Rawal International University Breaks Ground: Foundation Stone Laid by Mr. Khaan Waheed Khawaja
Islamabad, The Gulf Observer: In a landmark event, Khaqan Waheed Khawaja, Chairman of Pakistan Awami Quwat, renowned businessman, and philanthropist, inaugurated the groundbreaking ceremony and laid the foundation stone of Rawal International University in Islamabad. Attended by dignitaries, esteemed educationists, and professionals from the higher education sector, the ceremony also welcomed residents from Islamabad, Murree, Kotli Sattian, and Kashmir. The establishment of Rawal International University marks a transformative step in the academic landscape of rural Islamabad, promising to bring top-tier higher education to communities traditionally underserved in this area.
During his inaugural address, Mr. Khaqan Waheed Khawaja emphasized the importance of establishing a state-of-the-art institution to fulfill the educational needs of the residents in rural Islamabad and nearby areas. Reflecting on his journey as a 2024 General Elections candidate from NA-48, he shared how his campaign revealed the educational gaps and lack of accessible higher education facilities in these regions. This pressing need inspired Mr. Khaqan Waheed Khawaja to mobilize a team of dedicated professionals to work towards Rawal International University’s establishment.
Mr. Khaqan Waheed Khawaja further highlighted the university’s mission to foster critical thinking, research, and sustainable development across various fields. The university is designed with a vision that goes beyond conventional academics, aiming to become a hub for research, innovation, and global knowledge-sharing. He stressed the importance of bridging local and global academic knowledge through cross-disciplinary research, enabling students and professionals to compete and collaborate internationally. Mr. Khawaja outlined that the university’s curriculum and goals align with international standards, reinforcing Pakistan Awami Quwat’s commitment to education as a foundational pillar for national progress.
Expanding on Pakistan Awami Quwat’s manifesto, Mr. Khawaja also underscored other key areas of focus, such as healthcare, skills development, and economic empowerment. He introduced the “Pakistan Awami Health Care Card” initiative, reflecting the party’s dedication to ensuring quality healthcare access to all, leaving no one behind from quality health care. Rawal Hospital, a significant part of this initiative, will play a significant role in enhancing healthcare services for local residents, supporting the party’s holistic approach to education, health, and economic progress.
Prominent guests and speakers at the event echoed Mr. Khaqan Waheed Khawaja’s sentiments. Professor Dr. Muhammad Shakeel Ahmad, Rector of Internationalization at Rawal Institute of Health Sciences, spoke to the media about Rawal International University’s potential as a future hub for international academic collaboration. Dr. Shakeel outlined the university’s internationalization strategy, which will enable its graduates to actively contribute on a global level. Through Rawal International University’s partnerships with international institutions, Dr. Shakeel envisions a networked learning environment where students can gain diverse perspectives and experiences. He noted that the university’s strategic plan aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), supported by the Global Strategic Institute for Sustainable Development (GSISD), a think tank dedicated to sustainable development in Pakistan.
Mr. Nader Jan, Secretary General of GSISD, also spoke at the event, emphasizing the importance of Rawal International University’s role in setting a new standard for integrating sustainability with higher education. He remarked that this approach presents a transformative model for future institutions in Pakistan, providing a blueprint for academic excellence that contributes to both local and global development. Mr. Jan emphasized the need for higher education institutions in Pakistan to adapt and lead in sustainable development, creating a positive impact on society and enabling Pakistan to emerge as a key player in the global academic community.
The inauguration of Rawal International University was met with widespread appreciation from academics, professionals, and local residents. Attendees expressed their gratitude to Mr. Khaqan Waheed Khawaja and Pakistan Awami Quwat for their unwavering commitment to opening this premier institution, which promises to uplift the educational standards for the youth of rural Islamabad and surrounding areas. Community members celebrated the establishment of Rawal International University as a beacon of progress, foreseeing that it will offer new opportunities for learning and innovation, fostering a brighter future for generations to come.
