Higher Education Commission - Pakistan · Engr. Baligh-ur-Rehman, Minister for Federal Education...
Transcript of Higher Education Commission - Pakistan · Engr. Baligh-ur-Rehman, Minister for Federal Education...
52 Scholars Win HEC Outstanding Research Awards
st21 Vice Chancellors Committee Meeting
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January-February 2018
Higher Education Commission - Pakistan
HEC, BC Deliberate on Pak-UK Education GatewayP - 11
Table of Contents
Publisher:Higher Education
Commission, Pakistan
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Graphic Designer
Raja Ahmad Nadeem
Reporter
Syed Muhammad Ittifaq
Editor
Aayesha Ikram
News & Views is published after
every two months. No part of this
publication may be reproduced in
any form without prior written
permission of the publisher.
The views expressed by authors in the a r t i c l e s i s t he i r so l e responsibility and not of HEC. The Commission would like to thank all the institutions and individuals who contributed information and photographs for this Magazine.
Graphic Designer
Raja Ahmad Nadeem
Reporter
Syed Muhammad Ittifaq
Editor
Aayesha Ikram
News & Views is published after
every two months. No part of this
publication may be reproduced in
any form without prior written
permission of the publisher.
The views expressed by authors in the a r t i c l e s i s t he i r so l e responsibility and not of HEC. The Commission would like to thank all the institutions and individuals who contributed information and photographs for this Magazine.
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2 HEC Organises GRE Training Session in
Varsities
HEC Launches Documentary on Allama Iqbal
3000 Scholarships for Afghan Students
HEC, French Embassy Bilateral Committee
Reviews Proposals for PERIDOT Research
Grants
HEC, Hamdard University Receives SATHA
Innovation Award
CDWP Approves 8 Higher Education
Projects Worth Rs. 28.872 Billion
HEC Launches its Web Based Educational
Television Channel
st21 Vice Chancellors Committee Meeting
HEC Holds Curriculum Based Workshops
Team PERN holds meeting in LUMS to
Explore Collaborative Opportunities
HEC, BC Deliberate on Pak-UK Education
Gateway
Tempus Public Foundation Organises
International Conference of Stipendum
Hungaricum Partners
Opening Ceremony to Welcome Pakistani
Students at SEU, China
CPEC Consultant Highlights Varsities’ Role in
Socio-economic Transformation
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HEC Awards 64
Best University
Teachers for 2016
52 Scholars Win
HEC Outstanding
Research Awards
GCWU, Sialkot
holds Laptop
Distribution
Ceremony
As many as 64 university teachers were awarded
Best University Teacher Awards 2016 in recognition
of their outstanding performance during a
ceremony recently held at the Higher Education
Commission Secretariat. Each winner was awarded a
certificate and a cash prize worth Rs. 100,000.
Engr. Baligh-ur-Rehman, Minister for Federal
Education and Professional Training was chief guest
on the occasion. Felicitating the teachers on making
distinction, Engr. Baligh-ur-Rehman, said human
development is the key to overall progress of a
country, adding that teachers play the most pivotal
role in ensuring human development. He said the
Government has taken the higher education
funding to Rs. 107 billion in the ongoing fiscal year.
He appreciated HEC for promotion of higher
education and research culture in the country. “HEC
has lived up to the Government’s expectations,” he
remarked.
The Minister urged the teachers to adopt new
technologies and promote teamwork. “Teach your
students how to work as a team,” he stressed. He
observed Pakistan has multiple inspirational stories
to be presented as role models. He informed the
audience that the Government has prepared
curriculum for class 1-5 focusing on character
building of students. He maintained that translation
of holy Quran has also been made mandatory for
HEC Awards 64 Best University Teachers for 2016Teachers Urged to Focus Character Building of Youth
class 6-12 in Islamabad. The practice will be
extended to provinces too, he added.
In his welcome address, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed
underlined that teachers and Imams play key role in
social development. He urged the teachers to train
the country’s youth in line with its social norms and
values. “We have to invest for the bright future of
our youth and coming generations,” he emphasised.
He stressed the need for promoting nationalism
while setting aside non-issues.
Shedding light on the achievements of HEC, he said
Pakistan had only 59 universities before the
inception of HEC, adding that the number has now
reached 188. He said HEC encourages research
based on solution to prevailing problems of society.
The number of research publications has now
reached 1200 annually.
The Chairman revealed that HEC is taking tangible
steps to ensure equitable access to higher
education in the country. He maintained that HEC
has set up campuses of universities in far flung and
less-developed areas in order to impart education
at the doorstep. He said HEC has established a
university campus near the Line of Control where 84
students are acquiring education. He added that a
university campus has been established in Noshki
near Pak-Iran border and over 300 students are
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studying there. He continued to say that FATA
University has also been established, while three
campuses of the university will soon be set up in
tribal agencies.
The Best University Teacher Award Scheme was
launched in 2003 with an aim to recognise the
relentless efforts of faculty members of universities.
The concept of awards was instituted for promotion
of education and research by universities faculty
and to acknowledge their scholarly endeavours
aimed at bringing socio-economic impacts in the
society at large.
The criteria is transparent and efficient. Universities
and degree awarding institutions are asked to
nominate teachers eligible for the Best University
Teacher Award every year. A total of 160
nominations were received from 80 public and
private sector universities. All the nominations were
scrutinised and evaluated on the basis of HEC
approved criteria by an expert committee and 64
faculty members were selected.
Realising the importance and benefits of project
entitled Awards to Best University Teachers, the Best
University Teacher Awards have been made part of
HEC’s recurring programmes making it a regular
activity. Moreover, selected private universities have
also been included in the programme from 2011. As
a whole, 564 awards have been conferred under the
programme during the last 13 years.
The Higher Education Commission (HEC), Pakistan
held a five-week GRE Training session under US-
Pakistan Knowledge Corridor with the help of
United States Education Foundation of Pakistan
(USEFP) at Air University (AU) Islamabad and
COMSATS, Islamabad. The course aimed to groom
MS/MPhil qualified students and faculty members
to achieve high scores in GRE tests.
HEC is in an agreement with the United States
Education Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) to
facilitate and lead the training on GRE Quantitative
and Verbal sections. A total of 82 candidates
attended the training, out of which 41 candidates
participated from different universities and
organisations of Islamabad.
The training was designed to cover all Verbal and
Quantitative concepts of the GRE test. The
participants were a mix of nominees by the host
universities as well as the short listed applicants of
US-Pak knowledge Corridor by HEC.
Closing ceremony of the course was graced by Dr.
Mehmood-ul-Hassan Butt, Consultant, US- Pak
Knowledge Corridor at both the locations, while Air
Vice Marshal (R) Faaiz Amir, Vice Chancellor Air
HEC Organises GRE Training Session in Varsities
University and senior management of COMSATS,
Islamabad were also present at the closing
ceremony to encourage the participants. The
dignitaries emphasised the need for capacity
building of the Pakistani youth and universities
faculty thus, enabling them to secure PhD positions
in top ranked universities and subsequently
contribute to the prosperity and growth of Pakistani
economy through US-Pak Knowledge Corridor
Scholarship Programme.
On this occasion, Dr. Mehmood-Ul- Hassan Butt
apprised the universities management regarding
the prestigious scholarship scheme and
opportunity for Pakistani scholars to avail 10,000
scholarships to be offered during next 10 years
under this programme.
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The Higher Education Commission (HEC), Pakistan
recently launched a documentary entitled “The Real
AfPak Fighting Terrorism through Knowledge”
during a ceremony held at Aiwan-e-Sadr.
Mr. Mamnoon Hussain, President Islamic Republic
of Pakistan was chief guest of the ceremony, while
Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman HEC and Mr. Omer
Zakhilwal, Afghan Ambassador to Pakistan along
with a large number of vice chancellors, faculty
members and Afghan students were also present on
the occasion.
The documentary by Ms. Sameera Aziz, a Saudi
media figure reveals the co-curricular and extra-
curricular activities of Afghan students pursuing
their education in Pakistani higher education
institutions under the scholarship programme. It
includes interviews of Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed and the
Afghan students with regard to the academic
opportunity available to the youth of brotherly
Islamic country under the programme.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Mamnoon Hussain
said that people of Pakistan and Afghanistan share
mutual respect and affection owing to blood,
religious and cultural bonds as well as regional
proximity. The scholarship programme is a
testimony to the mutual closeness. He said students
of Afghanistan are extended the facilities being
enjoyed by Pakistani students in the country’s
universities. He hoped that the Afghan students will
not only help compensate the losses caused by
terrorism and wars but will also work for the well-
being of humanity.
The President stated that Pakistan and Afghanistan
have lost many lives and suffered huge losses due to
terrorism and wars. “Pakistan has borne casualties of
over 70,000 souls apart from immeasurable
infrastructural damages”. He stressed that Pakistan
and Afghanistan need to develop mutual trust and
foil the conspiracies of enemies who create
misunderstandings between the two countries.
