On September 6, 2024, the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan in Prague hosted the Alumni Meetup Pakistan in Prague, which brought together over 70 Pakistani students and alumni studying at 14 universities in Czechia. The event aimed to foster community, encourage the exchange of experiences, and build new connections between current students and alumni.
In her opening remarks, Her Excellency Ayesha Ali highlighted the importance of such gatherings, stating, "It gives an opportunity to come together, to share their experiences, to learn from each other, to network, and brainstorm ideas for professional development." She noted that alumni possess strong qualifications and professional experience, boosting their confidence.
Following her speech, Soňa Lippmann, the Head of the Communication and Analytical Division, welcomed the participants on behalf of the DZS (Czech National Agency for International Education and Research). The presentation on the Czechia Alumni Programme and the Study in Czechia initiative highlighted career development opportunities for international students. 
A highlight of the event was the alumni and student talks. Mahnoor Khan, a fifth-year medical student from Charles University, shared her journey. She was followed by Tahir Bahoo, an alumnus of the International Relations and European Politics field at Masaryk University, who delivered an inspiring speech on the importance of self-development and hard work.
Two university representatives Petra Kučerová Konupková, the Coordinator of Ph.D. educational programme and alumni ambassadors at Charles University and Oleg Fetisov, the Head of the International Office at the Czech Technical University (CTU), also participated. Petra Kučerová Konupková emphasized the importance of personal engagement, remarking, "When a university participates in such meetups, it means much more than simply contacting students and alumni via email. Emails lack the emotional connection that face-to-face interactions provide."
And what do the alumni think of their experience studying in Czechia and joining such an event? Waheed Ur Rahman, a PhD graduate in microbiology from the University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague and a postdoctoral researcher at the Czech Academy of Sciences, is working on vaccine development for whooping cough. He expressed gratitude for the chance to contribute to society and was pleased to have discovered the alumni network through the event.
Similarly, Fatima Zainab, a Charles University alumna in Economics and Finance and now a Credit Analyst, emphasized the importance of networking. She noted that alumni meetups help students who may feel isolated, providing opportunities to connect and learn from one another. She was also an ambassador during her studies and voluntarily taught high school students in Czechia. Volunteering adds value to your CV and broadens your network as well.
Arshad Hayat, a PhD alumnus of Economics and Finance from Charles University, shared his academic journey, noting the rigour of the Czech PhD process. Now working at a well-known international bank, he encouraged others to study in Czechia even though it might initially be challenging. Angelina Duaa Hashir, an alumna of master’s studies called Society, Communication and Media, now working at a healthcare company, highlighted the advantages of learning the Czech language when job searching, especially for those planning long-term stays. She attended the event to reconnect with the Pakistani community she wasn't aware was so big.
This successful meetup strengthened bonds and inspired participants to explore new professional opportunities and further their personal growth.
Want to stay informed about our upcoming events? Please register for the Czechia Alumni programme and receive our quarterly newsletter. Or do you wish to engage more actively as an alumni ambassador? Contact us at alumni@studyin.cz.
