Overseas Pakistanis Summer Scholarship 2026 draws global attention – Apply now
The programme is creating fresh interest among young people who want direct policy experience.
Who can apply
The programme is open to students of Pakistani origin as well as foreign nationals. It aims to bring together talented young people from around the world for practical learning in Pakistan.
Participants will get hands-on exposure to public policy, development planning and governance. They will also work on national-level projects under the guidance of senior government officials and experts.
Programme duration
According to the official announcement, the programme will be offered in two separate tracks. One track will run for six weeks while the second track will continue for eight weeks.
Selected participants will receive a stipend of up to Rs120 million during the programme. The financial support is meant to help scholars focus on learning and policy work.
Application deadline
The last date to submit applications is June 15, 2026. The programme is scheduled to begin on July 1, 2026.
Interested students can apply through the official online application form. Early applications are expected as interest from overseas students continues to grow.
Connecting global youth with Pakistan
The URAAN Summer Scholars Programme is an initiative of the Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives. It is designed to connect overseas Pakistani youth with Pakistan’s policymaking and development process.
Last year, the programme engaged 31 outstanding overseas Pakistani youth from more than 45 countries. It gave participants a direct view of how major national institutions work.
Meetings with top leadership
During the six-week programme, scholars met Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif. They also visited the National Assembly, NADRA and the Ministry of Information Technology.
Participants worked closely with members of parliament and ministry officials. They also presented policy proposals and shared ideas for national development.
Work under the URAAN 5Es framework
The programme allows scholars to contribute under the URAAN 5Es framework. This includes Exports, E-Pakistan, Environment, Energy and Infrastructure, and Equity and Empowerment.
Officials say this structure helps students understand Pakistan’s long-term development priorities. It also gives them practical experience in policy thinking and problem-solving.
Building global networks
The programme also helps scholars build professional and international networks. Participants collaborate with Young Development Fellows and YPDC chapters during the programme.
Its impact continues after the internship ends. An active alumni network and scholar-led projects are now continuing this work in different parts of the world.
Five key areas of work
Exports
Participants will work on ideas aimed at improving Pakistan’s export potential. They will also explore ways to strengthen global trade links through policy innovation.
E-Pakistan
Scholars will study digital transformation and modern governance systems. Their work will focus on improving service delivery and technology-driven reforms.
Energy and infrastructure
Participants will contribute to sustainable energy planning and infrastructure development. This area focuses on projects that support long-term economic growth.
Environment and climate change
The programme will also cover food and water security challenges. Scholars will examine climate-related risks and ideas for environmental sustainability.
Equity, ethics and empowerment
This part focuses on social justice, inclusion and equal opportunities. Participants will explore policies that support fair and balanced national development.
Why it matters
The scholarship is becoming an important platform for young people who want to understand Pakistan from the inside. It offers both learning and a direct chance to contribute ideas.
Also read: Europe offers fully funded Erasmus Mundus scholarship for Pakistani students
For many overseas students, the programme is more than an internship. It is a rare opportunity to build a stronger connection with Pakistan’s future.
The programme shows that Pakistan is trying to involve young global talent in policymaking. It also creates a bridge between overseas Pakistanis and national institutions.
The mix of learning, mentoring and public policy exposure makes it different from a normal internship. That is why interest is likely to grow in the coming months.
