Nobel Peace Prize winner and education activist Malala Yousafzai has announced a new scholarship program for Pakistani women who want to study at the University of Oxford. The Malala Yousafzai Scholarship, created with the Oxford Pakistan Programme, offers fully funded opportunities for women to pursue a Master’s degree or higher at one of the world’s top universities.
In a social media post and video message, Malala shared that this initiative is very personal for her. She explained that after graduating from Oxford herself, she felt a strong duty to give back to girls who, like her, have fought for their right to education and dream of continuing their studies.
Reflecting on her own journey, Malala recalled being denied schooling at age 11 when schools were closed in her native Swat Valley. She said she never wanted her story to be unique or the only one. Through this scholarship, she hopes many more girls from Pakistan will get the chance to fulfill their potential.
The scholarship aims to support talented Pakistani women who dream of studying at Oxford and want to use their education to bring positive change back to their communities and country. Malala expressed full confidence in the ability of Pakistani girls to build successful careers through education and contribute meaningfully to society.
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“I want every girl in Pakistan to be able to pursue her dream, complete her education, choose her own future and help the country progress,” she said in her announcement.
The scholarship provides complete financial support to successful applicants, covering all costs of higher education at Oxford including tuition fees and living expenses. This ensures that selected students can focus entirely on their studies without financial worries.
Eligible candidates are encouraged to apply through the official Oxford Pakistan Programme website, where applications are now open. Malala expressed hope that many young women would seize this opportunity and said she looks forward to welcoming future scholars to the university in the coming years.
This initiative continues Malala’s lifelong mission of promoting education for girls and empowering them to shape their own futures. Her advocacy, which began in her home district of Swat where militants once restricted girls from attending school, has grown into an international movement for equal access to education.
Recently, Malala was also honored with a portrait at Oxford’s Lady Margaret Hall, joining the image of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto as one of only two Pakistanis to receive this recognition. She serves as an advisory board member for the Oxford Pakistan Programme, which provides scholarship help to Pakistanis at Oxford.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the Malala Yousafzai Scholarship?
Pakistani women who wish to pursue a Master’s or higher degree at Oxford University.
What expenses does the scholarship cover?
It covers full costs including tuition fees and living expenses.
Where can I submit my application?
Through the official Oxford Pakistan Programme website.
Why did Malala create this scholarship?
To give back to girls fighting for education rights, just as she did.
