NOP Outreach - Empowering Talent Across KPK

The National Outreach Programme (NOP) team carried out a five-day outreach drive across five major cities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa—Peshawar, Mardan, Kohat, Charsadda, and Nowshera, from 6 to 10 October 2025. The initiative aimed to engage with talented students and educators, spreading awareness about opportunities available through LUMS and the NOP Summer Coaching Session (SCS). Over the course of the visits, the team interacted with approximately 1,350 students from 13 leading educational institutions, including Islamia College University (Boys and Girls), The Fazle Haq College Mardan, Cadet College Kohat, Garrison Cadet College, and several Federal Government and Government Colleges across the region.

The sessions were designed to introduce students to LUMS and its merit- and need-based admission system through the National Outreach Programme. Representatives shared detailed insights about the university’s academic programmes, scholarship opportunities, and campus life, followed by open Q&A sessions that allowed students to clarify their queries about eligibility, applications, and progression. The outreach team also highlighted the NOP Summer Coaching Session, a flagship component of the programme that identifies and mentors high-potential students from underrepresented areas of Pakistan.

A key focus of the visit was career counselling and academic guidance, especially for pre-medical students who were introduced to a variety of disciplines beyond traditional fields. They learned about opportunities within the Syed Babar Ali School of Science and Engineering (SBASSE) and other schools at LUMS, gaining awareness of diverse pathways in pure and applied sciences. Students from FA backgrounds were also encouraged to explore the Mushtaq Ahmad Gurmani School of Humanities and Social Sciences (MGSHSS), which offers robust programmes in economics, politics, history, and related areas.

The team further explained that the first year at LUMS allows students to explore courses across all disciplines before selecting a major—an approach that supports informed decision-making and fosters interdisciplinary learning. This flexibility resonated strongly with the students, many of whom expressed appreciation for the chance to design their academic journey according to their evolving interests and goals.

The outreach drive also strengthened institutional relationships across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Several principals and head teachers, particularly from institutions that were visited for the first time, showed keen interest in future collaboration with LUMS and the NOP Centre. Their enthusiasm underscored a growing recognition of the programme’s role in expanding access to quality higher education.

A special emphasis throughout the campaign was placed on encouraging female participation. In every city visited, sessions actively engaged young women, motivating them to pursue higher education opportunities beyond their hometowns. The response from female students was overwhelmingly positive, reflecting both ambition and readiness to apply for the upcoming NOP cycle.

The visit concluded with an overwhelming sense of curiosity and motivation among the students, who were inspired to dream bigger, aim higher, and work with purpose. By connecting with schools, educators, and aspiring scholars across KPK, this outreach reaffirmed LUMS’ commitment to inclusivity, merit, and excellence—ensuring that no capable student is held back by financial or geographic barriers.