Standing on the beautiful FCCU campus, Rev. Matthew Schramm, Senior Pastor at Memorial Presbyterian Church in Midland, MI, reflected on what he witnessed during their week together in Pakistan. The experience exceeded his expectations and deepened his understanding of how education transforms not just individual lives, but entire communities.

How Education Transforms Entire Communities

What struck Matt most was witnessing how Forman Christian College elevates the Christian community in Pakistan through education. In a nation where Christians represent just 1.5% of the population, quality education can break cycles of generational poverty.

“Education provides a doorway to potential, not just for the individual, but for their families and for their villages and for the church,” Matt shared. “It’s really a blessing. It’s a miracle.”

This ripple effect captures why supporting scholarships at FCCU creates such lasting impact across families, villages, and faith communities.

The Privilege of Participation

Seeing firsthand how donor support translates into life-changing opportunities for Pakistani students reinforced his commitment to sharing this story with others back home.

“To be able to participate in that just a little bit, it’s absolutely a privilege and a joy, and I can’t wait to share it with folks at home so that they can see more about what God is doing in this place,” he said. “It really just touches your heart.”

Experience the Impact Yourself

Matt’s visit demonstrates how traveling to see FCCU in person can deepen anyone’s understanding of this unique mission. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or someone curious about Friends of Forman’s work, experiencing the campus firsthand provides perspective that can’t be gained from afar.

If you’re interested in joining a future visit to see how your support creates opportunities for deserving students in Pakistan, contact our team to learn about upcoming trips to Lahore.

Want to read more transformative visitor stories? Read how Brandi Drake discovered hope in action during her visit to Forman Christian College.

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

“As we reflect on this tremendous achievement, I want to formally recognize and commend the efforts of our FCCU faculty, staff, and volunteer students,” said Forman rector, Dr. Jonathan Addleton. “Their hard work and teamwork have once again highlighted the spirit and values that define FCCU.”

More than half (664 or 51%) of the graduates were female students, and 12% (158) were Christian students. Many of these Christian and female scholars earn scholarships to help them complete their education.

Commencement is an annual reminder of the importance of education and the next step in the journey for many Forman students. This landmark event brings together individuals and offices from across the university, unified by a shared vision of excellence and celebration.

This year’s graduation also comes on the 160th anniversary of FCCU’s foundation. The Christian college was originally started in 1864 and has since grown to serve over 9,000 students as one of the nation’s premier institutions of higher learning.

Of the graduates, 1,025 completed their undergraduate degrees and the remaining 268 were post-graduate students. These numbers include 186 female postgraduate students and 27 Christian postgrads. Four women and one Christian student earned their PhD at the ceremony. 

“Our team’s unwavering dedication, creativity, and exceptional contributions transformed this ceremony into an elegant and memorable occasion—one that truly honored our students and their families as well as our distinguished guests, faculty, and staff,” said Dr. Addleton.

Two valedictorians with the highest GPA gave commencement speeches to the assembled students and faculty. Sanwal Hussain was honored as the undergraduate valedictorian, and Mahiha Ilyas represented the postgraduate class with a perfect 4.0 GPA.

The event also featured awards for academic and extracurricular achievements, including Excellence Medals, Certificates of Distinction, and the Roll of Honor.

The graduation ceremony was covered in online media outlets like The Nation and Dawn News.

Forman hosted a number of sports events in recent weeks including the Open Intramural Futsal Championship 2024 involving 26 teams. Kamil Shamshad, Head of Student Development, was Chief Guest, handing out trophies at the end of both the Men and Women’s Finals.

Forman also hosted the Lahore Board Inter Collegiate Swimming Championships 2024 on October 15; seven other schools participated, with our College team managed by M. Ahsan Umar swimming its way to a second place finish. The 4×50 Free Style Relay was especially dramatic, with Forman’s team including Dawood Ahmed, Abdullah Adnan, Sufian Umer and Zuhair Sultan finishing second.

