FCCU Hosts International Symposium on Artificial Intelligence

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We are delighted to share that the International Symposium on Artificial Intelligence (AI): Bridging Language, Literature, and Learning in the Digital Age, organized by the Department of English, Forman Christian College (A Chartered University), successfully took place on January 31, 2025.

This symposium explored the transformative role of AI in reshaping traditional paradigms in language, literature, and education. It aimed to foster interdisciplinary dialogue by bridging archival traditions with AI-driven innovations, redefining pedagogical approaches, and contributing to sustainable development in humanities research.

Inaugural Address: Dr. Douglas Trimble

Dr. Trimble (Vice Rector for Academic Affairs) warmly greeted esteemed national and international guests and speakers, emphasizing AI’s transformative role in enriching the humanities. He highlighted the university’s pioneering initiatives, including launching a Digital Library, offering extensive faculty training, and promoting creative projects that blend AI with literary and linguistic studies. Quoting Phil Christman, he cautioned against unbridled technological adoption, urging the preservation of timeless humanistic values such as truth, beauty, and goodness. The Vice Rector expressed optimism for a day filled with insightful discussions and innovative, collaborative learning.

Welcome Note: Dr. Altaf Ullah Khan

In his welcome note, Dr. Aftab Ullah Khan (Professor & Dean of Humanities, FCCU) thanked speakers, guests, faculty, and students while underscoring AI’s transformative role in academia and business. He highlighted China’s DeepSeek, a new tool that, despite minimal investment, has already disrupted the international financial market. Comparing generative AI to earlier innovations like the first dictionary, he noted its ability to learn from its mistakes—producing both profound insights and occasional errors. The Dean also raised ethical concerns, citing incidents like Amazon’s removal of books due to AI misattribution. Ultimately, he framed this era as one of groundbreaking innovation, challenging us to harness AI’s potential responsibly while inspiring creativity and resilience.

Introduction to International Symposium: Dr. Fatima Syeda

Dr. Fatima Syeda (Professor & Chairperson of the Department of English, FCCU) opened the Symposium by expressing deep gratitude to key organizers and speakers, acknowledging their pivotal roles in shaping the event. She posed questions about whether humanity and literature are dying, arguing instead that artificial intelligence serves as an assistive tool rather than a replacement for human creativity. Drawing parallels with historical shifts—from the advent of writing and the printing press to digital innovations—she emphasized that each transformation spurred new forms of literary expression. Ultimately, she invited participants to harness AI’s potential to enrich English literature and language while preserving the unique spark of human imagination.

Context & Perspective: Mr. Adeel Khalid

Mr. Adeel Khalid (Lecturer, Department of English Language), convener of this International Symposium, highlighted the transformative impact of AI in reshaping education, research, and policy. He outlined the Symposium’s focus on integrating AI into literary studies, linguistics, and language education, emphasizing its role in fostering cross-cultural exchanges. Rather than viewing AI as a competitor to human intelligence, he argued that it serves as a valuable assistive tool. By blending revitalized traditions such as digitalized archival systems with innovations like multimodal textuality and algorithmic text generation, the event aimed to explore both opportunities and challenges. Ultimately, the symposium sought to forge new pathways for research, pedagogy, and policy in the humanities.

International Keynotes

From Print to Pixel : Textuality and Meaning-Making in the AI Age

Dr. Reham (Associate Fellow at the Lever Hulme Centre for the Future of Intelligence, University of Cambridge, UK, Winner of the Robert Coover Award, Coauthor of the novel Al-Barrah, the first Arabic artificial intelligence novel) analyzed the transformation of literature from traditional print to digital and AI-driven formats. She reviewed the evolution of textuality through various stages, including papyrus, manuscripts, printed books, and digital texts, highlighting the role of hypertext and social media in reshaping narrative forms. The impact of AI on authorship was deliberated, where the boundaries between human- and machine-generated texts blur, leading to disputes over authorship and collaborative creative processes.

