Scholarship Inception History

The First Scholar Dr Sher Zaman Award for Academic Excellence is launched by Asif Ali in honor of Dr. Sher Zaman who was a pioneer in education, becoming the first PhD from Hunza and setting a precedent for academic excellence in the region. His dedication to knowledge, research, and intellectual growth not only elevated his own journey but also inspired generations to pursue higher education. His achievements symbolized the power of perseverance and learning, proving that individuals from even the most remote areas can excel on a global stage.

This scholarship aims to support and motivate exceptional students who demonstrate outstanding academic potential, resilience, and a commitment to learning. By investing in the next generation of scholars, we seek to empower bright minds, foster a culture of meritocracy, and ensure that education remains a driving force for progress in our community.

Scholarship Introduction

Dr. Sher Zaman, born in 1932 in Dorkhun, Hunza, was a visionary scholar and esteemed bureaucrat who left an indelible mark on the intellectual and administrative landscape of Gilgit-Baltistan. He holds the distinction of being the first PhD scholar from the region, a monumental achievement at a time when access to higher education was a significant challenge for the people of Hunza. He pursued his doctoral studies at Tehran University, demonstrating exceptional academic brilliance and an unwavering commitment to education. His journey from a small mountainous village to becoming a highly respected academic and public servant serves as an inspiration for generations to come.

Beyond his academic accomplishments, Dr. Sher Zaman dedicated his life to public service, making remarkable contributions to the governance and development of Gilgit-Baltistan. As a bureaucrat, he played a crucial role in administrative reforms and policy-making, ensuring that his region received the attention and development it needed. His honesty, integrity, and dedication to social progress earned him the admiration of colleagues and the community alike. He remained a strong advocate for education, often emphasizing the need for the youth of Hunza and Gilgit-Baltistan to pursue knowledge as a means of empowerment and self-reliance.

Dr. Sher Zaman's legacy extends far beyond his own achievements; he paved the way for future scholars, leaders, and change-makers in Gilgit-Baltistan. His commitment to meritocracy, transparency, and education continues to inspire initiatives aimed at improving access to quality education in the region. In recognition of his unparalleled contributions, sowEH has launched "The First Scholar Dr. Sher Zaman Award for Academic Excellence" to honor his memory and encourage students to follow in his footsteps. Dr. Zaman passed away in Islamabad, leaving behind a legacy of knowledge, service, and dedication that remains a guiding light for many.

Scholarship Description

The First Scholar Dr. Sher Zaman Award for Academic Excellence is established to honor the remarkable contributions of Dr. Sher Zaman, the first PhD scholar from Hunza. His pioneering achievements in academia and public service laid the foundation for educational growth and intellectual advancement in Gilgit-Baltistan. This scholarship serves as a tribute to his unwavering dedication to education, meritocracy, and social progress, with the aim of inspiring and supporting the next generation of scholars from the region. It ensures that talented students, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds, have the opportunity to pursue education and excel in their chosen fields.

Designed for high-achieving students from the region, the scholarship supports those with exceptional academic potential, intellectual curiosity, and a commitment to community development. It focuses on individuals pursuing education in any field with meritocracy, enabling them to access quality education without the burden of financial constraints. The scholarship provides financial assistance based on a combination of merit and financial need, ensuring that students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance and leadership qualities can achieve their educational and professional goals, regardless of their financial circumstances.

By recognizing and rewarding academic excellence, this scholarship encourages students to remain dedicated and ambitious in their academic pursuits. It empowers future leaders by providing them with the resources and opportunities to contribute positively to their communities and society at large. Supporting students, the scholarship helps create long-term opportunities for personal and professional growth, all while carrying forward the legacy of Dr. Sher Zaman. It promotes the values of education, service, and community development, ultimately investing in the brighter future of our region.

Scholarship Criteria & Eligibility

All students, from Hunza region, are eligible to apply for this scholarship irrespective of their, gender, race, religion and caste. Following are the details of the scholarship.

• Region & Reach: This scholarship is available to students who hold domicile of Hunza irrespective of their current residency and within the GB region.
• Value of the Scholarship: The value of the scholarship is full tuition fee or maximum of PKR 4,000/- which ever is minimum.
• Number of Scholarships: The number of scholarship will be updated in due course of time.
• Level of Education: SSC and HSSC any field.
• Eligibility Criteria: minimum 65% in previous standard, e.g. if any one applying for 9th class they should have minimum 65% in 8th standard.

Note: We kindly request all to contribute to this scholarship to help make it a success. Every contribution, no matter the size, is valuable and will grow into a strong foundation that benefits future generations. It's not the amount that matters, but the number of supporters. Contribute today!

How to Apply

Following are the steps and required documents to apply for the scholarship.

• Collect the scholarship application form from your school office.
• Carefully read all instructions and fill out the relevant sections of the form.
• Have your headteacher or head of institute complete their designated section.
• All completed applications should be sealed in a single envelope by the school and sent to us.

Note: The same application form is used for all scholarship categories. Please fill in only the sections that apply to the specific scholarship you are applying for.