Referring to China-Pakistan Economic Corridor
(CPEC), he said CPEC will bring educational and
HEC Launches Documentary on Allama Iqbal 3000 Scholarships for Afghan Students
trade opportunities to not only Pakistan but also
Afghanistan. He advised the Afghan students to
prepare themselves for future challenges. He stated
that Pakistan strongly believes in the development
of Afghanistan.
In his welcome address earlier, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed
said the award of scholarships to Afghan students
under the programme reaffirms Government of
Pakistan’s commitment to helping the Afghan
brethren overcome the challenges caused by
terrorism and years of strife. He informed the
audience that after the first phase of Allama Iqbal
3000 Scholarships to Afghan Students, second
phase of the programme has been launched. He
maintained that zero semesters are being arranged
for the students before placing them in their
respective programmes. He hoped the students will
go back to serve their country after completion of
their studies. “You are now the ambassadors of
Afghanistan in Pakistan, however you will play the
role of ambassadors of Pakistan in Afghanistan once
you complete your education,” he emphasised.
Mr. Omer Zakhilwal thanked the Government of
Pakistan for extending scholarships to Afghan
students. He said Pakistan has remarkably
contributed to development of state institutions in
Afghanistan. “I would like to thank Pakistan for
generous hospitality it extends to Afghan students,”
he added. Referring to the documentary, he said the
award of scholarship is not only a fight against
t e r ro r i s m , b u t a l s o a g a i n s t m i s t r u s t ,
misunderstanding, isolation and lack of progress.
He urged the Afghan students to work hard and go
back to serve Afghanistan. “Today, Afghan future
leaders study with future leaders of Pakistan,” he
added.
The Government of Pakistan has initiated different
programmes under the “Committee for
Reconstruction & Rehabilitation of Afghanistan
(CRRA)”. The 3000 scholarships programme is one
of them meant for Afghan students to pursue
undergraduate studies in Pakistani universities. The
project was initially started by Inter Provincial
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Coordination Division in 2009. Later on, it was
transferred to HEC for execution in 2015. The project
envisages strengthening of bilateral relationships
and development of human resource between the
two brotherly states.
After success of the first phase of this project, the
Prime Minister of Pakistan has approved another
3000 scholarships for Afghan nationals at a capital
cost of Rs. 7364.735 million. Under this scheme, 500
MBBS, 100 BDS, 600 Engineering and 1200 general
disciplines scholarships will be awarded to Afghan
students at undergraduate level. Furthermore, 400
MS and 200 PhD scholarships will also be awarded
to Afghan nationals. In addition to this, short
trainings of 3-6 months will also be given to 120
Afghan officials. So far, 294 students have arrived,
but the total number will reach 750 by March 2018.
Apart from providing hostels, security, food and pick
and drop facilities, a zero semester has also been
arranged at Institute of Management Sciences,
Peshawar; University of Haripur; COMSATS Institute
of information Technology, Abbottabad Campus;
and COMSATS Institute of information Technology,
Lahore Campus. These students will be enrolled in
public and private sector universities in different
fields of study including Medical Sciences,
Engineering, Business Administration, Computer
Science, Arts & Humanities, and Social Sciences.
areas including Energy, Health, Human and Social
Sciences, Climate Change, and Information
Technology for Peace and Conflict Resolution.
The meeting was chaired by Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed,
Chairman HEC along with Mr. Marc Baréty,
Ambassador of France to Pakistan. Dr. Arshad Ali,
Executive Director HEC, Dr. Muhammad Latif,
Advisor R&D, HEC, Ms. Noshaba Awais, Director
R&D, HEC, Mr. André de Bussy, Counsellor for
Culture and Cooperation, French Embassy, and Mr.
Matthieu Gaulon, Attaché for Science and
Technology, French Embassy were among the
participants of meeting.
After thorough deliberation, the committee
scrutinised a number of proposals received under
PERIDOT Phase IV. The results of the award winners
would be announced in due course.
HEC, French Embassy Bilateral Committee Reviews Proposals for PERIDOT Research Grants
The Higher Education Commission (HEC), Pakistan
and the Embassy of France recently held its bilateral
committee meeting at the Commission Secretariat.
The meeting reviewed proposals submitted for the
award research grants under the Pak-France
PERIDOT Phase IV.
PERIDOT is the Franco-Pakistani Hubert Curien
Partnership (PHC) executed in Pakistan by HEC and
in France by Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs
and Ministry of Higher Education, Research and
Innovation.
The objective of this programme is to develop new
scientific and technological cooperation between
French and Pakistani higher education institutions
and research laboratories by supporting mobility of
researchers. Under the programme, projects are
approved for funding for three years in five priority
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The Higher Education Commission (HEC) bestowed
52 research awards upon faculty members of
different universities and researchers during a hceremony held recently in connection with 6t HEC
Outstanding Research Awards.
Rana Tanveer Hassain, Federal Minister for Science
and Technology was chief guest on the occasion Dr.
Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman HEC, Dr. Arshad Ali,
Executive Director HEC, and Dr. Muhammad Latif,
Adviser Research and Development, HEC along with
a large number of Vice Chancellors and researchers
were also present.
Speaking on the occasion, Rana Tanveer Hussain
said the Government accords due priority to
promotion of higher education in the country. The
Government has remarkably increased the budget
of higher education sector, he added. Admiring HEC
for promoting a research culture in Pakistan, he said,
“HEC has focused quality of higher education,
research and publications, and the results are ahead
of us in the form of outstanding research works.” He
urged the scholars to conduct research based on
solution to social issues. “Research Publications
should carry real impact on society,” he stressed.
52 Scholars Win HEC Outstanding Research Awards
The Minister observed that the education sector is
facing multiple challenges, however the
Government is committed to overcoming them. He
said Pakistan’s geographical location makes the
country a sensitive zone, adding that the country
has been worst affected by terrorism. However, he
continued, the government and armed forces have
efficiently tackled the issue. He said youth are the
country’s asset and HEC has worked on grooming
their talent and capabilities.
Addressing the ceremony, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed
shared the contribution of HEC towards creation of
knowledge and promotion of higher education and
research in the country. He said HEC emphasises
impact of research on society so as to provide
solutions to the country’s prevailing issues. “We
have to come out of number game and focus on
quality and impact,” he underlined. He urged the
academia to adapt itself to emerging trends so as to
better cope with future challenges. He stated that
the job of universities is not merely to impart
education but also to ensure social integration.
The Chairman informed the participants that the
awards were presented in four categories including
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Best Research Paper, Best Young Research Scholar,
Best Book Publication, and Best Innovator and nine
disciplines including Natural Sciences, Biological
Sciences, Agriculture Sciences, Health Sciences,
Pure Engineering, Computer Science, Social
Sciences, Management Sciences and Arts and
Humanities. The faculty and researchers were
awarded Rs. 70,000, Rs. 150,000, Rs. 300,000, and Rs.
200,000 per award respectively, he added.
In a vote of thanks, Dr. Arshad Ali shared a number of
HEC programmes aimed at promoting a research
culture in the country. He said HEC programmes like
Start-up Research Grant Programme, National
Research Programme for Universities, Technology
Development Fund, University-Industry Research
Support Programme, Thematic Research Grant,
Patent Research Support Programme and
collaborative research programme with foreign
countries have produced remarkable results.
He stressed the need for creating indigenous
solutions to local problems. HEC initiated the
Outstanding Research Awards in 2009 to recognise
the innovative ideas and initiatives of Pakistani
researchers and faculty members and to encourage
promote a research culture in the country.
The purpose of conferring these awards upon
Pakistani faculty and outstanding researchers is also
to acknowledge their high performance and thus
promote a competitive research culture in higher
education and R&D institutions. So far, 213 awards
have been conferred in six award ceremonies.
Higher Education Commission in collaboration with
Hamdard University under its Social Integration
Outreach Programme launched a project entitled
Road to Happiness through Vocational Training and
Social Awareness for the residents of villages in the
outskirts of Hamdard University campus.
The vocational training programme was designed in
three parts including Vocational Training, Health
and Safety Management. The purpose of
conducting training was to give awareness
regarding daily health, safety and hygiene issues
among villagers and to develop skills in rural
population.
Basic hands on training sessions were conducted
that covered electricity wiring of houses, AC and
refrigeration repairing, solar system installation,
basic computer training, traffic awareness, first aid
HEC, Hamdard University Receives SATHA Innovation Award
training and basic firefighting training. These
trainings were conducted by different trainers
including faculty members of the university.
The community service activity was recognised by
South Asian Triple Helix Association (SATHA) which
is South Asian Chapter of International Triple Helix
Association. The organisation honoured Hamdard
University with “SATHA Innovation Award” in a
ceremony recently held at Jinnah University for
Women Karachi.
