The Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Inaugurates the Yunus Emre Institute at Allama Iqbal Open University
The Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Kaiser Ahmad Sheikh, inaugurated the Yunus Emre Institute Pakistan Chapter at Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU). According to a statement released by the Ministry of Maritime Affairs on Thursday, the event was attended by the Turkish Ambassador, the Vice Chancellor of AIOU, distinguished teachers, diplomats, cultural experts, and other prominent figures.
In his speech, Kaiser Ahmad Sheikh highlighted the key role of education in national development, citing China’s example, which lifted 700 million people out of poverty through education. He noted that it is encouraging that 50% of university students in Pakistan are women, but 26 million children are still out of school, which remains a serious challenge. He emphasized that institutions like AIOU are playing a crucial role in filling this gap and promoting educational inclusion.
He referred to the establishment of the Yunus Emre Institute as an important milestone in strengthening cultural and educational ties between Pakistan and Turkey. He said that the Yunus Emre Institute is globally renowned for promoting the Turkish language, culture, and the shared Turkish-Islamic heritage. Cooperation with AIOU will further deepen the historical relationship between the two nations and create new opportunities for cultural and educational exchanges.
The Turkish Ambassador thanked AIOU for establishing the institute and stated that it will provide an excellent platform for Pakistani students and scholars to get acquainted with Turkish culture and language. He added that this partnership is another example of the long-standing friendship and shared values between Turkey and Pakistan.
The Vice Chancellor of AIOU highlighted the university’s commitment to promoting comprehensive education and global partnerships. He expressed hope that the Yunus Emre Institute would further enhance the university’s academic and cultural environment and help students understand the deep impact of Turkish heritage and Islamic civilization.
The Yunus Emre Institute, operating under Turkey’s Ministry of Culture, has branches in over 80 countries worldwide. This newly established branch at AIOU is expected to become a center for cultural and linguistic exchange and further promote unity and mutual understanding between Pakistan and Turkey.
The event concluded with the cutting of the official ribbon, followed by a tour of the institute’s modern facilities, which provide excellent resources for language and cultural education.
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