By Saadia Ajbaili
BRUSSELS – The Embassy of Pakistan in Belgium organized a dynamic networking event on October 14, bringing together Pakistani students and professionals to foster collaborations, share opportunities,/Sh are experiences, and spotlight the community’s contributions to Belgium’s intellectual landscape.
Held in the heart of Brussels, the gathering underscored strengthening ties between Pakistan, Belgium, and the European Union in higher education, innovation, and research sectors.
Sabine Capart, Counsellor at the Belgian Federal Public Service for Foreign Affairs, commended the initiative, stating, “Students are the best ambassadors, building bridges between countries, cultures, and communities. Your work in science and research helps drive collective progress and reflects the deep relationship between Belgium and Pakistan.”
Keynote presentations highlighted EU-funded programs for Pakistani talent, including Erasmus mobility schemes, Horizon Europe research grants, the Talent Partnership, and various academic and cross-border initiatives aimed at boosting academic and career growth.
The event drew high-level participation from the European Commission, Belgian governmental bodies, and the Pakistani diaspora. Notable speakers included Dr. Lorna Schrefler, Team Leader for International Cooperation at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Research and Innovation; Johanna Månsson-Delerce, Policy Officer at the Directorate-General for Education, Youth, Sport and Culture; Sabine Capart; and Renilde Knevels, Policy Advisor for Internationalization at the Flemish Higher Education Council.
Adding local flavor, Pakistani experts from top Belgian institutions shared insights: Dr. Ali Sherazi from Sanofi and KU Leuven; Professor Dr. Ahmed Zaib Khan from ULB; Dr. Madiha Nazir from Caldris Bio; Dr. Muhammad Naeem from KU Leuven; and Hira Mehmood from BOSAQ.
Attendees lauded the embassy’s role in bridging gaps. Dr. Schrefler noted, “What they did today I think was very well done—putting people together, getting them to talk and know each other, with delicious food as well. For this, the embassy plays a key role.”
Dr. Nazir, who has been in Belgium for two years, added, “The sense of community abroad comes from events like this. I’ve struggled to find that connection. This platform was an opportunity to meet others, spread the word, and realize that I also need to make an effort to build community where I am. I’m leaving with a lot of positive messages I want to act on.”
Dr. Sherazi offered guidance to aspiring professionals: “First, there are no shortcuts in life; you must work hard and earn your achievements. Second, failure is not the end; it is a step toward success. Third, growth is never linear—you must continuously adapt and find new ways to reach your goals.”
Ambassador Rahim Hayat Qureshi opened the event, thanking European and Belgian partners for their collaboration in shaping global futures through education and innovation.
The program wrapped up with an interactive Q&A, extended networking, and refreshments, enabling deeper discussions and potential partnerships. Through such efforts, the embassy continues to support and empower young Pakistanis abroad, expanding their professional networks and horizons.
