Islamabad, The Senate Standing Committee on Federal Education and Professional Training, under the leadership of Chairman Senator Irfan Siddiqui, convened at Parliament House on February 20, 2024, to deliberate on key legislative proposals aimed at enhancing Pakistan’s education sector. The committee’s approval of two significant bills marked a significant step forward in ensuring parliamentary oversight of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and establishing a new international institute focused on technology, culture, and health sciences.

According to Senate of Pakistan, the meeting opened with a discussion on “The Higher Education Commission (Amendment) Bill, 2024,” introduced by Senator Shahadat Awan. This bill mandates the submission of an annual report on the HEC’s activities to both houses of Parliament, thereby increasing transparency and accountability within the commission. The committee unanimously approved the bill, recognizing its potential to strengthen the governance of higher education in Pakistan.

Furthermore, the committee gave its nod to “The International Institute of Technology, Culture, and Health Sciences Bill 2024,” presented by Senator Fawzia Arshad. This initiative aims to create a new institution dedicated to advancing research and education in these critical fields, reflecting the committee’s commitment to fostering innovation and development in Pakistan’s educational landscape.

The session also served as the final meeting of the standing committee before its dissolution, prompting Chairman Siddiqui to express his gratitude to the committee members, the Secretary of the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training, and the Chairman of the HEC for their support and cooperation over the past three years. Members and officials reciprocated with commendations for Siddiqui’s effective leadership, which facilitated the smooth operation and significant achievements of the committee during its term.

The meeting was attended by key figures, including Senators Fawzia Arshad, Falak Naz, Engr Rukhsana Zuberi, Shahadat Awan, the Chairman of the HEC, and senior officials from the Federal Education Ministry. Their collective efforts underscored the government’s dedication to improving educational standards and governance through legislative means.