Looking ahead, Forman will host the second Forman Women Fest from November 7 through November 15. Events include athletics, arm wrestling, badminton, table tennis and chess, among others.

Congratulations to the FCCU Cricket Team captained by Raheen Jarwar which secured two consecutive wins in the recent Pakistan Cricket Board All Pakistan Intervarsity Men’s Cricket Championship for 2024-2025 on their way to the championship game.

In the first game, Forman dominated Superior University, winning by nine wickets; Abdul Ahad was declared “Player of the Match” for his outstanding performance including taking four wickets. In the second match, FCCU defeated Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS), emerging victorious by 133 runs thanks to Hammad Rafique’s stellar performance in taking two wickets and scoring 118 runs.

Although Forman lost in the Zone F Finals to Government College University, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to the team for representing Forman so well in what some have described as Pakistan’s “national sport”.

On October 25 our College students concluded Forman’s 137th Annual Athletic Competition. The two-day intramural event involved many sports including long jump, triple jump, high jump, hammer throw, shot put shotput, javelin, discus and various running events at distances ranging from 100 meters to 5,000 meters. Dr. Lubna Amer and Rehan Sohail attended as Guests of Honor while College Vice Rector Dr. Ivan Suneel distributed prizes including to M. Umer (Best Athlete), Sabtain Ali (Second Best Athlete), and Newton Hall (Overall Champions).

Transcending Traditional Prejudices

My name is Multazim, and I live in a small village in Punjab, which is in the same province as Lahore, Pakistan. My community has a deeply ingrained perspective that restricts women from pursuing an education. 

Regrettably, the few women who seek education and employment are unfairly stigmatized. I aspire to challenge and help transform this prevailing mindset. I firmly believe education is the cornerstone of humanity; it’s a beacon that illuminates our path to progress and enlightenment. 

My commitment is to empower not only myself but also the countless other girls who share my dreams. It’s my mission is to transcend these boundaries of tradition and prejudice. I hope to demonstrate that education is not a gender-specific privilege but a fundamental right that enriches our lives and enhances our capabilities.

Perseverance Despite Poverty

My father is a veterinary technician who earns a modest monthly income. His salary was once stable, but it has been severely compromised by the devastating tandem of the COVID-19 pandemic and the relentless floods. 

His income is the sole financial pillar for our family of five and bears the brunt of our collective hopes and aspirations. As the eldest of my siblings, I also feel a responsibility to get an education and set a good example for my younger siblings, who are also in school.

Because of the small village where my family lives, there are scarce opportunities, especially for young women. I initially wanted to grow up to be a doctor and help others. However, admissions to public colleges are competitive, and I struggled to be admitted.

I knew that even if I was admitted to a local college, my family would struggle to pay for tuition. I knew I would have to remain persistent and find another way to earn my education and build a brighter future for myself.

Hope From Financial Aid

If I were to continue my dreams of becoming a doctor, I would need to apply to a private college, which would be even more expensive. Thankfully, I learned about the financial aid program at Forman Christian College.

 Applying to a prestigious private college like FCCU was a risky option, but it was also the final hope for my aspirations. I was just about to give up all my ambitions because of my financial instability and traditional inequality.

FCCU has inspired me to believe in myself. 

After being admitted to FCCU with a financial scholarship, the challenges of escalating inflation and university fees continue to threaten and undermine my educational pursuits. However, I have hope and I’m not giving up. I’m pushing forward and know I’m not alone in this journey.

Why FCCU is the Right Choice For Me

FCCU is a model of academic excellence, offering many programs and experienced faculty members. The institution encourages research and holistic development, shaping not just bright professionals but also ethical individuals. 

The University boasts a vibrant extracurricular scene, fostering personal growth and teamwork through various clubs and societies. Moreover, FCCU places a strong emphasis on community engagement, instilling a sense of social responsibility in its students. 

The benefits of joining FCCU include a top-notch education, program diversity, expert guidance, research opportunities, character development, extracurricular involvement, and a commitment to making a positive impact on the community.

