The Executive Board of the International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS), University of Karachi said on Thursday that it has approved a revised scholarship policy, significantly increasing the monthly stipends for MPhil and PhD scholars.
Under the revised policy, approved by the ICCBS Executive Board, the monthly scholarship for PhD students has been increased from Rs 50,000 to Rs70,000, while MPhil students will now receive Rs 30,000 per month, up from Rs 20,000.
Prof Dr Muhammad Raza Shah, Director of ICCBS, announced the decision while addressing a special gathering of students at the Prof. Salimuzzaman Siddiqui Auditorium.
He said ICCBS is among the few institutions in Pakistan that provide scholarships to all students enrolled in its postgraduate programmes. He noted that the center’s student-friendly policies and world-class research facilities have strengthened its reputation as one of the country’s leading scientific institutions.
“The objective of these enhanced scholarships is to enable our scholars to pursue high-quality and impactful research without financial constraints,” he said. Prof Raza Shah urged students to devote themselves to their research, emphasizing that their scientific contributions could play a significant role in Pakistan’s socio-economic development.
He also informed the gathering that ICCBS had announced admissions to its MPhil and PhD degree programmes for 2026. Applications are being accepted from June 29 to July 8, 2026, with July 8 being the deadline for submission.
Highlighting the institution’s supportive academic environment, Prof Raza Shah said ICCBS provides students with an atmosphere free from unnecessary hurdles and undue pressure, allowing them to focus on producing high-quality research. He expressed confidence that the enhanced scholarship programme would further improve the quality and productivity of research at the center.
He said that, by strictly adhering to the center’s academic regulations, guidelines, and merit-based policies, ICCBS continues to uphold excellence and integrity in its research and educational programmes. Describing ICCBS students as the institution’s most valuable asset, Prof. Raza Shah encouraged them to remain dedicated to their education and scientific pursuits.
“Science is driven by passion, curiosity, and commitment,” he said. “These qualities enable young researchers to achieve excellence and contribute meaningfully to society.” He reaffirmed ICCBS’s commitment to providing its students with high-quality academic mentoring, advanced research training, and an environment that nurtures scientific excellence.