Higher Education Commission - Pakistan

January-February 2018

P - 2

52 Scholars Win HEC Outstanding Research Awards P - 6 21st Vice Chancellors Committee Meeting P - 9 HEC, BC Deliberate on Pak-UK Education Gateway P - 11 Table of Contents HEC Awards 64 Best University 3 HEC Organises GRE Training Session in 2 Teachers for 2016 Varsities

HEC Launches Documentary on Allama Iqbal 4 3000 Scholarships for Afghan Students

HEC, French Embassy Bilateral Committee 52 Scholars Win 5 Reviews Proposals for PERIDOT Research HEC Outstanding Grants 6 Research Awards 7 HEC, Hamdard University Receives SATHA Innovation Award

8 CDWP Approves 8 Higher Education GCWU, Sialkot Projects Worth Rs. 28.872 Billion holds Laptop Distribution HEC Launches its Web Based Educational 12 8 Ceremony Television Channel

9 21st Vice Chancellors Committee Meeting

News & Views is published after 10 HEC Holds Curriculum Based Workshops every two months. No part of this 10 Team PERN holds meeting in LUMS to publication may be reproduced in Explore Collaborative Opportunities any form without prior written permission of the publisher. 11 HEC, BC Deliberate on Pak-UK Education Gateway The views expressed by authors in t h e a r t i c l e s i s t h e i r s o l e Tempus Public Foundation Organises responsibility and not of HEC. The 11 International Conference of Stipendum Commission would like to thank all Hungaricum Partners the institutions and individuals Opening Ceremony to Welcome Pakistani who contributed information and 13 photographs for this Magazine. Students at SEU, China

CPEC Consultant Highlights Varsities’ Role in 15 Socio-economic Transformation

Editor Aayesha Ikram Graphic Designer Raja Ahmad Nadeem Publisher: Reporter Higher Education Syed Muhammad Ittifaq Commission, Pakistan HEC Awards 64 Best University Teachers for 2016 Teachers Urged to Focus Character Building of Youth As many as 64 university teachers were awarded class 6-12 in Islamabad. The practice will be Best University Teacher Awards 2016 in recognition extended to provinces too, he added. of their outstanding performance during a ceremony recently held at the Higher Education In his welcome address, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed Commission Secretariat. Each winner was awarded a underlined that teachers and Imams play key role in certificate and a cash prize worth Rs. 100,000. social development. He urged the teachers to train the country’s youth in line with its social norms and Engr. Baligh-ur-Rehman, Minister for Federal values. “We have to invest for the bright future of Education and Professional Training was chief guest our youth and coming generations,” he emphasised. on the occasion. Felicitating the teachers on making He stressed the need for promoting nationalism distinction, Engr. Baligh-ur-Rehman, said human while setting aside non-issues. development is the key to overall progress of a country, adding that teachers play the most pivotal Shedding light on the achievements of HEC, he said role in ensuring human development. He said the Pakistan had only 59 universities before the Government has taken the higher education inception of HEC, adding that the number has now funding to Rs. 107 billion in the ongoing fiscal year. reached 188. He said HEC encourages research He appreciated HEC for promotion of higher based on solution to prevailing problems of society. education and research culture in the country. “HEC The number of research publications has now has lived up to the Government’s expectations,” he reached 1200 annually. remarked. The Chairman revealed that HEC is taking tangible The Minister urged the teachers to adopt new steps to ensure equitable access to higher technologies and promote teamwork. “Teach your education in the country. He maintained that HEC students how to work as a team,” he stressed. He has set up campuses of universities in far flung and observed Pakistan has multiple inspirational stories less-developed areas in order to impart education to be presented as role models. He informed the at the doorstep. He said HEC has established a audience that the Government has prepared university campus near the Line of Control where 84 curriculum for class 1-5 focusing on character students are acquiring education. He added that a building of students. He maintained that translation university campus has been established in Noshki of holy Quran has also been made mandatory for near Pak-Iran border and over 300 students are

2 studying there. He continued to say that FATA nominate teachers eligible for the Best University University has also been established, while three Teacher Award every year. A total of 160 campuses of the university will soon be set up in nominations were received from 80 public and tribal agencies. private sector universities. All the nominations were scrutinised and evaluated on the basis of HEC The Best University Teacher Award Scheme was approved criteria by an expert committee and 64 launched in 2003 with an aim to recognise the faculty members were selected. relentless efforts of faculty members of universities. The concept of awards was instituted for promotion Realising the importance and benefits of project of education and research by universities faculty entitled Awards to Best University Teachers, the Best and to acknowledge their scholarly endeavours University Teacher Awards have been made part of aimed at bringing socio-economic impacts in the HEC’s recurring programmes making it a regular society at large. activity. Moreover, selected private universities have also been included in the programme from 2011. As The criteria is transparent and efficient. Universities a whole, 564 awards have been conferred under the and degree awarding institutions are asked to programme during the last 13 years.

HEC Organises GRE Training Session in Varsities 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 University and senior management of COMSATS, facilitate and lead the training on GRE Quantitative Islamabad were also present at the closing and Verbal sections. A total of 82 candidates ceremony to encourage the participants. The attended the training, out of which 41 candidates dignitaries emphasised the need for capacity participated from different universities and building of the Pakistani youth and universities organisations of Islamabad. faculty thus, enabling them to secure PhD positions in top ranked universities and subsequently The training was designed to cover all Verbal and contribute to the prosperity and growth of Pakistani Quantitative concepts of the GRE test. The economy through US-Pak Knowledge Corridor participants were a mix of nominees by the host Scholarship Programme. universities as well as the short listed applicants of US-Pak knowledge Corridor by HEC. On this occasion, Dr. Mehmood-Ul- Hassan Butt apprised the universities management regarding Closing ceremony of the course was graced by Dr. the prestigious scholarship scheme and Mehmood-ul-Hassan Butt, Consultant, US- Pak opportunity for Pakistani scholars to avail 10,000 Knowledge Corridor at both the locations, while Air scholarships to be offered during next 10 years Vice Marshal (R) Faaiz Amir, Vice Chancellor Air under this programme.

