Higher Education Commission,

November/December 2015

HEC Speech Contest A Tribute to 1965 War Heroes P- 2

HEC, EU Brief VCs on Erasmus+ Programme P- 7

Seminar Sheds Light on Significance of Intellectual Property Rights P-11

Virtual University Invites Papers for Conference

P-15 President Urges Table of Contents Youth to Learn from 2 Lives of National 4 HEC to Launch Quality Assurance Review Heroes Process

7 HEC, EU Brief VCs on Erasmus+ Programme

HEC Pays Glowing Tribute to Allama Iqbal, 9 Quaid-e-Azam HEC Sends Off 73 Scholars to Germany 10 HEC, IIUI Mark Int'l University Sports Day 5 for PhD Studies 11 Seminar Sheds Light on Significance of Intellectual Property Rights

12 Zong Wins HEC Contract to Extend Wireless US Dy. Sec. of State Broadband Services to Students Reviews HEC 8 Collaboration with 13 World Bank Mission Reviews TESP Progress USAID PAMS Role in Recognition of Pakistani 19 Physicians, Scientists Achievements Lauded

Advancements in Rehab Sciences Vital News & Views is published after every 21 Means of Stability for the Disabled two months. No part of this publication may be reproduced in 22 PU Information Management Department any form without prior written Turns 100 permission of the publisher. Realize Importance of Research, Urges 24 The views expressed by authors in DUHS VC the articles is their sole responsibility and not of HEC. The Commission 26 Robotics Competition Held at PAK-KIET would like to thank all the institutions and individuals who 28 NUST School Hosts DICE Automotive 2015 contributed information and photographs for this Magazine.

Editor Aayesha Ikram Graphic Designer Raja Ahmad Nadeem Publisher: Reporter Higher Education Waseem Khaliqdad Commission, Pakistan HEC holds Speech Competition to Mark 50th Anniversary of 1965 War President Urges Youth to Learn from Lives of National Heroes Mr. , , has urged youth to learn from the lives and sacrifices of our national heroes who left no stone unturned to preserve sovereignty of the homeland. He said the role of youth is critical for development of nations.

The President was speaking at the National Speech forces in the 1965 war and mentioned initiation of China Competition organized by the recalled how they, fully backed Pakistan Economic Corridor Higher Education Commission by the nation, defeated the which he said will not only (HEC) to mark the 50th enemy. He also mentioned the bring great change in Pakistan’s anniversary of the 1965 war success of Zarb-e-Azb, stressing socio-economic situation but and to honour the sacrifices that achievements in this war will also have big impact on the made particularly by Pakistan’s will have positive effects on the whole region. armed forces and nation as a entire region. He said that a whole. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, clear difference can be Terming corruption a major Chairman HEC, was also observed since the current problem in institutions, he said present. Government assumed charge the current Government is in 2013. taking steps to get rid of this The President appreciated menace. He also urged the winners and other participants youth to understand how for taking part in the Speech Undoubtedly, there are corruption brings destruction Competition entitled “One a number of in a society and widely spread Nation, One Destination: Set to challenges facing the message to fight against it. Regain its Rightful Place in the Comity of Nations” and Pakistan, but at the Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman expressing their views. same time, we have a HEC said that the youth should lot of opportunities to be aware of sacrifices of their He also appreciated HEC for advance towards forefathers, adding that organizing co-curricular nations never forget their activities for university development. heroes. He appreciated the students, underscoring that armed forces for discharging such activities provide an Mr. Mamnoon said that their duties diligently. He impetus to them for engaging undoubtedly there are a underlined the significance of themselves in constructive number of challenges facing unity and elaborated how activities. Pakistan but at the same time division in our ranks will be we have a lot of opportunities disastrous for all of us. He He eulogized the sacrifices for advancing towards called for dealing with the rendered by country’s armed development. He particularly enemy within. He also stressed

2 the importance of promoting University, (2nd position) first position holders each in culture of tolerance in the and Yasir Rashid, University of and English sessions, society to become a unified the Punjab, Lahore (3rd while Rs. 40,000 and and strong nation. The position). Rs. 30, 000 were given to the Chairman said that different second and third position HEC schemes were aimed to In the English contest, the holders respectively in the strengthen human resource, students who won first, the both categories. particularly equipping youth second and third positions with latest knowledge and were Manaal Ayesha, Fatima The Urdu session was chaired skills. Jinnah Women University by Dr. Najeeba Arif from (FJWU), Rawalpindi; Khushal Islamic International University Winners of Urdu contest were Khan, National Defence while the English Makhdoom Shahab ud Din, University (NDU), Islamabad; session was chaired by Dr. National University of Sciences and Sidra Baig, University of Shahid Siddiqui, Vice and Technology (1st position), Haripur. A cash prize worth Rs. Chancellor Allama Iqbal Open Zahid Ali, Government College 50,000 was awarded to the University Islamabad. Cuban Ambassador Visits HEC Chairman HEC for Using Education as Diplomatic Tool to Boost Relations Mr. Jesús Zenén Buergo Concepción, Ambassador of Cuba to Pakistan, paid a farewell visit to Higher Education Commission (HEC), Pakistan, and called on Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman HEC, at the Commission Secretariat. the 10th International Congress The Chairman HEC stressed the The Cuban Ambassador of Higher Education University need for using education as a stressed the need for 2016 in Cuba going to be held diplomatic tool to improve enhancing country-to-country in February. The conference relations between Pakistan and collaboration in various entitled “Innovative University Cuba. He accepted the academic fields including for a Sustainable Human invitation and said that such Agriculture, Biotechnology Development” will be gatherings are fruitful for and Arts. He once again attended by over 3,000 future collaboration in the invited the Chairman to attend people. higher education sector.

3 Ensuring Adherence to QA Criteria Accreditation HEC to Launch Quality Councils Assurance Review Process Progress Reviewed The Quality Assurance Agency of Higher Education Commission recently organized a Need Assessment Meeting with representatives of The Higher Education quality mechanism of HEC but Accreditation Councils. Commission organized a will also deter any violation of brainstorming session with the HEC policies by the The representatives of National experts for review of higher existing and future HEIs. The Accreditation Council for education institutions, in which experts appreciated the plan Teachers Education, National a plan was shared to launch a to initiate the review process Agricultural Education Quality Assurance (QA) Review to ensure a good quality of Accreditation Council, National Process in universities. education in the national HEIs. Computing Education Accreditation Council, and The purpose of this monitoring They also shared their views National Business Education process is to ensure adherence about refinement of the Accreditation Council, to defined QA criteria so that proposed review process so attended the meeting at the quality of teaching and that the actual review could Commission’s Secretariat. research in the universities, meaningfully contribute to their campuses and sub- improvement of overall The objective of the meeting campuses could be ensured. governance, teaching and was to review the progress and research at universities across functions of Councils in the The meeting was chaired by Dr. country. light of Vision/Mission Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman statement. HEC, and attended by several Summing up the discussion, academic experts and quality Prof. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed Dr. Ghulam Raza Bhatti, practitioners from across the emphasized that HEC and Executive Director HEC, country both in person and universities need to work reiterated the strategic focus of through video conferencing. together to improve the state HEC in improving the quality of of higher education in the higher education being Speaking on the occasion, the country since it is a joint imparted in the universities. Chairman HEC apprised the responsibility of all to put participants about the collective efforts for this noble The increased growth in higher importance and the dire need cause. education sector across the of such a review mechanism. world and internationalization He advised Quality Assurance of education instigated quality He mentioned an array of Agency to chalk out a review debate among the quality issues being faced at plan on urgent basis and stakeholders. Accreditation of the HEIs across the country arrange review visits of expert programmes and institutions and emphasized initiation of senior academicians to and ranking of HEIs have the review process that will not universities across the promoted the culture of only ensure adherence to the country. competition.

4 13 Students to Pursue MS Leading to PhD HEC Sends Off 73 Scholars to Germany for PhD Studies The Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan recently organized a send-off ceremony in honour of 73 HEC scholars proceeding to Germany for doctoral studies.

