The United States and Pakistan marked a major milestone on Monday as US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Natalie A. Baker and Minister of State for Education Wajiha Qamar inaugurated a new five-story United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) building in Islamabad.
The event reflects a renewed phase in the US-Pakistan educational partnership. The inauguration comes at the 75th anniversary of the Fulbright program in Pakistan.
Speaking at the ceremony, CDA Baker said the inauguration symbolizes the long-term commitment between both countries.
“This is more than a building. It is a symbol of the deep commitment both the United States and Pakistan have to education, innovation, and building a safe, stronger, more prosperous future together,” she remarked.
She added that as the United States approaches its 250th anniversary in 2026. Similarly, the new complex will project America’s founding ideals while strengthening ties with Pakistan.
USEFP: A purpose-built hub for learning and exchange
The new USEFP facility is a 9,755-square-meter complex designed to expand access to educational resources and support Pakistani students and educators.
It brings EducationUSA advising, a Lincoln Corner, training spaces, and public programs under one roof. Officials highlighted that the space will serve as a national platform for innovation and youth empowerment. Which will transform US-PAK educational cooperation into long-term operational capacity center for Pakistani students.
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Sherry Keneson-Hall, Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary Shelly Seaver, USEFP leadership, and dignitaries from Pakistan’s academic and government sectors attended the ceremony.
US-PAK partnership rooted in people and generational exchange
Established in 1950, USEFP is one of only 49 Fulbright Commissions worldwide. Over the decades more than 9,000 Pakistanis and nearly 1,000 Americans have taken part in USEFP-managed exchanges.
Officials noted that this network now represents one of the most sustained people-to-people corridors in the region.
CDA Baker said the new center will remain a public space for Pakistanis to learn about the United States and engage in open dialogue: “A place where people can come to exchange ideas on issues that affect us all.”
The inauguration signals that bilateral ties are shifting from geopolitics to a long-term, knowledge-driven partnership focused on human capital development.
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