3 HEC Launches Documentary on Allama Iqbal 3000 Scholarships for Afghan Students The Higher Education Commission (HEC), Pakistan trade opportunities to not only Pakistan but also recently launched a documentary entitled “The Real Afghanistan. He advised the Afghan students to AfPak Fighting Terrorism through Knowledge” prepare themselves for future challenges. He stated during a ceremony held at Aiwan-e-Sadr. that Pakistan strongly believes in the development of Afghanistan. Mr. Mamnoon Hussain, President Islamic Republic of Pakistan was chief guest of the ceremony, while In his welcome address earlier, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman HEC and Mr. Omer said the award of scholarships to Afghan students Zakhilwal, Afghan Ambassador to Pakistan along under the programme reaffirms Government of with a large number of vice chancellors, faculty Pakistan’s commitment to helping the Afghan members and Afghan students were also present on brethren overcome the challenges caused by the occasion. terrorism and years of strife. He informed the audience that after the first phase of Allama Iqbal The documentary by Ms. Sameera Aziz, a Saudi 3000 Scholarships to Afghan Students, second media figure reveals the co-curricular and extra- phase of the programme has been launched. He curricular activities of Afghan students pursuing maintained that zero semesters are being arranged their education in Pakistani higher education for the students before placing them in their institutions under the scholarship programme. It respective programmes. He hoped the students will includes interviews of Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed and the go back to serve their country after completion of Afghan students with regard to the academic their studies. “You are now the ambassadors of opportunity available to the youth of brotherly Afghanistan in Pakistan, however you will play the Islamic country under the programme. role of ambassadors of Pakistan in Afghanistan once you complete your education,” he emphasised. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Mamnoon Hussain said that people of Pakistan and Afghanistan share Mr. Omer Zakhilwal thanked the Government of mutual respect and affection owing to blood, Pakistan for extending scholarships to Afghan religious and cultural bonds as well as regional students. He said Pakistan has remarkably proximity. The scholarship programme is a contributed to development of state institutions in testimony to the mutual closeness. He said students Afghanistan. “I would like to thank Pakistan for of Afghanistan are extended the facilities being generous hospitality it extends to Afghan students,” enjoyed by Pakistani students in the country’s he added. Referring to the documentary, he said the universities. He hoped that the Afghan students will award of scholarship is not only a fight against not only help compensate the losses caused by t e r r o 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 , terrorism and wars but will also work for the well- misunderstanding, isolation and lack of progress. being of humanity. He urged the Afghan students to work hard and go back to serve Afghanistan. “Today, Afghan future The President stated that Pakistan and Afghanistan leaders study with future leaders of Pakistan,” he have lost many lives and suffered huge losses due to added. terrorism and wars. “Pakistan has borne casualties of over 70,000 souls apart from immeasurable The Government of Pakistan has initiated different infrastructural damages”. He stressed that Pakistan programmes under the “Committee for and Afghanistan need to develop mutual trust and Reconstruction & Rehabilitation of Afghanistan foil the conspiracies of enemies who create (CRRA)”. The 3000 scholarships programme is one misunderstandings between the two countries. of them meant for Afghan students to pursue Referring to China-Pakistan Economic Corridor undergraduate studies in Pakistani universities. The (CPEC), he said CPEC will bring educational and project was initially started by Inter Provincial

4 Coordination Division in 2009. Later on, it was trainings of 3-6 months will also be given to 120 transferred to HEC for execution in 2015. The project Afghan officials. So far, 294 students have arrived, envisages strengthening of bilateral relationships but the total number will reach 750 by March 2018. and development of human resource between the two brotherly states. Apart from providing hostels, security, food and pick and drop facilities, a zero semester has also been After success of the first phase of this project, the arranged at Institute of Management Sciences, Prime Minister of Pakistan has approved another Peshawar; University of Haripur; COMSATS Institute 3000 scholarships for Afghan nationals at a capital of information Technology, Abbottabad Campus; cost of Rs. 7364.735 million. Under this scheme, 500 and COMSATS Institute of information Technology, MBBS, 100 BDS, 600 Engineering and 1200 general Lahore Campus. These students will be enrolled in disciplines scholarships will be awarded to Afghan public and private sector universities in different students at undergraduate level. Furthermore, 400 fields of study including Medical Sciences, MS and 200 PhD scholarships will also be awarded Engineering, Business Administration, Computer to Afghan nationals. In addition to this, short Science, Arts & Humanities, and Social Sciences.

HEC, French Embassy Bilateral Committee Reviews Proposals for PERIDOT Research Grants

The Higher Education Commission (HEC), Pakistan areas including Energy, Health, Human and Social and the Embassy of France recently held its bilateral Sciences, Climate Change, and Information committee meeting at the Commission Secretariat. Technology for Peace and Conflict Resolution. The meeting reviewed proposals submitted for the award research grants under the Pak-France The meeting was chaired by Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, PERIDOT Phase IV. Chairman HEC along with Mr. Marc Baréty, Ambassador of France to Pakistan. Dr. Arshad Ali, PERIDOT is the Franco-Pakistani Hubert Curien Executive Director HEC, Dr. Muhammad Latif, Partnership (PHC) executed in Pakistan by HEC and Advisor R&D, HEC, Ms. Noshaba Awais, Director in France by Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs R&D, HEC, Mr. André de Bussy, Counsellor for and Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Culture and Cooperation, French Embassy, and Mr. Innovation. Matthieu Gaulon, Attaché for Science and Technology, French Embassy were among the The objective of this programme is to develop new participants of meeting. scientific and technological cooperation between French and Pakistani higher education institutions After thorough deliberation, the committee and research laboratories by supporting mobility of scrutinised a number of proposals received under researchers. Under the programme, projects are PERIDOT Phase IV. The results of the award winners approved for funding for three years in five priority would be announced in due course.

