National Bank of Pakistan will support four years of undergraduate education for 13 female students through a partnership with Habib University Foundation. The initiative will prioritise talented young women from rural and underserved areas across Pakistan.
NBP announced the partnership in a statement dated October 21, 2026. The institutions signed a memorandum of understanding at Habib University’s Karachi campus.
The programme aims to widen access to higher education and strengthen women’s participation in society. It also forms part of NBP’s efforts to promote education, women’s empowerment and inclusive social development.
Habib University described the support as fully funded four-year undergraduate scholarships. The initiative covers opportunities in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, alongside the humanities. It targets students whose financial circumstances could otherwise restrict their access to university education.
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Naved A. Khan, chairman of NBP’s board of directors, linked the partnership to educational opportunity.
“At NBP, we believe that access to quality education can transform lives and open doors to greater opportunities. Our partnership with Habib University reflects our commitment to supporting talented young women, particularly those from underserved communities, in pursuing their academic ambitions. We hope this initiative will enable these students to build successful futures and contribute to the progress of their families, communities and Pakistan.”
Mirza Muhammad Asim Baig, group chief of NBP’s Human Resource Management Group, highlighted the bank’s longstanding support for women.
“NBP has a strong history of creating opportunities for women, both within the Bank and through initiatives that promote access to education and empowerment. By ensuring that women have access to education, we enable them to contribute meaningfully as professionals, entrepreneurs and within their communities. I hope this initiative marks the beginning of a lasting partnership that creates opportunities for many more young women.”
Saman Abbasi also addressed the importance of sustained institutional support. She heads NBP’s Capability, Culture & Corporate Impact division.
Abbasi said such support helps promising young people turn their potential into achievement. She highlighted corporate engagement’s role in building a more inclusive society and creating lasting value for future generations.
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Habib University President Wasif Rizvi welcomed the bank’s contribution.
“NBP is helping ensure that talent finds its rightful place. We see this milestone as the beginning of an impactful, enduring partnership.”
Mohammad Tariq Rafi signed the agreement for Habib University Foundation. He chairs its Resource Development Committee. Baig signed on behalf of NBP.
Foundation board members, university leaders and senior NBP representatives attended the ceremony.
The partnership adds targeted support for female students to the university’s existing financial assistance programmes. Habib University says it has invested more than $42 million in scholarships and financial aid since its inception in 2014. That assistance has supported students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.