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To meet critical need for improving communication
with the stakeholders and building awareness about
the National Higher Education Standards, Quality
Assurance Pol ic ies/Procedures, F inancial
Management, Governance and Regulatory
Arrangement Higher Education Commission, (HEC)
Pakistan has recently taken an initiative to launch its
Web based Educational Television Channel.
The aim of launching this channel is to help building
better image of higher education sector, foster clear
perception about programmes and policies of
higher education sector and to enhance public
access to the information related to the higher
education institutions.
The Web based Educational TV Channel is
capitalising on National Video Conferencing
Network (NVCN) which is available in 103
universities/ institutions across the country to act as
a recording studios. The initiative of launching the
Web-based TV Channel was taken due to the fact
that penetration of 3G/4G has been increased to
above 40 million. Therefore, web based TV would be
an excellent medium to outreach wider population.
HEC Launches its Web Based Educational Television Channel
There are 26 universities offering media and mass
communication degrees in Pakistan out of which 15
universities have built-in studios.
HEC in the first stage integrated NVCN with live
streaming tools and streaming of video
c o n f e r e n c i n g a r e m a d e a va i l a b l e o n
edutv.hec.gov.pk. To develop the content of Web TV,
media and mass communication departments of
the universities were directed to build a cluster base
model in which media and mass communication
departments of the universities will be made
responsible for developing content.
The technical team of IT Division, HEC visited studios
of Allama Iqbal Open University, Islamabad, Riphah
University, Rawalpindi, Sindh Madrassatul Islam
University, Karachi and Virtual University, Lahore for
integration of traditional TV Studios with IP based
video conferencing. The concept was implemented
successfully and studios of said universities were
integrated with video conferencing. The success has
given opportunities to universities to develop
collaborative programmes with other universities
regardless of geographical locations.
The Central Development Working Party (CDWP)
has recently approved eight projects of the higher
education sectors worth Rs. 28.872 billion for
providing scholarships and strengthening of
infrastructure and other facilities.
A mega project worth Rs. 20.904 billion for Overseas
Scholarships (Phase-III) has been approved to send
2000 Pakistani scholars to foreign universities for
doctoral studies. Other approved projects include
establishment of College of Nursing & Community
Medicine at Peoples University of Medical Sciences,
Nawabshah with a cost of Rs. 603.093 million,
establishment of sub-campus of National Textile
CDWP Approves 8 Higher Education Projects Worth Rs. 28.872 Billion
University at Karachi at a cost of Rs. 875.563 million,
establishment of Science Laboratory and Creative
Art Centre, Sukkur IBA University worth Rs. 852.694
million, development of academic and research
facilities at University of Kotli worth Rs.13388.875
million, establishment of Women Campuses at
Kohat and Bannu worth Rs.1957.893 million and
Institute of Science Technology at Bahawalpur at a
cost of Rs. 2290.009 million.
It is pertinent to mention that most of the
development projects will be executed in less-
developed areas such as Nawabshah, Sukkur, Kotli,
Bahawalpur, Kohat and Bannu.
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The Vice Chancellors of a large number of public
and private universities reposed their confidence in
the Higher Education Commission (HEC), Pakistan stduring the 21 Vice Chancellors Committee Meeting
recently.
The meeting, chaired by Dr. Masoom Yasinzai,
Chairman Vice Chancellors Committee, was
attended by Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman HEC and
a large number of Vice Chancellors physically and
through video conference. The meeting was held to
discuss governance and quality of higher education
in universities and their affiliated colleges.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Masoom Yasinzai briefed
the Vice Chancellors about the purpose of Vice
Chancellors Committee meeting. He appreciated
the Senate Standing Committee for calling Vice
Chancellors in a provincial consultation seminar.
Speaking on the occasion,
Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed said the
Vice Chancellors are the
major stakeholders of
higher education sector and
the meeting of universities
h e a d s h a v e g r e a t
importance in terms of
development of the sector.
He said HEC accords high
importance to governance
and quality of educational
institutions and their affiliated colleges. He said
despite having made significant development in
quality of teaching in universities, there still remains
a lot to correct. He stressed the need to set up
Quality Enhancement Cells for affiliated colleges to
monitor and ensure their performance.
He revealed that this is high time to take the higher
education sector forward in Pakistan and
strengthen universities with, of course, strong
accountability. “Our priority has to be working for
development of higher education sector,” he
emphasised. He affirmed that the sector’s
development over the past 15 years has earned
Pakistan good name across the world. Mauritius,
st 21 Vice Chancellors Committee MeetingUniversities Heads Repose Confidence in HEC Policies for Promotion of Higher Education
Bangladesh, Belarus and many other countries have
requested HEC to help them set up their higher
education bodies on the pattern of HEC, he
informed. “The higher education sector lacks
nothing now, but teamwork,” he said, adding that
HEC fully advocates national integration and
harmony through education.
During the course of meeting, Vice Chancellors
expressed their confidence in HEC and appreciated
its vision and the support that HEC has been
extending to higher education institutions since its
inception. They also shared problems facing their
respective universities. To this, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed
assured them of HEC’s support. “HEC is committed
to facilitation of universities,” he underlined.
Vice Chancellors from Balochistan said “We are
making progress owing to the judicious and
generous support of HEC”.
T h e y o b s e r v e d t h a t
Balochistan was not ready
for a provincial HEC and
asked for at least four to five
years to build capacity to
take the responsibility.
Vice Chancellors from
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa said
that the credit for the
current state of universities
in the country goes to HEC.
They said the 15 years of HEC speak volumes of the
Commission’s success and role in development of
higher education sector. They admired HEC for
judiciously distributing funds among all the
universities. Vice Chancellors from Sindh also
expressed their views on the developments taking
place in the higher education sector and shared
issues of their respective universities.
Vice Chancellors also spoke on the need to
continuous support by HEC as it was uninterrupted
and forthcoming. They appreciated role of Higher
Education Commission in providing a vision and
support for the development of universities through
policy guidelines for academics.
Vice Chancellors from Balochistan said “We are making
progress owing to the judicious and generous support
of HEC”. They observed that Balochistan was not ready for a provincial HEC and asked for at
least four to five years to build capacity to take the
responsibility.
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Learning Innovation Division (LI), HEC recently
organised a three days Curriculum Based Workshop
on Home Economics for the faculty members of
Home Economics from higher education
institutions (HEIs) of Pakistan whereas three days
Curriculum Based Workshop on Orientation of
Computer Sciences Revised Curriculum for the
faculty members of Computer Sciences from HEIs of
Pakistan. The aim of holding the workshops was to
provide participants an opportunity to provide
orientation on latest additions in different fields of
Home-Economics Curriculum and revised
curriculum of Computer Sciences.
Dr. Nomana Anjum, Chairperson Home and Health
Science, Allama Iqbal Open University Islamabad
and Dr. Ayub Alvi, Rector National University of
Computer and Emerging Sciences, Islamabad were
the main resource persons in the workshop.
The resource persons explained in detail about
vision behind conducting the workshop and
elaborated changes and new additions in the field of
Home Economics and Computer Sciences.
HEC holds Curriculum Based Workshops
The Pakistan Education and Research Network
(PERN) in collaboration with Lahore University of
Management Sciences (LUMS) held a meeting at
LUMS Computer Science Smart Lab to explore
col laborative oppor tunit ies about PERN
collaborative opportunities for the researchers of
the community.
The meeting was attended by faculty members from
LUMS, Information Technology University, (ITU)
Lahore and Punjab University College of
Information Technology, Lahore.
Team PERN holds meeting in LUMS to Explore Collaborative Opportunities
During the meeting Ch. Abdullah Fayyaz Chattha,
Director Operations PERN briefed the participants
and gave an overview about PERN Infrastructure
and PERN operations under the Trans-Eurasia
Information Network (TEIN) membership.
Afterwards, the team from LUMS introduced
themselves and informed the audience about the
collaborative research projects submitted by LUMS
under the flagship of PERN to TEIN. Concluding the
meeting, it was decided that PERN will continue
conducting meetings to other universities as well.
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The Learning Innovation Division (LI), HEC, in
collaboration with the Office of Research Innovation
and Commercialisation (ORIC) and Department of
Humanities and Linguistics, University of
Agriculture, Faisalabad recently organised a 3-Day
English Language Teaching Training Programme.
The Resource Persons made interactive sessions to
sensitise faculty members regarding improvement
in English language proficiency. Dr. Muhammad
Iqbal Zafar, Vice Chancellor of the University of
Agriculture, Faisalabad emphasised on participants
to use content of this training for contributing
positive change in the society.
He further said that there is no age limit for learning,
every one of us should learn new skills and
contribute for the betterment of society.
HEC, UAF hold 3-Day English Language Training Programme
Higher Education Commission, (HEC) Pakistan and
British Council Pakistan sent a senior delegation to
London to discuss prospects of Pakistan-UK
Education Gateway to promote research and
partnership opportunities between Pakistan and
the UK.