Her recent work, Al-Barrah, the first pixel novel to combine augmented reality and hologram technologies with Arabic language text, points toward augmented reality. It challenges conventional reading, shifting readers from passive consumers to co-creators of meaning through an immersive reading interface. Ultimately, the presentation envisioned a future where the lines between fiction and reality, as well as author and reader, become increasingly fluid in the digital age.

AI and Humanities: Transforming Language, Literature, and Learning in the Digital Era

Dr. Manvender (Director of Executive Education and Professional Development, University Utara Malaysia, and Associate Professor of Applied Linguistics, School of Languages, Civilization, and Philosophy, University Utara Malaysia) explored the multifaceted role of AI in reshaping human expression and education. She highlighted AI applications in language processing, from bridging linguistic barriers with advanced translation tools to revolutionizing language education through adaptive learning technologies.

She also addressed the ethical considerations and challenges of integrating AI with the humanities, including issues of equity, cultural sensitivity, and accountability. Emphasizing the synergy between technological innovation and humanistic inquiry, the presentation advocated for collaborative efforts to harness AI’s potential responsibly.

National Keynotes

AI in Linguistics & Literature: Ethical Considerations and Innovations

Dr. Ayaz (Professor and Dean of Languages and Literature, IIUI) explored the potential of integrating AI into linguistics and literature, enhancing natural language processing and creative writing. He highlighted how tools like ChatGPT, Google Translate, and Duolingo are transforming language learning and communication. AI also plays a crucial role in digitizing ancient texts, creating audiobooks, and analyzing stylistic elements. However, he emphasized the importance of addressing ethical concerns, including data privacy, biases in AI algorithms, and plagiarism, particularly in generative content. Stressing the need for policy-guided practices, he underscored the importance of responsibly navigating AI’s creative and assistive potential.

AI & the Quest for Intelligence: Emerging Trajectories in Literary Scholarship

Dr. Fatima (Professor and Chairperson, Department of English) demonstrated how AI tools, such as Claude, Toolsaday, Writesonic, ChatGPT, and Ideogram assist literary scholarship by supporting the creation and analysis of texts. While these tools enhance intellectual processes, they fall short in capturing the emotional, psychological, and cultural depth that human creators provide. AI excels in pattern recognition but lacks the ability to generate new ideas through ‘abductive’ reasoning, which is crucial in literature. She brought attention to the idea of AI being seen as a supportive tool, not a replacement for human intuition, creativity, and emotional intelligence. Therefore, urging students and scholars to use AI responsibly.

Redefining the Literary Canvas: The Confluence of Technology and Creativity

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in creative writing is reshaping literary studies by challenging traditional ideas of human authorship, altering narrative structures, and enhancing expression. However, Dr. Zahid (Associate Professor & Chair of the Department of English Language and Literature at the University of Lahore) examined its long-term impact, which remains uncertain, as the vast processing power of AI may lead to a homogenization of literary content and taste. This raises concerns about the suppression of indigenous voices and cultural narratives, as AI could simplify complex idioms and traditions.

A Human-AI Synergy in the Humanities

Dr. Sonia (Assistant Professor, PhD Royal Holloway University of London, UK, Faculty of Languages & Literature, International Islamic University Islamabad, Pakistan) discussed how the integration of AI in the humanities transforms literary analysis, education, and creativity, enhancing text analysis, sentiment evaluation, and authorship attribution. AI aids in preserving rare manuscripts, translating ancient languages, and broadening access to marginalized literary traditions. However, the rise of AI-generated content raises ethical concerns about authorship and authenticity. While AI can expand creative possibilities and democratize literature through multilingual exchange, it may also obscure cultural nuances, challenging traditional literary practices. Her presentation explored how human-AI collaboration can preserve critical, cultural, and ethical values while improving research efficiency and educational access.

Digital Data Analytics in Languages & Literature in the age of AI

The concluding keynote speaker deliberated the application of Digital Data Analytics in languages, literature, and linguistics, with a particular focus on AI and Natural Language Processing (NLP). Dr. Khalid (Postdoctoral Research, University of Birmingham, UK, Department of English, Faculty of Languages & Literature, International Islamic University Islamabad, Pakistan) simplified how language models analyze massive datasets through pattern recognition and computational linguistics, drawing parallels with human language’s structure and functionality.

