President Asif Ali Zardari has conferred the Sitara-i-Imtiaz on British-Pakistani entrepreneur and educationist Prof Dr Sarwar Muhammad Khawaja. The recognition highlights his services in education, entrepreneurship, technology, and social welfare.
The award ceremony was held at Aiwan-i-Sadr in Islamabad. Senior officials, diplomats, and lawmakers attended the event. The gathering reflected national appreciation for outstanding contributions in multiple fields.
During the event, Pakistan honours Prof Dr Sarwar Muhammad Khawaja for his long-standing work in higher education and skills development. He has also contributed to initiatives aimed at improving Pakistan’s global socio-economic image.
According to the official citation, Prof Dr Khawaja has supported education and training programmes benefiting more than 40,000 people worldwide. He has also played a role in promoting advanced learning systems and modern academic structures.
Born in Lahore in 1968, he is the founder and chairman of SK Hub, based in London. He has also served in international advisory roles, including positions linked to European institutions focused on economic and global relations.
The citation also noted his involvement in major educational projects. One key achievement includes supporting the development of Punjab’s first charter for an artificial intelligence university. This reflects growing interest in advanced technology education in Pakistan.
Speaking at the ceremony, Prof Dr Khawaja expressed gratitude for the recognition. He said Pakistan honours initiatives that focus on youth development and innovation. He also highlighted plans to strengthen Pakistan’s education sector through modern learning systems.
He announced the establishment of Pakistan’s first AI-focused university in Lahore. The institution will be named the University of Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Sciences (UAIES). It aims to provide a modern curriculum focused on future technologies.
Prof Dr Khawaja said the university will help equip Pakistani youth with global-level skills. He added that education reform is essential for long-term national progress.
The citation further highlighted his philanthropic work. This includes support for dialysis centres in Lahore and Kasur. It also includes free education programmes and skills development initiatives for women entrepreneurs.
In addition, he has worked on international collaborations promoting Pakistan’s cultural and creative sectors. These include planned partnerships in fashion education with global designers.
Throughout the ceremony, officials emphasized that Pakistan honours individuals who contribute to national development in education and innovation. The recognition reflects the country’s focus on academic progress and global engagement.
Prof Dr Khawaja’s academic background includes studies at leading global institutions such as Harvard University, Oxford University, and Cambridge University. His career reflects a blend of education, business, and social impact.
The award ceremony concluded with appreciation for his continued efforts toward education reform and youth empowerment in Pakistan.
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