Hyderabad's First Public Degree-Awarding Institution Inaugurated by Education Minister Siddiqui

On November 27, 2024, Hyderabad celebrated a significant milestone with the inauguration of its first public degree-awarding institution, the Hyderabad Institute for Technology and Management Sciences. This long-awaited establishment marks a pivotal moment for the residents of Hyderabad, who have been yearning for a public university for over seven decades. The ceremony took place in Kohsar, Hyderabad, and was officiated by the Federal Minister for Education and chairman of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P), Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui.

During his address, Siddiqui emphasized the historical importance of this event, stating, "It took more than 70 years for the people of Hyderabad to finally receive a degree-awarding public institution." He expressed that while a public university is a fundamental right for the citizens of Hyderabad, it had unfortunately transformed into a mere demand and then a distant dream. However, with the inauguration of this institution, that dream has now become a reality.

It is important to note that due to certain constitutional complications, the Hyderabad Institute for Technology and Management Sciences cannot officially be referred to as a university. Instead, it will be recognized as an institution, albeit one that offers degree programs. Currently, the institution will provide two courses: a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and a Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering.

Siddiqui also highlighted the necessity of adapting to advancements in technology, urging the need to focus on fields such as artificial intelligence and biotechnology. He stated, "We should emphasize these areas to keep pace with a world that is rapidly evolving with new technologies." This forward-thinking approach is essential for preparing students to meet the challenges of the future.

The MQM-P has been a strong advocate for establishing a degree-awarding public university in Hyderabad, consistently raising this issue with various former governments. This demand was particularly prominent when MQM-P joined the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) coalition government in 2018, although the promise remained unfulfilled at that time. Now, as part of the coalition with the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) led federal government, MQM-P has successfully delivered on its long-standing commitment to the people of Hyderabad.

In addition to the new institution in Hyderabad, the Federal Ministry of Education is actively working to expand educational opportunities in Karachi. Recently, Minister Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui inaugurated the Karachi chapter of the Pakistan Institute of Fashion and Design (PIFD) and announced plans for several campuses of federally operated universities to be established in the city.

The inauguration of the Hyderabad Institute for Technology and Management Sciences is not just a victory for the MQM-P; it is a triumph for the entire community of Hyderabad. This institution will provide local students with the opportunity to pursue higher education without the need to travel far from home. As the world continues to change, the establishment of such educational institutions is crucial for empowering the youth and fostering a brighter future for the region.