Attention was placed on how AI processes data through methods such as tokenization, sentiment analysis, and entity recognition, as well as how digitization has transformed fields like lexicography, grammatical studies, and literary analysis. He also touched on the use of big data and tools like Python in processing and analyzing linguistic patterns across languages.

FCCU Campus Happenings: February 2025

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Forman’s School of Management hosted a well received workshop on “Leading With Inclusion” on January 8. Organized by School of Management Assistant Professor Dr. Afaf Khalid, the program included talks delivered by Dr. Faisal Khosa, a radiologist visiting from British Columbia who is actively engaged with diversity issues in Canada.

With ORIC support, the Sociology Department and Sociology Society organized a Departmental Thesis Display in early January featuring the outstanding work of both undergraduate and postgraduate students.

Forman’s Chemistry Department organized Forman’s Fourth Annual Chemistry Conference, an impressive event that received funding from several sources including the HEC and involved presenters from Mexico, Malaysia, the US and elsewhere. Thanks especially to Department Chair Dr. Shazma Massey Azeem and her team for organizing such an impressive event.

Forman’s English Department hosted a webinar titled Digital Humanities for Literature and Linguistics, presented by Dr. Emily Bell from Leeds University (UK). In addition, Forman’s English Department organized a Postgraduate Colloquium on Literature, Film and Art; special thanks to Dr. Amna Umer Cheema from the Institute of English Studies at the University of Punjab for participating as Guest of Honor.

Forman’s English Department also organized an international symposium and exhibition on Artificial Intelligence (AI): Bridging Language, Literature and Learning in the Digital Age. Designed to benefit both faculty and students, the program featured several speakers providing insights that will hopefully “inspire our Forman community and contribute to our critical perspectives on how these digital intersections with the emerging technology landscape advancements are reshaping the literary and linguistic landscape of the country”.

Forman’s Computer Science Department organized a special exhibition held on January 13 to showcase 17 senior student projects. Invited guests from various IT companies including Devsinc, Arbisoft, Venturenox, Aircod, and Prexite also attended as students competed in two prize categories, Best Poster Award and Best Project Award.

The Best Project prize was awarded to Hassan Adil, Shaharez Malik and Faizan Imtiaz for their project FallX: Airbag Safety Vest for Vulnerable Individuals, with Dr. Sidra Minhas and M. Rauf Butt serving as Advisors. As for the Best Poster Award, it was secured by Shaeen Amir, Maryam Iqtidar and Asama Ayub for their project RealTime Monitoring of Electrolyte Imbalance Using ECG Signals, advised by Dr. M. Rauf Butt.

Associate Professor Syeda Shabbir reports that Forman has received partial HEC funding to organize a Third Conference on Recent Trends in Physics later this month, adding further to a growing list of special academic events that Forman will host during the early months of 2025.

Finally, Forman hosted a two-day workshop sponsored by the American Institute of Pakistan Studies (AIPS) on “Heritage and Technology” on January 15-16. Featuring Dr. Uzma Rizvi from the Pratt Institute in New York, the event included participants from across Pakistan. A special thanks to Dr. Sikandar Hayat for his leadership role, both in this event and in strengthening our ongoing partnership with AIPS.

The Remarkable Legacy of Forman Christian College

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Nestled in Lahore, Pakistan, Forman Christian College (FCCU) stands as a beacon of education, tolerance, and leadership. Established over 160 years ago, FCCU has been a pioneering institution, bringing together students of diverse faiths—Muslims, Christians, Hindus, and Sikhs—under one roof. This is the story of how one man’s vision shaped an institution that continues to inspire generations.

A Visionary Beginning: Charles Forman’s Mission

In 1847, Rev. Charles William Forman, a young American missionary, arrived in India with a passion for education. Influenced by the Scottish educator Rev. Dr. Alexander Duff, Forman believed that by teaching English and the sciences alongside moral and spiritual values, he could create a transformative educational experience.

