The Sir Firoz Khan and Viqarunnissa Noon Educational Foundation (VNEF) was established in 1992 by Lady Vicky Noon to support talented Pakistani scholars studying abroad and to strengthen the historic ties between Pakistan and Britain – two countries she considered home.

Lady Noon recognised that many leading Pakistanis of her husband’s generation had benefited from studying at the Universities of Oxford or Cambridge. Over time, however, fewer Pakistani students chose these institutions, often opting instead for universities in the United States, where scholarships appeared more accessible. Through the VNEF, Lady Noon hoped to encourage exceptional Pakistani students to continue the tradition of studying at Oxford and Cambridge.

Early Leadership and Governance

The Foundation’s first Board of Trustees met in 1992 under the chairmanship of the Hon. William Grosvenor, with Lady Noon in attendance. Trustees included close friends and associates of Lady Noon and her sister, Mrs Amy Ledsam. The Board set the Foundation’s criteria and began awarding scholarships annually.

Dr Humayun Khan, former High Commissioner to the UK, later became Chair. When he returned to Pakistan, the role passed to Dr Paul Flather, Director of International Affairs at Oxford, whose great-great-grandfather, Sir Ganga Ram, was a renowned engineer and philanthropist in Lahore. Over the years, the Board has included members of the Noon family, as well as distinguished academics and politicians with links to Pakistan.

Scholarship Selection

Since its inception, the Board has met each summer to select scholars who have already secured admission to Oxford or Cambridge and meet the criteria set by Lady Noon. Preference is given to students who have not previously studied in the West; applicants must demonstrate financial need and outline their academic goals and future plans. Strong English skills are assumed.

The Foundation operates with minimal overheads, relying on Oxford and Cambridge, as well as partners in Pakistan, to help identify and screen promising candidates.

Partnerships

Over the past decade, the VNEF has expanded its reach through partnerships with major funding bodies. In Cambridge, it works closely with the Cambridge Commonwealth, European & International Trust. In Oxford, it collaborates with the Clarendon Fund, supported by Oxford University Press. In the past, the Foundation has also partnered with the Chevening Scholarship Programme, the Open Society Institute, and the Oxford and Cambridge Society of Karachi to extend its support.

A Lasting Contribution

Since 1992, the VNEF has supported over 200 students across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. The Trustees remain committed to continuing Lady Noon’s legacy by enabling future generations of outstanding Pakistani students to benefit from an Oxford or Cambridge education.