5 52 Scholars Win HEC Outstanding Research Awards

The Higher Education Commission (HEC) bestowed The Minister observed that the education sector is 52 research awards upon faculty members of facing multiple challenges, however the different universities and researchers during a Government is committed to overcoming them. He ceremony held recently in connection with 6th HEC said Pakistan’s geographical location makes the Outstanding Research Awards. country a sensitive zone, adding that the country has been worst affected by terrorism. However, he Rana Tanveer Hassain, Federal Minister for Science continued, the government and armed forces have and Technology was chief guest on the occasion Dr. efficiently tackled the issue. He said youth are the Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman HEC, Dr. Arshad Ali, country’s asset and HEC has worked on grooming Executive Director HEC, and Dr. Muhammad Latif, their talent and capabilities. Adviser Research and Development, HEC along with a large number of Vice Chancellors and researchers Addressing the ceremony, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed were also present. shared the contribution of HEC towards creation of knowledge and promotion of higher education and Speaking on the occasion, Rana Tanveer Hussain research in the country. He said HEC emphasises said the Government accords due priority to impact of research on society so as to provide promotion of higher education in the country. The solutions to the country’s prevailing issues. “We Government has remarkably increased the budget have to come out of number game and focus on of higher education sector, he added. Admiring HEC quality and impact,” he underlined. He urged the for promoting a research culture in Pakistan, he said, academia to adapt itself to emerging trends so as to “HEC has focused quality of higher education, better cope with future challenges. He stated that research and publications, and the results are ahead the job of universities is not merely to impart of us in the form of outstanding research works.” He education but also to ensure social integration. urged the scholars to conduct research based on solution to social issues. “Research Publications The Chairman informed the participants that the should carry real impact on society,” he stressed. awards were presented in four categories including

6 Best Research Paper, Best Young Research Scholar, Patent Research Support Programme and Best Book Publication, and Best Innovator and nine collaborative research programme with foreign disciplines including Natural Sciences, Biological countries have produced remarkable results. Sciences, Agriculture Sciences, Health Sciences, Pure Engineering, Computer Science, Social He stressed the need for creating indigenous Sciences, Management Sciences and Arts and solutions to local problems. HEC initiated the Humanities. The faculty and researchers were Outstanding Research Awards in 2009 to recognise awarded Rs. 70,000, Rs. 150,000, Rs. 300,000, and Rs. the innovative ideas and initiatives of Pakistani 200,000 per award respectively, he added. researchers and faculty members and to encourage promote a research culture in the country. In a vote of thanks, Dr. Arshad Ali shared a number of HEC programmes aimed at promoting a research The purpose of conferring these awards upon culture in the country. He said HEC programmes like Pakistani faculty and outstanding researchers is also Start-up Research Grant Programme, National to acknowledge their high performance and thus Research Programme for Universities, Technology promote a competitive research culture in higher Development Fund, University-Industry Research education and R&D institutions. So far, 213 awards Support Programme, Thematic Research Grant, have been conferred in six award ceremonies.

HEC, Hamdard University Receives SATHA Innovation Award

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 training and basic firefighting training. These and Safety Management. The purpose of trainings were conducted by different trainers conducting training was to give awareness including faculty members of the university. regarding daily health, safety and hygiene issues among villagers and to develop skills in rural The community service activity was recognised by population. South Asian Triple Helix Association (SATHA) which is South Asian Chapter of International Triple Helix Basic hands on training sessions were conducted Association. The organisation honoured Hamdard that covered electricity wiring of houses, AC and University with “SATHA Innovation Award” in a refrigeration repairing, solar system installation, ceremony recently held at Jinnah University for basic computer training, traffic awareness, first aid Women Karachi.

7 CDWP Approves 8 Higher Education Projects Worth Rs. 28.872 Billion The Central Development Working Party (CDWP) University at Karachi at a cost of Rs. 875.563 million, has recently approved eight projects of the higher establishment of Science Laboratory and Creative education sectors worth Rs. 28.872 billion for Art Centre, Sukkur IBA University worth Rs. 852.694 providing scholarships and strengthening of million, development of academic and research infrastructure and other facilities. facilities at University of Kotli worth Rs.13388.875 million, establishment of Women Campuses at A mega project worth Rs. 20.904 billion for Overseas Kohat and Bannu worth Rs.1957.893 million and Scholarships (Phase-III) has been approved to send Institute of Science Technology at Bahawalpur at a 2000 Pakistani scholars to foreign universities for cost of Rs. 2290.009 million. doctoral studies. Other approved projects include establishment of College of Nursing & Community It is pertinent to mention that most of the Medicine at Peoples University of Medical Sciences, development projects will be executed in less- Nawabshah with a cost of Rs. 603.093 million, developed areas such as Nawabshah, Sukkur, Kotli, establishment of sub-campus of National Textile Bahawalpur, Kohat and Bannu.

HEC Launches its Web Based Educational Television Channel

To meet critical need for improving communication There are 26 universities offering media and mass with the stakeholders and building awareness about communication degrees in Pakistan out of which 15 the National Higher Education Standards, Quality universities have built-in studios. Assurance Policies/Procedures, Financial Management, Governance and Regulatory HEC in the first stage integrated NVCN with live Arrangement Higher Education Commission, (HEC) streaming tools and streaming of video Pakistan has recently taken an initiative to launch its c o n f e r e n c i n g a r e m a d e a v a i l a b l e o n Web based Educational Television Channel. edutv.hec.gov.pk. To develop the content of Web TV, media and mass communication departments of The aim of launching this channel is to help building the universities were directed to build a cluster base better image of higher education sector, foster clear model in which media and mass communication perception about programmes and policies of departments of the universities will be made higher education sector and to enhance public responsible for developing content. access to the information related to the higher education institutions. The technical team of IT Division, HEC visited studios of Allama Iqbal Open University, Islamabad, Riphah The Web based Educational TV Channel is University, Rawalpindi, Sindh Madrassatul Islam capitalising on National Video Conferencing University, Karachi and Virtual University, Lahore for Network (NVCN) which is available in 103 integration of traditional TV Studios with IP based universities/ institutions across the country to act as video conferencing. The concept was implemented a recording studios. The initiative of launching the successfully and studios of said universities were Web-based TV Channel was taken due to the fact integrated with video conferencing. The success has that penetration of 3G/4G has been increased to given opportunities to universities to develop above 40 million. Therefore, web based TV would be collaborative programmes with other universities an excellent medium to outreach wider population. regardless of geographical locations.