Two years later, he ventured to Lahore—then a historic hub of culture and learning. Amidst the challenges of a foreign land, tropical diseases, and extreme weather, Forman began his school under a banyan tree. By 1850, he had 80 students, and within a few years, the numbers soared. He promoted interfaith education, encouraging Muslims, Hindus, and Sikhs to learn together.

In 1864, Forman realized his greater dream: founding Mission College of Lahore, which was later renamed Forman Christian College in his honor after his passing in 1894. His legacy of inclusion, academic excellence, and service became the foundation of FCCU’s enduring impact.

Growth and Influence (1888-1971)

Under the leadership of Dr. J.C.R. Ewing (1888-1917), FCCU gained international recognition. Ewing was the only American knighted by the British for his contributions to education in the region. The college expanded its curriculum, introduced science programs, and in 1902, opened its doors to women—an uncommon step in that era.

By the mid-20th century, FCCU had firmly established itself as a prestigious institution. It nurtured future leaders, including two Presidents of Pakistan (Farooq Ahmed Khan Leghari, Pervez Musharraf) and two Prime Ministers of India (Gulzarilal Nanda, Inder Kumar Gujral), along with distinguished professionals in law, science, and governance.

Challenges and Revival (1972-2003)

However, FCCU’s journey was not without turmoil. In 1972, the Pakistani government nationalized the college, leading to years of decline. Enrollment swelled, but academic standards suffered. Political unrest and lack of investment turned what was once a thriving campus into a struggling institution.

In 2003, after persistent efforts, the Presbyterian Church regained control of FCCU. The college was in disrepair, with barely 20 Christian students left. But with faith and determination, change was on the horizon.

A New Era of Excellence (2003-Present)

Under Dr. Peter Armacost’s leadership, FCCU experienced a remarkable revival. Enrollment surged, academic rigor was restored, and the government granted university status in 2004. With support from USAID and Pakistani authorities, new facilities were built, scholarships expanded, and Christian representation increased.

Dr. James Tebbe, who became rector in 2012, further strengthened FCCU’s legacy. He oversaw the expansion of academic programs, modernized infrastructure, and opened initiatives like the Light of Hope School for children of the campus service staff. His contributions were recognized with Pakistan’s Sitara-e-Imtiaz (Star of Excellence) in 2019.

Dr. Jonathan Addleton was installed as rector in 2020. His tenure continues today with the opening of the Jim Tebbe Campus Center, the completion of the off-campus TSA/FCCU hostel for young women, and the beginnings of construction on the Center for Biblical Teaching and Research.

Continuing the Legacy

Today, FCCU is home to over 9,000 students, with a growing Christian community. It remains a pillar of academic excellence, interfaith harmony, and leadership development. Guided by its motto, “By love, serve one another,” Forman Christian College continues to shine as a place of knowledge, peace, and hope—just as its founder, Charles Forman, envisioned.

Why the Presbyterian Foundation Supports Educating Pakistan’s Future Leaders

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Pakistan is a place where breaking news is rarely positive and political unrest leaves future leadership unpredictable.

Pakistan is the fifth most populated country in the world, with more than 251 million people. 64% of this population are below the age of 29. 

Through it all, this is a place where Presbyterian mission and ministry has lifted thousands of lives for more than 160 years. There is an enduring Presbyterian educational institution in Pakistan that’s making a huge difference: Forman Christian College. 

About Forman Christian College

Today, Forman Christian College provides education from preschool to PhD. For Christian families, Forman is a haven in a country where several million of them make up just over one percent of the population.

Christians often lack opportunities and even experience hostility. While Pakistan has often been a place of religious and social unrest, Forman is successfully bringing Christians, Muslims, and other perspectives together, forming life-long friendships and shaping tomorrow’s leaders.

“Forman has the possibility of changing the world,” said Tom Taylor, president and CEO of the Presbyterian Foundation. “And it’s already doing just that.

