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A second-year PhD student from the Department of Middle East and South Asia, Faculty of Oriental Studies, 91��ý Kazakh National University, Nazerke Zharbosynova, is participating in the Overseas Pakistanis Summer Scholars Programme 2026 (URAAN Pakistan), organized by the Ministry of Planning, Development & Special Initiatives of Pakistan.

The primary objective of the programme is to bring together the academic potential of overseas Pakistani scholars and international researchers, promote knowledge exchange in the fields of public administration and strategic planning, and strengthen international academic cooperation in support of Pakistan's long-term development priorities. Implemented under the URAAN Pakistan 2035 national development strategy, the programme has brought together participants from 54 countries. This year's cohort includes 45 overseas Pakistani young scholars representing 150 leading universities worldwide, as well as three international young researchers from Kazakhstan, Bangladesh, and Indonesia. During the eight-week programme, participants will gain practical experience in public administration, public policy, national development planning, and innovation while contributing to Pakistan's development agenda. The programme also provides participants with a scholarship and accommodation at the residence of the Ministry of Planning, Development & Special Initiatives.

The doctoral research of Nazerke Zharbosynova focuses on the intellectual history of Pakistan and the development of its socio-political thought. Participation in the programme provides valuable practical experience directly related to her dissertation research, access to new academic resources, first-hand insight into Pakistan's public administration system, and opportunities to establish professional connections with leading scholars and policymakers.

During the opening ceremony, Federal Minister for Planning, Development & Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal emphasized that investing in young people's education, leadership, and innovative capacity is a key driver of Pakistan's sustainable development.

During the first week of the programme, participants visited the National Assembly of Pakistan and learned about its institutional structure and legislative functions. As the lower house of Pakistan's Parliament, the National Assembly plays a central role in the country's legislative process and democratic governance. It regularly hosts members of parliament, government officials, civil servants, as well as officially invited international delegations and participants in educational programmes.

Participation in the programme enhances the doctoral student's international academic experience, deepens her practical knowledge of public policy and strategic planning, strengthens professional networks, and contributes to the development of academic and research cooperation between Kazakhstan and Pakistan.