Islamabad: The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan and the British Council convened a roundtable discussion to explore measures for strengthening Transnational Education (TNE) and fostering sustainable partnerships between Pakistani and UK higher education institutions. The event, titled “Enabling UK TNE in Pakistan: From Growth to Strategic Partnership,” aimed to expand collaborative academic programs and enhance educational ties between the two nations.

According to Higher Education Commission of Pakistan, the roundtable was attended by key figures including UK’s Minister of State for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, Mr. Stephen Doughty, HEC Chairman Dr. Niaz Ahmad Akhtar, and British High Commissioner Ms. Jane Marriott. Other notable attendees included Managing Director of the British Council Mr. Chris Mathews, and various vice chancellors and senior officials from both countries.

Mr. Doughty emphasized the UK Government’s commitment to building educational partnerships with Pakistan, highlighting TNE’s role in developing research collaborations and scholarship opportunities. Chairman Akhtar expressed appreciation for the longstanding HEC-British Council partnership and reiterated the need to focus on quality and research in academic programs.

The discussion covered mechanisms for recognition and accreditation of TNE programs, with an emphasis on quality and regulatory oversight. Participants also addressed the employability of TNE graduates, ensuring programs align with market requirements. Faculty development, training, and quality assurance were also focal points, alongside challenges like affordability and accessibility of TNE programs.

The roundtable highlighted opportunities to leverage TNE for research collaboration and discussed strategic priorities for promoting TNE across Pakistan’s higher education sector.