This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about two prestigious international academic opportunities recently announced by the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training, Government of Pakistan.

Representing Pakistan on a global stage, these fellowships offer Pakistani scholars the chance to teach and conduct research at world-renowned institutions: Heidelberg University in Germany and Al-Farabi Kazakh National University in Kazakhstan.

Elevate Your Academic Career: International Teaching Opportunities for Pakistani Professors in 2024

In a significant move to strengthen bilateral relations and promote Pakistani culture and academia abroad, the Government of Pakistan has announced two high-profile international positions. These roles are not merely teaching jobs; they are “Academic Ambassador” roles designed to bridge the gap between Pakistan and the global academic community.

Whether you are a seasoned researcher in South Asian studies or an expert in International Relations, these positions at the Allama Iqbal Professorial Fellowship (Germany) and the Urdu and Pakistan Studies Chair (Kazakhstan) represent the pinnacle of academic achievement.

Overview of the International Academic Fellowships

1. The Allama Iqbal Professorial Fellowship at Heidelberg University, Germany

Heidelberg University, founded in 1386, is Germany’s oldest university and one of the most prestigious research institutions in the world. Its South Asia Institute (SAI) is a global leader in the study of the region.

Basic Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for this prestigious fellowship, applicants must meet the following stringent requirements:

• Nationality: Must be a Pakistani National Scholar.

• Age Limit: Must not exceed 55 years of age on the date of joining.

• Academic Qualification: Must hold a Ph.D. degree.

• Current Rank: Must hold the rank of Associate Professor or above.

• Experience: Proven track record in teaching and research, or status as a suitably eminent scholar with a background in Humanities or Social Sciences.

• Language Proficiency: Must be highly proficient in the English language.

Job Description: Your Role in Germany

The fellowship holder isn’t just a teacher; they are a cultural liaison. Responsibilities include:

• Knowledge Dissemination: Imparting knowledge regarding Pakistan’s history, culture, national and regional languages, literary figures, geography, and political environment.

• Language and Culture: Devoting dedicated time to teaching Urdu, Pakistan Studies, and literature.

• Academic Engagement: Interacting with the Heidelberg academic community to foster positive bilateral relations.

• Forum Participation: Attending and contributing to academic forums at the university on relevant issues.

• Program Development: Organizing short and long courses about Pakistan aligned with the Ministry’s MOU.

• Scholar Support: Providing maximum cooperation to scholars at Heidelberg researching any aspect of Pakistan.

• Cultural Events: Organizing conferences, seminars, film festivals, and food festivals to showcase Pakistani culture.

• Resource Building: Establishing Pakistan-focused literacy and cultural corners in the host university’s library.

Perks and Privileges

The Government of Pakistan provides a comprehensive benefits package:

• Financial Support: Disbursement of Pay and Allowances (Travelling, Dearness, House Rent, etc.) administered by the Ministry.

• Visa Assistance: Support in arranging multiple-entry visas for the fellow and their family members (responsibility of the fellow).

• Travel Costs: Air passage and transportation for the scholar and family (spouse and children) to and from Germany, borne by the Ministry.

2. Urdu and Pakistan Studies Chair at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Kazakhstan

Al-Farabi Kazakh National University (KazNU) is the leading institution in the Kazakh higher education system. This position is vital for Pakistan’s “Look Central Asia” policy, fostering ties through academic and linguistic exchange.

Basic Eligibility Criteria

• Nationality: Pakistani National Scholar.

• Age Limit: Not exceeding 55 years at the time of application.

• Rank: Associate Professor or above.

• Academic Qualification: Ph.D. in Urdu language / Literature / Pakistan Studies / History / Political Science / International Relations / International Trade / or Development Economics (HEC recognized).

• Language Proficiency: Proficient in the English language.

Job Description: Your Role in Almaty

The Chair/Coordinator-Researcher will focus on:

• Research & MOU Goals: Pursuing the objectives outlined in the MOU signed between Pakistan and the university.

• Teaching: Delivering lectures on Pakistan’s history, culture, and languages (minimum hours per week as per university requirements).