8 21st Vice Chancellors Committee Meeting Universities Heads Repose Confidence in HEC Policies for Promotion of Higher Education The Vice Chancellors of a large number of public Bangladesh, Belarus and many other countries have and private universities reposed their confidence in requested HEC to help them set up their higher the Higher Education Commission (HEC), Pakistan education bodies on the pattern of HEC, he during the 21st Vice Chancellors Committee Meeting informed. “The higher education sector lacks recently. nothing now, but teamwork,” he said, adding that HEC fully advocates national integration and The meeting, chaired by Dr. Masoom Yasinzai, harmony through education. Chairman Vice Chancellors Committee, was attended by Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman HEC and During the course of meeting, Vice Chancellors a large number of Vice Chancellors physically and expressed their confidence in HEC and appreciated through video conference. The meeting was held to its vision and the support that HEC has been discuss governance and quality of higher education extending to higher education institutions since its in universities and their affiliated colleges. inception. They also shared problems facing their respective universities. To this, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed In his opening remarks, Dr. Masoom Yasinzai briefed assured them of HEC’s support. “HEC is committed the Vice Chancellors about the purpose of Vice to facilitation of universities,” he underlined. Chancellors Committee meeting. He appreciated Vice Chancellors from the Senate Standing Committee for calling Vice Vice Chancellors from Balochistan said “We are Balochistan said “We are making Chancellors in a provincial consultation seminar. making progress owing to the judicious and progress owing to the generous support of HEC”. Speaking on the occasion, T h e y o b s e r v e d t h a t judicious and generous support Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed said the Balochistan was not ready of HEC”. They observed that Vice Chancellors are the for a provincial HEC and Balochistan was not ready for a major stakeholders of asked for at least four to five provincial HEC and asked for at higher education sector and years to build capacity to least four to five years to the meeting of universities take the responsibility. build capacity to take the h e a d s h a v e g r e a t responsibility. importance in terms of Vice Chancellors from development of the sector. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa said He said HEC accords high that the credit for the importance to governance current state of universities and quality of educational in the country goes to HEC. institutions and their affiliated colleges. He said They said the 15 years of HEC speak volumes of the despite having made significant development in Commission’s success and role in development of quality of teaching in universities, there still remains higher education sector. They admired HEC for a lot to correct. He stressed the need to set up judiciously distributing funds among all the Quality Enhancement Cells for affiliated colleges to universities. Vice Chancellors from Sindh also monitor and ensure their performance. expressed their views on the developments taking place in the higher education sector and shared He revealed that this is high time to take the higher issues of their respective universities. education sector forward in Pakistan and strengthen universities with, of course, strong Vice Chancellors also spoke on the need to accountability. “Our priority has to be working for continuous support by HEC as it was uninterrupted development of higher education sector,” he and forthcoming. They appreciated role of Higher emphasised. He affirmed that the sector’s Education Commission in providing a vision and development over the past 15 years has earned support for the development of universities through Pakistan good name across the world. Mauritius, policy guidelines for academics.

9 HEC holds Curriculum Based Workshops 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 Learning Innovation Division (LI), HEC recently and Dr. Ayub Alvi, Rector National University of organised a three days Curriculum Based Workshop Computer and Emerging Sciences, Islamabad were on Home Economics for the faculty members of the main resource persons in the workshop. Home Economics from higher education institutions (HEIs) of Pakistan whereas three days The resource persons explained in detail about Curriculum Based Workshop on Orientation of vision behind conducting the workshop and Computer Sciences Revised Curriculum for the elaborated changes and new additions in the field of faculty members of Computer Sciences from HEIs of Home Economics and Computer Sciences. HEC, UAF hold 3-Day English Language Training Programme The Learning Innovation Division (LI), HEC, in in English language proficiency. Dr. Muhammad collaboration with the Office of Research Innovation Iqbal Zafar, Vice Chancellor of the University of and Commercialisation (ORIC) and Department of Agriculture, Faisalabad emphasised on participants Humanities and Linguistics, University of to use content of this training for contributing Agriculture, Faisalabad recently organised a 3-Day positive change in the society. English Language Teaching Training Programme. He further said that there is no age limit for learning, The Resource Persons made interactive sessions to every one of us should learn new skills and sensitise faculty members regarding improvement contribute for the betterment of society. Team PERN holds meeting in LUMS to Explore Collaborative Opportunities The Pakistan Education and Research Network During the meeting Ch. Abdullah Fayyaz Chattha, (PERN) in collaboration with Lahore University of Director Operations PERN briefed the participants Management Sciences (LUMS) held a meeting at and gave an overview about PERN Infrastructure LUMS Computer Science Smart Lab to explore and PERN operations under the Trans-Eurasia collaborative opportunities about PERN Information Network (TEIN) membership. collaborative opportunities for the researchers of the community. Afterwards, the team from LUMS introduced themselves and informed the audience about the The meeting was attended by faculty members from collaborative research projects submitted by LUMS LUMS, Information Technology University, (ITU) under the flagship of PERN to TEIN. Concluding the Lahore and Punjab University College of meeting, it was decided that PERN will continue Information Technology, Lahore. conducting meetings to other universities as well.

