British-Pakistani entrepreneur and educationist Prof Dr Sarwar Muhammad Khawaja has been honored with the prestigious Sitara-e-Imtiaz by President Asif Ali Zardari, recognizing his contributions to education, technology, entrepreneurship, and social development.
British-Pakistani entrepreneur and educationist Prof Dr Sarwar Muhammad Khawaja has received the Sitara-e-Imtiaz, one of Pakistan's highest civilian honours, from President Asif Ali Zardari at an investiture ceremony held at the President House on May 13, 2026. The ceremony was attended by prominent figures including the Chairman Senate, Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani, Speaker of the National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, and members of the federal and provincial cabinets.
The citation for the award highlights Khawaja's significant contributions to education, technological advancement, entrepreneurship, and social development. It also commends his efforts in enhancing Pakistan’s international profile and socio-economic progress. Born in Lahore, Prof Dr Sarwar Muhammad Khawaja has established a leading position in the UK's higher education management sector.
He founded SK Hub, a London-based organization that has facilitated education and skills development programs impacting more than 40,000 people globally. Additionally, he has held international roles such as serving as a senator in the European Economic Senate and chairman of the European Council on Global Relations.
At the investiture ceremony, Khawaja expressed his gratitude for the honor, stating, "The conferment of the Sitara-e-Imtiaz stands as a defining milestone in acknowledging my lifelong dedication to educational excellence, innovation, and national development." He further elaborated that he is thankful for the government's facilitation in establishing Pakistan’s first AI university in Lahore. This initiative aims to empower Pakistani youth by introducing a world-class curriculum.
Khawaja also highlighted future plans, mentioning their intention to invest in hospitality and information technology sectors to support Pakistan's IT ecosystem. He emphasized that this investment will not only attract foreign direct investment but also create job opportunities for skilled young professionals.
Born in 1968, Prof Dr Sarwar Muhammad Khawaja completed his early education in Lahore before earning degrees from prestigious institutions such as Harvard, Oxford, Cambridge, Buckinghamshire New University, and City University of London. As a prominent British-Pakistani entrepreneur, he is recognized as one of the largest private Pakistani-led education facility management operators in the UK.
In addition to his current endeavors, Khawaja plans to launch the JCA-London Fashion Academy (Jimmy Choo Fashion Academy) in Pakistan. His vision extends beyond academia; he aims to foster a dynamic educational ecosystem that prepares young minds for future challenges and opportunities.