The primary aim of this visit was to discuss core
education challenges of Pakistan, and possible
collaborative solutions by developing Pakistan-UK
Education Gateway, to help address these
challenges and to develop the knowledge and
social economies of both countries.
The gateway aims to facilitate comprehensive
programmes to help build the capacity of higher
education institutions. The key elements include
innovative and collaborative research in emerging
disciplines including man made materials, artificial
intelligence, nanotechnology, as well as climate
change and water management, food security,
energy, leadership courses, mentoring schemes and
formal trainings, distance learning and scholarships
and split PhD programmes besides Transnational
Education.
HEC, BC Deliberate on Pak-UK Education Gateway
Dr Arshad Ali commended efforts of HEC and the
British Council in Pakistan and said that we believe,
education diplomacy holds genuine potential for
development of the people and bringing together
societies. Therefore, we are seeking partnerships for
higher education research and development across
Pakistan and the UK.
Rosemary Hilhorst, Country Director British Council
Pakistan said that the “Pakistan-UK gateway has
immense potential for knowledge exchange both
ways. Many stakeholders who are here today have
already worked in Pakistan and I hope that you will
be able to encourage others in the field to
collaborate too.”
The Tempus Public Foundation (TPF) recently
organised an International Conference of
Stipendium Hungaricum Partners at Budapest,
Hungary. The objective of the Conference was to
discuss various matters of Stipendium partners and
to further develop cooperation in between partner
countries for improved higher education
opportunities.
During the formal proceedings of the conference in
Budapest, Engr. Waheed Ahmed Mangi, Director
Human Resource Development, (HRD) HEC
delivered multiple presentations to TPF
management and 56 partners from other countries
with major focus on HEC, Higher Education
Tempus Public Foundation Organises International Conference of Stipendum Hungaricum Partners
Scientific Exchange Programme and Good practices
related to application cycle of HEC.
Engr. Waheed Ahmed visited Hungarian institutes of
higher learning namely Eotvos Lorand and Karoli
Institute to discuss various issues pertaining to
language problem faced by Pakistani students
11
studying at Hungarian institutions, duration of three
years bachelor degree, efforts to nominate more
Hungarian students in Pakistani universities and
further collaboration in the field of Archaeology.
A meeting was also held with Ms. Maryam Rehman,
Head of Chancery, Pakistan Embassy at Budapest.
During the meeting, the issues of Pakistani students
studying at Hungarian institutions and placement of
Hungarian students at Pakistani universities were
discussed in length.
HEC is an active partner of TPF since December 2015
when a memorandum of understanding (MoU) was
signed in between Ministry of Human Capacities,
Government of Hungary and HEC in December
2015 for grant of 80 scholarships to Pakistani
students under Higher Education and Scientific
Exchange Programme.
Thereafter, a revised MoU was signed in between
Hungary and Pakistan enhancing the number of
scholarships from 80 to 200 scholarships per year.
The laptop distribution ceremony under the Higher
Education Commission, (HEC) Pakistan in
collaboration with Government College Women
University, Sialkot and Abbottabad University of
Science and Technology was recently held
separately in the universities.
During the laptop distribution ceremony at
Government College Women University, Sialkot Mr.
Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Federal Minister of
Foreign Affairs was Chief Guest whereas Prof. Dr.
Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman HEC was Guest of
Honour.
The ceremony was arranged in continuation of
marking 15 successful years of formation of HEC.
Other sidelines of the ceremony included poster
presentations of MS students of the university.
GCWU, Sialkot holds Laptop Distribution Ceremony
Mr. Khawaja Muhamad Asif, along with distributing
laptops among students inaugurated Smart Class
Room project in the university. The ceremony
brought over eminent personalities including Ms.
Leila Khan, Chairperson Prime Minister Youth
Programme (PMYP), Mr. Makhdoom Adeel,
Coordinator PMYP, MNAs and MPAs along with over
1000 students.
Meanwhile, another laptop distribution ceremony
was held at Abbottabad University of Science and
Technology in which Mr. Murtaza Javed Abbasi,
Deputy Speaker National Assembly was the Chief
Guest whereas, Dr. Iftikhar Ahmed, Vice-Chancellor
of the university was the guest of honour. Over 200
students attended the ceremony and 113 students
were awarded with laptops over their excellent
academic performance.
12
An opening ceremony to welcome the first batch of
Pakistani students selected under the China Road
and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), fully funded
scholarship programme was recently held at the
main campus of South East University, (SEU) China.
The first batch of 10 students was selected through a
highly competitive selection process jointly
coordinated by HEC Pakistan, CRBC China and SEU
China. The students selected under the programme
will study Masters in Transportation Engineering at
SEU China as part of a commercial sponsorship
programme by CRBC.
Under the support of education department of
China and Pakistan, CRBC in this year would also
CRBC Scholarship Programme
Opening Ceremony to Welcome Pakistani Students at SEU, China
launch another project which will fully fund 100 in-
service staff from federal/provincial government,
technical personnel and prominent graduates to
study in China for higher education.
Dr. Arshad Ali, Executive Director, Higher Education
Commission graced the occasion as the chief guest
of the ceremony. During the ceremony, CRBC and
SEU also signed an agreement aiming to jointly
carry out talent training, exchange of teachers and
scientific research, based on Belt and Road initiative.
During his speech on the occasion, Dr. Arshad Ali
thanked CRBC for its support for development in
Pakistan. The Executive Director said that Pakistan is
located at the junction of South, Central and West
Asia which is also the junction of belt and road
initiative.
He maintained that the selected students will
become young generation inheritor and promoter
of Pak-China Friendship and also devote themselves
to the development of Pakistan after completing
their study and contribute to the nation-building.
Mr. Zhang Guangjun, the President of SEU said that
SEU attaches high importance to cooperate with
Belt and Road countries based on belt and road
Initiative.
The Learning Innovation Division, Higher Education
Commission (HEC), Pakistan in collaboration with
the Department of English at Fatima Jinnah Women
University (FJWU) recently organised a 3-day
training workshop on Computer Assisted Language
Learning (CALL).
The workshop was attended by 18 English language
faculty members from Government Postgraduate
College for Women, Rawalpindi, Fatima Jinnah
Workshop on Computer Assisted Language Learning
Women University, Rawalpindi, National University
of Modern Languages, Islamabad and Government
Viqar-un-Nisa Postgraduate College, Rawalpindi.
The main objectives of the workshop were to
develop skills necessary to understand various uses
of computers in language classrooms; to increase
learners’ awareness of diverse sources to be used as
teaching tools and to enable the learners to use and
design computer-based and web-based teaching.
13
HEC, Microsoft Organise Boot Camps
With an aim of broadening access to higher
education, enable student-centric learning,
enhance education with powerful software tools
and improve efficiency of education systems, the
Higher Education Commission, (HEC) Pakistan has
partnered with Microsoft for last four years to create
positive impact on students and faculty alike as HEC
is committed to provide highest standards and use
of genuine software for all universities.
HEC in collaboration with Microsoft has planned to
deliver 27 two-day hands-on boot camps, to be
completed by April 2018. The boot camps will focus
on administrative technologies, Azure, Dynamics,
SharePoint, SQL, Windows Server, etc.
Nine boot camps are planned in Karachi, Lahore and
Islamabad whereas 12 boot camps have been
delivered, including boot camps on Office 365,
Azure, Windows 10, SharePoint, SQL and Dynamics.
The focus of these boot camps is to enhance the
Universities’ IT Support teams to be able to do their
own infrastructure implementation.
Previously, more than 300 IT staff have been trained
in these boot camps. The feedback collected at the
end of the trainings indicate a high level of
satisfaction, and the participants are enthusiastic
about these training opportunities.
HEC, Microsoft Organise Online Trainings on IT
HEC’s Pakistan Education and Research Network is
one of the visionary ideas where the universities get
internet access and connectivity to HEC’s state-of-
the-art Video Conferencing facility. This facility is
used to deliver trainings for universities across the
country, to host live PhD thesis defense with remote
faculties, etc while Microsoft uses Video Conference
to deliver technical trainings to Students and Faculty
on a multitude of topics, ranging from Azure &
Cloud Computing, Windows Server Management,
SharePoint to discussions on Microsoft’s Volume
Licensing, Imagine Cup and demonstrations on
Microsoft Imagine (previously Dreamspark) portal.
The objective of these technical trainings is to build
an awareness among the students and faculty about
the software and facilities they have available
through HEC’s platform, as well as to give them an
introduction to the technology/ topic. The plan is to
conduct 30 online sessions, with 10 focused on
Licensing, 10 focused on Technology and 10 on
Imagine Cup.
During the current Academic Year 2017-18, eight
online sessions have been conducted, out of these
six sessions on technologies such as Azure and
Windows Server, a session on Licensing and one
session on Imagine Cup were conducted.
14
Higher Education Commission, (HEC) Pakistan in its
Strategic Partnership with Microsoft selected
Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certification for
the students under the banner of Prime Ministers
Laptop Scheme.