10 HEC, BC Deliberate on Pak-UK Education Gateway 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 Dr Arshad Ali commended efforts of HEC and the challenges and to develop the knowledge and British Council in Pakistan and said that we believe, social economies of both countries. education diplomacy holds genuine potential for development of the people and bringing together The gateway aims to facilitate comprehensive societies. Therefore, we are seeking partnerships for programmes to help build the capacity of higher higher education research and development across education institutions. The key elements include Pakistan and the UK. innovative and collaborative research in emerging disciplines including man made materials, artificial Rosemary Hilhorst, Country Director British Council intelligence, nanotechnology, as well as climate Pakistan said that the “Pakistan-UK gateway has change and water management, food security, immense potential for knowledge exchange both energy, leadership courses, mentoring schemes and ways. Many stakeholders who are here today have formal trainings, distance learning and scholarships already worked in Pakistan and I hope that you will and split PhD programmes besides Transnational be able to encourage others in the field to Education. collaborate too.”

Tempus Public Foundation Organises International Conference of Stipendum Hungaricum Partners 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. Scientific Exchange Programme and Good practices During the formal proceedings of the conference in related to application cycle of HEC. Budapest, Engr. Waheed Ahmed Mangi, Director Human Resource Development, (HRD) HEC Engr. Waheed Ahmed visited Hungarian institutes of delivered multiple presentations to TPF higher learning namely Eotvos Lorand and Karoli management and 56 partners from other countries Institute to discuss various issues pertaining to with major focus on HEC, Higher Education language problem faced by Pakistani students

11 studying at Hungarian institutions, duration of three HEC is an active partner of TPF since December 2015 years bachelor degree, efforts to nominate more when a memorandum of understanding (MoU) was Hungarian students in Pakistani universities and signed in between Ministry of Human Capacities, further collaboration in the field of Archaeology. Government of Hungary and HEC in December 2015 for grant of 80 scholarships to Pakistani A meeting was also held with Ms. Maryam Rehman, students under Higher Education and Scientific Head of Chancery, Pakistan Embassy at Budapest. Exchange Programme. During the meeting, the issues of Pakistani students studying at Hungarian institutions and placement of Thereafter, a revised MoU was signed in between Hungarian students at Pakistani universities were Hungary and Pakistan enhancing the number of discussed in length. scholarships from 80 to 200 scholarships per year.

GCWU, Sialkot holds Laptop Distribution Ceremony

The laptop distribution ceremony under the Higher Mr. Khawaja Muhamad Asif, along with distributing Education Commission, (HEC) Pakistan in laptops among students inaugurated Smart Class collaboration with Government College Women Room project in the university. The ceremony University, Sialkot and Abbottabad University of brought over eminent personalities including Ms. Science and Technology was recently held Leila Khan, Chairperson Prime Minister Youth separately in the universities. Programme (PMYP), Mr. Makhdoom Adeel, Coordinator PMYP, MNAs and MPAs along with over During the laptop distribution ceremony at 1000 students. Government College Women University, Sialkot Mr. Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Federal Minister of Meanwhile, another laptop distribution ceremony Foreign Affairs was Chief Guest whereas Prof. Dr. was held at Abbottabad University of Science and Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman HEC was Guest of Technology in which Mr. Murtaza Javed Abbasi, Honour. Deputy Speaker National Assembly was the Chief Guest whereas, Dr. Iftikhar Ahmed, Vice-Chancellor The ceremony was arranged in continuation of of the university was the guest of honour. Over 200 marking 15 successful years of formation of HEC. students attended the ceremony and 113 students Other sidelines of the ceremony included poster were awarded with laptops over their excellent presentations of MS students of the university. academic performance.

12 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 An opening ceremony to welcome the first batch of thanked CRBC for its support for development in Pakistani students selected under the China Road Pakistan. The Executive Director said that Pakistan is and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), fully funded located at the junction of South, Central and West scholarship programme was recently held at the Asia which is also the junction of belt and road main campus of South East University, (SEU) China. initiative.

The first batch of 10 students was selected through a He maintained that the selected students will highly competitive selection process jointly become young generation inheritor and promoter coordinated by HEC Pakistan, CRBC China and SEU of Pak-China Friendship and also devote themselves China. The students selected under the programme to the development of Pakistan after completing will study Masters in Transportation Engineering at their study and contribute to the nation-building. SEU China as part of a commercial sponsorship programme by CRBC. Mr. Zhang Guangjun, the President of SEU said that SEU attaches high importance to cooperate with Under the support of education department of Belt and Road countries based on belt and road China and Pakistan, CRBC in this year would also Initiative. Workshop on Computer Assisted Language Learning The Learning Innovation Division, Higher Education Women University, Rawalpindi, National University Commission (HEC), Pakistan in collaboration with of Modern Languages, Islamabad and Government the Department of English at Fatima Jinnah Women Viqar-un-Nisa Postgraduate College, Rawalpindi. University (FJWU) recently organised a 3-day training workshop on Computer Assisted Language The main objectives of the workshop were to Learning (CALL). develop skills necessary to understand various uses of computers in language classrooms; to increase The workshop was attended by 18 English language learners’ awareness of diverse sources to be used as faculty members from Government Postgraduate teaching tools and to enable the learners to use and College for Women, Rawalpindi, Fatima Jinnah design computer-based and web-based teaching.

