Istanbul: Pakistan's educational diplomacy reaches historic new heights at EURIE 2026 

Istanbul (Web Desk): Pakistan marked a significant milestone in global academic engagement at the global academic stage during the Eurasia Higher Education Summit (EURIE) 2026 in Istanbul, presenting itself as a confident and progressive contributor to international higher education discourse.

Recognized as one of the world’s prominent academic forums, the summit gathered participants from 61 countries, bringing together more than 380 universities and higher education institutions, alongside ministers, policymakers, and senior academic figures.

Representing Pakistan was a strong delegation organized by the Association of Private Sector Universities of Pakistan (APSUP), which included 42 delegates from 17 leading universities, along with representation from OIC-COMSTECH.

This unified presence highlighted the country’s increasing cohesion and self-assurance within the higher education landscape.

A major highlight of the event was the keynote speech by Professor Dr. Sumaira Rehman, Rector of Superior University and a member of the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan (HECP).

As the only woman delivering a keynote at the opening session, she offered a powerful account of Pakistan’s academic journey and its aspirations on the global front.

Speaking on the theme “Leading with Character,” she said that Pakistan has a meaningful story to share struck a chord with the international audience.

Dr Sumaira Rehman presented a leadership model inspired by the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). 

She stressed that while technical skills remain essential, the future of education must focus on nurturing individuals with strong ethical foundations and a sense of responsibility.

Presenting Pakistan’s forward-thinking approach, she introduced the “Leading with Character” model, promoting an education system that balances academic achievement with moral values.

A standout moment of the summit came with the keynote address by Professor Dr. Sumaira Rehman, Rector of Superior University and a member of the Higher Education Commission (HEC). 

Her address resonated strongly with the audience and concluded with a standing ovation. 

Dr Sumaira emphasized that universities must move beyond the traditional role of granting degrees and instead nurture individuals grounded in strong moral values who are capable of bringing positive change to society. 

She also underscored that Pakistan holds a compelling story that merits greater recognition on the global stage.

The summit further paved the way for stronger academic ties between Pakistan and Türkiye. 

Following her address, the Pakistani delegation held a high-level meeting with Prof. Dr. Erol Özvar, President of Türkiye’s Council of Higher Education (YÖK).

Discussions centered on enhancing bilateral cooperation through educational diplomacy and widening collaboration in research, innovation, and academic mobility.

Both sides considered avenues for joint research programs, exchange opportunities for students and faculty, and sharing technological expertise. Prof. Dr. Özvar also invited Pakistani universities to take part in Türkiye’s 500 Research Projects Initiative, paving the way for deeper academic engagement.

The meeting also included an invitation from APSUP leadership for a senior-level visit to Pakistan, reflecting a shared intent to sustain and expand cooperation.

Pakistan’s presence was further acknowledged by representatives from leading academic bodies across the Arab and Eurasian regions, many of whom expressed interest in establishing long-term partnerships with Pakistani institutions.

Throughout the summit, the Pakistan Pavilion remained a focal point of interaction, drawing considerable attention from international participants.

It served as a space for dialogue and collaboration, where several memorandums of understanding and potential joint initiatives were discussed with institutions from Europe, Asia, and the Americas.

Overall, Pakistan’s participation in EURIE 2026 underscored the growing role of educational diplomacy in shaping its international engagement.

Through active involvement, intellectual contribution, and constructive dialogue, the country not only highlighted its academic progress but also positioned itself as an emerging force in the global higher education arena.

Experts believe the summit has demonstrated that Pakistan is no longer only a country that acquires knowledge but has also become a nation that contributes to and shares knowledge globally.

The efforts of Dr. Sumera Rehman and Dr. Chaudhry Abdul Rehman highlighted Pakistan’s growing soft power, showcasing its increasing role in global policy dialogue and thought leadership.