This enables students to acquire the certification
free of cost in Pakistan that people otherwise pay
for. Microsoft in collaboration with its global partner
Certiport and local partner TEC held an Exam
Festival in 22 universities in November and
December 2017.
The 22 universities that are also Certiport Certified
Testing Centres were selected on the basis of their
last years’ consumption. The idea was to create
HEC, Microsoft Offers Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Certification
awareness about the importance of this initiative
and eventually guide and help students in getting
certified in their labs. The visiting partner of
Microsoft TEC went to these certified universities
and reached out to students through different
means to help them consume and certify them. The
entire process of the exam was revisited for the
students where they actively participated and went
through test trials for the exam to prepare
themselves for the actual ones.
Over 30000 students were certified at the end of
year 2017 due to the initiative of HEC to encourage
students to actively participate in getting certified
from Microsoft for their professional growth and
better future.
The Faculty of Electrical, Electronic and Computer
Engineering Mehran University of Engineering and rd Technology, (MUET) Jamshoro held 33 IEEEP
(Institution of Electrical and Electronic Engineers
Pakistan, Karachi centre) All Pakistan Students’
Seminar at MUET.
Dr Rana Abdul Jabbar Khan, IEEEP President and
National Transmission Dispatch Company (NTDC)
technical general manager was Chief Guest while Lt-
Gen. (Retd.) Muhammad Asghar, Consultant CPEC
was the Guest of Honour in the event.
While speaking on the occasion, Lt-Gen. (Retd.)
Muhammad Asghar, threw light on University
Support Programme (CUSP) and said that the HEC
would enhance potential of higher education
institutions for supporting socio-economic
transformation under CPEC with a focus on
development of quality human resource,
civilisational harmony and knowledge inputs. He
further spoke on planning parameters of Pakistan
Vision 2025 that there were seven priority areas
including connectivity, people first, sustained
indigenous and inclusive growth, governance,
security, entrepreneurship and knowledge
economy.
Dr. Jabbar Khan said that this event gave
opportunity to all young students and future
engineers to present their project based research
work which could lead towards conducting
collaborative industrial research in order to meet
indigenous technological needs of the country. Dr.
Muhammad Aslam Uqaili, MUET Vice Chancellor
said that the university transformed and evolved
from undergraduate degree awarding institute to
Research University in the past 10 years.
CPEC Consultant Highlights Varsities’ Role in Socio-economic Transformation
15
The Department of Education, Shaheed Zulfikar Ali
Bhutto Institute of Science and Technology,
(SZABIST) Karachi, recently conducted a 2-day
workshop entitled Outcome Based Education (OBE)
for its faculty members of various departments and
higher management.
OBE is an emerging phenomenon to ensure the
quality of education at higher education level. The
objectives of the workshop were to introduce the
concept of the OBE approach, to highlight
effectiveness of the OBE education system, to
SZABIST Conducts Training on Outcome Based Education
enable participants to differentiate between
SZABIST course outline design and OBE design to
tweak their existing course outlines and to help
participants develop course SLOs’ with the help of
Bloom’s Taxonomy.
Dr. Najmunnissa and Ms. Sadiya Durrani were the
training facilitators. The facilitators said that OBE is a
paradigm shift from Content Based Education to
Outcome Based Education. It is an educational
philosophy that bases each part of an educational
system around outcomes.
The Department of Management Science, Shaheed
Zulfikar Ali Bhutto Institute of Science and
Technology (SZABIST) recently organised two days nd2 National Research Conference Management and
Business entitled Building Bridges between
Academia and Industry.
Mr. Jahangir Siddiqui, Head of JS Group was the
Chief Guest of the Conference. While speaking on
the occasion, he suggested that for better industry-
academia association we have to learn from leading
universities of the developed countries. He also
proposed that Pakistan has to focus on the
sustainable technologies as it has a crucial role in
the long term economic development.
National Conference on Building Bridges between Industry and Academia
Ms. Shahnaz Wazir Ali, President SZABIST
emphasised on scholars to go on contributing
through their active participation in bridging link
between industry and academia. She appreciated
the role of HEC in advancing the academic research
based on the problems of the industry.
Mr. Javed Ali Memon, Director HEC-Regional Centre
Karachi informed the audience that the citation
impact from Pakistan is more than the BRIC
countries.
In his opinion the bridge between industry and
academia would be strengthen when both work
together for resolving the industrial problems.
16
The Department of Theriogenology, University of
Veterinary and Animal Sciences, (UVAS) Lahore in
collaboration with Society for Animal Reproduction
of Pakistan (SARP) recently organised a five-day
training workshop entitled Reproductive
Ultrasonography in Five Species of Domestic
Animals in City Campus Lahore.
The objective of the workshop was to equip the
participants with required knowledge and skills to
diagnose reproductive issues and to improve farm
fertility through ultrasonography.
UVAS holds Workshop on Ultrasonography
Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering
Sciences and Technology (GIKI), Swabi and Squeaks
Foundation have recently signed a Memorandum of
Understanding to provide scholarships to those
female students of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The scholarship is for four years undergraduate
programme and is only for those students who do
not have financial resources to afford expenditures
of university education, but who demonstrate high
academic capability and passion for learning.
GIKI, Squeaks Foundation to Provide Scholarships to Female Students
Ms. Ana Castro, founder trustee of the foundation
said that the foundation stands committed not only
to support the students financially but also in many
other aspects that become relevant to their
academic and professional performance.
Mr. Jehangir Bashar, Rector GIKI briefed the visiting
team about various scholarships and loan schemes
available for the institution students. “Around 30 per
cent students of the GIKI are recipients of financial
support for their studies”, he claimed.
A reference was held at Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute
of Engineering Sciences and Technology for Dr.
Ishfaq Ahmad, former Chairman, Pakistan Atomic
Energy Commission (PAEC) and member Board of
Governors GIK Institute.
The speakers said that his tremendous
contributions as a great scientist would be
remembered for ever. The reference was attended
by his closed associate scientists and academia of
Reference GIKIfor Dr. Ishfaq Ahmad at GIK Institute. Speakers on the occasion said that Dr.
Ishfaq was instrumental in establishing various
cancer treatment centres and played a key role in
establishing Pakistan’s civil nuclear plants at
Chashma and Pakistan Nuclear Regulatory
Authority (PNRA).
During his distinguished scientific career of over 60
years, he held many important positions, including
Chairman PAEC.
The American Society of Mechanical Engineers
(ASME) recently awarded its Heat Transfer Memorial
Award to Dr. Zahid Ayub at the International
Mechanical Engineering Congress and Exposition
(IMECE-2017) in Tampa, Florida.
Dr. Zahid Ayub is Adjunct Professor in the Faculty of
Mechanical Engineering of the Ghulam Ishaq Khan
Institute of Engineering Sciences and Technology
(GIKI), Swabi.
The Award is bestowed on those individuals who
make outstanding contributions in the field of heat
transfer through research, practice and design, or a
Academician Wins ASME Heat Transfer Memorial Award
combination of such activities. Each award is based
on achievement through publications, patents or
invention, in an area of heat transfer.
17
Institution of Engineers Pakistan (IEP) in
collaboration with NED University of Engineering
and Technology, Karachi recently organised an
International Civil Engineering Conference (ICEC-
2017) under the theme entitled Striving towards
Resilient Built Environment at the IEP Convention
Centre.
The conference brought together the latest civil
engineering knowledge, research and development
efforts from scientific community, engineers and
practitioners that can help in contributing towards
enhancing resilience of society and thus, establish a
better built environment.
Engr. Sohail Bashir, the Chief Organiser from IEP
highlighted the rich heritage of the conference by
discussing the state of events in past eight
conferences. Dr. Sahibzada Farooq Ahmad Rafeeqi,
Chairman IEP Karachi Centre delivered the formal
welcome note and emphasised the need for
sustained efforts in research and development
towards topics that can enable and help planners to
establish resilient built environment.
Engr. Dr. Izhar ul Haq, President IEP was the Chief
Guest at the occasion. In his speech, Dr. Izhar
acknowledged and appreciated the sustained
IEP, NED University Organise International Civil Engineering Conference
organisation of the conference through excellent
collaboration between NED University and IEP
Karachi Centre. He stated that the resilient built
environment is the need of the day specifically due
to rapid urbanisation.
Dr. Sarosh H. Lodi, Vice Chancellor NED University
delivered keynote speech entitled Tsunami Risk to
the Coast of Pakistan-A perspective from Built
Environment Resilience.
Dr. Lodi highlighted probable threats caused to the
coasts of Pakistan by Tsunami, its possible impact on
built environment and preparatory-cum-mitigation
measures in order to make these areas more
resilient under the threat of Tsunami.
A total of 40 peer-reviewed papers were presented
at the Conference. The authors from countries
around the world contributed as authors and co-
authors. They presented their research in eight
different technical sessions.
