The National Outreach Programme (NOP) team visited five cities , Abbottabad, Mansehra, Haripur, Qalandarabad, and Havelian, engaging with over 1,000 students across 14 institutions. The outreach aimed to raise awareness about the LUMS National Outreach Programme (NOP), scholarship opportunities, and pathways to higher education through merit and need-based support.

The team conducted interactive information sessions at leading institutions including Abbottabad Public School, Peace College, Tameer-i-Wattan Schools and Colleges, GPGC Mansehra, and GPGC Haripur. The sessions highlighted LUMS’ academic excellence, inclusive community, and the transformative potential of a world-class education.

Students were introduced to life at LUMS’ residential campus, where learning extends beyond classrooms through eight distinct residential halls that foster belonging, collaboration, and personal growth. They were encouraged to see campus life as a “home away from home,” where diverse interactions and extracurricular engagement help shape future leaders.

The sessions also emphasized global opportunities and career pathways. Participants learned about LUMS’ extensive international partnerships with over 200 universities worldwide, enabling student exchanges and cross-cultural learning. Additionally, the Office of Career Services (OCS) was highlighted for connecting students with more than 400 national and multinational employers through internships and job placements, offering direct routes to impactful careers.

The visits strengthened ties with new and existing institutions, inspiring students to dream beyond geographical limits and aim for excellence through education. The NOP team’s engagement reaffirmed LUMS’ commitment to accessible, quality higher education for talented youth across Pakistan.
 

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.

The National Outreach Programme (NOP) at LUMS recently conducted an extensive outreach tour across seven cities in Gilgit-Baltistan, engaging directly with over 1,030 students across 18 schools and colleges. The purpose of this visit was to create awareness about the LUMS NOP, guide students on the Summer Coaching Session (SCS) application process and provide in-depth career counselling to help them envision their future in higher education.

Reaching Across Cities and Institutions

The outreach began in Gilgit, where the team held sessions at The Learning Academy, Colonel Mujeeb ur Rehman Public School and College Jutial Gilgit, and AKHSS Boys, reaching over 200 students. The journey continued to Hunza, where the team visited FG College Girls, AKHSS Girls, and the Government Boys Degree College, engaging with both male and female students equally.

In Jaglot, interactions were conducted at FG Inter College and Cadet College, followed by an impactful day in Shigar, which included sessions at Inter College Shigar and the Degree College for Women. The outreach expanded further to Kharmang, where both the Government Boys and Government Girls Colleges were addressed, as well as at Uswa College Boys.

The visit to Skardu included engagements at the Public School and College for Girls and Uswa College Girls, while the final leg in Khaplu covered Public School and College Boys, Public School and College Girls, and the Government Degree College. These interactions ensured a balanced focus on both boys’ and girls’ institutions.

 Key Highlights

• The outreach included the first-ever visit to Roundu, marking a significant milestone in extending NOP’s presence to under-represented areas of Gilgit-Baltistan.
• A formal meeting was held with the Minister of Planning and Development of Gilgit-Baltistan, who assured full collaboration with government educational institutions to support and expand the NOP initiative.
• At AKHSS Schools, the team conducted a special session with 10 students already selected for the SCS 2025, guiding them as they prepare for their LUMS admission applications this year.
• A LUMS student from Khaplu assisted the team in coordinating local sessions, sharing his personal story of becoming an NOP scholar, and inspiring his juniors to follow the same path.
• Dedicated career counselling was provided for pre-medical students, focusing on the structure of the BS Biology programme at LUMS. Students were introduced to how the degree blends fundamental sciences and mathematics with advanced areas such as molecular biology, genetics, and computational biology, while also offering flexibility through electives and a senior research project.
• Teachers and student counsellors were given hands-on training on completing the SCS 2026 application to ensure they could effectively guide their students.
• Students were motivated through alumni success stories and inspired by personal testimonials from NOP SCS 2024 participants, who were invited to share their journeys and experiences with new candidates preparing for SCS 2025.
   

Impact

By directly engaging 1,030 students across 18 institutions, this outreach reaffirmed the mission of the LUMS National Outreach Programme: to provide equitable access to quality higher education for talented youth from across Pakistan. The sessions not only equipped students with practical knowledge about admissions and career options but also inspired them with real stories of resilience and success. The support of local educators, alumni, and government representatives underscores the collective commitment to expanding opportunities for the youth of Gilgit-Baltistan.
 

