr Sohail Sarwar (NUST Alumni and Chief Volunteer – Higher Education Akhuwat), Muhammad Ahmed (Chief Coordinator Volunteers PATH & Akhuwat Alumni Ambassador) and Adil Jan Dawar( Manager PATH & Vice President Akhuwat Alumni Association) during the PATH ceremony.

GIKI Alumni Campus in collaboration with The Citizen Foundation (TCF)
GIKI alumni from some of our earliest batches took initiative to establish a #TCF primary school in Swabi, KPK Pakistan.

The proposed site is located at Parmoli. Parmoli is an existing cluster of 3 primary and 2 secondary TCF schools. A Primary Unit consists of six class rooms from KG to V (30/ classroom) and a Secondary Unit is consisted of five class rooms from Grade VI to X (36/ classroom).
Parmoli is a thickly populated area where an existing TCF School – Shirin Sultan Dossa Campus XVII – is operating at its full capacity of 183 students since 2007. There is an increasing demand from the community for another Primary School. Therefore, TCF proposed construction of a primary school unit for build-cycle 2017-18 (academic session 2018-19) on the above-mentioned location.
The site is in a rural area with mostly low to medium income households. This location has been selected by TCF based on a strategic assessment of the area to determine “need”, as well as TCF’s operational priorities. The region survey assessment considers existing number of schools, number of children of school going age, poverty level, site suitability and land assessment.

https://www.tcf.org.pk/schools/khyber-paktoonkhwa/giki-alumni-campus/
https://gikialumni.org/tcf-gikiaa/
How to Donate: https://gikialumni.org/how-to-donate/

Fruit-seller’s son, TCF alumnus graduates from GIKI

In a small, mud-brick house of Khuda ki Basti, a slum in Karachi, the power is out, mosquitos are buzzing around, and rainwater is seeping in through the roof. Muhammad Ahmad, a fruit-seller, smiles happily as he stacks up mangoes on his pushcart and shares,
“With my earnings, it would not have been possible for me to put Asad through a good school, college and university,” shares Ahmad. He leads us to the veranda where we join his wife and children who are waiting on a charpoy. He continues, “I had to drop out of school at a young age to support my family. It is my dream to educate all my children and TCF is making it possible.”

“In our community, boys are expected to take up full-time jobs at a young age but Baba (father) encouraged me to focus on my education,” shares Asad, a TCF school and college alumnus. “When I was leaving for university, he handed me some money for my living expenses which he had been saving to get our roof fixed. When I hesitated, he told me: The repairing of our home can wait but this opportunity might not come again.”
Asad, who graduated from the prestigious Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering Sciences and Technology, is ready to begin his first job at a software company. Two of his younger siblings, Saad and Sadia, are currently first-year students at TCF College while his two other sisters, Haadiya and Tooba are studying in Classes 9 and 7 at the TCF school in their community – all of whom have big dreams of their own!

Social Entrepreneurship Initiatives:

Encouraging and supporting social entrepreneurship programs is another way by the GIK Institute to contribute to poverty reduction. These initiatives empower students to develop innovative solutions to social challenges while creating economic opportunities.

The Catalyst – GIKI’s State-of-the-Art Incubation Facility

To nurture innovation and entrepreneurship, GIK Institute, in partnership with the Directorate General of Science and Technology (DoST), Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, has established The Catalyst, a cutting-edge technology incubation facility. The Catalyst provides budding entrepreneurs with:

• Access to advanced technology, equipment, and research expertise to facilitate product design, testing, and commercialization.
• Residential incubation facilities, making it the only on-campus residential incubator in Pakistan, where incubatees can live free of cost and focus entirely on developing their start-ups.
• Training workshops and mentorship programmes designed to equip entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the challenges of launching and scaling a sustainable business.
• Monthly stipends to support incubatees financially, allowing them to dedicate their time and energy to innovation without the burden of living expenses.
• Free Accommodation is also provided to the incubates.

Through these initiatives, The Catalyst has supported numerous socially and environmentally responsible start-ups, helping transform student and community-driven ideas into commercially viable products and enterprises.
https://giki.edu.pk/the-catalyst-gik-incubator/

https://giki.edu.pk/the-catalyst-gik-incubator/incubated-start-ups/

3 months Entrepreneurship Boot camp for the Local Community

Expanding its outreach beyond the GIKI campus, The Catalyst GIK Incubator has launched a 3-month Entrepreneurship Boot Camp in collaboration with the Arfa Karim Foundation, specifically designed for students from District Swabi. This initiative aims to equip local youth with entrepreneurial and digital skills, enabling them to create financially viable and socially impactful ventures within their communities. By bringing entrepreneurship training directly to the local population, GIKI plays an active role in regional economic upliftment and social empowerment, bridging the gap between education, innovation, and real-world application.

https://www.facebook.com/reel/2388091271681885

The Big Idea Workshop & Tameer Awards in collaboration with Shell Tameer, Wafi Energy Pakistan – Shell Licensee

The Catalyst GIK Incubator has hosted The Big Idea Workshop & Tameer Awards in collaboration with Shell Tameer, Wafi Energy Pakistan – Shell Licensee. The workshop was conducted by Mr. Imran Azeem, Manager Training & Development, and the Tameer Award was presented by Wafi Energies (Ex-Shell Pakistan).

where Six student groups presented their Innovative ideas, showcasing creativity and Entrepreneurial spirit. This initiative reflects our commitment to empowering young innovators and transforming bold concepts into impactful ventures.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1207973648018459&set=pcb.1207980781351079

Shell Tameer team conducted campus drive at @The Catalyst GIK Incubator. Shell Tameer Award is a nationwide competition, to recognize, celebrate and reward young talent making significant contribution in the national entrepreneurship space.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=968569165292243&set=pcb.968569525292207