• Bilateral Relations: Actively engaging with the Kazakh academic community to strengthen ties between the two nations.

• Events & Symposia: Organizing seminars, workshops, and art exhibitions in Kazakhstan to showcase Pakistan’s heritage.

• Information Exchange: Facilitating the mutual exchange of academic knowledge between Pakistan and Kazakhstan.

• Library Development: Creating a Pakistani cultural and literacy corner within the host university library.

Perks and Privileges

• Administered Funds: Monthly pay, house rent, and specialized allowances (e.g., foreign allowance) provided by the Ministry.

• Travel & Transport: Airfare for the scholar and their family from Pakistan to Kazakhstan and back is fully covered by the Government of Pakistan.

• Visa Support: Assistance with multiple-entry visas for the scholar and family.

The Importance of Academic Diplomacy

These fellowships represent a powerful form of “Soft Power.” By placing high-level Pakistani academics in European and Central Asian institutions, Pakistan:

1. Corrects Narratives: Provides first-hand, scholarly perspectives on Pakistan’s history and current affairs.

2. Promotes Language: Keeps the Urdu language alive and studied in international academic circles.

3. Builds Networks: Creates lasting professional networks between Pakistani universities and global leaders like Heidelberg.

4. Enhances Faculty Profiles: Returning scholars bring back international best practices, benefiting their home institutions in Pakistan.

How to Apply: A Step-by-Step Guide to the National Job Portal (NJP)

The Ministry has streamlined the process through the National Job Portal. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Visit the Portal: Go to https://njp.gov.pk/.

2. Registration: If you don’t have an account, create one using your CNIC and a valid email address.

3. Profile Completion: This is crucial. Ensure your profile includes your detailed academic history, research publications, and current employment status.

4. Search for the Vacancy: Look for “Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training” under the active departments.

5. Upload Documents: You will need to upload your CV, departmental permission (NOC), and supporting academic/experience documents.

6. “Proper Channel”: If you are already in Government or Semi-Government service, you must apply through the proper channel (via your current employer’s HR/Establishment division).

7. Deadline: Applications must be submitted within 15 days of the advertisement appearing in the press. Late applications will not be considered.

Tips for a Winning Application

Since these are highly competitive roles at the Associate Professor level and above, your application must stand out:

• Highlight International Exposure: If you have previously presented at international conferences or collaborated with foreign researchers, make it prominent.

• Research Impact: Don’t just list publications; mention your H-index or the impact your work has had on your field.

• Statement of Purpose: While the NJP is a form-based system, ensure your uploaded CV or any personal statement fields clearly articulate why you are the best fit to represent Pakistan abroad.

• Focus on the “Job Description”: Tailor your highlighted skills to match the specific duties, such as “organizing cultural events” or “establishing library corners.”

Terms and Conditions to Note

• Tenure: Initially for three (3) years on a deputation or contract basis.

• Extension: Possible for a maximum of two additional years with mutual consent.

• Selection Process: Only short-listed candidates will be invited for an interview.

• TA/DA: No travel or daily allowance will be provided for the interview phase.

• Authority: The Ministry reserves the right not to fill the vacancy without assigning a reason.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I apply if I am an Assistant Professor?
No, the advertisement specifically states the rank must be Associate Professor or above.

Q2: Is Ph.D. mandatory?
Yes, both positions require a PhD degree recognized by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan.

Q3: Will the government pay for my family’s travel?
Yes, the perks include air passage and transportation charges for the scholar and their family (spouse and children) to the host country and back.

Q4: Is there a specific subject requirement for the Kazakhstan post?
Yes, the PhD should be in Urdu, Literature, Pakistan Studies, History, Political Science, International Relations, International Trade, or Development Economics.

Q5: How do I get “Departmental Permission”?
You must apply through your university’s administrative or HR department to receive a formal No Objection Certificate (NOC) to apply for deputation.

Contact Information for Queries:
For further clarification, candidates may contact:
Deputy Secretary
Phone: 051-9202361
Room No. 129, First Floor, C-Block, Pakistan Secretariat, Islamabad.

Apply today and take your academic career to the international stage!