The Start…

The NOP Summer Coaching Session (SCS) 2025 commenced with great enthusiasm and renewed purpose, welcoming shortlisted students to the LUMS campus from 28^th July to 11^th August 2025. This year, the NOP achieved a significant milestone by receiving close to 12,000 applications through the NOP Online Application System, now in its seventh year.  This overwhelming response is a testament to the programme’s growing impact and reach. After a meticulous verification process, 684 participants from across Pakistan were invited to join the session, with 603 of them eagerly making their way to the LUMS campus.
This year, the structure and depth of the academic programme were greatly enhanced. While English and Mathematics remained the core components of instruction, several enriching modules were added, including School of Education (SOE), Critical Thinking, Capacity Building, Presentation Skills, Communication Skills, and Digital Literacy, Verbal and Non-Verbal Communications and Professional Grooming. This multidimensional curriculum not only supported preparation for the LUMS Common Admission Test (LCAT) but also offered holistic academic and personal development. The diversity of subjects, instructors, and pedagogical styles provided participants with a rigorous and fulfilling learning experience.

Powering the Experience

Behind the scenes of this transformative experience was a team of over 60 LUMS volunteers, comprising current students and alumni who arrived a week in advance to ensure everything was ready for the participants. These volunteers played a pivotal role in running the programme smoothly, undertaking critical responsibilities that spanned attendance monitoring, hostel supervision, classroom support, activity facilitation, medical facilitation and peer mentoring. Their dedication set the tone for a welcoming and disciplined environment where each student could thrive.

Participants hailed from a vast array of towns, cities, and villages across Pakistan, representing the ethnic, linguistic, and cultural diversity of the country. The NOP Centre ensured inclusivity in its selection process, with a visible representation from minority communities and underserved regions, such as Balochistan, Gilgit-Baltistan, Waziristan, and Interior Sindh. For the first in the history of NOP SCS 2025, a member of Sikh community was part of the said activity. Living together, learning together, and engaging in co-curricular activities allowed students to form bonds of empathy, friendship, and shared purpose.

Academic and Personal Growth

Over the course of two weeks, students demonstrated remarkable growth in both academic capability and soft skills. The structured curriculum and rigorous pace of the session helped students sharpen their quantitative reasoning and language comprehension. More importantly, they were encouraged to question, analyze, and articulate, skills essential to thrive in a university setting like LUMS.

Significant learning outcomes included improvements in mathematical logic, problem-solving abilities, reading comprehension, and verbal reasoning. A deliberate focus on interactive learning, through discussions, debates, group presentations, and case-based instruction, helped students become more confident and expressive. The module on Critical Thinking fostered an inquisitive mindset, while Digital Literacy, Verbal and Non Verbal Communication, Professional Grooming and Capacity Building equipped participants with skills essential in the modern academic and professional landscape.
In addition to classroom instruction, three examinations were conducted at different intervals during the programme. These assessments not only tracked academic progress but also familiarized students with the format and pressure of timed tests, further preparing them for LCAT and other competitive assessments.

Holistic Development through Activities

Understanding that learning extends beyond the classroom, SCS 2025 offered a rich menu of co-curricular activities that fostered creativity, confidence, collaboration, and well-being. These included:

• “Challenge Your Talent”: A gameshow-style academic event that tested the students’ knowledge and response time in a fun, high-energy environment.
• Cultural and Drama Night: A colorful celebration of Pakistan’s rich heritage where students performed regional dances, short plays, and musical renditions.
• Sports Gala: A physically engaging event that promoted health, sportsmanship, and teamwork through friendly competitions in various sports disciplines.
   

Such experiences proved invaluable in instilling a sense of community among participants. They were not just spectators, but active contributors to each event, showcasing talents and discovering new interests. The cultural exchange that occurred through these platforms helped students appreciate the plurality of their shared Pakistani identity.

Measuring Impact

At the end of the session, a detailed feedback survey was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the programme. 
The results indicated a highly positive response. Students reported that the content was well-structured, intellectually stimulating, and relevant to their academic journeys. Many expressed that they had never been exposed to such interactive and immersive learning before. The survey responses highlighted:

• Increased clarity in subject fundamentals (especially in English and Math)
• Boost in self-confidence and public speaking skills
• Improved peer collaboration and communication
• Greater exposure to digital tools and learning platforms
• Appreciation for the diversity, inclusivity, and overall environment at LUMS through professional grooming
   

This feedback will be instrumental in shaping the design and delivery of future coaching sessions.

