KU pushes for alumni giving, with transparency and target
IV Report
KARACHI: University
of Karachi leadership has outlined new expectations for alumni and donor
support, calling for clear sector-wise planning and transparent utilisation of
contributions to strengthen KU's academic and research work.
They were
speaking at the inauguration of a new digital lab at the Department of Mass
Communication on Tuesday. The lab, equipped with 25 modern laptops, was
established with financial and technical support from the Orange Tree
Foundation (OTF) for final-year students.
He added
that if alumni are provided with adequate information and confidence, “a large
number of individuals will come forward to give back to their alma mater.”
Supporting universities, he said, is “an investment in the education and
training of future generations,” and requires clear planning and effective
platforms.
Highlighting
KU’s history, Dr Tufail recalled that until 1977 it was Karachi’s only
university, producing engineers, doctors, lawyers and business leaders who
contributed to the city’s academic, professional and economic development. He
noted that adapting to modern technology is now unavoidable. “Benefiting from
modern technology is an essential requirement of the present era,” he said,
while cautioning that AI and digital tools must be used within “the framework
of ethical principles, human values, and responsible conduct.”
Dean of
Arts and Social Sciences Prof Dr Samina Saeed echoed this, saying digital media
has become an essential requirement and institutions must equip students
accordingly.
MCD
Chairperson Dr Sadia Mahmood said the digital lab marks a significant milestone
in equipping students with modern tools for research and professional skill
development.
She
informed the gathering that OTF’s engagement with KU extends beyond
infrastructure. Over the past two years, more than 70 students of the
department have received scholarships from the foundation. In addition, she
said, students suffering from serious illnesses such as cancer are being
provided financial assistance for medical treatment, travel facilities, and
other related expenses, all borne by OTF. “These efforts reflect the OTF’s deep
association, sincerity, and philanthropic spirit towards the University of
Karachi and its students,” Dr Mahmood said.
OTF Global
CEO Omer Mateen Allahwala addressed students directly, urging them to prove
themselves through creative thinking, abilities, and innovative ideas. He said
opportunities and platforms are available, but it is the responsibility of
students to demonstrate competence. “If students prove themselves through hard
work, competence, and creativity, they will be provided with further
scholarships and assistance in the future,” he assured. He described the
current scholarships as “merely the beginning” and pledged that the Foundation
stands firmly by students to provide ample opportunities and maximum support.
Dr Tufail
thanked Allahwala for direct financial assistance to students and described
such initiatives as highly commendable. But he stressed that “merely presenting
good proposals is not sufficient; true success is achieved when students and
researchers meet the expectations attached to them through their performance.”
He also
urged students to uphold moral values, family traditions, and ethical
principles alongside academic and professional growth, saying these form the
foundation of personality and professional character.
Officials
concluded that the KU-OTF collaboration demonstrates a shared commitment to
advancing education, supporting students, and preparing future generations to
meet the challenges of the digital age — with transparency in support
initiatives as its foundation.
— Based on University of Karachi press release and photos
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