27/04/2025
GC University Hyderabad hosted Closing Ceremony of the English Access Scholarship Program (2023-2025) to celebrate the accomplishments of 75 outstanding students who successfully completed their two-year journey of English language learning while developing leadership and other 21st century skills. The Access program, funded by the Regional English Language Office at the U.S. Embassy, Islamabad (RELO Pakistan) and implemented by GC University Hyderabad, has played a transformative role in enhancing English language proficiency, critical thinking, and leadership skills among underprivileged youth aged 13-16 years, providing them with better academic and professional opportunities.
The event was graced by the presence of esteemed guests from the U.S. Consulate General Karachi, including Consul General Mr. Scott Urbom, Public Diplomacy Officer Ms. Anamaria Karrels, and English Programs Manager Ms. Aisha Zeeshan. The Vice Chancellor of GC University Hyderabad, Professor Dr. Amjad Ali Arain, warmly welcomed the delegation and all participants.
After the recitation and translation from the Holy Quran and National Anthem, the Program Director of English Access, Dr. Niaz Hussain Soomro, formally opened the ceremony by welcoming all distinguished guests and presenting a special video that captured the highlights and memorable moments from the two-year Access journey. The video showcased the students' academic growth, leadership activities, and cultural engagements under the program.
In his address, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Dr. Amjad Ali Arain, expressed his heartfelt congratulations to the Access students and the dedicated Access team for their remarkable efforts in bringing the program to a successful completion. He appreciated the ongoing collaboration with the U.S. Consulate General Karachi and reiterated the university's commitment to supporting educational initiatives that build bridges between communities.
Consul General Mr. Scott Urbom also addressed the audience, commending the achievements of the Access students and emphasizing the importance of educational exchange and mutual understanding between nations. He congratulated the incumbent Vice Chancellors Dr. Amjad Arain while acknowledging the contributions of the ex-Vice Chancellor, Professor Dr. Tayyaba Zarif, as well the Program Director, Dr. Niaz Soomro. He especially congratulated the students who achieved 100 percent attendance throughout the two-year program, recognizing their dedication and perseverance. His inspiring words resonated with the students and guests alike.
The ceremony also featured an exchange of souvenirs between the U.S. Consulate officials and GC University representatives, symbolizing the strong partnership and shared vision between the two institutions. A significant part of the event was the distribution of certificates among the Access Team members. Certificates were awarded to the Program Director, Academic Coordinator, Finance Manager, Teachers, and Teaching Assistant, recognizing their invaluable contributions to the successful implementation of the Access Program.
Adding to the celebrations, Access students shared their inspiring success stories, reflecting on their personal and academic growth during the program. The ceremony concluded with a vibrant Sindhi cultural performance by the Access students, showcasing the rich heritage and traditions of Sindh region. The event ended with a group photo followed by networking. Aishaz Amanullah