Acknowledging the Pillars of Success

The seamless execution of the NOP SCS 2025 was only possible through the tireless efforts of LUMS administrative departments and stakeholders who provided their support at every stage of the planning and execution process. Departments such as Procurement, Housing, IST, Finance, Medical Centre, Facilities and Engineering, Vigilance, GAS, the Office of Admissions, and the Office of Financial Aid played critical roles in logistics, safety, classroom preparation, financial tracking, medical support, and hostel management.

A particularly heartfelt acknowledgment goes to the volunteers whose dedication, leadership, and compassion elevated the entire programme experience. Their tireless work behind the scenes ensured that every student had a safe, comfortable, and memorable stay at LUMS.

Recommendations for Future Sessions

The 2025 feedback and internal reflections suggest the following recommendations to enhance future coaching sessions:
Academic Enhancements:

• Extend the coaching session duration to 25–30 days, which would allow students to engage with the content more deeply and steadily.
• Allocate dedicated time for examination preparation and focused revision blocks toward the end of the programme.
  Non-Academic Improvements:
• Adjust the daily timetable to include more breaks for rest and refreshment, enhancing student productivity.
• Expand menu options with better vegetarian meals and more varied daily dishes to accommodate dietary preferences.
• Increase the frequency of motivational alumni talks and mentorship sessions.
• Introduce a targeted track for pre-medical students to cater to their academic orientation.
• Launch outreach initiatives in underserved colleges to encourage more students to apply to NOP in coming years.

Looking Ahead

The NOP Summer Coaching Session 2025 will be remembered as a deeply impactful experience for all involved. From the meticulous planning stages to the final day of farewells, the session reflected LUMS’ unwavering commitment to equity, excellence, and empowerment through education. The programme not only prepared students for academic challenges ahead but also ignited within them the belief that they belong in spaces of opportunity, leadership, and change.

We now look forward to seeing how these bright, determined individuals will carry forward the values and skills gained during this programme. Their stories are just beginning, and the NOP Centre is proud to have played a foundational role in shaping their paths.
 

The National Outreach Programme (NOP) remains committed to its mission of expanding access to quality education for students from underprivileged backgrounds. This year’s outreach marked a significant milestone—the first-ever visit to Larkana since the NOP Centre began its extensive outreach efforts. From Larkana to Karachi, the NOP team engaged with over 2,200 students, introducing them to the transformative potential of the NOP scholarship, which offers fully funded higher education opportunities at LUMS.

Through strategic collaborations with educational institutions, libraries, and welfare organizations, the team worked tirelessly to ensure that deserving students, especially those from remote areas, are empowered to pursue higher education and unlock new career possibilities.
 

Reaching Larkana & Surrounding Areas

The journey began in Larkana at Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Girls Cadet College, where nearly 600-800 students attended an awareness session. The principal and vice-principal emphasized the importance of such initiatives in bridging educational gaps in Sindh.

The outreach continued at Government College Boys and Girls Kamber, where students from humble backgrounds displayed great enthusiasm for the scholarship program. Female students, in particular, were highly motivated to apply, recognizing NOP as a gateway to prestigious higher education.

At SZABIST College Larkana, students actively participated in discussions, seeking clarity on eligibility criteria and the application process. The team then visited Government Boys Degree College Larkana and BNB College Girls Larkana, where large numbers of students from underprivileged backgrounds were introduced to the possibilities of higher education through NOP.

A particularly crucial visit was made to Government College Girls Nasirabad, which serves students from highly remote areas with limited access to education. Many female students, often facing societal barriers to higher education, expressed deep interest in the scholarship, seeing it as a life-changing opportunity.

At Sir Shah Nawaz Bhutto Memorial Library, over 300 students preparing for their intermediate exams attended an NOP session. The library administration offered its venue for future seminars, enabling NOP to further engage with students, NGOs, and educators from suburban areas.

EduClan Expo – Engaging Tando Ghulam Ali

The EduClan Expo in Tando Ghulam Ali marked NOP’s fifth Open Day participation in Sindh. The event was hosted at two Government Boys and Girls Colleges, but it attracted students from across the city, broadening the reach of NOP’s message. The team introduced 350-400 students to the scholarship, reinforcing NOP’s reputation as one of Pakistan’s leading undergraduate scholarship programs.

Karachi & Expanding the Network

In Karachi, the NOP team collaborated with educational institutions and welfare organizations to strengthen its outreach.

At Khadija Foundation College (Korangi), the principal, Ms. Nusrah, expressed strong support for the initiative and pledged to assist students in completing their applications.

