Learning Resource Network (LRN), the Ofqual-regulated UK awarding organisation led by British-Pakistani CEO Dr Muhammad Zohaib Tariq, has been awarded the King’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade 2026 — one of the United Kingdom’s most prestigious business honours. LRN operates across 58 countries and has supported over 1.2 million candidates since its founding, including through more than 50 approved institutions and universities in Pakistan.
Learning Resource Network (LRN) has been awarded the King’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade 2026, one of the United Kingdom’s highest business accolades. The honour marks LRN’s second Royal recognition in six years, having previously received the Queen’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade in 2020, and places the organisation among a select group of UK institutions to hold consecutive Royal recognition.
LRN is led by Dr Muhammad Zohaib Tariq, a British-Pakistani whose roots in Pakistan have shaped the organisation’s deep commitment to expanding access to credible UK qualifications across South Asia and beyond. Under his leadership, LRN has grown into a globally recognised awarding organisation, regulated by Ofqual — the United Kingdom’s independent qualifications regulator.
LRN’s Presence in Pakistan
Pakistan holds a significant place in LRN’s international network. LRN is approved by the Inter Boards Coordination Commission (IBCC) — the federal body responsible for the recognition and equivalency of foreign qualifications in Pakistan — a mark of official standing within Pakistan’s national education framework. LRN currently works with more than 50 approved institutions across Pakistan, including universities, providing learners with access to UK qualifications that support progression into higher education and professional development both domestically and internationally.
In Pakistan, LRN offers a broad range of qualifications: International GCSE, AS and A-Level, Pre-A Level 2, Pre-U Level 3 Foundation Studies, Early Years Practitioner, and Teacher Training qualifications. These programmes serve learners across all stages — from school-age students seeking internationally recognised secondary credentials to early years practitioners and educators pursuing professional recognition of their skills.
This partnership with Pakistani institutions reflects a shared belief in the transformative power of education and the value of internationally recognised qualifications in equipping Pakistani learners to compete on a global stage.
Global Impact
Since its founding, LRN has supported over 1.2 million candidates across 58 countries, spanning Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East and beyond. Through a well-established network of approved centres, LRN delivers qualifications that open pathways into higher education and employment in markets where access to credible UK credentials has historically been limited.
LRN joins 185 organisations across the United Kingdom recognised in the 2026 King’s Awards for Enterprise cohort, alongside businesses demonstrating excellence in international trade, innovation, sustainable development and promoting opportunity.
Statement from the CEO
“Winning a second Royal award within six years is a significant milestone for the organisation. It reflects the sustained growth of our international work, the strength of our partnerships, and the continued demand for our qualifications across global markets. Furthermore, the achievement of this honour is a testament to the engagement of LRN’s centre network, the strength of our collaborative internal and external stakeholder relationships, and most importantly, the hard work, commitment, and loyalty of my team. LRN remains committed to supporting learners and institutions worldwide through accessible, high-quality education.”
— Dr Muhammad Zohaib Tariq, CEO, Learning Resource Network (LRN)
