Helping Ordinary Students Become Extraordinary

All great stories have one thing in common. They are about an ordinary person, doing something extraordinary.

That’s what it means to be a student at Forman Christian College. Just listen to these testimonials from real students who’ve experienced the opportunity for transformation firsthand.

• “I applied for financial aid because I want to lower the budget of my family.”
• “FCCU has supported us when it comes to financial aid.”
• “Forman College has always supported Christians and other minority students.”
• “Forman is the second name of opportunity.”
• “The environment at Forman College is tolerant and accepting.”
• “FCCU empowers every girl to such an extent that they don’t remain dependent on anyone.”
• “Education is important for me because it helps boost my confidence.”
• “My father is a rickshaw driver and I am pursuing a degree in political science.”
• “I applied for financial aid because, after my parents’ death, I could not manage my fees by any other means.”

FCCU’s History is a Story of Transformation

Dr. Charles Forman was an extraordinary person, and his work was equally extraordinary. In 1864, he founded Forman College in one room with two teachers and three students.

A century and a half later, things have changed a bit. The university now has a 100-acre campus with almost 10,000 students.

Today, Forman Christian College is a chartered university and awards its own degrees. The college motto— “By love serve one another” —has been a guiding principle for Formanites throughout the history of FCCU.

“Financial aid is an important part of Forman, in all sorts of ways,” said FCCU Rector Dr. Jonathan Addleton. “It helps to ensure the diversity of our campus. It makes sure people come from different parts of the country and from different socioeconomic and religious backgrounds.”

The Importance of Financial Aid in These Stories

“We devote about 10% of our budget to financial aid,” continued Addleton. “We like to think that anyone accepted to Forman shouldn’t see a lack of financial resources as a reason not to attend higher education.”

Here are just a few words from some students who benefit from financial aid:

• “It’s because of Forman College that I gained confidence.”
• “Before receiving financial aid, studying at FCCU was my dream. Now that I have financial aid, I feel like I’m living my dream.”
• “I am now in my seventh semester, and this was all through the help of financial aid.”
• “It’s because of financial aid that we can achieve our goals with more focus.”

“We have an active financial aid office that reviews the family circumstances and needs,” explained Addleton. “In many cases, we can provide financial assistance and allow a student to attend Forman Christian College.” 

Supporting Not Just Students, But Also Their Families

However, the work is not yet done. We still need resources to fund and fuel future generations. Today, we need your support more than ever. Today, Pakistan’s youth needs you.

Here’s what some of the parents of current students had to say about their children’s educational opportunities:

• “My older son completed his intermediate degree from FCCU. Now, he’s pursuing a Bachelor’s degree on a scholarship.”
• “When my son got his admission to Forman College, I was happy because it’s a Christian institute. As a Christian, I was pleased that my son would go and learn a lot of things here.”
• “I want for [my son] to be a good human being, and a source of pride for our community and our nation.”
• “It is a proud moment for me and my family. I want all of my children to get an education from Forman Christian College.”

Together, We’re Making Pakistan’s Future More Diverse

“Students partially come here because of the student life, the beautiful campus, and the faculty,” said Addleton. “But above all, I think people appreciate the openness of our campus and the fact that we have a diverse community where people learn from and respect each other.”

• “One unique quality of FCCU is its diversity and versatility.”
• “FCCU provides the best education in Pakistan.”
• “Studying at FCCU has taught me how girls can progress and grow.”
• “The quality of education at FCCU is exceptional. Apart from the studies, the professors here guide us in our personal and professional growth.”
• “Forman College provides students with multiple opportunities to work closely with the administration.”

FCCU has distributed over $433 million in Pakistani rupees—the equivalent of more than $1.5 million U.S. dollars— in financial assistance to 2,448 students.. FCCU is a nonprofit organization and depends on the generosity of donors like you to support students and the administration.

You can become part of this. You can help us build a bridge to the future. You can help us educate these bright minds so that they can build tomorrow.

Observing Ramadan on Campus

Forman Christian College recognizes the importance of Ramadan for their Muslim students, faculty, and staff. To support their community during this time, the college implements several schedule changes, effective from the first of Ramadan.

These changes include adjusted work hours for employees, mainly to account for the added spiritual and physical demands of fasting. Shorter working hours allow for observing staff members to manage their workday more comfortably while observing the fast.

Students are also given more leeway with their academic assignments during Ramadan. Classes on campus continue, but with slight adjustments to allow students to comply with their beliefs. Students are often given more time between assignments.

