Islamabad: The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has conducted a critical meeting to identify thematic areas for future scholarships under the “Overseas Scholarships for PhD in Selected Fields (Phase-III)” project. The gathering aimed to ensure scholarships are awarded in impactful research domains, enhancing Pakistan’s academic and research capabilities.

According to Higher Education Commission of Pakistan, the meeting was organized following recommendations from the Central Development Working Party (Pre-CDWP) to evaluate the status of proposed scholarships and prioritize thematic areas for remaining unawarded slots. The initiative seeks to strategically place PhD candidates in high-impact research areas at top-ranked international universities.

The session, chaired virtually by Dr. Najeebullah Marwat from the Ministry of Planning Development and Special Initiatives, featured a 22-member committee of subject experts from leading Pakistani universities and senior HEC officials, including Ms. Aayesha Ikram, Ms. Saima Naurin, and Mr. Tauqeer Riaz.

The committee reviewed a nationwide survey conducted by the Project Management Unit across 47 universities, identifying a high demand for PhD faculty in disciplines such as Engineering, Biological Sciences, Physical Sciences, and Social Sciences. Emerging fields like Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security, and Renewable Energy were also highlighted as priority research areas.

The discussions focused on aligning scholarship distribution with national development goals, emerging global trends, and future faculty requirements. The committee’s recommendations on thematic areas will be consolidated for submission to CDWP/ECNEC for the project’s PC-I revision.