Ms. Ina Lepel, Ambassador of Germany, was the Chief Guest on the occasion. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman HEC, and Dr. Barth Manzoori, Section Head of DAAD, the German Academic Exchange Service, were also present. proposal with the United States, the Chairman Interviews were held for selection of scholars said that 10,000 scholarships, 1000 every year, under the Overseas Scholarship Scheme Phase-II will be extended to students under this and Aghaz-e-Haqooq-e-Balochistan Project in May programme. 2015, wherein 56 and 17 scholars were recommended for PhD scholarship respectively. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed urged the students Out of 73 candidates, 13 were proceeding to Germany to develop social and recommended for MS-cum-PhD, academic network so that it could while the rest were selected for benefit them and the country in PhD studies. future. “You are going to be the ambassadors of Pakistan in Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Ina Germany so a great responsibility Lepel congratulated the students lies upon your shoulders. You selected from different should adopt an exemplary universities for scholarship attitude,” the Chairman said. He through a meritorious, tough and urged the students to work hard demanding procedure. and come back to serve the country and nation. “You have to She said Pakistan’s national poet, Allama serve not only the country but also entire Muhammad Iqbal, also studied in Germany and humanity”. the students proceeding to Germany are lucky to follow in his footsteps. She said as many as 300 Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Barth Manzoori Pakistani scholars have already completed their briefed the audience about the DAAD studies in German universities. She said the scholarships. She said that since 2004, DAAD has academic and social life in Germany will provide been collaborating with HEC for sending Pakistani the students a great opportunity to learn and scholars to Germany. She said DAAD have new exposures. representatives will guide and assist the students in Germany. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed said HEC ensures merit in selection of students and 58 per cent students are The scholarship holders also included a visually from small towns and remote areas. He said the impaired student, Mr. Imran Qaisar, who lauded Government is committed to facilitating students and thanked the HEC and the Governments of to acquire higher education in the country as well Pakistan as well as Federation of Republic of as abroad. Referring to the Knowledge Corridor Germany.

5 HEC Active to Promote Girls Education: Chairman through its various initiatives as well as agreements with different national and foreign organizations. He said that acquiring education is the right of all students and promotion of girls education is a need of the hour.

Giving details of the objectives of PAGE, Zulfiqar Higher Education Commission Philanthropists is a Cheema, Chief Executive (HEC), Pakistan, has signed a continuation of HEC efforts for Officer, Muslim Memorandum of promotion of female Philanthropists, said that it is Understanding with Muslim education. a network aiming at bringing Philanthropists, a welfare Non- all the stakeholders Government Organization, for He said that HEC and Muslim concerned to a platform and joint collaboration in Philanthropists will work work on promotion on girls promotion of girls education. under Pakistan Alliance for education in the country. Girls Education (PAGE), a Speaking on the occasion, Dr. network recently launched by He said that the Muslim Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman the Muslim Philanthropists. Philanthropists have started HEC, said that HEC has always accelerating efforts to make a been struggling to promote The Chairman said that HEC is remarkable progress in the girls education in the country, endeavouring to ensure field of female education, as adding that the purpose of equitable access to higher education is a vital course that striking the MoU with Muslim education for girls and boys leads nations to development. HEC Launches Physical Exercise Plan The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has launched a physical exercise plan to help its employees remain physically fit, as being a premier organization regulating higher education in the country, HEC accords due importance to exercise and sports activities alongside its academic endeavours not only in universities and but also at its Secretariat.

The plan is the pursuance of initiative of Dr. the launch of the plan and joined the HEC Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman HEC, regarding employees in the first physical exercise session. promotion of healthy activities in the Commission as well as universities and higher education The HEC employees participated in the session institutions. with great vigour and enthusiasm. The first session continued for an hour and the Dr. Ghulam Raza Bhatti, Executive Director HEC, participants took part in various physical was also present on the occasion. He appreciated activities.

6 HEC, EU Brief VCs on Erasmus+ Programme The Higher Education Commission (HEC), Pakistan, and the Delegation of the European Union (EU) to Pakistan organized recently a ceremony to brief Vice Chancellors and Rectors of public and private sector universities about the ERASMUS+ Programme for the period 2014-2020.

The consultation session, held at the Commission Secretariat in Islamabad, was attended by Vice Chancellors and Rectors from a number of universities, while several universities were linked through the HEC video conferencing facility.

Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman HEC, and Jean- François Cautain, Ambassador of the European contributes to a strong civil society and good Union to Pakistan, briefed the academia heads governance. The Ambassador added that the and managers in detail about the ERASMUS+ capacity building component of the programme is Programme and the opportunities offered under very important from the development perspective this initiative for Pakistani higher education as it aims to strengthen the relationships between institutions, students and staff. higher education systems and the wider economic and social environment. In his opening remarks, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed welcomed the Ambassador and the EU delegation ERASMUS+ funding for Asia in 2014-2017 is 211.7 in the HEC Commission. He said that HEC will million EUR. The programme, which is currently create a link on its official open for applications, offers website to give details about In 2015, 140 Pakistani scholarships to students and the ERASMUS+ Programme so students and staff received staff to study in Europe and that students and faculty of funds capacity building projects universities and educational ERASMUS+ scholarship. between Pakistani and institutions could access the Considering the population European universities. relevant information. He said of Pakistan and the they will ensure follow-up steps funding levels, there is Opportunities under ERASMUS+ in order to monitor progress include full Master and Doctoral with regard to the initiative. space to increase the degrees, short-term number of beneficiaries scholarships to staff and The Chairman said that HEC has from Pakistan. students at all levels, Jean been facilitating Pakistani Monnet grants for European students to benefit from such programmes, as the Union studies and research and funding for inter- Government of Pakistan and HEC accord due university capacity building projects. importance to international collaboration in the higher education sector. The capacity building component will finance joint projects based on multilateral partnerships to The Ambassador thanked Chairman HEC for fund curriculum development and modernization, organizing the event and said that the European joint or double degrees, new diploma, modern Union recognizes the important role that higher teaching and learning practices, upgrading of education plays in the economic and social facilities and equipment, improving university development of any country. Higher education governance and creating better links between increases entrepreneurship, creates jobs and higher education and the world of work.

7 US Dy. Sec. of State Reviews HEC Collaboration with USAID The Higher Education Commission organized an event in collaboration with the US Agency for International Development (USAID) at its Secretariat to mentor the students and teachers who have participated in educational programmes funded by the US Department of State and USAID. Mr. Antony Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed thanked classroom, and supported Blinken, US Deputy Secretary the United States for its research in areas critical to of State, who was on visit to collaboration on initiatives Pakistan's development," Dr. Pakistan, was the Chief Guest. supporting the Pakistani Mukhtar Ahmed said. education system at every Speaking at the level. He recalled the idea He also mentioned that the occasion, Prof. Dr. of the US-Pakistan present government is Mukhtar Ahmad, Knowledge Corridor, committed to increasing the Chairman HEC, saying that it will budgetary allocation in higher highlighted the enhance cooperation in education and fully supporting historical education, science, and activities of the sector. collaboration of the technology. United States in various Antony Blinken reiterated facets of education. He the commitment to intensify announced plans to fund up to cooperation in the 125 Fulbright PhD Scholarships. education sphere made by Barack Obama, US “The fact that numerous President, and , Pakistani students are Prime Minister Pakistan, competing to study in the best during their meeting in US universities of USA, the October 2015. platform of Fulbright scholarship programme can offer a good opportunity to He encouraged students and progress their ambitions teachers to take full further and can play an advantage of their important role in building educational opportunities educational links.” He added and experiences to benefit that "the United States has their communities. been a dedicated and long- term partner for the progress "Working together, we have The students asked the Deputy of HEC, Pakistan, and I believe given young women the Secretary various questions our joint efforts will continue opportunity to go to about the educational to support economic universities, helped new collaboration and prosperity and stability here in teachers gain the tools they opportunities for Pakistani Pakistan." need to succeed in the students in the United States.

8 Celebrations held at Aiwan-e-Sadr HEC Pays Glowing Tribute to Allama Iqbal, Quaid-e-Azam

confidence, political acumen, perseverance, optimism and hard work.

Talking about the significance of education, Mr. Mamnoon Hussain said that the government was working to revise the national curriculum in order to acquaint the coming Mr. Mamnoon Hussain, generations with the heroic country in addition to President of Pakistan, has achievements of ancestors. strengthening the already urged the youth to wage He said that the Ministry of existing ones. He also jihad against corruption as Education has been tasked announced that HEC will the menace is incurring a to formulate a uniform basic give Quaid Award on huge loss to the nation. standard for academic excellence in research, syllabus in consultation with governance and social Speaking at a ceremony all the provinces. integration in universities. organized by Higher Education Commission Engr. Balighur Rehman, State Similarly, was also (HEC), Pakistan, at Aiwan-e- Minister for Federal celebrated by HEC at Aiwan- Sadr to celebrate birth Education and Professional e-Sadr with President as the anniversary of Quaid-e- Training, said on the chief guest. Speaking at the Azam Muhammad Ali occasion that a National occasion, Mr. Mamnoon Jinnah, the President said Curriculum Council has been Hussain stressed the need that observing such established to align for understanding teachings ceremonies and recalling country’s academic syllabus of Allama Iqbal, as his poetry efforts of forefathers helps with the national needs. He carries a message of hope reiterate commitments to said that Quaid-e-Azam had and unity among Muslims. the national causes and termed seeking knowledge a objectives. matter of life and death for The Iqbal Day celebration the nation to survive in the was attended by The President highlighted comity of nations. Government dignitaries, many of the aspects and foreign diplomats, salient characteristics of the Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, academics, scholars of charismatic personality of Chairman HEC, announced Iqbaliaat and students. The Father of the Nation to establish new Quaid President shed light on the including his awareness of Chairs at selected vision of Allama Muhammad religious values, self- universities across the Iqbal on the occasion.