Stories of Real FCCU Students

Several students embody the Forman spirit through their studies and attitudes. 

Not only are students gaining a top-tier education, but they’re also learning more about each other. Your support for Forman is needed now more than ever to continue the university’s academic success and its even more critical mission to bring together students of different faiths to increase cultural understanding and decrease violence against Christians.

Arbab’s Story

Arbab says she simply wanted to wear a cross without being shamed or ridiculed. She wanted to openly practice her faith. Forman has allowed her to do that in peace.  

“My identity is in God,” said Arbab. “My identity is with me, always. I joyfully walk on the FCCU campus and can sing gospel songs. No one can touch me or pull on my cross. I don’t know how to  express my happiness.”

Labeed’s Story

Labeed simply wanted to pick his own courses as part of his liberal arts education. Forman is the only higher education institution in Pakistan where he can do so.

“What I like about FCCU is the fact that there’s room for discussion,” said Labeed. “We are all open and here to listen to each other. We can all agree or disagree and go home with our differences and still have an open mind again the next day. Everyone is allowed to express themselves.”

Jessica’s Story

Jessica relies on her courage and faith to pursue her dream of bringing education to children whose families work difficult and draining jobs in the brick kilns. These jobs of the lowest levels in society are often relegated to Christians—to their children, who, as a result, receive no education at all and who head to work at a frighteningly young age.

Jessica’s work will break that generational poverty.

“I have a passion to teach those underprivileged students who work in the brick kilns,” she said. “Before coming to FCCU, we started our school four years ago on the outskirts of Lahore. Now by the grace of God, we have our own land. This year, we will complete our school.”

“When I get a degree from FCCU, I’ll serve these kids with even more passion because they are our future. I just wanted our future to be more bright and secure. In the future, they won’t have to fear. They can be independent students and face criticism with bravery.”

Bringing Students of Different Backgrounds Together

If you visited the FCCU campus, you could stop any student on campus and you’d hear even more stories just like these. Students repeatedly express how happy they are to be in a place that helps them excel and supports their dreams. 

But their dreams aren’t for themselves alone. They dream of creating a different kind of Pakistan—one where freedom and hope abound. 

Forman is one of the only places in Pakistan where Christians, Muslims, and those of other faith traditions can meet and become friends. This dispels errant views about one another’s lives and cultures.

Training Pakistan’s Leaders of Tomorrow

During the last 20 years, Forman has been steadily growing. Your support means this growth can continue – and the entire world can benefit from these bright, young minds.

“I put a lot of faith in the power of education and the difference it can make to all the communities in Pakistan,” said FCCU Rector Dr. Jonathan Addleton. “It’s an education that’s not just about class, but what takes place outside the class.” 

Forman’s role is preparing to lead the next generation according to the motto: “By love, serve one another.” Your support means that more students with this kind of educated hope will become tomorrow’s leaders.

Mapping a Century: FCCU Geography Department Celebrates 100th Anniversary

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The Department of Geography decided to celebrate the centennial celebration of introduction of the subject of geography at FCCU in November -December 2024 as the teaching of Geography in the Subcontinent/South Asia was first started at the Forman College in 1924. The Department of Geography is therefore the Pioneer in Subcontinent. In order to celebrate 100 years of Geography, the Department decided to arrange a lecture series for the Baccalaureate students at Forman Christian College (A Chartered University) Lahore.

The first lecture of the series was held on Wednesday, 27th November 2024 and the Department of Geography hosted an insightful lecture delivered by Dr. Hania Arif on “Smog in Urban Environment: A Growing Challenge”. In this together, we explored how urbanization, geography, and climate interplay to create this environmental challenge and, most importantly, how we can move towards cleaner air. Let’s commit to making informed choices for a healthier and greener tomorrow.

The Main Event to celebrate 100 years of Geography at Forman Christian College (A Chartered University) Lahore was held on Monday, 9th December 2024 at the executive lounge of the Zahoor Elahi Building. The Rector FCCU Dr. Jonthan Addleton was the chief guest of the event. The Dean of Social Sciences Dr. Sikandar Hayat was also present.