13 HEC, Microsoft Organise Boot Camps

With an aim of broadening access to higher HEC, Microsoft Organise Online Trainings on IT education, enable student-centric learning, HEC’s Pakistan Education and Research Network is enhance education with powerful software tools one of the visionary ideas where the universities get and improve efficiency of education systems, the internet access and connectivity to HEC’s state-of- Higher Education Commission, (HEC) Pakistan has the-art Video Conferencing facility. This facility is partnered with Microsoft for last four years to create used to deliver trainings for universities across the positive impact on students and faculty alike as HEC country, to host live PhD thesis defense with remote is committed to provide highest standards and use faculties, etc while Microsoft uses Video Conference of genuine software for all universities. to deliver technical trainings to Students and Faculty on a multitude of topics, ranging from Azure & HEC in collaboration with Microsoft has planned to Cloud Computing, Windows Server Management, deliver 27 two-day hands-on boot camps, to be SharePoint to discussions on Microsoft’s Volume completed by April 2018. The boot camps will focus Licensing, Imagine Cup and demonstrations on on administrative technologies, Azure, Dynamics, Microsoft Imagine (previously Dreamspark) portal. SharePoint, SQL, Windows Server, etc. The objective of these technical trainings is to build Nine boot camps are planned in Karachi, Lahore and an awareness among the students and faculty about Islamabad whereas 12 boot camps have been the software and facilities they have available delivered, including boot camps on Office 365, through HEC’s platform, as well as to give them an Azure, Windows 10, SharePoint, SQL and Dynamics. introduction to the technology/ topic. The plan is to The focus of these boot camps is to enhance the conduct 30 online sessions, with 10 focused on Universities’ IT Support teams to be able to do their Licensing, 10 focused on Technology and 10 on own infrastructure implementation. Imagine Cup.

Previously, more than 300 IT staff have been trained During the current Academic Year 2017-18, eight in these boot camps. The feedback collected at the online sessions have been conducted, out of these end of the trainings indicate a high level of six sessions on technologies such as Azure and satisfaction, and the participants are enthusiastic Windows Server, a session on Licensing and one about these training opportunities. session on Imagine Cup were conducted.

14 HEC, Microsoft Offers Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Certification Higher Education Commission, (HEC) Pakistan in its awareness about the importance of this initiative Strategic Partnership with Microsoft selected and eventually guide and help students in getting Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certification for certified in their labs. The visiting partner of the students under the banner of Prime Ministers Microsoft TEC went to these certified universities Laptop Scheme. and reached out to students through different means to help them consume and certify them. The This enables students to acquire the certification entire process of the exam was revisited for the free of cost in Pakistan that people otherwise pay students where they actively participated and went for. Microsoft in collaboration with its global partner through test trials for the exam to prepare Certiport and local partner TEC held an Exam themselves for the actual ones. Festival in 22 universities in November and December 2017. Over 30000 students were certified at the end of year 2017 due to the initiative of HEC to encourage The 22 universities that are also Certiport Certified students to actively participate in getting certified Testing Centres were selected on the basis of their from Microsoft for their professional growth and last years’ consumption. The idea was to create better future. CPEC Consultant Highlights Varsities’ Role in Socio-economic Transformation

The Faculty of Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering Mehran University of Engineering and Technology, (MUET) Jamshoro held 33rd 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 indigenous and inclusive growth, governance, was the Guest of Honour in the event. security, entrepreneurship and knowledge economy. While speaking on the occasion, Lt-Gen. (Retd.) Muhammad Asghar, threw light on University Dr. Jabbar Khan said that this event gave Support Programme (CUSP) and said that the HEC opportunity to all young students and future would enhance potential of higher education engineers to present their project based research institutions for supporting socio-economic work which could lead towards conducting transformation under CPEC with a focus on collaborative industrial research in order to meet development of quality human resource, indigenous technological needs of the country. Dr. civilisational harmony and knowledge inputs. He Muhammad Aslam Uqaili, MUET Vice Chancellor further spoke on planning parameters of Pakistan said that the university transformed and evolved Vision 2025 that there were seven priority areas from undergraduate degree awarding institute to including connectivity, people first, sustained Research University in the past 10 years.

15 National Conference on Building Bridges between Industry and Academia The Department of Management Science, Shaheed Ms. Shahnaz Wazir Ali, President SZABIST Zulfikar Ali Bhutto Institute of Science and emphasised on scholars to go on contributing Technology (SZABIST) recently organised two days through their active participation in bridging link 2nd National Research Conference Management and between industry and academia. She appreciated Business entitled Building Bridges between the role of HEC in advancing the academic research Academia and Industry. based on the problems of the industry.

Mr. Jahangir Siddiqui, Head of JS Group was the Mr. Javed Ali Memon, Director HEC-Regional Centre Chief Guest of the Conference. While speaking on Karachi informed the audience that the citation the occasion, he suggested that for better industry- impact from Pakistan is more than the BRIC academia association we have to learn from leading countries. universities of the developed countries. He also proposed that Pakistan has to focus on the In his opinion the bridge between industry and sustainable technologies as it has a crucial role in academia would be strengthen when both work the long term economic development. together for resolving the industrial problems. SZABIST Conducts Training on Outcome Based Education The Department of Education, Shaheed Zulfikar Ali enable participants to differentiate between Bhutto Institute of Science and Technology, SZABIST course outline design and OBE design to (SZABIST) Karachi, recently conducted a 2-day tweak their existing course outlines and to help workshop entitled Outcome Based Education (OBE) participants develop course SLOs’ with the help of for its faculty members of various departments and Bloom’s Taxonomy. higher management. Dr. Najmunnissa and Ms. Sadiya Durrani were the OBE is an emerging phenomenon to ensure the training facilitators. The facilitators said that OBE is a quality of education at higher education level. The paradigm shift from Content Based Education to objectives of the workshop were to introduce the Outcome Based Education. It is an educational concept of the OBE approach, to highlight philosophy that bases each part of an educational effectiveness of the OBE education system, to system around outcomes.

UVAS holds Workshop on Ultrasonography 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 The Department of Theriogenology, University of participants with required knowledge and skills to Veterinary and Animal Sciences, (UVAS) Lahore in diagnose reproductive issues and to improve farm collaboration with Society for Animal Reproduction fertility through ultrasonography.

16 Academician Wins ASME Heat Transfer Memorial Award

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 combination of such activities. Each award is based make outstanding contributions in the field of heat on achievement through publications, patents or transfer through research, practice and design, or a invention, in an area of heat transfer.