9 HEC, IIUI Mark NAEAC Int'l University Sports Day Reviews Progress on Accreditation The 11th meeting of National Agriculture Education Accreditation Council (NAEAC) of HEC was held at the Commission Secretariat.

Dr. M. E. Tusneem, Chairman The Higher Education the future of Pakistan and HEC NAEAC, presided over the Commission (HEC), Pakistan, in holds such events on a regular meeting. Dr. Riaz Hussain collaboration with basis to promote healthy Qureshi, former Adviser HEC, International Islamic University habits among them. He said and other Council Members Islamabad (IIUI) and Federation that HEC is taking concrete representatives of the Internationale du Sport steps to promote co-curricular agriculture universities and Universitaire (FISU -- and extra-curricular activities Research and Development International in Pakistani (R&D) institutions in public University HEC is taking universities, and private sector also Sports concrete steps to and it attended the meeting. Federation) promote curricular encourages the organized a development of The Council reviewed progress three-kilometre and extra-curricular a healthy on Accreditation activities hiking event to activities in Pakistani environment during 2014-15 carried out in mark the universities and it for students. different agriculture International encourages the institutions in the country. University development of a Dr. Masoom Sports Day. healthy environment Yasinzai, Rector It was noticed with concern IIUI, urged the that evaluation rating of the A large number for students. youth to newly initiated degree of students from actively take programmes generally in the different universities including part in sports activities and newly established institutions IIUI, National University of lauded the role of HEC in is low and unsatisfactory Sciences and Technology, promotion of quality implying these programmes Women education as well as sports do not meet some of the University, COMSATS Institute and games among students. major criteria/standards of of Science and Technology, and HEC. Preston University participated Dr. Javed Akram, Vice in the hiking adventure held at Chancellor, Shaheed Zulfiqar On the occasion, the Annual Track-6 near , Ali Bhutto Medical University Work Plan for the Fiscal Year Islamabad. highlighted the importance of (FY) 2015-16 was endorsed sports activities in human subject to minor Speaking on the occasion, Dr. health, saying that sports and modifications. Approval of the Ghulam Raza Bhatti, Executive exercise help ward off budget for FY 2015-16 was Director HEC, said youth are diseases. also accorded.

10 Seminar Sheds Light on Significance of Intellectual Property Rights Four-day Training Workshop Evaluates Patent Drafting, Licensing, Valuation In collaboration with the Higher Education Commission (HEC), the Intellectual Property Organization (IPO) of Pakistan organized a seminar on Intellectual Property Awareness at the Commission’s Secretariat recently.

The seminar, which was In his welcome address, Dr. establishment of Centres of followed by a four-day training Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman Advanced Research and their workshop on Intellectual HEC, said that HEC is jointly functions in this regard. Property Rights -- patent working with various Analyzing the progress with drafting, licensing and organizations to create regard to filing of research valuation -- was funded by awareness in universities about papers in Pakistan, the European Union with the the importance of Intellectual Chairman said that the number support of Trade Related Property. He said the HEC is of research papers registered Technical Assistance (TRTA II) also extending technical in 2002 was only 800 and Programme, UNIDO, support to different entities to reached 12000 in the last year, International Trade Centre and help researchers protect their which is a remarkable World Intellectual Property Intellectual Properties by development. Organization. It highlighted the achieving patents for their importance of awareness innovative work. He underlined Mr. Shahid Rashid, Chairman among researchers and that HEC is putting strenuous IPO, pointed out the lack of innovators about their rights in efforts to develop a research awareness as the weakest area addition to shedding light on culture in Pakistan and it is in IP regime. He lamented that the role of Intellectual Property paying due attention for only 1050 patents could be Rights in development of a promotion of R&D. He also filed in the country during the country’s economy. briefed the participants about last 50 years.

HEC Officer, 3 Others Win Innovation Awards Turnitin's Global Innovation Awards programme Iqbal Open University (AIOU), Pakistan; Mr. Athar has recognized the excellence of four Pakistani Mahboob, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and educators among several others from around the Applied Sciences, DHA Suffa University, Pakistan; world in promoting academic integrity, student and, Mr. Muhammad Shahid Soroya, Director engagement and the innovative use of Turnitin National Centre for Academic Integrity and and other educational technologies to support Information Technology University, Pakistan. learning in their institutions. The Pakistani winners of the award include Mr. Muneer Ahmed, Deputy Mr. Muneer Ahmed has been conducting training Director Quality Assurance, Higher Education of university administrators under the supervision Commission, Pakistan; Mr. Muhammad Athar of HEC management and helping resolve queries Hussain, Assistant Professor of Education, Allama related to the Turnitin.

11 Prime Minister’s Laptop Scheme Zong Wins HEC Contract to Extend Wireless Broadband Services to Students The Higher Education Commission (HEC) and CMPak (Zong) recently signed the contract for provision of 3G Wireless Broadband Services to all the students who will be the recipients of laptops under Prime Minister’s Laptop Scheme (Phase-II).

Mr. Arshad Kamran, Director General (Services) and Mr. Niaz A. Malik, Deputy CEO CMPak signed the contract. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman HEC and Mr. Liu Dianfeng, Chairman and CEO, CMPak will help them have an easy access to information (Zong) were also present. and digital resources. He said that under the second phase of Prime Minister’s Laptop Scheme, The objective of the agreement is to provide 200,000 laptops would be provided to talented reliable and efficient connectivity access to students of various universities across Pakistan students by provision of 3G Wireless Broad Band and AJK. He said the students will have direct Services to enhance their knowledge base across access to HEC Digital Library while carrying out the country. their research.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed Mr. Liu Dianfeng said education plays vital role in said that HEC is committed to efficiently providing the progress of any nation. Zong takes it as its services to students, adding that the provision of responsibility to contribute to the uplift of internet service to students along with laptops different social sectors. HEC Kicks Off 26th MT-FPDP international organizations. HEC has been paying special attention to the professional development of the higher education faculty members.

Ms. Shaheen Khan briefly The Higher Education Innovation Division, was also introduced the Learning Commission organized the present on the occasion. Innovation Division and its opening ceremony of 26th programmes. She shared the Master Trainers-Faculty Dr. G. Raza Bhatti said that achievements of Division with Professional Development teaching is the most respected the participants and guests. Programme. profession in the developed “The main objective of countries. “You should feel the programme is to equip the Prof. Dr. G. Raza Bhatti, joy of being a teacher and you teachers of Higher Education Executive Director HEC, was are among those privileged Institutions with pedagogical the Chief Guest of the opening teachers who have got an and research skills, highly ceremony, while Ms. Shaheen opportunity to attend MT-FPDP imperative for professional Khan, Adviser Learning which is being appreciated by teachers,” she said.

12 TESP Training in Project Planning

The Higher Education invaluable for the participants sector. “The Higher Education Commission (HEC) with the to get the real-time exposure Commission with the technical support of Tertiary from field experts. Technical Support of TESP has Education Support Programme trained 2754 Higher (TEST) and IMSciences He added that the Education Institutions staff organized five days training in Government is particularly members from the public Project Planning. focusing on education sector sector universities through its to increase the overall literacy different training Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman rate and education quality for programmes,” he said. HEC, who was the Chief Guest all segments of society. at the closing ceremony, said Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad said that that their prime objective to He urged the participants to such a training is very fund and support such utilize the knowledge they important for capacity trainings was to enhance the gained during the training building of public sector professional capacity of higher sessions, at their workplace to universities. education institutions’ staff for perform in a better way. He better performance in line with also hailed the sponsor He said that administrative the minimum required agencies like World Bank for and non-teaching staff is the standards by using modern their contribution in socio- backbone of any institution tools and techniques. He said economic uplift of Pakistan, and HEC wants to build their these trainings are certainly particularly in the education capacity.

World Bank Mission Reviews TESP Progress A World Bank mission, led by Mr. Halil Dundar, Framework for Higher Education, supported Lead Education Specialist, Ms. Scherezad Joya under the programme, and the way forward for Monami Latif, Sr. Education Specialist, Mr. the MTDF-III; to review progress on the DLI-10; Benoit Millot, Consultant, recently reviewed the to review implementation status of Component implementation status of the Tertiary Education 2 (TA) and discussion on action plan for the next Support Programme (TESP). one year; and to review the status of both legal covenants and safeguard requirements, The main objectives of the mission were to including the implementation of the review the implementation status of the Environment Management and Social Government's Medium Term Development Framework.

13 IST Seminar on Quality Assurance Framework The Institute of Space students. The course and clear to the students. Students Technology (IST) Quality teacher evaluation were encouraged to give Enhancement Cell (QEC) questionnaires were discussed honest reflection of their recently conducted a seminar on the occasion in order to learning experiences in the on Quality Assurance make question statements feedbacks. Framework to create awareness among the newly enrolled undergraduate Research Lab Set up at IST students.

