Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday laid the foundation stone of the £190 million Danish University of Emerging Sciences, stating that it would be on par with the world’s leading institutions in modern sciences and applied research.

Speaking at the site review ceremony in Islamabad, the premier said that 100 acres of land had been allocated for the project, which he described as a significant step towards transforming higher education in Pakistan.

He added that the university’s £190 million funding had been transferred to the national exchequer from accounts held by the Supreme Court and would be utilized for its construction.

“The university will not only gain recognition in Pakistan but also establish itself among the top institutions globally in terms of research, applied sciences, and quality education,” he remarked.

He expressed his aspiration for the university to rival esteemed global institutions such as Stanford, Oxford, MIT, and Columbia, stating that the first section of the university would be operational by August 14, 2026.

Autonomous governance model

PM Shehbaz clarified that the Danish University would function independently, with no government intervention in its operations. Drawing a comparison to the Punjab Institute of Cardiology and Liver Transplant, he noted that a similar governance model would be adopted to ensure its autonomy and efficiency.

“The university will be managed by a foundation and governing body, ensuring transparency and excellence in education,” he stated.

The prime minister also announced the establishment of an endowment fund worth Rs10 billion, which would support meritorious students from underprivileged backgrounds. He emphasized that the university would cater to students from all socioeconomic backgrounds, with financially capable students paying fees, while intelligent yet underprivileged students, particularly girls, would receive scholarships.

Funding and financial transparency

Shehbaz Sharif also acknowledged the role of former Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa and current Chief Justice Yahya Afridi in facilitating the transfer of £190 million to the national exchequer, which would be utilized for the university’s construction.

“I am grateful to the former and current chief justices, as well as the law minister, for ensuring that this money is allocated for a project that will shape Pakistan’s future,” he said.

He reiterated the importance of higher education, emphasizing that without equipping the youth with modern scientific knowledge, Pakistan cannot achieve the progress and stature it deserves.

Commitment to academic excellence

Highlighting the vision behind the initiative, the prime minister recalled the Danish Schools project, which provided quality education to orphans and children from low-income families.

“These children, who once had no access to education, are now excelling in their fields. Similarly, Danish University will empower talented students by providing them with a world-class education,” he said.

PM Shehbaz urged Pakistani professionals and academics working abroad to collaborate in shaping the university’s academic framework and research programs.