Dr. Farrukh Arif and Ms. Mahanoor Afzal Khan
presented paper entitled Quantifying the
Performance of Green Roof from Environmental
Standpoint and were awarded with the Chairman's
Medal for Best Paper.
The Quality Enhancement Cell (QEC) at NED
University of Engineering and Technology, Karachi
organised two day training programme entitled
Outcome Based Education (OBE) System Design.
The aim of organising the training was to enlighten
participants about the OBE basics and process of its
implementation in their respective teaching
departments/affiliated institutions.
Dr. Abdul Jabbar Sangi, Professor Civil Engineering
Department and Dr. Farrukh Arif, OBE Focal Person,
NED University, were the resource persons of the
QEC Training on OBE System Design at NED University
training and are also approved programme
evaluators (PEVs) of Pakistan Engineering Council.
During sessions of the training, the trainers briefed
the participants about importance of implementing
OBE System by focusing and organising everything
in an educational system and what is essential for all
students to be able to do successfully at the end of
their learning experiences.
In addition, classroom reform, programme
alignment, external accountability and system
transformation were also discussed.
18
The Quality Enhancement Cell, Institute of Space
Technology, (IST) Islamabad recently organised a
seminar on “Bloom’s Taxonomy in Design &
Assessment of Course Learning Outcomes”. The
resource person was Dr. Abdul Wahid Usmani, Head
of Quality and Planning Unit, King Saud University,
Saudi Arabia. The participants included faculty
members of IST and various universities of
Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Taxila, and Lahore.
Dr. Abdul Wahid started his lecture from
introduction of Outcome Based Education (OBE),
learning outcomes and its requirements. He
informed par t ic ipants about Cognit ive ,
Psychomotor and Affective Domains of Bloom’s
Taxonomy. He also presented Audience, Behaviour,
Seminar on Bloom’s Taxonomy in Design & Assessment of Course Learning Outcomes
Condition, and Degree (ABCD) approach for
developing learning outcomes effectively.
During the second session, the resource person
explained use of action verbs from Bloom’s
Taxonomy for assessing course learning outcomes.
He introduced Table of Specifications (TOS) for
ensuring all learning outcomes throughout the
course content with appropriate assessment
techniques.
He further explained various assessment methods
that were of interest to participants including
Simulated Environment, Observation Form,
Concept Maps, Rubrics, and some of the Class Room
Assessment Techniques (CAT).
Institute of Space Technology (IST), Islamabad th recently organised 5 International Conference on
Aerospace Science and Engineering (ICASE 2017).
President Islamic Republic of Pakistan Mr.
Mamnoon Hussain inaugurated ICASE 2017 and
graced the occasion as Chief Guest.
In his inaugural speech, he said that Pakistan’s
position is going to become prominent on the
educational map of the world in coming years. He
urged the youth and senior scientists to set new
examples in their fields of research and
development by setting aside traditional methods.
Engr. Imran Rahman, Vice Chancellor IST said that
th IST Organises 5 International Conference on
Aerospace Science and Engineeringthe Government has to provide ample resources
and funding, which in turn will have a major
beneficial financial impact on our economy.
The Conference started off with the plenary session
including distinguished international speakers
followed by different technical sessions. A total of
100 research papers were presented in the
conference along with 25 poster presentations.
There were 26 technical sessions during the
Conference covering different themes and tracks
related to aerospace science and engineering. In
addition to this, there were three plenary sessions,
seven panel discussions, and 20 tutorials.
19
The University of Faisalabad (TUF), Faisalabad
recently organised a seminar on Oncoplastic Breast
Surgery in Madinah Teaching Hospital, an affiliated
hospital of TUF. Dr. Saira Saleem, Department of
Surgery, Madinah Teaching Hospital (MTH), in her
comprehensive lecture on Oncoplastic Breast
Surgery method said that 90,000 breast cancer
cases are being annually reported in the country
and over 40,000 deaths are caused due to the
disease. “Pakistan has the highest rate of breast
cancer in Asia”, she added.
Dr. Sadia Hameed, Head Department of Pathology,
University Medical & Dental College, Faisalabad in
her address briefed about Role of Pathology
Department in Integrated Breast Clinic Services.
Seminar on Breast Cancer in TUF
Dr. Muhammad Saeed, Pro Rector, Health Sciences
Campus, TUF in his address emphasised the need to
create awareness amongst the women as early
detection of breast cancer can make the disease
easier to treat and increases survival rates.
Dr. Nayab Alia, Head of Department of Radiology,
MTH gave her views on Role of Radiology
Department in Integrated Breast Clinic Services.
Afterwards, a panel discussion was held on breast
cancer diagnosis and treatment, actively
participated by the senior doctors from MTH and
Allied Hospital, Faisalabad. Later, state-of-the-art
Breast Cancer Clinic was inaugurated by a cancer
patient in the hospital.
The students of Air University have successfully
unveiled an energy-efficient vehicle, entitled
Markhor on the occasion of Car & Bike Show held at
Giga Mall, Islamabad. The Markhor is a project by
team called Mech The Tech (MTT) which consists of
final year students of Mechatronics Department of
Air University, Islamabad.
Muzamil Imran, team lead informed that the aim of
Markhor project is to design and fabricate
prototype energy efficient electric car. “Our main
focus was to make an electric prototype vehicle,” he
stated. Solid modelling and analysis were
performed to validate the design before fabrication.
He further informed that estimated target mileage
for the Markhor car is 550km/kWh.
Air University Students Showcase Electric Car Umer Farooq, faculty adviser and other MTT team
members including Abdul Ghani Zahid, Saad
Sheikh, Hammas Ahmed, Ahsan Islam, Bassim
Faridy, Yahya Abrar Khan, Aden Salim and Sayed
Usama Sabir were also present at the event.
20
thThe 24 Convocation of University of Engineering
and Technology, (UET) Lahore recently held where
2233 degrees including 22 PhD, 557 MPhil and MSc,
1654 BSc were conferred on the graduates.
An honorary Doctorate degree was awarded to Mr.
Ahsan Iqbal, Federal Minister for Interior by
acknowledging his services and contribution for
strengthening the university and his role for
development of higher education in Pakistan.
While addressing faculty and students Ahsan Iqbal
said, “Government of Pakistan has initiated many
programmes to engage youth in different projects”.
While congratulating the graduates, he said that
graduates must concentrate to develop their career
for betterment of their country and their personal
development. He also stressed on empowerment of
women in his speech.
Dr Fazal Ahmad Khalid Vice Chancellor UET Lahore
while sharing his views on the occasion said that
th UET Lahore Holds 24 Convocation
universities play vital role to build a nation on
scientific basis with the help of outcome based
research and other ways of learning.
He highlighted the output of the university with
important statistics in capacity building, new
pedagogical techniques, laboratory and research
centres up gradation of courses, construction,
expansion and signing of memorandum of
understandings with academic and industrial
institution at national and international level.
Honorary Doctorate Degree Conferred upon Ahsan Iqbal
The Institute of Business Management (IoBM), thKarachi recently conducted its 20 Convocation in
which over 1000 graduates of business
management and allied disciplines were awarded
with laurels and degree certificates to mark
completion of their studies. The graduating
students were awarded with 10 gold medals and 36
merit certificates.
On this occasion, Mr. Muhammad Zubair, Governor
of Sindh was the Chief Guest and Mr. Khalid Nawaz
Awan, President, TCS was the Keynote Speaker.
While speaking on the occasion, Mr. Mohammad
Zubair highlighted education as a process that must
nurture students with rational thinking, wise
decision-making and prudent reasoning to develop
their personality and character to make them noble
Graduates Vow to Serve Pakistan in th
20 Convocation of IoBMand gentle professionals having sound knowledge
and command over their respective fields. He also
shared with graduates importance of positive
thinking and healthy competition.
The Governor related importance of positive
thinking and healthy competition to survive in the
competitive corporate world with the graduates. He
hoped that the graduating students will also
comprehend the importance of managing time,
prioritising tasks and multitasking as result-
oriented professionals.
Mr. Khalid Nawaz Awan emphasised the need for
technology to connect our financial, emotional and
intellectual capital towards sustainable businesses.
He advised graduates to acquire right set of skills
and to enhance their prospects in concern fields.
21
The Directorate of Quality Enhancement, University
of Peshawar (UoP) and The Pakistan Standards and
Quality Control Authority (PSQCA) have recently
signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to
promote need based standardisation as well as
quality control assurance of the educational
programmes besides transfer of technology to the
industry for the socio-economic development in
the country. A formal agreement to this effect was
signed by Dr. Muhammad Asif, Vice Chancellor UoP
and Engr. Muhammad Khalid Siddiq Director
General PSQCA.
The agreement states that both the parties shall
explore market oriented research and develop
projects and other activities in the area of common
interest. The organisations will also share their
human and material resources including
instruments services and facilities for the purpose.