A major milestone was achieved at JDC IT City, one of Karachi’s largest free IT education centers. Here, the team conducted sessions for students from marginalized communities, including those from Gilgit-Baltistan residing in Karachi. A collaboration between JDC and NOP was established, ensuring long-term outreach to students pursuing higher education in diverse fields.

The outreach extended to Chiniot Islamia College and Aga Khan Higher Secondary College, Kharadar, where faculty members commended NOP’s efforts and committed to guiding their students through the application process.

At Kiran Foundation in Lyari, NOP reinforced its commitment to supporting students from underserved communities. Likewise, Tassawur e Umeed Foundation (TUF) pledged to introduce NOP to local government bodies across Balochistan, ensuring that even students in hard-to-reach regions, including children of incarcerated parents, gain access to higher education opportunities.

Impact & The Road Ahead

With a total reach of 2,200+ students, this outreach effort marks a significant step toward bridging the gap between talent and opportunity. By forming strategic partnerships with educational institutions, libraries, and NGOs, NOP is ensuring that students from even the most remote and underserved areas have the resources, guidance, and opportunities needed to pursue higher education.

As NOP continues its mission, the journey doesn’t stop here. The team remains committed to expanding its footprint across Sindh and beyond, empowering students to transform their futures through education and excellence.

The LUMS National Outreach Programme (NOP) remains dedicated to identifying and supporting talented students from across Pakistan. This year, the NOP Centre successfully conducted its fifth Open Day in Quetta at Serena Hotel, Qila Saifullah, drawing a remarkable turnout of students, parents, and educators eager to explore higher education opportunities.

Engaging Sessions and Outreach

The event featured three interactive sessions, attended by around 1,000 participants from matriculation to university levels. Students and their families engaged in discussions about academic growth, scholarship opportunities, and the admission process at LUMS.

A key highlight was the strong participation of female students, who demonstrated a keen interest in understanding the role of LUMS in shaping their academic futures. The sessions provided guidance on LCAT preparation, an overview of fully funded scholarships, and insights into how financial constraints should not be a barrier to quality education.

Addressing Information Gaps

Many students from underserved areas of Balochistan were previously unaware of fully funded opportunities at LUMS. The event played a crucial role in bridging this knowledge gap by equipping them with clear information on the NOP Scholarship, its benefits, and the application process. Participants left with greater confidence in pursuing higher education at a top-tier institution.

Showcasing LUMS Research Excellence

Students also had the opportunity to learn about innovative research projects at LUMS, including a study at the RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science, which explores how ethanol can help plants survive drought conditions. Additionally, the sessions highlighted a PKR 12 million research grant awarded to Dr. Shaper Mirza’s team to study immune responses to COVID-19, demonstrating LUMS’ impact on global scientific advancements.

Expanding Reach

In addition to the Open Day, the NOP team visited five schools in Quetta to reach students who could not attend the main event. A significant step forward was LUMS' first-ever collaboration with Quetta Book Café, where students from Mariabad explored scholarship opportunities and received career guidance. The session was well received, with parents actively participating in discussions about their children’s educational futures.

With this successful outreach, LUMS continues to bring higher education within reach for talented students across Pakistan. As the journey progresses, more students from Balochistan and beyond will have the opportunity to turn their aspirations into reality.

The National Outreach Programme continues to bridge the gap between talented students and higher education opportunities, expanding its reach to Chiniot and Samundri. This recent outreach initiative engaged with 980 students across 15 colleges in five cities, ensuring that promising students, particularly those from underrepresented regions, are well-informed about the NOP Summer Coaching Session 2025 and the academic pathways available at LUMS.

This year’s outreach focused on diversifying academic awareness by encouraging students from social sciences backgrounds to apply. Dedicated in-class sessions provided insights into emerging disciplines, new minor programmes, and career prospects, ensuring that students explore all available options.

The response from school and college administrations was overwhelmingly positive. Notable educators, including Mr. Naveed Akhtar, Mr. Atif Ejaz, and Mr. Farukh Zafar, extended a warm welcome to the NOP team, emphasizing the need for such initiatives in their institutions. Their enthusiasm reinforced the impact of NOP in bridging educational gaps and nurturing aspirations among students.

One of the event’s most inspiring moments was hearing from participants of NOP SCS 2024, who took the stage to share their firsthand experiences of studying at LUMS and being part of the NOP journey. Their testimonials offered attendees a glimpse into the transformative power of the programme. As a token of appreciation, attendees were awarded souvenirs, commemorating their participation and engagement.

For institutions visited for the first time, this session sparked great interest in LUMS and the NOP initiative. Faculty and administration members expressed their eagerness to establish long-term collaborations, ensuring that more students from their institutions benefit from fully funded higher education opportunities at LUMS.

