The news
We are delighted to announce that COSARAF Foundation Co-Founder and trustee Farouq Sheikh OBE has joined The Oxford Pakistan Programme’s (OPP) prestigious Advisory Body. As a leading philanthropist and entrepreneur Farouq Sheikh brings a wealth of experience, vision, and dedication to education, equality, and opportunity. His involvement marks an exciting new chapter for the OPP as it continues its mission to expand access and opportunity, for Pakistani heritage students at the University of Oxford.
Through his leadership at the COSARAF Foundation, Farouq has already made a transformative impact on the OPP, having supported students of Pakistani origin at Oxford through the COSARAF sponsored studentships. His continued guidance and participation on the Advisory Body will strengthen the OPP’s strategic growth and ensure its long-term sustainability.
About the Oxford Pakistan Programme (OPP)
The Oxford Pakistan Programme is the first academic initiative of its kind at the University of Oxford, dedicated to increasing the representation of Pakistani-origin students and advancing Pakistan-related research. The OPP’s Advisory Body provides expert counsel to guide the programme’s strategy, strengthen its global network, and expand its fundraising and impact.
Members of the Advisory Body include Malala Yousafzai, Dr Mohammad Faisal (High Commissioner for Pakistan to the UK), Professor Stephen Blyth (Principal of Lady Margaret Hall), Farmida Bi OBE, Dr Ahmad Al-Sayed, Mohammed Khaishgi, and Moazzam Malik CMG. The addition of Farouq reinforces this distinguished group’s shared vision of supporting educational excellence and diversity at Oxford.
Partnership and Shared Vision
The partnership between the COSARAF Foundation and the OPP reflects a shared commitment to breaking down financial and social barriers to higher education. Since its inception, this collaboration has enabled nine talented Oxford post-graduate students to pursue their academic ambitions, fostering greater inclusion and opportunity. With Farouq now joining the Advisory Body, this partnership will deepen further, amplify the OPP’s ability to empower the next generation of leaders.
Haroon Zaman, Director of the Oxford Pakistan Programme, said:
” It is a distinct privilege for the Oxford Pakistan Programme for Mr Farouq Sheikh OBE to be joining our Advisory Body. Mr Sheikh has been a foundational donor to the OPP having established, through the COSARAF Foundation, a hardship fund for Pakistani origin students at Oxford. Mr Sheikh’s membership of the Advisory Body will allow the OPP to further benefit from his support through his advice and guidance. Mr Sheikh’s strategic, business and philanthropic experience will be key in allowing the OPP to continue to grow and to deepen its institutional foundations and strengthen its financial stability in the years ahead. We greatly look forward to working with Mr Sheikh and thank him and the Sheikh Family for their continued support for the OPP.”