Reference for Dr. Ishfaq Ahmad at GIKI A reference was held at Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute GIK Institute. Speakers on the occasion said that Dr. of Engineering Sciences and Technology for Dr. Ishfaq was instrumental in establishing various Ishfaq Ahmad, former Chairman, Pakistan Atomic cancer treatment centres and played a key role in Energy Commission (PAEC) and member Board of establishing Pakistan’s civil nuclear plants at Governors GIK Institute. Chashma and Pakistan Nuclear Regulatory Authority (PNRA). The speakers said that his tremendous contributions as a great scientist would be During his distinguished scientific career of over 60 remembered for ever. The reference was attended years, he held many important positions, including by his closed associate scientists and academia of Chairman PAEC.

GIKI, Squeaks Foundation to Provide Scholarships to Female Students Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering Ms. Ana Castro, founder trustee of the foundation Sciences and Technology (GIKI), Swabi and Squeaks said that the foundation stands committed not only Foundation have recently signed a Memorandum of to support the students financially but also in many Understanding to provide scholarships to those other aspects that become relevant to their female students of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. academic and professional performance.

The scholarship is for four years undergraduate Mr. Jehangir Bashar, Rector GIKI briefed the visiting programme and is only for those students who do team about various scholarships and loan schemes not have financial resources to afford expenditures available for the institution students. “Around 30 per of university education, but who demonstrate high cent students of the GIKI are recipients of financial academic capability and passion for learning. support for their studies”, he claimed.

17 IEP, NED University Organise International Civil Engineering Conference Institution of Engineers Pakistan (IEP) in organisation of the conference through excellent collaboration with NED University of Engineering collaboration between NED University and IEP and Technology, Karachi recently organised an Karachi Centre. He stated that the resilient built International Civil Engineering Conference (ICEC- environment is the need of the day specifically due 2017) under the theme entitled Striving towards to rapid urbanisation. Resilient Built Environment at the IEP Convention Centre. Dr. Sarosh H. Lodi, Vice Chancellor NED University delivered keynote speech entitled Tsunami Risk to The conference brought together the latest civil the Coast of Pakistan-A perspective from Built engineering knowledge, research and development Environment Resilience. efforts from scientific community, engineers and practitioners that can help in contributing towards Dr. Lodi highlighted probable threats caused to the enhancing resilience of society and thus, establish a coasts of Pakistan by Tsunami, its possible impact on better built environment. built environment and preparatory-cum-mitigation measures in order to make these areas more Engr. Sohail Bashir, the Chief Organiser from IEP resilient under the threat of Tsunami. highlighted the rich heritage of the conference by discussing the state of events in past eight A total of 40 peer-reviewed papers were presented conferences. Dr. Sahibzada Farooq Ahmad Rafeeqi, at the Conference. The authors from countries Chairman IEP Karachi Centre delivered the formal around the world contributed as authors and co- welcome note and emphasised the need for authors. They presented their research in eight sustained efforts in research and development different technical sessions. towards topics that can enable and help planners to establish resilient built environment. Dr. Farrukh Arif and Ms. Mahanoor Afzal Khan presented paper entitled Quantifying the Engr. Dr. Izhar ul Haq, President IEP was the Chief Performance of Green Roof from Environmental Guest at the occasion. In his speech, Dr. Izhar Standpoint and were awarded with the Chairman's acknowledged and appreciated the sustained Medal for Best Paper. QEC Training on OBE System Design at NED University The Quality Enhancement Cell (QEC) at NED training and are also approved programme University of Engineering and Technology, Karachi evaluators (PEVs) of Pakistan Engineering Council. organised two day training programme entitled During sessions of the training, the trainers briefed Outcome Based Education (OBE) System Design. the participants about importance of implementing The aim of organising the training was to enlighten OBE System by focusing and organising everything participants about the OBE basics and process of its in an educational system and what is essential for all implementation in their respective teaching students to be able to do successfully at the end of departments/affiliated institutions. their learning experiences.

Dr. Abdul Jabbar Sangi, Professor Civil Engineering In addition, classroom reform, programme Department and Dr. Farrukh Arif, OBE Focal Person, alignment, external accountability and system NED University, were the resource persons of the transformation were also discussed.

18 Seminar on Bloom’s Taxonomy in Design & Assessment of Course Learning Outcomes

The Quality Enhancement Cell, Institute of Space Condition, and Degree (ABCD) approach for Technology, (IST) Islamabad recently organised a developing learning outcomes effectively. seminar on “Bloom’s Taxonomy in Design & Assessment of Course Learning Outcomes”. The During the second session, the resource person resource person was Dr. Abdul Wahid Usmani, Head explained use of action verbs from Bloom’s of Quality and Planning Unit, King Saud University, Taxonomy for assessing course learning outcomes. Saudi Arabia. The participants included faculty He introduced Table of Specifications (TOS) for members of IST and various universities of ensuring all learning outcomes throughout the Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Taxila, and Lahore. course content with appropriate assessment techniques. Dr. Abdul Wahid started his lecture from introduction of Outcome Based Education (OBE), He further explained various assessment methods learning outcomes and its requirements. He that were of interest to participants including informed par ticipants about Cognitive, Simulated Environment, Observation Form, Psychomotor and Affective Domains of Bloom’s Concept Maps, Rubrics, and some of the Class Room Taxonomy. He also presented Audience, Behaviour, Assessment Techniques (CAT). IST Organises 5th International Conference on Aerospace Science and Engineering

Institute of Space Technology (IST), Islamabad the Government has to provide ample resources recently organised 5th International Conference on and funding, which in turn will have a major Aerospace Science and Engineering (ICASE 2017). beneficial financial impact on our economy. President Islamic Republic of Pakistan Mr. Mamnoon Hussain inaugurated ICASE 2017 and The Conference started off with the plenary session graced the occasion as Chief Guest. including distinguished international speakers followed by different technical sessions. A total of In his inaugural speech, he said that Pakistan’s 100 research papers were presented in the position is going to become prominent on the conference along with 25 poster presentations. educational map of the world in coming years. He There were 26 technical sessions during the urged the youth and senior scientists to set new Conference covering different themes and tracks examples in their fields of research and related to aerospace science and engineering. In development by setting aside traditional methods. addition to this, there were three plenary sessions, Engr. Imran Rahman, Vice Chancellor IST said that seven panel discussions, and 20 tutorials.

