Ali Tareen has initiated a scholarship program to enable graduate students from South Punjab to pursue their studies at his alma mater, the University of Oxford. The scholarship offers deserving students the chance to attend one of the world’s top universities.
Announcing the scholarship last week, Ali Tareen expressed his belief in the need for bright, young leaders from underprivileged areas like South Punjab to bring about positive change in the region. The Tareen Oxford Scholarship aims to support talented Pakistani scholars from South Punjab and enhance their representation at the University of Oxford.
The scholarship, facilitated through the Oxford Pakistan Programme (OPP), will be established as a five-year program. Funds will be donated annually and disbursed on a rolling basis to deserving recipients. The scholarship is available for all graduate courses offered at Kellogg College, Oxford, where Ali Tareen pursued his own studies.
Ali Tareen, who has been actively involved in the education sector in South Punjab for over a decade, recognizes the immense potential and talent present in the region, even among those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Partnering with OPP, he aims to provide deserving students with the opportunities they need to discover themselves and the world around them. He expressed gratitude to OPP, particularly Talha Pirzada, for their dedication to increasing the representation of Pakistani students at Oxford.
Ali Tareen’s scholarship initiative aligns with the vision of putting South Punjab on the map and ensuring its recognition for its untapped potential. He hopes that through this scholarship, deserving students will not only dream big and achieve remarkable things but also acquire the education and experience needed to contribute back to their region.
Applicants will be asked to outline their plans for giving back to the region, whether through political, economic, or environmental means. Ali Tareen emphasizes the importance of passion, understanding the region’s strengths and weaknesses, and presenting tangible ideas for improvement.
Beyond his cricket-related ventures, including the establishment of a cricket team for South Punjab, Ali Tareen sees the creation of platforms in education, business, and sports as vital to accommodating and showcasing the existing skill and talent in the region. While he remains open to future endeavors, he aims to support and create more opportunities for women, driven by his commitment as a proud feminist and GirlDad.
Amidst widespread lip service on social media, Ali Tareen’s tangible efforts to uplift the country and its people serve as a heartening example of meaningful contributions being made for the betterment of society.