To attain the set objectives, PSQCA will give
representation to UoP experts and researchers in
Technical Committees of PSQC and UoP will give
representation to experts from PSQCA in their
advisory bodies.
Under the agreement, the UoP will create
standardisation, quality and Technology
Management wing in the University and will provide
expertise to carry out studies in PSQCA.
UoP Signs MoU with PSQCA for Standardisation and Quality Assurance
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Muhammad Asif said
that attaining the desired quality assurance in the
academic programmes and making it up to the
demands of the job market was priority of the
varsity. He said that accreditation of the University
programmes is being made for the purpose in order
to add value to our degree. He further stated that
accreditation of the UoP laboratory will also be
initiated with the help of PSQCA under the
agreement.
Engr. Khalid Siddiq said that PSQCA works under the
control of the Ministry of Science and Technology
with an aim to set up standards in quality of
products. The MoU signing ceremony was followed
by one day Quality Assurance Gala in which 20
industrial units of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
participated.
thThe 12 Convocation of Beaconhouse National
University (BNU) was recently held at Tarogil
Campus, Raiwind Road, Lahore. Mr. Shahid Hafiz
Kardar, Vice Chancellor presided over the ceremony
while Mrs. Nasreen Mahmud Kasuri was the Chief
Guest. A total of 384 graduates were awarded
degrees out of which 291 conferred Bachelor, 91
Masters and two doctoral degrees.
Twenty gold medals were awarded this year out of
which 15 recipients were girls. The Arfa Karim gold
thBNU Awards 384 Degrees at 12 Convocation medal was awarded to Zunaira Arif of the BS (Hons.)
Software Engineering programme while Nasim
Hijazi gold medal was awarded to Muhammad Firas
Shams of the BA (Hons.) Journalism programme.
In recognition of the services of Prof. Salima Hashmi,
Mrs. Nasreen Mahmud Kasuri, the founding Dean of
the School of Visual Arts and Design at BNU
conferred the title of Professor Emeritus on
Professor Hashmi for her contribution to Art and
Design Education.
22
The National University of Medical Sciences
(NUMS), Islamabad held a Symposium at Army
Medical College, Rawalpindi to build linkages
between medical educationists from North America
and Pakistan.
Dr. Shabbir Ahmed Lehri, President Pakistan Medical
and Dental Council (PM&DC) graced the occasion
as Chief Guest and Lt. Gen. Syed Muhammad Imran
Majeed, Vice Chancellor NUMS, as Guest of Honour.
The event was attended by Maj. Gen. (Retd)
Muhammad Aslam, Pro-Vice Chancellor NUMS,
Maj. Gen. Saleem Ahmed Khan, Principal, AMC, Maj.
Gen. Nigar Johar, Vice Principal, AMC, Educationists,
faculty members of AMC and NUMS, Postgraduate
Residents, Post-Doctorate Researchers and final-
year medical students.
In his inaugural speech, Lt. Gen. Syed Muhammad
Imran Majeed, Vice Chancellor NUMS emphasised
upon need of a platform to contribute in addressing
the healthcare needs of the country.
Dr. Shabbir Ahmed Lehri, President Pakistan Medical
and Dental Council (PM&DC) said that need of hour
is to provide outcome based training to medical
graduates in Pakistan. The symposium also
NUMS, AMC hold Symposium on Medical Education & Practice
consisted of poster presentations displaying
research work of AMC undergraduate students,
which were appreciated by participants of
symposium.
This symposium served as a platform for bringing
together renowned Educationists and Physicians to
share their experience and latest developments in
various fields of Medical Education and Medical
Practice. On this occasion, a Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) was signed between NUMS,
Amcolians Alumni Association (AAA) and
Association of Physicians of Pakistani Descent of
North America (APPNA) which entails collaboration
with regard to capacity building, knowledge sharing
by bringing together leading academicians from
medical profession in North America and Pakistan
and assist in placements, if and when required.
Quality Assurance (QA) Directorate at National
University of Medical Sciences (NUMS) recently
conducted an interactive Awareness Session on
Creating Dignified Workplace at NUMS’
Professional Development Centre (PDC). Ms. Maliha
Hussain, National Resource Person was invited to
create awareness and impart trainings to maximise
adult learning and bring social change as the
keynote speaker.
Ms. Noor Amna Malik, Director QA and Quality
Enhancement Cell (QEC) NUMS, opened the session
with a talk on Role of Quality Assurance in Creating
NUMS Conducts Awareness Session to Promote Integrity
Dignified Workplace. Ms. Noor Amna elaborated
and shared the terminologies related to the topic
with the audience, the Laws pertaining to the issue
and Anti-Harassment Policy laid down by HEC to be
complied by the universities all over Pakistan.
The audience that comprised all levels of NUMS
Secretariat Management and participants from the
constituent Army Medical College, Armed Forces
Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Nursing,
Rawalpindi and Armed Forces Institute of Pathology
(AFIP) and Armed Forces Institute of Radiology and
Imaging (AFIRI).
23
The Department of Biosciences, Capital University thof Science and Technology recently organised the 5
Conference on Biological and Computational
Sciences. Dr. Masoom Yasinzai, Rector International
Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) was the Chief
Guest of the event. The Conference provided an
ideal platform to the academicians, researchers and
emerging scientists to share their ideas and work
with eminent scientists and experts.
The conference also offered a strategic think tank to
enhance a constructive dialogue and collaboration
on themes relevant to Biological Sciences and to
present latest research results in all areas. The
conference included 149 participants and 32
authors for Oral and 13 Poster presenters from
almost 20 different institutions from all over the
Pakistan.
Dr. Masoom Yasinzai, in his inaugural address,
emphasised the need for inter-disciplinary research
th5 Conference on Biological and Computational Sciences
to solve real problems. The keynote talk was
delivered by Dr. Yousaf Zafar. He talked about pros
and cons of current technologies and how
biotechnology can play a role in solving problems
faced by the society and humanity in general.
The poster session also started in parallel, where
more than 13 posters were displayed. The
concluding ceremony was chaired by Dr.
Muhammad Abdul Qadir, Dean, Faculty of Health
and Life Sciences, CUST.
Pakistan Institute of Fashion Design (PIFD) in
collaboration with Pakistan Scientific and
Technological Information Centre (PASTIC) and
Pakistan Librarians Welfare Organisation (PLWO)
recently conducted one day hands on training
workshop on Mendeley, which is a Citation
Management Software.
The faculty members from PIFD, researchers and
professionals from other academic institutions
Workshop on Citation Management in PIFDjoined this workshop. The participants were given a
comprehensive briefing about Mendeley, value of
citation, different citation styles and citation
management.
The participants of the training workshop were
taught skills related to the Mendeley which is one of
the leading softwares for managing citation in the
present age of information and communication
technology.
24
As many as 1962 students were awarded with thdegrees during 28 Convocation of University of
Karachi (UoK) held recently at the campus’ Valika
Ground where 187 gold medals were also awarded
to the students who secured first position in their
respective departments.
Speaking on the occasion, Governor Sindh
Muhammad Zubair congratulated the graduating
students, faculty and the Vice Chancellor for holding
1962 Students Awarded Degrees th
in UoK 28 Convocation one of the largest convocations of the country. He
said that UoK is one of the most distinguished
academic institutions of the country and has
remained amongst top priorities of the federal
government.
While addressing the convocation, Dr. Muhammad
Ajmal Khan, the Vice Chancellor UoK said that
universities are the seats of learning where
knowledge is not only created but also dispensed.
25
PAF-Karachi Institute of Information and
Technology (KIET) in collaboration with Professional
Development Centre recently held a seminar
entitled Intellectual Property Rights, Patents and
Trademark. The aim of conducting the seminar was
to create awareness among the faculty members
and other researchers of PAF-KIET on how to
register their innovative work.
Mr. Nasrullah Khan, Deputy Director, Intellectual
Property Office (IPO), Pakistan shed light on the
importance of Intellectual Property Rights,
Copyrights, Patents and Trade Marks. He
highlighted their importance and what actions are
to be taken by an individual to protect his/her
innovative work.
Seminar on Intellectual Property Rights at PAF-KIET
He also explained what measures IPO, Pakistan is
taking to secure rights of researchers and
innovators. Ms. Zobia Hassan from IPO, Pakistan
explained in detail the procedure of filing patents.
The Isra University recently conferred degrees upon
453 students belonging to various disciplines thduring its 15 Convocation. Five students were
awarded gold medals and nine others were
presented silver medals for their outstanding
results.
As many as 254 students received Bachelors
degrees in Medical Sciences, Dentistry, Nursing and
Physical Therapy whereas 27 postgraduate degrees
were awarded in different programmes of Medical
and Allied Medical Sciences. Apart from this, three
thIsra University holds 15 Convocationstudents were also conferred upon a PhD degree in
Computer and Management Sciences.
Dr. Asadullah Kazi, Chancellor, Isra University
stressed on students to uphold image of our
country, by letting the world know that we are a
peaceful nation.
