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| Overseas Pakistanis Summer Scholars Programme 2026 (URAAN Pakistan) |
📢 2,300+ applications from 45 countries received in 2025 | Stipend up to PKR 120,000 | 6-Week & 8-Week Tracks available
📋 What is the Overseas Pakistanis Summer Scholars Programme 2026?
The Overseas Pakistanis Summer Scholars Programme, also called "Mitti Ki Pukaar", is a prestigious national internship initiative launched under the URAAN Pakistan 2035 vision. It is organized by the Ministry of Planning, Development & Special Initiatives and led forward by Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal under the vision of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
This programme is a unique opportunity for talented students of Pakistani origin studying worldwide as well as international students to reconnect with Pakistan's development journey. Participants work directly with senior government officials, policy experts, and leading public sector institutions on real-world projects in public policy, governance, innovation, and national transformation.
After an overwhelmingly successful 2025 edition that attracted over 2,300 applications from 45 countries, the programme returns in 2026 bigger and broader — ready to welcome a new generation of scholars under the Youth Ki URAAN banner.
Being part of the Ministry of Planning through this program allowed me to apply my academic background from the University of Minnesota directly to real-world frameworks, gaining an unparalleled understanding of state governance.
📚 Programme Tracks
Participants can choose between two specialized tracks:
📅 6-Week Summer Scholars Track
An intensive programme for those seeking a focused, high-impact experience in national development.
📅 8-Week Extended Track
An immersive, in-depth experience allowing greater engagement with complex national projects.
🎯 Areas of Exposure
During the programme, scholars gain hands-on experience in:
- Governance — Understand how state institutions operate and make decisions
- Development Planning — Contribute to national strategic frameworks
- Innovation — Bring global perspectives to local challenges
- Public Policy — Sit at the table where national policies are shaped
- National Transformation — Work on initiatives under the URAAN Pakistan 5Es Framework
🎁 Benefits & What You'll Gain
- Stipend: Up to PKR 120,000 for the duration of the programme
- Mentorship: Work directly under senior government officials and policy experts
- Real-World Experience: Contribute to high-impact national projects that affect millions of Pakistanis
- Professional Network: Build connections with policymakers, development experts, and fellow scholars from around the world
- Certificate: Receive official recognition from the Ministry of Planning, Development & Special Initiatives
- Roots Connection: Reconnect with your Pakistani heritage and identity while contributing to the nation's future
- CV Enhancement: Add a prestigious government internship to your professional profile
✅ Eligibility Criteria
The programme is open to:
- Students of Pakistani origin currently enrolled at universities anywhere in the world
- International students (non-Pakistani) enrolled at universities globally who have an interest in Pakistan's development
- Candidates must be currently enrolled in a degree programme (Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD) or be recent graduates
- Strong academic record and demonstrated interest in public policy, governance, or development
- Excellent communication and analytical skills
📝 How to Apply — Step-by-Step
The application process is straightforward and entirely online:
Step 1: Access the Application Form
Visit the official application link provided on the Ministry's official channels.
Step 2: Complete Your Profile
Fill in your personal details, academic background, university information, and preferred programme track (6-week or 8-week).
Step 3: Submit Supporting Documents
Upload your CV, university enrollment proof, and any other required documents as specified in the form.
Step 4: Review & Submit
Double-check all information before submitting. You'll receive a confirmation email upon successful submission.
Step 5: Selection & Onboarding
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further steps. Selected scholars will be notified before the programme start date of 1st July 2026.
📅 Key Dates at a Glance
- Applications Open: Now Open
- Last Date to Apply: 15th June 2026
- Programme Start Date: 1st July 2026
- Duration: 6 to 8 Weeks
⚠️ Important Points to Remember
- Apply Early: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis — don't wait until the deadline.
- Official Communication: All updates will come from the official Ministry email: mittikipukaar@pc.gov.pk
- Stipend Details: The stipend of up to PKR 120,000 is provided to support scholars during the programme.
- This is a national movement: The programme is part of the larger URAAN Pakistan 2035 vision aiming for a trillion-dollar economy.
- Global Reach: The 2025 edition received applications from 45 countries — expect strong competition.
📢 Your country is calling. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to work alongside senior government officials and contribute to Pakistan's trillion-dollar economy vision. Apply before 15th June 2026!
📝 Apply Now — Official Form 🌐 Ministry of Planning LinkedIn