The guests of honour were Chairpersons and Head of Departments from various Colleges and Universities across Lahore. The Faculty of Department of Geography, students and council members of Dean Geographical Society (DGS) also participated.

A welcome tea was arranged for the guests. The objective of welcome tea was to interact and socialize before the main event began. The Event commenced with a recitation from the Holy Quran and Bible followed by the National Anthem.

After that Dr. Addleton, FCCU formally started the event and provided an overview and significance of the centennial celebrations and the importance of Geography at FCCU. Mr. Kashif Shafique, ex-head of Department of Geography shared the history of Geography as a subject at FCCU, highlighting its early years and evolution.

The event was wrapped up by a symbolic cake-cutting ceremony to mark the milestone of 100 years of Geography at FCCU, followed by group photos. Guests were invited to network and meet fellow attendees, speakers, and faculty members in a relaxed setting.

Your Support Can Change the Future for FCCU Students

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Forman Christian College: Scholarships Needs Now

Forman estimates it needs $1,566,667 in scholarships to fund the financially disadvantaged students who are enrolled this year. The largest groups of students in need are women and Christians.

They have budgeted $548,333 to go to underprivileged women and $658,000 to needy Christians (31% of all female students and 98% of all Christians at FCCU).  Last year, scholarships went to 27% of the student body. Between the increase in students this year over last and a continued slow recovery to the financial crisis sparked by Covid, 33% of FCCU students need assistance this year. Imagine if a third of the students had to drop out because they couldn’t afford tuition and fees, and there was no one to help them.

Friends of Forman has committed to raise $721,000 of this need. To date, you have helped raise all but $325,000.

We are immensely grateful for your gifts to date. If you are able and can support these students, go to www.friendsofforman.org/donate and scroll to the dark green section of this page. Here, you can donate to the group of your choice, women, Christians, or general scholarships.

“Your help is more than just money; it’s like a guiding light that

shows us the way when things get tough. Because of you, we feel stronger and more confident. We know that behind every success, there’s a group of caring people like you who believe in education’s power to change lives.”    ~  Arslan

As Arslan said, you make his success possible.  It is an honor to work with you to change the lives of these young men and women. “By love serve one another.”

Thank you!

Pakistani Scientist Named to Top Inspirational Woman List

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Through her research and outreach, Dr. Hira Khalid empowers young women, particularly from underprivileged backgrounds, to defy the norm and pursue careers in STEM. She is an example to all female students at Forman Christian College, illustrating that with determination and hard work, there are no limits to what they can achieve and the contributions they make to society.

FCCU has announced that Dr. Khalid, Associate Chemistry Professor has been selected as the only Pakistani to be included on the “Top 50 Talented and Inspirational Women” shortlisted for the Haagen-Daz’s Rose Project 2024-2025: https://iwd.haagen-dazs.global/en/iwd-top-50-nominees/

The citation for this achievement which recognizes 50 women from 17 countries “Who Don’t Hold Back” includes the following: “Dr. Hira Khalid is a pioneering researcher focused on advancing treatments for ovarian cancer, Hepatitis C and Alzheimer’s disease. As the first to gain a PhD in her family, Hira overcame significant cultural and financial challenges to become a leader in her field.  She represents Pakistan at international platforms such as the first Commonwealth Chemistry Congress and Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting”.

Dr. Khalid received her BSc and master’s from the University of the Punjab. Her PhD was granted by GC University (Government College) in collaboration with University of Washington. Her Post-Doc (US Fulbright Scholar) was done at University of Minnesota Twin Cities.

Light of Hope School Campus Updates: January 2025

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Promotion Assembly

The Promotion Assembly for the academic year 2024 was a heartwarming and memorable event held in the school courtyard. Students from Kindergarten to Grade 9 gathered together, their faces filled with excitement and anticipation for what lay ahead.

