Wbdesk: Arizona State University (ASU) has officially partnered with Pakistan to establish the National Institute of Technology (NIT) in Lahore, marking the first-ever physical campus of a US-based university in the country.
This groundbreaking initiative represents a significant milestone, as it is the first time an American university has set up a permanent presence on Pakistani soil.
The university is set to commence classes in Fall 2025. Under NIT, two academic schools will initially operate: the School of Data Sciences and Information Technology and the School of Management Sciences.
The academic structure will follow an American-style curriculum, while being thoughtfully adapted to align with Pakistan’s cultural values and educational landscape.
The initiative is being led by Shahzeb Awan, a University of London-trained lawyer, and Jahanzeb Burana, a Harvard educated finance expert.
Their vision and leadership are central to bringing this transformative educational venture to life.
In April 2025, a formal agreement was signed at ASU’s Tempe campus in Arizona, solidifying the collaboration between Arizona State University and the National Institute of Technology (NIT).
According to ASU officials, the institute aims to offer a world-class learning experience designed to prepare students for success in global markets. A key feature of the program is the dual degree pathway, allowing students to earn degrees from both ASU and NIT simultaneously.
Additionally, students will have the opportunity to study abroad at various ASU campuses in Washington, DC, California, and through the ASU-Cintana Alliance, which connects them to a global network of over 30 partner institutions around the world.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hailed the partnership as a “milestone” in Pakistan’s education sector during a meeting with ASU representatives. He emphasised the transformative impact of the initiative, stating, “NIT will be a world-class institution that enables our youth to prosper in international markets.”
The launch of Arizona State University Pakistan is expected to open new avenues for learning, expand career prospects, and elevate Pakistan’s standing in the global academic community.
The Lahore campus will feature cutting-edge laboratories, innovation centres, and incubators focused on fostering entrepreneurship and advancing green technology research.
In line with its mission of accessibility, affordability, and impact, NIT plans to reserve 30 per cent of its seats for students from underprivileged backgrounds through need-based scholarships, ensuring that economic barriers do not hinder talent and ambition.
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