Islamabad: The Federal Secretary of the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training, Mr. Nadeem Mahbub, acknowledged the Higher Education Commission’s (HEC) pivotal role in overhauling Pakistan’s higher education system during a visit to the HEC Secretariat on Monday.

Briefed by Chairman HEC Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Mr. Mahbub was informed about the state and progress of higher education in the country. Executive Director HEC Dr. Zia Ul-Qayyum and other senior officials were present during the session, which highlighted HEC’s comprehensive initiatives for the sector.

Dr. Ahmed provided an overview of the Commission’s efforts, focusing on financing, regulation, and capacity-building as primary tools for fostering systemic growth. He emphasized achievements in academic quality, faculty development, technological integration, student access, and financial sustainability.

The briefing revealed that Pakistan hosts 160 public and 111 private higher education institutions, with campuses spread across the nation. Access to tertiary education has improved, reflecting a gender composition of 53% male and 47% female students.

HEC’s scholarship portfolio was noted for its substantial growth, with approximately 400,000 scholarships awarded across various levels of study. The increase in PhD holders and high-impact research publications was also highlighted.

Dr. Mukhtar detailed the regulatory frameworks in place, such as the Graduate and Undergraduate Education Policies, and discussed the budgetary requirements for the upcoming fiscal year. He also touched upon the progress of universities in global rankings and various HEC initiatives.

The session underscored the achievements of programs like the National Academy of Higher Education and the Education Testing Council, along with research grant initiatives under the National Research Programme for Universities, Grand Challenge, and Local Challenge Funds.