The principal addressed the students with encouraging words, acknowledging their hard work, dedication, and growth throughout the year. In a moment filled with excitement, the principal officially announced the promotion of each grade, signaling the students to move forward to their next classes.

As students stood up and moved forward to their new classes, the courtyard echoed with applause and cheers, marking the start of a new chapter in their academic journey. It was a proud and joyful moment for everyone, filled with hope and anticipation for the opportunities that await in the coming year.

Grandparents Day

At Light of Hope School, we celebrated Grandparents Day on September 22, 2023, with the students and their grandparents from Pre-K, KG, and Grade 1. This special day honors the cherished bond between grandparents and their grandchildren. After all, grandparents, alongside parents, love their grandchildren unconditionally. The event was a heartwarming gathering, bringing together grandparents and their

grandchildren for a memorable celebration. Our esteemed chief guests for the event were Dr. Jonathan Addleton, the honorable Rector of FCCU, his wife Madam Fiona, Dr. Martin Thomas, the Dean of Education, and Madam Dolly, in charge of the information desk at FCCU. Their presence added grace and warmth to the occasion.

Reading Awareness Month

Books are a source of knowledge and life lessons, teaching us about love, fear, hardships, and the complexities of life.

To celebrate the power of reading, Light of Hope School kicked off its Reading Awareness Month with students and teachers presenting story characters in the morning assembly. Various reading-related activities were held in the classrooms, where students engaged in storytelling, book discussions, and creative exercises. To cap it off, students dressed up as their favorite characters from the stories they read and showcased them in a special assembly. English and Urdu reading presentations highlighted the joy and importance of reading.

Teachers’ Day

On September 5th, we celebrated Teachers’ Day, honoring the dedication and hard work of our educators. A special assembly was held where teachers were presented with badges and chocolates by the principal as a token of appreciation. Students expressed their gratitude through heartfelt messages, poems, and thoughtful gifts. The day highlighted the invaluable contributions teachers make in shaping young minds and fostering a love for learning. It was a joyous occasion filled with appreciation and respect for those who guide and inspire us every day.

Christmas Caroling

This year, Light of Hope School brought a fresh twist to its annual Christmas celebrations. Instead of the traditional Christmas play, students lit up the stage with a heartwarming Christmas Caroling event. Students performed to live carols sung by the School Choir and the Alumni Choir, creating a festive and melodious atmosphere.

One of the standout moments was the creative commercials performed on stage, which added a fun and playful vibe to the event. The festive question-and-answer session kept the audience engaged, with exciting gifts handed out for correct answers. The celebration was a joyful blend of music, creativity, and togetherness, leaving everyone with warm holiday memories.

Friends and Forman Visit to LOH

In February 2024, the Friends of Forman visited Light of Hope School and were warmly welcomed by students and staff. They attended the morning assembly, where students presented an inspiring performance. The Friends of Forman spent quality time in the classrooms afterward, engaging with the students and taking home wonderful memories of their visit.

This is from the Light of Hope Newsletter 2023-24.

Year in Review: Friends of Forman’s Impact During 2024

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Since being established in 2003, Friends of Forman has gradually made an increasing impact on the educational power provided by Forman Christian College in Pakistan. With 2024 complete, we wanted to celebrate some of the milestones we’ve accomplished together.

1,300 Graduates at Commencement

On November 30, 2024, FCCU held their 26th Commencement ceremony on campus. The graduation featured nearly 1,300 graduates from across Pakistan, earning a range of degrees.

More than half (51%) of this graduating class was women. 664 female students earned their diplomas at FCCU—an amazing feat considering approximately only 44% of the female Pakistani population is literate. 

186 women earned their post-graduate degrees in one of many of FCCU’s graduate programs. 158 (or 12%) of the graduates were also Christian students. This is remarkable because Christians only comprise about 1.3% of the Pakistani population.

Many female and Christian students could only attend and graduate from FCCU because they earned a financial aid scholarship. 

 $1.5 Million in Scholarships

Thanks to supporters like you, Friends of Forman awarded over $1,532,000 in scholarships during the 2023-24 academic year. That’s over half (51%) of the scholarships provided to FCCU students, and a 28% increase compared to the previous year.