However, FCCU gave me the confidence, moral support, and financial support I needed. 

Studying to Care For Others

I am studying Pharm D at FCCU, a five-year academic and research degree that involves formulating, manufacturing, dispensing, and administering medicines to patients.

The Pharm D program has instilled in me a profound sense of purpose. I’m driven by the noble mission of safeguarding human lives. Each day of study is a source of immense joy, knowing that I play an integral role in this life-saving profession, a privilege I cherish deeply. 

My pharmacy degree is not my final destination. It serves as a stepping stone toward my ultimate goal of earning a PhD in drug discovery. My desire is to contribute to humanity’s wellbeing by researching cancer treatments. 

I have seen many women from my village die of breast cancer. I could not sleep for many nights after witnessing such scary deaths. I believe I can transcend adversity and carve a path toward a future where I can contribute significantly to society’s betterment by serving and empowering other girls like me. 

Learning Social Responsibility

FCCU’s commitment to community engagement has given me a profound sense of social responsibility. These skills and values have been instrumental in my personal and professional growth. I still want to use my education to give back and help others, especially young girls in the village where I grew up.

Beyond academics, the university has provided me with a well-rounded education. 

• Through interactions with peers from various backgrounds, I’ve learned to appreciate diversity, enhancing my cultural understanding. 
• Active participation in extracurricular activities and clubs has nurtured my leadership and teamwork skills. 
• Engaging in presentations and group discussions has refined my communication and public speaking abilities. 
• The university’s emphasis on critical thinking and problem-solving has honed my analytical skills. 
• Balancing coursework, activities, and personal life has improved my time management capabilities. 

Thank You For Giving Me a Path to an Education

I want to express my sincere gratitude to all Friends of Forman donors for your generous support. Your contribution significantly impacted my academic journey. 

It’s said that educating a woman is equal to educating a generation. If that’s the case, then you’ve educated a nation. Through your generosity, I will become a philanthropist like you to continue your legacy of educating the generations. 

Your belief in the value of education and your willingness to invest in my future is inspiring and humbling. Thanks to your support, I have pursued my educational goals. I am committed to making the most of this opportunity. 

Thank you for your generosity and for making a positive difference in my life. Your support has been instrumental in my educational journey, and I am grateful beyond words.

A Family Reliant on Education

My name is Muhammad. 

Education is incredibly important for my family. All four of my siblings are currently students. My father is our family’s sole breadwinner and works as a teacher.

Education opens doors to knowledge, personal growth, and opportunities. It equips me with the skills to navigate the world and contribute meaningfully to society. My goal has always been to get a college degree and make my family and hometown proud.

The Importance of Financial Aid

Pakistan’s economic hardships have impacted the entire population. Inflation and rising costs of living have placed a strain on my family’s financial stability. Meeting everyday expenses and managing educational costs has become challenging. 

While researching universities, I learned about Forman Christian College’s financial aid program. My family could not afford to send me to college without support, so I applied. Financial support allows me to focus on my education without the added stress of financial constraints.

Beyond the financial aid, I chose Forman for its commitment to academic excellence, diverse learning environment, and shared values. FCCU is a dynamic learning institution that fosters a holistic approach to education, similar to the American education system. 

Why I Chose FCCU

FCCU has provided me with a supportive academic environment, access to knowledgeable faculty, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. The university’s commitment to excellence and student diversity has positively impacted my educational journey.

One aspect that stands out is the practical and hands-on approach to learning. My program integrates real-world scenarios, case studies, and projects, allowing me to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations. The program fosters a collaborative learning environment. Interacting with diverse peers with a passion for communication has broadened my perspective and enhanced my teamwork and interpersonal skills. 

The engaging and experienced faculty members have played a crucial role in enriching the learning experience. Their insights, industry experience, and guidance have deepened my understanding of the subject and inspired me to think critically and creatively. 