With each outreach, the NOP Programme reaffirms its commitment to fostering equal educational opportunities, empowering students, and shaping futures—one institution at a time.

The LUMS National Outreach Programme (NOP) recently conducted sessions across five cities, engaging with over a thousand students from fourteen colleges. These sessions provided students from underserved areas with valuable information about the NOP Scholarship, addressing concerns about eligibility, the application process, and financial assistance.

The outreach visits to Hasilpur, Chishtian, Vehari, Burewala, and Bahawalnagar highlighted the need for greater awareness regarding higher education opportunities. Many students and teachers expressed that they had limited access to career counseling and were previously unaware that top universities like LUMS offer fully funded scholarships for deserving candidates. By bridging this gap, the sessions empowered students to make informed decisions about their academic futures.

The discussions also dispelled a common misconception among students that financial constraints would prevent them from accessing quality education. Real-life success stories were shared, illustrating how talented individuals from similar backgrounds had secured a place at LUMS through the NOP Scholarship. These stories served as a source of encouragement, reinforcing that merit and determination hold far greater value than financial circumstances.

Aspiring medical students were particularly engaged in discussions about research at SBASSE, where faculty members are exploring groundbreaking discoveries. One such development is the identification of a protein named LUMS-1, which inhibits the replication of HIV and Hepatitis C viruses. Learning about such advancements opened new perspectives for students interested in contributing to medical research and innovation.

The outreach sessions also provided an opportunity to clarify concerns regarding financial verification, the application process, and the summer coaching session. Addressing these queries ensured that students were better prepared for their applications, reducing uncertainties that could hinder their participation in the scholarship program.

Access to education should be based on potential rather than financial background. Through initiatives like these, LUMS continues to foster a culture of equal opportunity, where academic excellence remains the defining factor for success.

The recent outreach efforts of the NOP Team have marked another significant milestone in South Punjab, encompassing 15 colleges across five cities—Multan, Shujabad, Khanewal, Lodhran, and Layyah. With 1,475 students engaged, this initiative reflects our dedication to fostering educational opportunities in some of the most promising communities in the region.

This year, our physical presence was reestablished in Layyah after several years, emphasizing our commitment to inclusivity and broader access. For the first time, we connected with institutions whose administration showed tremendous enthusiasm for the NOP program and its vision for higher education.

The in-class sessions captivated students, including those with pre-medical backgrounds, by unveiling the vast opportunities within LUMS’ programmes at SBASSE. At the same time, students from social sciences were motivated to explore a rich array of academic and career prospects at LUMS, expanding their horizons and aspirations.

The hospitality of stakeholders, including Mr. Naeem Arif, Mr. Anees Rao, Mr. Shahbaz, Ms. Sadia, and others, was overwhelming. Their collaboration made these sessions even more impactful. These efforts not only cultivated awareness but inspired confidence among students to aim for academic excellence at LUMS.
 

With every visit, we continue to spark ambition and provide pathways for success, ensuring that talent in South Punjab is met with opportunities to thrive.
 

The NOP Centre recently concluded an impactful outreach tour, visiting six cities and engaging with 15 educational institutions, connecting with 1,030 students. This year marked a significant milestone as the outreach team visited Zahir Pir, Kot Mithan, and Jampur for the very first time, further broadening the horizons of the National Outreach Programme.

Of the 15 schools and colleges visited, eight were new institutions, signaling our commitment to expanding opportunities for students across diverse regions. Students from both FA and pre-medical backgrounds were encouraged to explore the dynamic academic offerings at LUMS, including programs at the Mushtaq Ahmad Gurmani School of Humanities and Social Sciences (MGSHSS) and the Syed Babar Ali School of Science and Engineering (SBASSE). Career counseling sessions illuminated paths to pure sciences and other fields, opening doors for students to envision new futures.

In a memorable gesture, participants from SCS 2024 were invited on stage to share their inspiring stories with juniors, motivating them to pursue the National Outreach Programme and realize their potential. LUMS souvenirs, including T-shirts, were distributed to the students as a token of encouragement.

Another notable achievement of this outreach was the collaborative session with the Daanish School Head Office. This meeting has laid the foundation for streamlining future visits to other Daanish campuses, ensuring a lasting impact on students from these institutions.

The outreach highlighted LUMS' unwavering commitment to fostering education equity, cultivating talent, and empowering Pakistan’s brightest young minds. Together, we aim to create a community of learners and leaders ready to shape the future.