Speakers at a seminar stressed that the need of the time is to strengthen education sector of the country as the power of classrooms and laboratories is the only defining feature in the competition-driven world of today. They urged to establish universities in every nook and corner of Pakistan so that no one remains deprived of the blessings of knowledge. They also stressed on the importance of entrepreneurship and vocational education as well as the need for liaison between universities & industry.  

They stated this while addressing at a seminar on Poverty Alleviation, organized by Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi (PMAS-AAUR) in collaboration with Pakistan Bait-ul-Maal, on October 31, 2016, with an aim to provide a platform to identify the problems and suggest viable remedies for poverty alleviation and sustainable development in Pakistan.

On the occasion, PMAS-AAUR Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Rai Niaz Ahmad was the chief guest while faculty members, beneficiary students of Pakistan Bait-ul-Maal (PBM) scholarship Program were also present. It may be recalled that PMAS-AAUR and PBM signed MoU in 2013 regarding provision of Educational Assistance to the needy & deserving students and every year 50 students are availing PBM scholarships.

While addressing, PMAS-AAUR Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Rai Niaz Ahmad appreciated the topic of the seminar, and said that it is most important for us as Pakistan is confronted with problem of Poverty. He said that the university is the right platform to discuss, identify issues and evolve an action plan, which can be followed by the society for poverty alleviation. 

Vice Chancellor said that Pakistan Bait-ul-Maal scholarship Program is an excellent opportunity and a hope for the talented & deserving students. He further added that in fiscal year 2015-16, a total of 218 students got funding from Pakistan Bait-ul-Maal consisting of Rs. 05 million, which is a great contribution by the Pakistan Bait-ul-Maal for uplifting education standards.

While talking to students, Vice Chancellor said that no nation can progress without education and advised students to work hard and contribute in economic development of Pakistan after completion of their studies.  He also thanked the PBM for providing scholarships to deserving students of this University who are unable to continue their studies due to financial hardships.