HEC rolls out degree collaboration policy

ISLAMABAD:

The Higher Education Commission (HEC) on Sunday issued a new policy for dual, double and joint degree programmes.

Under the new policy, a formal framework for educational collaboration between Pakistani and foreign universities has been introduced, while students have also been allowed to pursue two degrees at a time.

According to the HEC, the new policy would provide students with international quality education, joint degree programmes and better opportunities for academic linkages with global universities.

Research collaboration, student mobility and educational partnerships will be promoted through the policy. The new policy has given special importance to quality assurance, transparency and institutional accountability so that degree programs can be run according to world standards. The HEC said that this policy had been prepared keeping in mind modern educational needs and global trends.

According to HEC officials, the new policy would strengthen the internationalisation in Pakistani universities while also improving the global recognition and employment prospects of graduates.

HEC Chairman Dr Niaz Ahmed Akhtar and Executive Director Dr Ziaul Haq had termed this policy a significant development in the higher education sector.

HEC has approved a policy on dual, double and joint degree programmes to facilitate structured academic collaboration between Pakistani institutions and recognised local and foreign partner institutions.