The seminar also focused on educating students about their significant role in the process of ameliorating quality. Students were introduced to the key components of Quality Framework of IST including Programme Design and Delivery, Cyclic Internal Programme and Process Review, External Review and The Geospatial Research and geospatial education at schools Accreditation, and the students Education Laboratory (GREL), and colleges. It aims to provide involvement. At the an ICA-OSGEO-ISPRS, has been free geospatial education to Programme Design & Delivery established at the Institute of school and college students all Level, the IST recently adopted Space Technology (IST), over Pakistan using a Moodle- Outcome Based Education Islamabad. based eLearning platform. (OBE) in accordance with the Pakistan Engineering Council The objective of launching the The ICA-OSGEO-ISPRS has the guidelines. GREL, which was inaugurated responsibility of proliferation by President Mamnoon of “Geo for All” vision. The Students were made aware of Hussain, is to spread geospatial members of GREL constitute a the fact that IST relies on their awareness across Pakistan by strong and active research feedback for quality providing education from grass group, with faculty in the areas enhancement. The QEC root level to the high levels. of both core and applied explained in detail the The IST is planning to develop a geographic information science advantages of feedback from national curriculum for and remote sensing.

NED University Conducts Training on Project Management The NED University Quality Enhancement Cell programme, funded by Higher Education (QEC) organized a three-day Indigenous On- Commission, was to enable the participants better Campus Training Programme on Project comprehension, in general, the project Management for the university’s managerial management framework and, specifically, the cadre. The training, attended by a total of 27 Project Management key knowledge areas and to participants, was conducted by senior experts of introduce the engineers, managers and executives the field. The objective of this training to the best practices in Project Management.

14 VU Marks International Anti-Corruption Day Virtual University (VU) of Pakistan organized a seminar to mark the International Anti-Corruption Day at M.A. Jinnah Campus, Lahore.

Director Financial Crimes Investigation Unit, NAB, Mr. Sajid Nadeem, renowned columnist Dr. Ajmal Niazi, and other notables including Rauf Tahir, Sajjad Mir, and Dr. Mehdi Hassan were the guest speakers who elaborated various aspects of corruption and its cruel effects on the society. Mehdi Hassan emphasized proper planning and strict implementation of policies with the public The objective of the event was to raise awareness support. Mr. Sajid Nadeem stressed the need for among masses about ill effects of corrupt sensitizing all the segments of society about the practices. It also aimed at active involvement of all negative effects of corruption and also highlighted stakeholders in a combat against this menace. Dr. the ways and means to overcome it.

rd Training for 3 e-Learning, Distance Education Moot Non-Teaching Virtual University Invites Staff at UST Papers for Conference The University of Science and The Virtual University of learning. The conference is Technology (UST), Bannu in Pakistan, has called for papers inviting experience-based collaboration with Higher for the 3rd e-Learning and quantitative papers, case Education Commission Distance Education studies, reports of work on organized a six-day “Indigenous Conference 2016. both the theory and practice On-Campus Training” for of all aspects of the University's non-teaching staff. The two-day conference is conference. Mr. Hafizullah Khan was the scheduled for March 14-15, course coordinator. Over 40 2016, in Lahore. The theme of The submissions are welcome members of the staff attended this international conference from academics, teachers, the training, which covered is “e-Learning and Distance practitioners, vendors, and different topics including Office Education: Evolution, Government policy and Management, Financial Challenges & Solutions”. It decision makers. Eminent Management and Leadership. aims to hold a dialogue on the scholars from various potential of e-Learning and countries are expected to Dr. Abdur Rahim, Vice Distance Education in socio- attend the conference. Chancellor UST said, “the need economic development. for learning new trends and Meanwhile, Virtual University approaches never lose its Other areas to be addressed organized a seminar to mark importance. This training is a by the conference include World Fisheries Day at M.A. unique opportunity under the quality assurance mechanisms Jinnah campus, Lahore, under auspices of HEC for universities’ for Distance Education, future HEC-BC Knowledge Economy non-teaching staff to enhance directions and trends in Partnership Project with the their capacity and productivity.” technology that assist distance University of Aberdeen, UK.

15 UAF, Turkish Varsity to Conduct Joint Research Activities undergraduate level. They also agreed to carry out joint research activities. Both the institutions will organize academic meetings and symposiums in addition to exchanging academic information and publication materials.

Speaking on the occasion, Rector of the University of Kastamonu hoped that mutual cooperation between will help lay the foundation of R&D activities. He observed that the increasing collaboration among the institutions of the Muslim world in science and technology will pave the way for economic development.

The University of Kastamonu, Turkey, and the Meanwhile, the Seluck University, Turkey, and University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF) the UAF also signed MoU to develop a recently inked a Memorandum of Understanding collaboration for promotion of educational and in the area of research and education. research activities. Prof. Dr. M. Musa Ozcan, Vice President Seluck University, also held a meeting The MoU was signed by Dr. Sayit Aydin, Rector with Prof. Dr. Iqrar Ahmad Khan, Vice Chancellor University of Kastamonu, and Prof. Dr. Iqrar UAF. Dr. M. Musa Ozcan said that the Ahmad Khan, Vice Chancellor UAF. The two sides universities will jointly conduct researches and agreed to enhance bilateral collaboration by they will also launch faculty and student exchanging faculty and students at graduate and exchange programmes. Malaysian HC Terms Climate Change Major Challenge The Centre for Advanced Studies in Agriculture and Food Security, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, recently organized a five-day workshop entitled "Climate Changes Resilient Agriculture Systems".

Dr. Hasrul Sani Bin Mujtabar, Malaysian High Commissioner to Pakistan, who was the chief guest on the occasion, said that climate change is the real challenge playing havoc with lives of the people, livestock and agricultural sector worldwide. He urged all the nations to expedite Prof. Dr. Iqrar Ahmad Khan, UAF Vice Chancellor, their efforts to fight the challenge. said that agriculture is the worst hit area, adding that a conference on climate change in Paris also He urged the researchers, farming community, highlighted this issue. He said that Pakistan, governments, industry and all the stakeholders to which is worst hit by climate changes, was among join hands to mitigate the increasing impact of the lowest contributors to carbon and green climate changes. house impact.

16 757 Students Awarded Degrees at UVAS Convocation As many as 757 students of the University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences received degrees as the University held its 7th Convocation recently.

Mr. Malik Muhammad , Governor Punjab, was the chief guest on the occasion. Thirty eight students clinched medals in various disciplines.

Addressing the convocation, the Governor way and to have up-to-date policies and response congratulated the graduating students and said structures in place to achieve this. He said the that it was now their responsibility to pay back to development of livestock in the country is priority the society and contribute to the nation building of the government, adding that there will be no and development. He lauded the UVAS for its compromise on quality of education. He sought struggle and achievements. He said the University help from media and society to achieve this goal. should enhance its role as a major support institution for the development of local In his welcome address, Prof. Dr. Talat Naseer innovation in livestock and allied sectors and for Pasha, Vice Chancellor UVAS, presented the provision of skilled human resource to the details of different programmes related to country. “We need readiness to respond to animal academics, research, development, and disease incursion in a timely and cost-effective community services.

494 UoP Students Awarded Degrees Governor KPK Urges Focus on Research Activities seven MPhil scholars were also completing their Masters awarded degrees. Degrees were degrees with distinction. He given to students of six faculties also announced to ensure their and 49 departments. free admission in their Addressing the convocation research degree programmes ceremony, the Governor ahead. The students included felicitated the graduating Mr. Owais Alam, who did students, their teachers and Masters in Political Science, Sardar Mehtab Ahamd Khan, parents. He underlined that the and Ms. Sakina Afridi. who did Governor Khyber increasing number of her Masters in Urdu. Pakhtunkhwa, conferred 494 universities in the country is degrees upon the students of quite meaningless without Prof. Rasul Jan, Vice Chancellor University of Peshawar during focus on research activities. He UoP, briefed the Governor and its convocation. appreciated the university audience that over 23,000 administration for improvement students are studying in six Thirty five students received in quality of education. different faculties comprising gold medals for obtaining first about 49 departments, position in their respective Mr. Mehtab Ahmed Khan institutes, centres, colleges departments. They comprised announced Rs. 1,00,000 each and schools. He said the 19 female and 16 male for two disabled students as a university produced 163 PhDs students. Besides, 26 PhD and token of encouragement for in 2014-15.