Beyond my academic studies, I’ve learned the importance of resilience, time management, and collaboration. The diverse campus has broadened my perspective on various topics and issues.

Aspiring to a Career in Adventure Tourism

At FCCU, I’m pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Communication, specializing in Advertising and Public Relations. This program provides me with a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of communication, with a focus on ads and PR strategies.

My future goals revolve around leveraging my education and skills to positively impact the communications industry. I hope to do this with a career in Adventure Tourism, emphasizing branding and promotion. This emerging field is exciting, but it’s important to remind people about sustainability and safety.

By combining cultural tourism with community engagement, I want to design campaigns that foster cultural exchange, showcase responsible tourism practices, and emphasize the cultural richness of destinations. 

Ultimately, I aspire to lead mountaineering expeditions while building a personal brand, sharing success stories and expertise to attract participants and contribute to the growth of the adventure tourism sector.

Making a Lasting Impact

My advice to prospective students is to embrace every learning opportunity, stay focused on your goals, and seek support when needed. Hard work, determination, and consistency can overcome any challenges in life.

I’m so thankful to all Friends of Forman donors for their invaluable support. Your gifts have transformed my educational journey and will do the same for many others. Your commitment to contributing to my education is not just a financial investment; it is a profound vote of confidence in my potential and aspirations. 

I assure you that your investment in my education is being met with dedication and a deep sense of responsibility. I eagerly anticipate realizing this support, and I am committed to maximizing this opportunity.

Your belief in the power of education is inspiring. In the future, I aspire to pay forward the support I’ve received, ensuring that others can benefit from the gift of education. Your belief in my potential motivates me to succeed and make the most of this opportunity.

Haroon is an outstanding example of how education, faith, and an entire village have been deeply blessed by a scholarship to Forman Christian College.

Christians Stuck in Generational Poverty

Christians are a repressed minority in Pakistan. For generations, they’ve only had access to the most menial and low-paying careers, like bricklaying or other back-breaking labor. Many Pakistani Christians are illiterate, including Haroon’s father. 

The only way to break this cycle is to receive an education.

“I never went to school,” says Haroon’s father, Rahman. “I earned my living by providing feed for cattle. Then I started doing labor work. Now here I am, still doing labor.”

“I can still remember those days when I used to work on the second floor with my father,” says Haroon. “I had to carry a hundred buckets of sand and about 20 buckets of stones up to the second floor one by one. That was the hardest everything I ever experienced in my life.”

Pursuing Progress Through an Education

“Thinking that I used to provide cattle feed and lay bricks in the furnace,” said his father. “If they [my children] also do this [work], we will not progress.”

Haroon’s father and mother encouraged Haroon and his brothers to pursue an education. The alternative is to spend his life as a brickmaker picking rice in the field surrounding their home. His parents simply could not abide by that.

“They want a better future [for us],” said Haroon. “My father told that he hasn’t studied a single class. He hasn’t gone to school in a single day.”

“My aim was for my children not to live like me,” agreed Haroon’s father. They will sit in good places. While we didn’t have enough food to eat, I told them to study. A person can only advance by getting an education. That’s why I thought my children should study and go forward in life. Thanks to Almighty God for making our dreams happen.”

The Transformative Power of a Scholarship

Despite scoring the highest marks in tests within his village, Haroon’s family could not afford an advanced education. Instead of despairing, Haroon persisted—he continued to study and work hard. He prayed for God to provide a path to Forman Christian College.

Attending and earning a university degree from Forman was Haroon’s goal for two primary reasons: not only would it provide him with a quality education, but it would also allow him to openly practice his Christian faith without fear.

“Education makes a difference,” said Forman Christian College rector, Dr. Jonathan Addleton. “Haroon thrived academically once he had the opportunity to attend Forman. This is an opportunity people like his father never had.”

“So many families can’t afford to send their children to FCCU,” continued Addleton. “That’s why the contributions made to scholarships are so important. Honestly, we could fund nearly as many students as we do without the support of our friends around the world.”

