Palestinian students graduate in Pakistan as 38 complete BDS degrees
Alkhidmat Foundation celebrated the graduation of 38 Palestinian students who completed their BDS degrees in Pakistan.
The graduation ceremony honoured the students’ determination and academic success despite the ongoing war and humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The event highlighted their journey of resilience and hope.
The ceremony was attended by Alkhidmat Foundation Pakistan President Professor Dr Hafeez ur Rehman, Palestinian Ambassador to Pakistan Dr Zuhair Mohammad Hamdallah Zaid, Alkhidmat Vice President Air Marshal (R) Arshad Malik, Chairman Board of Governors at the University of Lahore Muhammad Owais Raoof, Principal Medical Education Professor Dr Mehwish Urooj, teachers and other distinguished guests.
Speaking at the event, Dr Hafeez ur Rehman said the graduates had achieved success despite war, displacement and extremely difficult conditions in Gaza. He said their accomplishment reflects courage, determination and hope for a better future.
Under the partnership between Alkhidmat Foundation and the University of Lahore, all 38 students received Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degrees and dental kits. In addition, 13 Palestinian doctors who completed a one-year clinical house job were awarded internship certificates.
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Dr Hafeez ur Rehman said Alkhidmat Foundation had fulfilled its promise to Palestinian students. He added that the support of the Government of Pakistan and the Pakistani Embassy in Cairo helped provide the students with a safe environment to continue their education.
He also said Alkhidmat Foundation would continue supporting Palestinian students until Palestine is rebuilt and a new generation of professionals is prepared. He described education as an important step towards the country’s future recovery.
Under the “Alkhidmat Palestinian Scholarship Programme”, more than 450 Palestinian students are currently studying in Pakistan, while another 38 students are continuing their education in Cairo. The programme aims to help Palestinian youth continue higher education despite the challenges caused by conflict.
Palestinian Ambassador Dr Zuhair Mohammad Hamdallah Zaid thanked Alkhidmat Foundation and the people of Pakistan for their support. He said Pakistan welcomed Palestinian students like its own children, and these young doctors would play an important role in treating the wounded and sick people of Gaza.
Speaking on behalf of the graduates, Ahmad Ataallah Mohammad Jabr emotionally said, “Pakistan is our second home. Here, the love and kindness we received gave us the strength to continue.”
He added, “We will return to our homeland to treat our injured and suffering people, and we will never forget Pakistan’s kindness.” His remarks received warm appreciation from the audience.
The graduation of these students shows how education can continue even during times of conflict. Their return to serve Gaza could strengthen healthcare services and also deepen the long-standing friendship between Pakistan and Palestine.