Nearly all (98%) of Christian students at Forman College receive at least a partial scholarship—that’s 911 out of 925 students.

This number is slightly lower for women scholars, but still almost a third (31%) of them depend on financial aid. 832 out of 2,703 female FCCU students benefit from donations from Friends of Forman.

Over 9,000 Enrolled Students 

44% of Forman College’s 9,300 student body is female. However, this percentage is much higher in the postgraduate (74%) and PhD (61%) programs. Women can pursue an education at FCCU like nowhere else in this country.

The same is true for Christian students, who comprise about 13% of the students on campus. They’re still a minority compared to Muslim students, but students of all faiths have the chance to learn and converse together side-by-side in an atmosphere of peace and cooperation.

$2.6 Million Raised

 All together, Friends of Forman raised over $2,634,000 in 2024. Most of those funds (78%) go directly to supporting scholarships, campus improvements, and staff support on campus. 

The largest source of support for Friends is individuals (58%), with most of the rest of the donations coming from foundation grants (20%) and churches (11%). We had 23 new donors give to Friends of Forman for the first time last year.

 We also raised $98,000 during Giving Tuesday in November 2024. That helped to provide year-long scholarships to more than 30 students—all in one day!

Thank You For Making 2024 a Success!

If you haven’t yet, you should check out our 2024 annual report, which shares even more stories of impact from the last year.

You can also read stories of Stephen John whose family has been impacted by FCCU for four generations; board member Denise Moore who visited the FCCU campus in 2024; and student Multazim who is overcoming poverty to pursue a her dreams of becoming a doctor.

No matter how you’re involved with Friends of Forman, we want to thank you for your support and generosity. You are making a difference by being a part of our community. You’re having a real impact on the lives of students and spreading interfaith harmony in Pakistan.

Thank you!

A Visit To Campus in Pakistan is a Reminder of The Importance of FCCU

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Back in November 2024, a group of board members and church partners traveled together to visit the Forman Christian College campus in Lahore, Pakistan.

Despite the long distance and cultural differences, traveling to campus to meet professors and students serves as a reminder of the importance of an education in Pakistan.

One of the visitors was Nancy Bertram, the Mission Coordinator at First Presbyterian Church located in Lakeland, Florida. First Presbyterian Lakeland has been a long-time supporter of Friends of Forman, and Nancy has served on staff at the church for over 17 years.

We spoke to Nancy about her travels in Pakistan and what she learned from the experience.

Why did you decide to visit FCCU’s campus in 2024?

I have always wanted to visit the Forman College campus because Bob and Rowena Tebbe talked to me about the opportunity for nearly 20 years. It was an amazing experience, and it got better day by day.

Can you describe the experience of traveling to Pakistan?

Traveling to Pakistan was great.  The air flight was long, but Qatar was a very good choice of airline. I knew beforehand what the long flights would be like, so I was prepared and really didn’t mind them.

What was the most surprising thing you learned on your visit?

I thought I had an idea before I came, but I was shocked at how women are treated and thought of in Pakistan. I knew it was bad, but I never realized how poorly women are treated. This is especially hard for Christian women to live in a culture that accepts neither very well.

How is the culture similar and different from ours in the US?

I was at FCCU for almost the entire time, so I didn’t get a good look at the culture outside of the campus. The little I saw outside was most different when it came to women.  I could tell that family was very important in Pakistan, which is similar to what we see in the United States. However, women are not treated as equal to men, which was quite different.

What’s the biggest thing you’ll always remember about this experience?

I will always remember how extraordinary FCCU is in changing the thoughts of the Muslim community towards women. There are no other institutions in the country like FCCU. I pray that this mission will continue to make a difference.

Are you interested in visiting Pakistan?

If you are interested in joining Executive Director Roger Dermody on an upcoming visit to the Forman Christian College campus, please reach let us know. We’d be happy to take you to see the amazing things God is doing in Pakistan.