On this occasion, Dr. Ghulamqadir Kazi, Vice
Chancellor, Isra University felicitated the students
and said that the main purpose of such events is to
honour those who have performed meritoriously.
The Department of Medical Sciences (DMS) at
Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied
Sciences, (PIEAS), in collaboration with Pakistan
Education Research Network (PERN), in the field of
Tele-Medical Education with specific emphasis on
Oncology and Nuclear Medicine Education recently
signed a Document of Understanding (DoU).
The signing of DoU was part of the inauguration
ceremony of the International Trans-EuroAsian
Information Network (TEIN) Annual NOC Workshop-
2017, recently held at Higher Education Commission
(HEC) Secretariat, Islamabad.
Mr. Ahsan Iqbal, Federal Minister of Interior, graced
the occasion as Chief Guest. He appreciated the
importance of long distance learning through tele-
education resources.
Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman, HEC on behalf of
PERN, Dr. Masroor Ikram, Director Academics on
behalf of PIEAS; and Dr. Muhammad Iqbal
PIEAS Inked DoU on Tele-Medical Education
Choudhary, on behalf of Hussain Ebrahim Jamal (HEJ)
Research Institute of Chemistry signed the DoU.
Moreover, HEJ Research Institute of Chemistry, a
public-sector institute for Higher Education would
additionally be responsible to arrange online video
conferencing lecture under Virtual Education Project
Pakistan according to the DoU.
Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied
Science (PIEAS), Islamabad also organised a cash
award ceremony to recognise academic
performance of its students who are enrolled in BS
programmes at PIEAS Auditorium.
Maj. Gen. (Retd.) Munawar Ahmed Solehria,
Member Admin., Pakistan Atomic Energy
Commission, Dr. Nasir Majeed Mirza, Rector PIEAS,
and Dr. Mansoor Hameed Inayat, Pro-Rector PIEAS
graced the occasion.
Dr. Anila Usman, Controller of Examinations, PIEAS,
presented summary of the students’ performance
and the cash awards were given to top three BS
students of Electrical Engineering (BSEE),
Mechanical Engineering (BSME), and Computer
and Information Sciences (BSCIS) programmes on
Recognition of Academic Performance Ceremony
the basis of their academic performances in the
academic year 2016-17. Mr. Solehria, encouraged
students and congratulated them for being high
performers in their respective semesters.
The criterion for PIEAS BS Cash Award is to obtain
an overall CGPA of three or more on the scale of four
with no repeated or failed courses and to have st nd rdattained 1 , 2 , or 3 positions on the basis of
aggregate GPA of two semesters in an academic
year for first three years.
Twenty-eight cash prizes were distributed among
the top three position holders of the three BS
programmes for the sessions 2014-18, 2015-19 stand 2016-20, amounting to Rs. 20,000 for 1
ndposition holders, Rs. 15,000 for 2 position holders rdand Rs. 10,000 for 3 position holders.
26
Prof. Julius Kibet Bitok, Kenyan High Commissioner
with a delegation recently visited University of
Veterinary and Animal Sciences, (UVAS) Ravi
Campus Pattoki to hold a meeting with Dr. Talat
Naseer Pasha, Vice Chancellor UVAS. During the
meeting, they identified areas of collaboration in
livestock, exchange of students and faculty for
studies, training and joint research.
The Vice Chancellor briefed the Kenyan delegation
on UVAS academic, research, extension in dairy
advisory services, clinical and disease diagnostic
facilities, development projects, vaccine production,
various training programmes, national and
international linkages, etc.
Later, the Kenyan delegations visited various
departments of Ravi Campus Pattoki including
An eight-Week Research Excellence Course was
recently conducted at Bahria University, (BU)
Islamabad. Dr. Sheikh Zahoor Sarwar, Senior
Associate Professor in collaboration with
Leadership Development Centre (LED) organised
and conducted the course.
Trainers from Bahria University, University of
Arizona USA, Manchester Metropolitan University
UK, London School of Economics UK, and Gallop
International Organisation imparted training to the
participants. The course was registered by 35
In order to develop a core team of lead auditors,
Quality Enhancement Cell, (QEC) IBA Karachi
recently organised a four day IRCA/LRQA Certified
ISO 9001:2015 QMS Lead Auditor Course for its
head of functional departments and staff members.
The course was based on an interactive session that
helped boost motivation and participation. At the
Kenyan High Commissioner Aims to Collaborate in Livestock Research
Central Laboratory Complex (CLC), Milk Plant, Pet
Breeding and Training Centre, Ostrich and
Indigenous Poultry Farm, Dairy Animal Training and
Research Centre, Sheep and Goat Research Centre,
Poultry Broiler Farm, clinics and Buffalo Research
Institute.
The Kenyan High Commissioner said that Pakistan
and Kenya have close relations and Kenya wants to
further promote these ties in all sectors, especially
livestock, research and education.
BU Organises Research Excellence Courseparticipants from industry and academia. Out of
which 29 participants successfully completed the
course.
The participants were given training on art of
conducting research in organisational settings and
in academia. Latest research based softwares
including ZOTERO, NVIVO, SPSS, AMOS, SMART
PLS, Qualtircs, Endnote, Ref Works, Evernote,
TURNITIN and many others were communicated
with the help of hands on training in computer
laboratory.
th end of 4 day, a two-hour exam was conducted to
evaluate learning level of participants.
In the closing session, Dr. Shahid Raza Mir, Director
QEC encouraged them to implement it in their
respective departments. In the end, certificates of
attendance were distributed amongst the
participants.
Lead Auditor Course at IBA Karachi
27
Dr. Asim Shahzad, HEC Scholar edited a book
entitled Biocomposites: Properties, Performance
and Applications which has recently been published
from USA.
Biocomposites are exciting materials which have stexperienced a renaissance in the 21 century in
response to the societal concerns regarding global
warming and environmental pollution, shifting the
focus towards materials made from renewable,
biodegradable and recyclable resources. As a
consequence, research and development of these
materials has increased in recent years which is
reflected in their increasing application in industries.
HEC Scholar Edits Book on BiocompositesThe book contains 21 chapters from leading experts
of the world with various backgrounds and
expertise. Apart from review articles, the book also
contains chapters on recent developments in this
field. A distinguishing feature of this book is the
emphasis on the uses of these materials in
biomedical applications.
Dr. Asim Shahzad availed HEC Overseas Scholarship
from 2005-2009 at Swansea University, UK. He
completed his PhD research on Mechanical
Properties of Biocomposites. He is the author of six
chapters in edited books and 20 conference papers,
published by Elsevier, Wiley and Springer.
Dr. Farzana Khan Perveen, Chairperson and
Associate Professor, Department of Zoology,
Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University (SBBU),
Sheringal, Upper Dir authored a book entitled
Recent Advances in Biopolymers.
The book contains 10 chapters which are divided
into 3 sections. Section A covers synthesis of
biopolymers while Section B describes applications
of biopolymers in biomedical, antimicrobial,
industrial, nanotechnology, laser-based thin films,
and regenerative medicines and Section C is
Scholar Authors Book on Biopolymersdedicated for advancement and engineering in
biopolymers for personal protective garments,
equipments, membrane separation processes,
purifications, and new generation of high-
performance biomaterials.
A new numerical-cum-graphical method called
TI2BioP (Topological Indices to BioPolymers) has
been developed to estimate topological indices
(TIs) from two-dimensional (2D) graphical
approaches for the natural biopolymers DNA, RNA,
and proteins.
The Learning Innovation Division, Higher Education
Commission, (HEC) in collaboration with Shah
Abdul Latif University, Khairpur organised three
days training workshop on Research Methodology.
The purpose of this workshop was to train and
update knowledge and skills of the teachers of the
university and affiliated colleges in the subject of
English with particular focus on research
methodology. Research Methodology is a big issue
SALU Organises Workshop on Research Methodology
faced by young scholars. Keeping this notion in
mind, HEC organised this programme to solve
research related issues.
28
NEWS & VIEWSNEWS & VIEWS
ILLEGAL CAMPUSES / INSTITUTIONS
It has been observed that a number of universities/institutions/ campuses/affiliated
colleges/foreign collaborative arrangements are operating illegally in Pakistan without
permission of the Higher Education Commission (HEC).
All such institutions are hereby to immediately stop their CAUTIONEDoperations, which are functioning.
If such institutions fail to comply, their operations shall be shut down with the
assistance of Law enforcement agencies and provincial governments as per rules.
Students and their parents are also warned that degrees from such non-recognised
and fake institutions/illegal campuses will not be verified by HEC.
Director General(Accreditation & Attestation)
Higher Education Commission, Sector H-9, Islamabad.
Without prior approval/ NOC of HEC
Have opened illegal campuses
Offering foreign collaborative degree programmes without HEC NOC
OR
OR
For details visit www.hec.gov.pk/site/HEIs