Thank You For Supporting a Student’s Education

The full scholarship Haroon received works to break generational poverty. He has been so encouraged by this life-changing opportunity that he wants the same for the other kids in his village.

“I hope the children from my village will be motivated to reach for their education,” said Haroon. “I want to do the work to guide them there.”

“This is because of you, Friends of Forman. I’m very thankful to you for giving me this opportunity. For straightening my path. May God bless you as you do the work for more students like me.”

“May God bless you so you can continue to help others like this,” said Haroon’s father. “You are making a poor family’s dream come true.”

Every village in Pakistan has a Haroon. Every village has parents just like his who want a better life for their children, grandchildren, and beyond.

God is using your gift to bring abundant Life to a people in a desperate place halfway around the world. We ask for your continued prayers and support we could not do this without supporters like you.

A Long-Time Aspiring FCCU Student

My name is Aqueila, and I reside in Lahore, Pakistan. 

I’ve wanted to be a student at Forman Christian College since my school days. FCCU is a famous and prestigious university here in Lahore; it’s also a great platform for Christian students. FCCU promises a bright future for each one of its students. 

Forman College provides a stage for the communication, enhancement, and improvement of the professional attitude of Pakistan’s youth. It allows students from every province and every religion to unite in one place.

My Family’s History

My father is the only one who earns a living for my family. He works as a lab assistant at Aitchison College in Lahore, where we live in the servant quarters.

I have two younger siblings—a sister and a brother—both of whom are currently students. My sister is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, and my brother is studying banking and finance. 

Unfortunately, they’re not enrolled at Forman Christian College because my father cannot afford tuition for all three of us. Without financial aid, I wouldn’t be able to attend FCCU either. Thankfully, I’ve earned a scholarship to allow me to study for a career in pharmacy.

Because of the recent rising inflation, my family struggles to cover our daily expenses. My father is diabetic and works two jobs to make ends meet. This is the primary reason I want to finish my degree and be able to help provide for my family with a better job.

The Importance of Education

I’m currently in my eighth semester at FCCU—continuing to work hard and earn a good GPA. I also have a job through the work-study program in the Mass Communication Department. 

My goal after graduation is to work as a hospital pharmacist or as a drug inspector. I believe students should stay committed, motivated, and determined in their studies, appreciating their parents’ efforts. They sacrifice so much for us to be able to attend a university.

Education is important for my physical, mental, and spiritual growth. As a woman, I believe the women of Pakistan should be educated. 

There are many phases in a woman’s life, not just her childhood, her youth, and her marriage. Each of these life stages requires a woman to be strong, steadfast, and bold enough to face the challenges of this generation. I strongly believe education leads to knowledge, optimism, and confidence.

Thank You!

I am extremely grateful to all the donors who have helped me reach this level in this educational institute and this society. Your donations are surely a true help for families suffering from financial instability like mine. May God bless you and your families!

Education is important to me because provides stability, self-confidence, and chances for better career opportunities, which leads to better financial security. A good education will help me support my family, and it’s a vital part of feeling accepted by those around me.

For the world to become equal, it needs to start with education. Education is our most powerful weapon for making dreams come true.

My father and mother are raising my elder sister and me. My father is an assistant director at an NGO, and my mother works as a training & and follow-up supervisor. Even though they want the best education for us, my parents cannot afford to pay university tuition because of financial restrictions. 

I am immensely proud to be the grandson of a dedicated Presbyterian who passionately served the church and played a role in the denationalization of FCCU. I am honored and humbled to be part of this esteemed institution.

My elder sister recently completed her Master of Divinity and volunteers with our local church. 

My primary goal in choosing to attend FCCU was to obtain an exceptional education. The campus environment and academic facilities were genuinely inspiring. They offer plenty of extracurricular activities and opportunities to study abroad.

FCCU is a place where everyone is welcome regardless of where they are from or which religion they belong to.