KARACHI: From August 11-12 U.S. Consul General Scott Urbom completed an official visit to Hyderabad and Jamshoro, where he engaged with local officials, academic leaders, youth, journalists, and members of the business community. The visit highlighted the enduring U.S.-Pakistan partnership and underscored shared priorities in academic excellence, innovation, and mutual prosperity.
During his visit, Urbom toured the U.S.-Pakistan Center for Advanced Studies in Water (USPCAS-W) at Mehran University of Engineering and Technology (MUET). In 2014, the U.S. government, through USAID, invested $12 million to establish the USPCAS-W at MUET Jamshoro and $10 million to partner with the University of Utah to enhance MUET’s capacity. The Center leads efforts to address Pakistan’s critical water challenges by conducting applied research, developing community solutions, building public partnerships, and strengthening capacity.
Recently, USPCAS-W contributed to the U.S.-funded Water Governance for Sindh Activity, which strengthens municipal and provincial water management, improves water and sanitation services, and promotes sustainable environmental practices in Sindh. The USPCAS-W also awarded 250 scholarships, including 87 for women, for master’s and doctoral degrees. Urbom praised USPCAS-W as a model of sustainable U.S.-Pakistan cooperation, highlighting initiatives like training municipal staff in Jacobabad on solid waste segregation, recycling, and composting. The Center equips future generations to tackle water and environmental challenges by transferring skills and connecting Pakistani academics, government officials, and community leaders with U.S.-supported experts.
Urbom met with executives from Al Fateh Oil Industries, which imports American soybeans to produce animal feed and cooking oil. Poultry feed manufacturers at the meeting shared their preference for American soybeans, citing their higher nutritional quality. They explained that this quality feed reduces poultry production costs, making chicken and eggs more affordable in Pakistan while improving their nutritional value for consumers.
Consul General Urbom attended the Sports Day celebration of the English Access Scholarship Program at Peoples School Jamshoro. The U.S. government’s Access Program helps Pakistani youth strengthen their English proficiency and leadership skills through cultural exchange and community activities. During the event, Urbom joined the students on the field, receiving cricket tips from them and sharing taekwondo moves in return. “The Access Program brings opportunity, confidence, and new perspectives to young people across Pakistan,” Urbom said.
Urbom also visited the National Incubation Center (NIC) Hyderabad, where he participated in a U.S. Lincoln Corner-hosted event “Meet the U.S. Diplomats.” U.S. diplomats Tyrell Walker and Reva Gupta joined Urbom to interact with young leaders, sharing insights about their diplomatic journey and emphasizing the importance of youth engagement in building strong partnerships between countries.
In addition, Urbom appeared on a Mehran University radio show and met with journalists to discuss the U.S.-Pakistan partnership. His visit showcased the importance of U.S.-Pakistan cooperation in education, youth empowerment, and sustainable development, fostering stronger ties and opportunities for future generations.