17 Bahria University holds 14th Convocation 427 Students Receive Degrees; 12 Grab Gold Medals Bahria University, Islamabad campus, held its 14th Convocation at Jinnah Convention Centre recently. Prof. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman, Higher Education Commission, Pakistan, was the Chief Guest on the occasion. He conferred degrees upon the graduating students of various programmes. and 12 silver medals to academia to come forward A total of 427 degrees were students who achieved top with a strong commitment to awarded to the undergraduate positions in their respective contribute to the nation- and graduate students of programmes. building process. various departments including the Management Sciences, Addressing on the occasion, Dr. The Rector appreciated the Humanities, Computer Mukhtar Ahmed congratulated efforts of HEC for promotion of Sciences, Earth and the students on their splendid higher education in the Environmental Sciences, success and lauded Bahria country. He said that Electrical Engineering, and University for providing universities have a great Software Engineering. exceptional knowledge skills to responsibility to produce students in various disciplines, skilled graduates who could Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed along with which he said will enable them contribute positively to Dr. Tanveer Faiz, Rector Bahria to lead a professionally promotion of a research University, awarded 12 gold rewarding life. He urged the culture in the country.

Riphah University Awards 890 Degrees Riphah International University, Islamabad, held Sciences, Management Sciences, Engineering and its 10th Convocation at Jinnah Convention Centre, Applied Sciences, Computing, Social Sciences and Islamabad. Humanities, Basic Sciences and Media Sciences were awarded degrees at the convocation. Mr. Mamnoon Hussain, President of Pakistan, was the chief guest on the occasion, while the other Prof. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, in his speech, said that dignitaries included Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, it is only an opening to the new world as students’ Chairman Higher Education Commission; Mr. success will be measured by the capabilities, Hassan Muhammad Khan, Pro-Chancellor Riphah; achieved during their education, to address the Prof. Dr. Anis Ahmad, Vice Chancellor Riphah; and future challenges. Mr. Sadik Babur Girgin, Ambassador of Turkey to Pakistan. Muhammad Zulfiqar Ali Khan, founder Chancellor Riphah, emphasized upon the students that the As many as 890 students of the University acquisition of knowledge does not end with the belonging to various faculties, including Faculty of obtaining of a degree, as it is a continuous Health and Medical Sciences, Pharmaceutical process.

18 837 Students Receive SZABIST Degrees Shaheed Institute of Science and Technology (SZABIST) held its 12th convocation recently at PAF Convention Centre.

The ceremony included speeches by Dr. Azra Fazal, Chancellor SZABIST, Ms. Shahnaz Wazir Ali, President, and others. All the speakers extended their heartiest congratulations to the graduates of 12th Convocation and their parents in their speeches.

As many as 837 degrees were awarded and a total 2500 people including graduates, parents, of 11 Merit Gold Medals were won by graduates corporate delegates, faculty and staff of SZABIST for their outstanding academic performance. Over attended the event.

PAMS Role in Recognition of Pakistani Physicians, Scientists Achievements Lauded recognition awards besides managing scientific research, publishing papers and journals and presenting the scientific work conducted in Pakistan at international level. PAMS provides funds for development of scientific research projects.

Pakistan Academy of Medical Speaking on the occasion, the In the convocation, Sciences (PAMS) recently Governor Punjab said that “if fellowships were awarded to organized its 17th convocation we sincerely wish to develop Prof. Dr. Farhat Abbas, Dean at the University of Health and grow in future, we have no Aga Khan Medical College, Sciences. other option but to take the ; Prof. Dr. Khalid discourse of scientific Hussain Janbaz, Principal Malik Muhammad Rafique development”. Akson College of Pharmacy, Rajwana, Governor Punjab, Dr. Mirpur University of Sciences Muhammad Humayun, The speakers said that the and Technology; Prof. Dr. President PAMS, Prof. basic objective of the academy Mohammad Wasay, Professor Muhammad Aslam, Vice was the recognition of of Neurology, Aga Khan Chancellor UHS, and other meritorious and scholarly University Karachi, and Prof. notable figures shed light on achievements of physicians and Dr. Muhammad Mukhtar, the role and mandate of PAMS biomedical scientists of Chair Department of and urged the doctors to serve Pakistan background. They said Biotechnology, American the poor considering it their that PAMS encouraged young University of Ras Al Khaimah, national obligation. scientists with special United Arab Emirates.

19 Superior College Moot Elaborates Green Economy The Superior College held 6th consecutive international conference on Green Economy with the collaboration of IESEG School of Management, France; ICMR, Italy; and Turkish, Italian and French embassies.

Mr. , Federal Minister for Planning and Development, who was the chief guest on the occasion, said that the conference is testimony to the dedication of Superior College and it gives a platform to share experiences and research based work. Referring to the theme of Green Economy, he said that “Green Economy will help check the pollution that casts hazardous effect on clean and heads of national and multinational environment.” companies were present in the conference.

The theme of the conference was ‘Green Economy In his welcome address, Dr. Sikander Khan, Pro- -- Renewable Energy Role in Sustainable Rector Superior College, highlighted the role of Development of Emerging Markets.’ Researchers research in local and international industries. He from all over the world, academicians of different stressed the need for promotion of a research local and international universities, culture. He also highlighted the new challenges representatives of French, Italian and Turkish and proposed solutions for them in the light of embassies, political personalities, industrialists research.

UMT holds Annual Convocation 2015 The Governor Punjab said that he has found Pakistani students possessing excellent skills and abilities that could be utilized for the country’s development. He said that trustworthiness, honesty, integrity and loyalty were the only principles that would upgrade as a nation.

Mr. Ahsan Iqbal laid stress on the graduates to The University of Management and Technology support the Vision 2025 that aims at placing (UMT), Lahore, organized its 11th annual Pakistan among top 25 economies of the world. convocation, in which 1350 students were awarded degrees. The number of UMT alumni after this convocation has reached 15000 with 10,000 Malik Muhammad Rafique Rajwana, Governor existing students. Around 959 Bachelor, 364 Punjab, was the chief guest on the occasion, while Masters, and 3 PhDs were awarded degrees. Mr. Ahsan Iqbal, Federal Minister of Planning, Besides, 47 Patron’s medals, 45 Rector’s medals, Reforms and Development, Mr. Muhammad Mian seven special medals, 10 extracurricular medals Soomro, former Chairman Senate, and Mr. and five awards of exceptional academic Zachary Harkenrider, US Consul General Lahore, excellence and cash prizes were given away to were also present in the convocation. the winners.

20 Isra Conference on Rehabilitation Sciences ‘Advancements in Rehab Sciences Vital Means of Stability for the Disabled’ The latest advancements in Rehabilitation Sciences can play a vital role in stabilizing the lives of disabled people.

Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman Higher Education Commission said this while addressing the closing ceremony of International Conference on Rehabilitation Sciences organized by Isra Institute of Rehabilitation Sciences recently.

During the two-day conference, the world's Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Naveed Babur, leading scientists and rehabilitation experts Principal Isra Institute of Rehabilitation Sciences, discussed multiple issues related to the future of emphasized arrangements and steps for Rehabilitation Sciences in Pakistan. promotion of research in the field of Rehabilitation Sciences, as the country needs The Chairman HEC lauded the holding of quality rehabilitation practitioners. conference on the crucial topic of Rehabilitation Sciences and said that such events enrich the Andy Charley, an internationally known knowledge of professionals and practitioners in rehabilitation expert, highlighted the role of the field. The contribution of rehabilitation family medicine in rehabilitation in the United practitioners to the advancement of healthcare Kingdom. Earlier, experts of the Rehabilitation system should properly be acknowledged, he Sciences held various sessions and discussed added. various aspects of the topic.

Pakistani Student Awarded in China A Pakistani student, Sajid Iqbal, USTEPs” in 2012, was the only at HIT, he and Ms. Nadezda has received the 3rd HIT Pakistani student among the 10 Koryakina, a PhD candidate Harmony Sunshine international students chosen from Russia, were chosen to Ambassador Award 2015 in a for the award. represent the HIT at this ceremony held at the Harbin summer school. Institute of Technology (HIT). He published papers in Science Citation Index (SCI) journals BEIHANG invited Chinese Only 10 Sunshine Ambassadors apart from the Institute of teachers and professors from were selected out of 28,000 Electrical and Electronics universities around the world students on the basis of their Engineers (IEEE) conferences. to teach at the summer school academic performance and He also participated in Model and about 60 courses were excellence in co-curricular United Nations (MUN) offered activities. Sajid Iqbal, who had conferences at HIT. He also gone to China under HEC represented HIT at BEIHANG Five Pakistani undergraduate project “HRD Initiative-MS International Summer School and graduate students studying leading to PhD Programme for 2015. Out of the 2,000 in different Chinese universities Faculty Development of international students studying attended the summer school.

21 PU Information Management Department Turns 100 An international conference was held on Information Management and Libraries at University of the Punjab (PU), Lahore, recently to mark the completion of a century of the Department of Information Management. The theme of this centennial celebration conference was “Looking Back, Moving Forward”.

