Rs54.5 Billion Grant for Daanish School Gets ECC Nod

ISLAMABAD: The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet has approved a major education support initiative as the ECC approves grant for Daanish School worth Rs54.5 billion to uplift underprivileged students through quality higher education.

Chaired by Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, the ECC reviewed and endorsed the proposal from the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training for a Technical Supplementary Grant (TSG) to the Daanish Education Trust. The Rs54.5 billion allocation aims to enhance access to higher education for students from low-income backgrounds and ensure nationwide academic excellence.

Beyond education, the ECC also approved several additional TSGs to support critical sectors. A TSG of Rs23.434 billion (Rs23.20 billion provincial share and Rs622.36 million federal share) was granted to the Federal Directorate of Immunization to protect over 8 million children under two years of age from 12 vaccine-preventable diseases.

To manage grants, subsidies, and fiscal requirements for 2024–25, the ECC allocated Rs9 billion to the Finance Division. Another Rs3.57 billion was sanctioned for a 1,000-bed academic medical center being developed by the Jinnah Medical Complex and Research Center Company in Islamabad.

For timely completion of the ‘Transformation to National Forensic Agency’ project by June 30, 2025, Rs1.06 billion was approved. The ECC also cleared Rs264.8 million for the maintenance of government buildings transitioned to the Capital Development Authority (CDA), and directed the CDA to ensure efficient use of these funds.

Additionally, Rs50 million was granted to the National Commission for Human Rights, following a proposal by the Ministry of Human Rights.

In conclusion, the ECC reiterated its commitment to supporting impactful public welfare projects, particularly those enhancing education, health, and infrastructure. With this latest move, the government aims to prioritize transparent and meaningful investments for national development.