Ali Hamza:
QUETTA: In a major boost to higher education accessibility in rural Pakistan, 55 intermediate students from District Chagai have been selected for fully funded scholarships under the RDMC Scholarship Program. The initiative sponsors a comprehensive six-month Foundation Program at the prestigious Institute of Business Administration (IBA) Sukkur, serving as a strategic stepping stone to university admissions.
The formal award ceremony took place at the Reko Diq project site, gathering scholars, parents, local community leaders, and senior executives from the Reko Diq Mining Company (RDMC). The event marked the official launch of the program’s second cohort, which is designed to bridge foundational learning gaps for regional students aiming to enter Pakistan’s top universities.
Empowers Local Youth to Lead Regional Growth
Addressing the new scholars, Ryan Mitchell, General Manager of the Reko Diq Project, highlighted the long-term impact of investing in local talent.
”Your success will not only be a personal achievement but also a contribution to the progress and prosperity of your communities and the wider region,” Mitchell emphasized. “This opportunity comes with the responsibility to pursue excellence and use your education to create positive change.”
Mitchell expressed gratitude to IBA Sukkur Vice Chancellor Dr. Asif Shaikh and the RDMC Sustainability team for their continuous collaboration in executing the preparatory track for a second consecutive year.
Strong Track Record: 42 Scholars Enrolled in 2025
The scholarship model has already demonstrated measurable educational success. Stephen Herb, Sustainability Manager at RDMC, revealed key outcomes from the inaugural batch:
42 students from the 2025 inaugural cohort successfully secured competitive university admissions across Pakistan.
The six-month prep course significantly boosts student performance in standardized entrance exams.
100% of tuition, boarding, and learning resources are covered under the RDMC corporate social responsibility (CSR) framework.
”Education builds stronger and more resilient communities,” Herb noted during the ceremony. “Every student here has earned this opportunity through dedication and hard work, supported by families who believe in the transformative power of learning.”
