Way forward: HEC chief stresses quality in higher education

Calls for providing quality education in districts on the periphery

ISLAMABAD: Head of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) Dr Mukhtar Ahmed on Friday stressed the need for quality in higher education in the country.

He was briefing Federal Education and Professional Training Secretary Hassan Iqbal who visited the HEC Secretariat on Friday.

Ahmed said the solution to most of the problems facing the country lies in quality education. He highlighted the importance of providing quality education not only in the major urban centres but also in the remote districts.

The chairperson said potential of Pakistani youth, if tapped properly, will take Pakistan to new heights.

He said the HEC was working to ensure quality as the government tries to establish degree-awarding institutes in every district.

Ahmed briefed the secretary about working of the HEC and its achievements over the last 13 years.

A statement issued by the HEC said Iqbal lauded the commission’s work on ensuring quality in university education and research.

“The secretary appreciated the achievements HEC had made over the last 13 years and reiterated the government’s resolve in checking as well as closing down unchartered universities which have failed to comply with HEC criteria and rules,” the statement read.

The secretary also emphasised to focus research in universities on challenges facing the country such as energy shortages, food insecurity and water management. Iqbal appreciated efforts to establish linkages between the academia and industry.

“He appreciated increase in access to university education made possible through PM’s fee reimbursement scheme and the technological development training provided by HEC initiatives in the shape of PERN, video conferencing facility, digital library and empowering students with laptops,” the statement said.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 12^th, 2015.