A Campus of Inclusion and Respect

Ramadan is not just about fasting; it’s about compassion, patience, and community. Forman Christian College is proud of their diverse campus and remains committed to creating an environment that honors all religious traditions. 

Although the majority of students on campus are Muslim and observe Ramadan, there are plenty of students from other faith backgrounds who do not. 

Attending an open and accepting campus like Forman allows these students to learn from one another and better appreciate the religious practices and traditions of those different from themselves. The same is true when Christian students celebrate Easter and Christmas on campus.

These Ramadan adjustments are part of that broader commitment—to support the well-being of our campus community while continuing to uphold our academic standards. We extend our warm wishes to all who observed the holy month. 

Eid Mubarak!

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.

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.

LAHORE: The Center for Learning and Teaching at Forman Christian College (A Chartered University) successfully held its in-person annual Faculty Retreat on August 20, 2024. The theme of the event was FCCU 2.0: Campus Culture and Emerging Trends in AI. This year focused on the integration of human skills with advancing artificial intelligence technologies and the impact on campus culture.

The Rector, Dr. Jonathan S. Addleton addressed the faculty about the university’s current performance and outlined the path moving forward in keeping with the Strategic Plan for the campus. Vice Rector, Dr. Douglas Trimble, presented a thorough analysis of AI trends, practices and expectations of both students and faculty on the campus. The session clarified the future development needs of the institution. Students from the graduating class of 2024 and faculty from different disciplines shared their comments and experiences providing a 360 degree perspective on the theme.

Two sessions were held over the day and much appreciated. Panel discussion on ‘AI and the Future of Work’ showcased experts across different areas of the economy who were invited on campus to voice how the marketplace was changing and expected to change in the coming years. The distinguished panelists were Dr. Fuad Khan, Advisor to the Chairman: Technology & AgriTech; Ahmer Bilal Soofi, Senior Managing and Founding Partner, ABS & Co.; Dr. Haider Abbas, Director General/Head of National Cyber Emergency Response Team; Prof. Dr. S. Sohail H. Naqvi, CEO at Knowledge Streams and former vice chancellor of LUMS and Shahzaib Sanwal, senior director, Ernst & Young (EY) Consultancy. Their insights provided a reflective discourse of how higher education will need to be restructured.

Dr. David Santandreu from Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (UAE) gave the keynote address on ‘AI & Higher Education: Preparing for Gen Z’ which outlined a vision for AI-integrated higher education and individualized learning pathways for Gen Z.

This retreat reinforced FCCU’s commitment to academic excellence and preparing students and faculty for a future in an AI-augmented global landscape. The success of the event was made possible by the dedicated efforts of Dr. Rukhsana Zia, Head, and Dr. Mehwish Raza, Deputy Head of the Center for Learning and Teaching. Their strong leadership and meticulous planning were instrumental in ensuring the retreat’s smooth execution and meaningful impact on the faculty and the broader university community.

Higher education has long been a cornerstone of progress, promoting tolerance, innovation, and stronger communities across Pakistan and the globe. Despite prevalent economic challenges, a quality university education remains a tool that empowers individuals, fosters independence, and unlocks a world of opportunity. For 160 years, Forman Christian College (A Chartered University), has championed this vision.

FCCU’s robust financial aid programs go beyond simply covering costs. They play a vital role in building a vibrant and diverse campus community, one that reflects the richness of Pakistan. For many students, these scholarships not only unlock a world of academic exploration but also experiences that shape their lives and equip them for future success.

Over the last few years, Pakistan has faced formidable challenges, including a pandemic, floods, earthquakes, and politico-economic upheaval. With service at the core of the university’s motto, FCCU responded by offering immediate relief to students affected, while also working tirelessly to increase its general scholarship fund.

In the 2022-23 academic year alone, FCCU awarded over PKR 338 million in scholarships to 2,317 students. This isn’t just an investment in education – it’s an investment in Pakistan’s future. In the subsequent academic year (2023-24), FCCU exceeded expectations by awarding PKR 430 million in scholarships across all levels – Intermediate, Undergraduate, and Postgraduate.

FCCU’s scholarship program is fueled by a network of supporters – alumni, faculty, staff, foundations, philanthropists, and corporate partners – who share FCCU’s vision. The goal is clear: ensure all qualified students can receive higher education, regardless of their social, economic, or religious background, contributing to a brighter future. This generation of Forman graduates, following in the footsteps of over 30,000 alumni, will undoubtedly leave their mark, embodying the college’s motto: “By Love Serve One Another.”