The response of the LIS professionals was overwhelming as 450 registered delegates from all over the country besides foreign delegates including invited guest speakers from Malaysia, Singapore, Bangladesh, , Iran, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Nigeria, Turkey, France, UK and USA building. Three keynote speeches were delivered attended the event. Three parallel pre-conference by Prof. Sanda Erdelez from USA, Prof. Yasar Tonta workshops were also conducted with the topics from Turkey, and Prof. Widad Mustafa El Hadi like Strategic Planning; Data Mining; and from France at the beginning of every day during Communication Skills. the conference.

Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, Minister for In the concluding session, Dr. Kamran Mujahid, Education, Punjab, was the chief guest of the Vice Chancellor PU, appreciated the organizers of inaugural ceremony. the conference and the faculty. He also said that the conference opened the door for international Dr. Kanwal Ameen in her welcome address connectivity at the departmental level and it narrated the 100 years journey of the department should be continued. The conference also from a certificate course to PhD level of education included a cultural night and a visit to Lahore and from one room to a proper independent Shahi Qila.

UoP Centre Hosts Seminars on Pashto, Sikh Community The Pakistan Study Centre, Prof. Dr. Nasrullah Jan Wazir, encompassed its history, rituals University of Peshawar, held Director Pashto Academy and current status. It was held two different seminars on University of Peshawar, at Pakistan Study Centre with Pashto language and the apprised the audience about Miss Naheed Hussain, Asstt. Peshawar Sikh community. origin, history and Prof. Frontier Women College, development of Pashto Peshawar, as a keynote Inaugurating the seminar language. His particular focus speaker. entitled “Pashto Language: was script and lexigraphy of History, Script and Lexigraphy”, the language. Ms. Naheed Hussain gave a Prof. Dr. Fakhr-ul-Islam, detailed historical background Director Pakistan Study Centre, He said that Pashtuns living in of the Sikhs community and its said that one of the objectives Afghanistan and Pakistan have settlement in Peshawar. She of Pakistan Study Centre is to been reviewing style and declared it as a matter of great promote regional languages lexigraphy of the language. satisfaction that both the Sikhs and conduct research on and Pashtuns are living in different dimensions related to Meanwhile, the seminar on the complete harmony in them. In his keynote address Peshawar Sikh community Peshawar.

22 SAU Moot Stresses Investment in Spate Irrigation Experts, researches and academia, with expertise , because Sindh has huge potential in arid on Spate Irrigation System, hailing from all the zone to save the water through this technology. provinces of Pakistan's all provinces, have stressed He further added that through spate the experts the need for investment in this area to produce can save the water and produce more grain crops grain crops to cope with the challenges of food to cater to the needs of the population of security in the country. livestock as well as human being. He said floods are assets and it should be taken for the They were speaking at the ‘National Conference prosperity through agriculture development of on Spate Irrigation: Potential and Challenges’ the country. He also shared the world spate jointly organised by Sindh Agriculture University irrigation experiences of the world with (SAU) Tandojam and Research and Development stakeholders. Foundation (RDF). Masood Mahesar, Executive Director RDF, shared Dr. Mujeebuddin Memon Sehrai, VC SAU, the objectives of the conference and said that appreciated the efforts of Sindh Government for they have conducted a study on Spate Irrigation, rehabilitation of Sukkur Barrage, which is the main covering all the areas, including Jamshoro, Dadu, source of irrigation in the province. He said proper Thatta, Khairpur, Kambar Shahdadkot and Malir construction of Spate System should be Karachi, which shows that it could be effective for introduced, as it could be the only way out of the promoting alternate irrigation system. He said the development. Because, it has been observed that Punjab and KPK provincial governments have spate development is being initiated where there developed infrastructure about spate, but in Sindh is no need. This development should be initiated there are only communities working on after realising the baseline to move on progress of themselves, conventionally. the country, the VC said. Allah Bakhsh Khan of Spate Foundation of Dr. Frank van Steerbergen, CEO Meta Research & Pakistan, Islamabad, working on operational and Spate Foundation Netherlands, sharing his management of spate irrigation, proposed to have experiences, said abundant work on Spate national level networking of farmers, experts and Irrigation is underway in the world. But there is a researchers representing all the provinces to work need to improve the Spate Irrigation System in together.

News in Picture Sardar Mehtab Ahmed Khan Abbasi, Governor , inaugurated the new campus of National Centre of Excellence in Geology at the University of Peshawar recently.

The new campus has been constructed through PC-1 academic blocks, hostels for The Academic Block has state- project under the auspices of boys, girls and faculty of-the-art facilities including 17 the Higher Education alongwith a foreign faculty laboratories, a geological Commission, Pakistan. It guest house and apartments museum and a National Library contains administration and for faculty. of Earth Sciences.

23 FUI Marks Int’l Day of Persons with Disabilities

The Foundation University Institute of of mass communication, education and the IT Rehabilitation Sciences recently organized a boom. He said, the disabled are no more disabled seminar and exhibition at International Day of as through fast growing interaction with outside Persons with Disabilities. world, new methods, techniques and technical knowhow, we have learnt to transform the Khadim Hussain, Rector Foundation University, disabilities into abilities. This of course will add to Islamabad, was the chief guest on the occasion their usefulness for the society in general and will while Dr. Tassawar Hussain, Acting Director make them self-reliant. Foundation University, and others were also present. The chief guest said that empowerment involves investing in people, jobs, health, nutrition, The purpose of the event was to create awareness education as well as social protection. among the masses about the International Day of Persons with Disabilities in general and regarding The Rector FUI said “World Disability Day” will go the access and empowerment of people of all a long way to bring the handicapped into the abilities in particular. People from different walks main stream and givie them confidence to be an of life participated in the event. The event effective part of the society. included lectures by the eminent experts, presentations, short videos, drama as well as He urged the students and faculty of FUIRS to posters exhibition. make this event a regular feature of their academics calendar and positively contribute Addressing the gathering, the Rector FUI said that towards alleviating the physical, mental and today we are more aware of the needs of the psychological disabilities of the affected persons disabled, owing to the advancement in the fields and convert them into abilities.

Realize Importance of Research, Urges DUHS VC Dow University of Health Dr. Kashif Shafique, Vice Dean, Prof. Dr. Masood Hameed Sciences (DUHS) organized an School of Public Health, DUHS, Khan, founding Vice Chancellor, orientation session for the new gave a brief overview of the DUHS, welcomed the students batch of postgraduate research functions of Department of of new batch and briefed them programmes. The session was Research. about the aims and objectives held at Dow International of university. He urged the Medical College, OJHA campus, He informed that the number students to realize the to give a brief overview of the of publications has increased, importance of research, saying curriculum and teaching adding that the university is that “we will not be able to methodology to the new also providing research grant to find solutions to our problems entrants. students for research. until we conduct researches.”

24 UET Distributes Cheques under PM Fee Return Policy The University of Engineering and Technology (UET), Lahore, distributed cheques among students of far flung areas under the Prime Minister’s Fee Reimbursement Project during a ceremony held recently.

The cheques worth Rs. 7,78000 Education Commission, Lahore themselves of this higher were distributed among 17 Regional Office, attended the education opportunity. He said PhD candidates. ceremony. that students would get higher education opportunities under Prof. Dr. Fazal Ahmad Khalid, Speaking on the occasion, the this scheme. Mr. Nazir Hussain Vice Chancellor UET, and Nazir VC said that the scheme was also explained the importance Hussain, Director Higher beneficial and they should avail of the scheme. UoK Organizes Breast Cancer Awareness Session Health experts termed Pakistan a country with the periods, late menopause or late childbirth, may be highest prevalence of breast cancer in Asia during at a relatively increased risk of breast cancer. Post- a Breast Cancer Awareness Session organized at menopausal women who take hormone the International Centre for Chemical and replacement therapy have also been shown to Biological Sciences (ICCBS), have an increased chance of breast cancer. Once a (UoK). woman stops taking hormone replacement therapy, her risk of developing breast cancer The speakers noted that breast cancer is the most decreases. Women who gain weight especially common cancer in women around the world with increased waist girth, around the age of while Pakistan has the highest prevalence of the menopause, have been shown to have increased disease in Asia. Breast cancer chance of breast cancer and may be a devastating disease breast cancer related death,” but it is potentially curable, The progression of breast she said. they said. cancer is associated with genes. Some women inherit There are several treatment Dr. Esha Saqib and Ms. Atika changes in breast cancer modalities used for breast from SKMCH&RC, Lahore, Dr. cancer patient, while surgery, Ghazala, Dean Pharmacy genes. These women are at a radiotherapy, chemotherapy, UoK, and Dr. Sadia expressed much higher risk of hormone therapy, targeted their views on the occasion. developing breast cancer, therapy and new therapies Dr. Esha Saqib said that the which may be at a young age. are of them, Dr. Esha said. She progression of breast cancer clarified that breast cancer was associated with genes. was not caused by the use of Some women inherit changes in breast cancer microwave, colours of cloth, caffeine, and use of genes. These women are at a much higher risk of cell phone and deodorant. The disease is not developing breast cancer, which may be at a communicable, she said. “The causes of breast young age, she maintained. “Estrogen is a cancer are not fully understood. However, there hormone which is normally produced in females are risk factors that are known to affect women, and takes part in reproductive function. Women including alcohol, smoking, radiation, overweight, who are overexposed to estrogen due to early family history, age and exposure to oestrogen.”

