LONDON: Malala Yousafzai, the world’s youngest Nobel Peace Prize laureate and co-founder of the Malala Fund, was awarded an honorary fellowship by Oxford University’s Linacre College on April 18.
This makes her the first Pakistani to receive the prestigious honour. The announcement was made by the Oxford Pakistan Programme (OPP) on April 20.
On April 18th, 2023, @Malala was awarded a prestigious honorary fellowship by @UniofOxford's @LinacreCollege The ceremony was attended by the Principal of the College, University Professors, and Fellows of the College. @TJPirzada @ZiauddinY @AdeelMalikOx pic.twitter.com/tPbz0QGW5u
— Oxford Pakistan Programme (@OxfordPakistan) April 21, 2023
During the ceremony, Malala was added to the prestigious list of individuals who have been awarded honorary fellowships by Linacre College, including Nobel Prize winner Sir Paul Nurse and Dr Frene Ginwala, the first Speaker of the National Assembly of the Parliament of South Africa.
Malala spoke warmly about her past visits to Linacre College and praised the transformative impact of the OPP, which has served as a beacon of hope for students in Pakistan.
Dr Nick Brown, Principal of Linacre College, commended Malala’s steadfast commitment to women’s education, particularly for those from disadvantaged backgrounds, and noted that her selection as an honorary fellow further solidifies the strong relationship between the OPP and Linacre College.
Malala Yousafzai’s father expresses joy over achievement
Malala’s father, Ziauddin Yousafzai, who was also present at the ceremony, expressed his joy at his daughter’s achievement. He said, “It is a huge honour for my daughter to receive this recognition.
Malala’s father expressed his joy at her achievement, stating that he could see the happiness on her face and that he is proud of her. He believes she will use this opportunity to continue her work and collaborate with others to address the challenges of girls’ education.
Dr Talha Jamal Pirzada, co-founder of the OPP, discussed the program’s activities in promoting education and collaboration between Oxford and Pakistan, emphasizing the transformative power of education and the need to invest in the education of women and young girls, particularly in STEM subjects, for a prosperous and equitable future.
The awarding of an honorary fellowship to Malala Yousafzai by Linacre College is a momentous occasion, highlighting her remarkable achievements in promoting girls’ education and gender equality. Her unwavering commitment to education has made her a global icon and a symbol of hope for millions of girls around the world.
