Help Ilsa Shariff Fulfill Her Educational Dreams

Introduction:

Assalam o alaikum! My name is Ilsa Shariff, and I am a 3rd year student of Electrical Engineering at Habib University, Karachi. I am reaching out to you today with hope for your support to continue my education. Despite my hard work, dedication, financial aid and merit-based scholarship, my family’s financial situation is making it increasingly difficult for me to afford the rising tuition fees.

Background:

I have always been passionate about learning and expanding my knowledge. With my zeal for learning outside the box, I am also pursuing a minor in South Asian Music. This eccentric major-minor combination is a testament to my passion for a holistic learning experience.

Furthermore, to hone my skills and learning experience, I have actively participated in various opportunities provided by my university and undertaken several self-projects. As a result, I have been able to maintain a decent GPA along with my active participation in all kinds of extracurricular activities.

Along with my studies, I am also working a part-time job to support my family, and I am also serving as the Chair of Academic Affairs in the Habib University Student Government.

Financial Struggles:

Regrettably, Pakistan is currently grappling with an economic crisis, which has had a profound impact on my ability to afford my education. Habib University, in response to the economic challenges, has been forced to raise its tuition fees annually. The hyperinflation in Pakistan, with the current rate at 38%, coupled with the ongoing devaluation of the rupee, has resulted in a staggering 61% increase in the exchange rate against the US dollar. Consequently, my parents are under tremendous strain, and it has become increasingly difficult for them to cover the expenses associated with my education. Despite my best efforts to work part-time alongside my studies, the income generated falls short of meeting the substantial financial demands. Even with the merit-based scholarship I have earned, I am still burdened with a significant cost of approximately 3 lakh PKR (around 1060 USD or 950 Euros) per semester after factoring in the recent 15% fee hike. This amount encompasses various expenses such as tuition fees, lab charges, enrollment fees, and the additional costs for the courses required for my minor.

My father is a retired officer from the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority from 2018/2019, and his pension is far much lesser than my university’s tuition fees (pension statement would be provided on request). His pension has remained the same since the day he retired with only 7000 PKR increase in these 5 years. Now with increasing inflation, my father’s stagnant pension has now made us hand-to-mouth. Being an only daughter, my part-time job is not sufficient enough to cater to such a big demand, and is also having a big toll on my studies.

Appeal for Support:

Considering the aforementioned financial burdens, I am reaching out to all of you, kind-hearted individuals who understand the importance of education and the impact it can have on one's future. I need funds to cover the expenses for my remaining four semesters at Habib University, amounting to a total of USD 4240 or 3800 Euros. Your generous contributions will go directly towards tuition fees, educational materials, and other essential costs, ensuring that I can continue my academic journey without further obstacles.

Conclusion:

By supporting my educational endeavors, you will be empowering me to realize my dreams and make a positive difference in the field of Electrical Engineering. No contribution is too small, and every dollar counts in helping me overcome the financial challenges that currently stand in my way. I sincerely thank you for taking the time to read my story and considering supporting my cause. Please feel free to reach out to me if you require any additional details or have any questions. Your support and contributions mean the world to me, and I am more than willing to provide further information to help you understand my situation better. Together, we can make education a reality for hard-working students and passionate students like me.