25 Robotics Competition Held at PAK-KIET CASE, Islamabad, to host this year's RoboSprint competition. A total of 22 teams from various institutes, universities and colleges across Pakistan, including the Centre of Advanced Studies in Engineering (CASE), Islamabad, PAF- KIET Karachi, University of Central Punjab, Lahore, IBA Sukkur, NED UET, Karachi, Iqra University, Karachi, Sir Syed Engineering University, Karachi, University of Karachi, and Dawood University, Karachi, participated in the competition.

Young students representing various schools from A four-day event featuring an annual robotics Karachi, Sukkur and Khairpur eagerly participated competition, RoboSprint-2015, was held at the in the event and displayed their nascent skills in main campus of PAF-KIET with an aim to promote the field of robotics. passion in undergraduate students in the field of robotics. The event was witnessed by highly professional members from the industry and academia. Tubrez The first ever competition of its nature held at Asif, President PAF-KIET, praised the efforts of the Karachi, provided a platform for promotion of organizing team headed by Syed Najeeb Jafri, robotics. PAF-KIET had won the open bidding at Director College of Engineering, PAF-KIET.

Seminar Weighs Sino-US Quest for ASEAN Cooperation A one-day international Faculty of Social Sciences, countries having the seminar was held at the University Kebangsaan importance in the region. No University of Sindh entitled Malaysia, was the keynote one can ignore ASEAN due to “Sino-US Quest for ASEAN speaker of the day. its geo-political importance. Cooperation: Impact on Regional Security” organized by Prof. Dr. Hamadullah Kakepoto, Dr. Abida Taherani remarked Area Study Centre, Far East and Director of the Centre, the importance of the theme. South East Asia, University of highlighted the importance of She said that due to Sino-US Sindh. A number of scholars, the theme of the seminar. He cooperation new chances of diplomats, students and faculty remarked that both China and development will be of equal members attended the seminar. United States are the super importance for the world. She powers of the world. China is said that no country can ignore Prof. Dr. Abida Taherani, Vice the economic super power ASEAN due to its role in world. Chancellor University of Sindh, capturing the economic market Najam A. Shaikh highlighted presided over the seminar. of the world, while the United importance of ASEAN as an Najam A. Shaikh, former States is a military super power. organization and Sino-US Foreign Secretary, was the He said China’s foreign policy is interest in the rejoin. keynote speaker. not anti-US but it needs to be given equal importance by USA. Dr. Ravichandran Moorthy, Dr. Dr. Ravichandran Moorthy, Naseem Ahmed and Dr. Associate Professor School of Dr. Kakepoto said ASEAN is an Manzoor Isran also presented History, Politics and Strategy, organization with to member their papers in the seminar.

26 2nd Workshop of Talent Grooming Series at FJWU Workshop dealt with career counselling, support for internship, provision of work opportunities The Capacity Building and Alumni Affairs (CB&AA) organized the second workshop of the series of workshops on Talent Grooming/Career Counselling and Capacity Building for the students and staff of Financial Aid Offices of the 31 partner universities under USAID Merit The main purpose of the workshop. Apart from Mr. Adil & Needs Based Scholarship workshop was to support Iftikhar Khattak, another Programme (MNBSP). students and mitigate some of alumni, who is currently the challenges especially faced working in Sydney, had an The workshops are exclusively by female students. online discussion with the conducted for the newly workshop participants. enrolled USAID MNBSP The content of the workshop graduates at the partner dealt with career counseling, The Vice Chancellor, FJWU, universities across the country, supporting internship and thanked the HEC and USAID for to polish and groom their providing work opportunities organizing this workshop at the personality. to increase the skills and university. She appreciated the confidence of students. efforts of USAID for taking the The first workshop of this Resource persons from initiative of awarding series has been organized at industry and academia scholarships to the meritorious Sardar Bahadur Khan Women rendered lectures during the and deserving students across University, . The second workshop. the country. workshop was organized at Fatima Jinnah Women The CB&AA has taken the Ms. Nidal Khan, Education University (FJWU), Rawalpindi, initiative to involve the alumni Specialist (USAID), lauded the in collaboration with Quaid e of phase I, therefore, initially efforts of CB&AA for Azam University (QAU) and four alumni were introduced as assembling a large number of COMSATS, Islamabad. resource persons in the graduates on the premises.

Indus University holds Seminar on “Lean Six Sigma” The Indus University’s Quality Enhancement Cell Kasbit as well as the alumni and corporate (QEC) recently organized a seminar on “Lean Six professionals. Speakers said on the occasion that Sigma, a way to Academic Excellence in Emerging Six Sigma has now become an effective tool to Markets” as a continuation of its efforts for the measure weakness and strengths of an upbringing of the university standards. organization as a whole, adding that it will provide an effective way to develop the course. Muhammad Jiyad Shaikh, a certified trainer having Black Belt in Six Sigma and Lean Six Sigma Mr. Jiyad Shaikh underscored that a framework from Japan, attended the seminar among other with key stakeholders, faculty and students is participants of different QECs of DUHS, ISRA needed to successfully implement the Six Sigma University, Ziauddin University, SMIU, Biztek, and in an academic institution.

27 NUST School Hosts DICE Automotive 2015 highlighted the need for such collaborations among the academia, industry, government and entrepreneurs. He announced the inauguration of DICE Automotive Innovation Centre, which is a collective effort of DICE, NUST, NED Karachi, COMSATS Institute of Information Technology and University. Chairpersons of An event entitled DICE efforts of NUST and DICE in prominent automotive Automotive 2015 was bridging the gap between industrial organizations organized at National industry and academia. He attended the event. University of Sciences and highlighted the impact of Technology (NUST), Islamabad, automotive industry on the In the closing ceremony, Mr. which was graced by Mr. economy. He also stressed the Ahsan Iqbal, Federal Minister Mamnoon Hussain, President need for innovation and for Planning, lauded the efforts of Pakistan, as Chief Guest. research in this field. of NUST for bringing foreign industry leaders from DICE, The event was hosted by NUST Dr. Abdur Gafoor, Principal USA on a collaboration School of Mechanical and SMME, expressed his gratitude platform together with Manufacturing Engineering and to the guests and sponsors and PAAPAM. DICE Foundation, USA. The primary purpose of DICE Automotive was to set up a platform to provide an opportunity to students to showcase their knowledge and skills in the field.

Mr. Mamnoon Hussain, in his speech, acknowledged the

The ranking is aimed at recognizing the fast- NUST Ranked High emerging young universities, who have made their mark internationally.

It is pertinent to mention here that NUST has acquired a strong academic reputation in just 24 years of its inception. Its core values of quality, merit, entrepreneurial character, community engagement and sustainable development National University of Sciences and Technology promotion have earned it a good name globally. (NUST) has been ranked at 85 among the world’s NUST is today the dream of every young aspiring top less-than-50-year-old universities by QS (UK). man and woman.

28 Dr. Atta Inaugurates Video Conferencing Japanese Envoy Facility at Indus University Meets SU VC Mitsuaki Tosa, Director of Japan Information and Culture Centre, Counsel for Cultural and Public Affairs, called on Prof. Dr. Abida Taherani, Vice Chancellor, University of Sindh, in her office.

In this meeting, various avenues of cooperation between the university and Consulate were discussed and it was agreed in principle that Prof. Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman, school in to a University. After the Consulate will extend its former Chairman Higher the inauguration ceremony, Dr. cooperation to Sindh University Education Commission, Rahman delivered a lecture on to encourage its ongoing inaugurated Mrs. Shahida “Wonderful World of researches on various aspects Khalid Video Conference Hall at Discovery”, followed by of Japan. Indus University recently. interactive question-answer session. It was also agreed to sort out According to details, the Video the possibilities of fellowships, Conferencing Hall was He said that we need to change scholarships and short visits to dedicated by Mr. Muhammad our teaching practices into a Japan by researchers of the Ahmed Amin, Vice Chancellor practical approach and this can university in addition to Indus University, to his beloved only be possible when we establishing a network to mother, Mrs. Shahida Khalid, to induct professional teachers create awareness among the fulfilled her dream by turning who shall have real passion people of Sindh about her small initiative of religious and love to their profession. acquiring education in Japan. Workshop Held for KMU Non-Teaching Staff The Quality Enhancement Cell of Khyber Medical University organized a workshop for the non- teaching staff of KMU under Indigenous On- Campus Training Programme of Higher Education Commission, Islamabad.

Ms. Shaheen Khan, Adviser Learning Innovation Division, HEC, attended the workshop as chief guest. Prof. Dr. Muhammad Hafiz Ullah, Vice Chancellor KMU, appreciated the contributions of capacity building, and more opportunities will be facilitators and participants. given to KMU to hold such healthy activities.

MS. Shaheen Khan shared her feedback with the Ms. Asiyah Bukhari, Dr. Jamil Ahmed, and QEC participants saying that HEC intends to encourage officials thanked the guests from HEC as well as higher education institutions for their staff the participants and facilitators of the workshop.

29 Speaker KPK Assembly Inaugurates Lab at GIKI Mr. Asad Qaisar, Speaker of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly, inaugurated the refurbished Natural Fluids Refrigeration Centre (NFRC) laboratory at Institute of Engineering Science and Technology.

Established in the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, the NFRC laboratory was partially financed by Isotherm Inc., USA, and its total cost Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Asad Qaisar said was about half million dollars. Mr. Jehangir that the students who acquired contemporary Bashar, Rector of GIK Institute, Prof. Dr. Javed A. engineering education in GIK Institute have played Chattha, Pro-Rector Academics, a dominant role in development Dr. Zahid Ayub, President of The students who acquired of the country in numerous Isotherm Inc., USA, Dr. S. M. fields. Ahmad, Dean FME, Dr. Haider contemporary engineering Ali, Parliamentary Secretary for education in GIK Institute He lauded the modern Anti-Corruption, Muhammad have played a dominant role techniques adopted by GIK Shiraz Khan, Member of in development of the Institute academia to impart Provincial Assembly, Dr. Atta-ur- country in numerous fields. quality education to youth. He Rehman, Provincial Secretary assured that the government for Higher Education, and Dr. will provide adequate help in Khalid Khan, Additional Secretary, also graced the imparting contemporary engineering education to inaugural ceremony. the country’s youth.

GIK Institute in collaboration with Isotherm Inc., The Rector acknowledged and thanked Mr. Asad USA, has established the NFRC to provide Qasiar for his Government’s on-going support to refrigeration solutions on a global scale. GIK Institute.

IoBM Awards 932 Degrees in Various Disciplines As many as 932 degrees were addition to learning about the Mr. Najmuddin A. Shaikh, awarded at the convocation of value of strategic management Chancellor IoBM, Mr. Institute of Business in personal as well as Shahjehan Karim, IoBM Management (IoBM). Mr. corporate life. “Dream big, aim President, and other notables , high and keep your feet on also spoke on the occasion. former President, was the ground,” he said, adding that They urged the students to Chief Guest on the occasion. patience is a virtue but “have confidence in yourself”. perseverance is an art. They urged them to always In his keynote address, Mr. respect their parents, as their Kamal A. Chinoy, Chief Mr. Mian Soomro highlighted success in academic sphere is Executive Pakistan Cables, the importance of helping less due to the special attention of urged the students not to privileged people through their parents. underestimate any situation philanthropic work. He and be prepared for motivated graduates, saying Eleven IoBM new graduates eventualities in life. He that “You are the future of were awarded gold medalists. stressed the need for acquiring Pakistan and Pakistan is your Certificates of merit were knowledge and education in future”. awarded to 18 graduates.

30 Establishment of Capital University of Science & Technology Okayed Mr. Mamnoon Hussain, Pakistan Engineering Council. amongst W-4 category of President of Pakistan, has given The University was ranked Universities by HEC. assent to the establishment of Capital University of Science & Prof. Dr. Mansoor Assumes Charge as VC Technology under Act No. XVI of 2015 of the Parliament. Prof. Dr. Muhammad Mansoor Ahmed has assumed the charge of Vice Chancellor of Capital Prior to promulgation of the University of Science & Technology, Islamabad. Act, CUST had been operating as a campus of Mohammad Ali Prof. Dr. Mansoor received the PhD degree in Jinnah University since 1998 Microelectronics from the University of and offering degrees through Cambridge, UK. He has been associated with Departments of Electrical academia at various levels for the last 20 Engineering, Mechanical years. He is a chartered engineer from the Engineering, Civil Engineering, United Kingdom and also a fellow of Institution of Engineering and Computer Science, Technology, UK. He was awarded the title of European Engineer in Bioinformatics, Mathematics 2002 by European Federation. He is a senior member of the and Management and Social Institution of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, USA. Sciences. Dr. Muhammad Mansoor Ahmed has authored more than 100 All programmes are duly research papers in the field of Microelectronics. He holds IEEE accredited by the Higher technical activities chair and has rendered services as an organizer, Education Commission and session and general chairs of several IEEE International Conferences.

CUST Convocation Minister Lauds Varsities for Promoting Education through their ability and commitment. He said that the role of higher education has become more prominent and vast now. He said Pakistani universities are playing vital role for the growth of higher education. The government is determined to support universities in their noble Capital University of Science Speaking on the occasion, Engr. cause as its prime manifesto. and Technology (CUST) recently Baleegh ur Rehman, Minister held its convocation and for Education and Professional Prof. Dr. Anwar-ul-Hassan awarded degrees to 433 Training, congratulated the Gillani, Chairman Pakistan successful students of PhD, MS graduates and hoped that they Council for Science & and BS level in various will contribute to the scientific Technology, graced the disciplines along with 49 and technological occasion as the Guest of medals to position holders. development of the country Honour.

31 Training Arranged for UHS Administrative Staff The second three-day workshop, as part of Indigenous On-campus Training for administrative and non- teaching staff, was held at the University of Health Sciences (UHS) amidst rounds of applauses and accolades by the participants.

The training workshops, comprising five different Shaheen Khan from Learning Education, UHS, said that such sessions, were planned by the Innovation and Sports Division, an exercise will help lessen UHS Department of Medical HEC, was the Chief Guest at the the communication gap Education in collaboration with closing session. among different stakeholders the Higher Education within and outside the Commission (HEC) under the She said that the Indigenous universities. Modern University Governance On-campus Training was a Programme. unique opportunity under the He added that the training auspices of HEC for was aimed at improving the Dr. Amina Ahmad was the focal universities’ non-teaching staff efficiency of non-academic person and Dr. Umaira Ahsan and employees to refresh their staff and promoting good was the coordinator of the knowledge and enhance their governance on the campus. training workshop in which capacity and productivity. more than 80 staff members of At the end, certificates were UHS and its affiliated Welcoming the HEC initiative, distributed among the institutions got training in Prof. I. A. Naveed, Director participants and the office administration. Department of Medical facilitators of the workshop. Optimization of Learning through Strategies Stressed A two-day training Workshop on Pedagogical students and teachers about current levels of Innovation was held at Bahria University, understanding, and helping students gain deep Islamabad, by experts of Valparasio University, understanding of course material. USA, for the faculty of Bahria University. The topics of the training included engaging The objective of the training was to optimize students as critical thinkers in large classes, learning through strategies that maximally flipping the Classroom: Why and How, Problem engage students and the instructor. These solving through Project-Based lab courses and strategies include interactive in-class Organizing Pedagogical Innovation through demonstrations requiring analytical thinking, Learning Circles. project-based learning, flipped classrooms, and writing assignments as means to foster active Speakers at the training workshop, covering four learning and problem solving. Advantages of different sessions each day, included Prof. Dr. these approaches help students of all abilities to David Rowland, Professor of Psychology and excel, increasing the level of student-teacher Executive Director of the Office of Institutional interaction, providing real-time feedback to Innovation, and others.

32 C Higher OOK XTB Education TE H Commission ND AP A OGR MON ING BROADENING THE RIT W EME AUTHORSHIP CADRE CH The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has embarked upon a S programme on “Textbook and Monograph Writing Scheme (TMWS)” to enhance the competitiveness in Research & Development and to create a strong team of authors in the Country.

Who can write? The opportunity to write is open for researchers and faculty members from HEC

What topics can be covered? The authors may write in diverse/selected topics following HEC approved curricula in new emerging field such as IT, Robotics, Biotechnology, as well as Basic Sciences, Social Sciences, Management Sciences, Behavioral Sciences, Arts and Humanities, Agriculture, Engineering and Health Sciences. What are the financial incentives? HEC offers Rs.100,000/- for writing textbook at master and doctorate level while Rs.80,000/- at bachelor level. HEC also offers Rs.80,000/- and Rs.70,000/- for writing monograph at the master and bachelor level respectively. 100 copies of textbook/monograph will also be given to the author as gratis on one time basis. How to submit the proposals? The interested authors who meet the eligibility criteria available on the website may submit their proposals (soft & hard copy) along with all required documents on the address given below via surface mail not later than February 29, 2016.

Format for writing Textbook/Monograph, proposal submission form along with all guidelines may be downloaded at http://www.hec.gov.pk

Muhammad Javed Iqbal Director Library Higher Education Commission Sector H-9, Islamabad. Phone No. 051-90401912, Fax No. 051-90401913, Email: [email protected]

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