19 Seminar on Breast Cancer in TUF

The University of Faisalabad (TUF), Faisalabad Dr. Muhammad Saeed, Pro Rector, Health Sciences recently organised a seminar on Oncoplastic Breast Campus, TUF in his address emphasised the need to Surgery in Madinah Teaching Hospital, an affiliated create awareness amongst the women as early hospital of TUF. Dr. Saira Saleem, Department of detection of breast cancer can make the disease Surgery, Madinah Teaching Hospital (MTH), in her easier to treat and increases survival rates. comprehensive lecture on Oncoplastic Breast Surgery method said that 90,000 breast cancer Dr. Nayab Alia, Head of Department of Radiology, cases are being annually reported in the country MTH gave her views on Role of Radiology and over 40,000 deaths are caused due to the Department in Integrated Breast Clinic Services. disease. “Pakistan has the highest rate of breast cancer in Asia”, she added. Afterwards, a panel discussion was held on breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, actively Dr. Sadia Hameed, Head Department of Pathology, participated by the senior doctors from MTH and University Medical & Dental College, Faisalabad in Allied Hospital, Faisalabad. Later, state-of-the-art her address briefed about Role of Pathology Breast Cancer Clinic was inaugurated by a cancer Department in Integrated Breast Clinic Services. patient in the hospital.

Air University Students Showcase Electric Car The students of Air University have successfully Umer Farooq, faculty adviser and other MTT team unveiled an energy-efficient vehicle, entitled members including Abdul Ghani Zahid, Saad Markhor on the occasion of Car & Bike Show held at Sheikh, Hammas Ahmed, Ahsan Islam, Bassim Giga Mall, Islamabad. The Markhor is a project by Faridy, Yahya Abrar Khan, Aden Salim and Sayed team called Mech The Tech (MTT) which consists of Usama Sabir were also present at the event. 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.

20 UET Lahore Holds 24th Convocation Honorary Doctorate Degree Conferred upon Ahsan Iqbal

The 24th 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 universities play vital role to build a nation on said, “Government of Pakistan has initiated many scientific basis with the help of outcome based programmes to engage youth in different projects”. research and other ways of learning. While congratulating the graduates, he said that graduates must concentrate to develop their career He highlighted the output of the university with for betterment of their country and their personal important statistics in capacity building, new development. He also stressed on empowerment of pedagogical techniques, laboratory and research women in his speech. centres up gradation of courses, construction, expansion and signing of memorandum of Dr Fazal Ahmad Khalid Vice Chancellor UET Lahore understandings with academic and industrial while sharing his views on the occasion said that institution at national and international level. Graduates Vow to Serve Pakistan in 20th Convocation of IoBM

The Institute of Business Management (IoBM), and gentle professionals having sound knowledge Karachi recently conducted its 20th Convocation in and command over their respective fields. He also which over 1000 graduates of business shared with graduates importance of positive management and allied disciplines were awarded thinking and healthy competition. with laurels and degree certificates to mark completion of their studies. The graduating The Governor related importance of positive students were awarded with 10 gold medals and 36 thinking and healthy competition to survive in the merit certificates. competitive corporate world with the graduates. He hoped that the graduating students will also On this occasion, Mr. Muhammad Zubair, Governor comprehend the importance of managing time, of Sindh was the Chief Guest and Mr. Khalid Nawaz prioritising tasks and multitasking as result- Awan, President, TCS was the Keynote Speaker. oriented professionals.

While speaking on the occasion, Mr. Mohammad Mr. Khalid Nawaz Awan emphasised the need for Zubair highlighted education as a process that must technology to connect our financial, emotional and nurture students with rational thinking, wise intellectual capital towards sustainable businesses. decision-making and prudent reasoning to develop He advised graduates to acquire right set of skills their personality and character to make them noble and to enhance their prospects in concern fields.

21 UoP Signs MoU with PSQCA for Standardisation and Quality Assurance 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. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Muhammad Asif said that attaining the desired quality assurance in the The agreement states that both the parties shall academic programmes and making it up to the explore market oriented research and develop demands of the job market was priority of the projects and other activities in the area of common varsity. He said that accreditation of the University interest. The organisations will also share their programmes is being made for the purpose in order human and material resources including to add value to our degree. He further stated that instruments services and facilities for the purpose. accreditation of the UoP laboratory will also be To attain the set objectives, PSQCA will give initiated with the help of PSQCA under the representation to UoP experts and researchers in agreement. Technical Committees of PSQC and UoP will give representation to experts from PSQCA in their Engr. Khalid Siddiq said that PSQCA works under the advisory bodies. control of the Ministry of Science and Technology with an aim to set up standards in quality of Under the agreement, the UoP will create products. The MoU signing ceremony was followed standardisation, quality and Technology by one day Quality Assurance Gala in which 20 Management wing in the University and will provide industrial units of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa expertise to carry out studies in PSQCA. participated.

BNU Awards 384 Degrees at 12th Convocation The 12th Convocation of Beaconhouse National medal was awarded to Zunaira Arif of the BS (Hons.) University (BNU) was recently held at Tarogil Software Engineering programme while Nasim Campus, Raiwind Road, Lahore. Mr. Shahid Hafiz Hijazi gold medal was awarded to Muhammad Firas Kardar, Vice Chancellor presided over the ceremony Shams of the BA (Hons.) Journalism programme. while Mrs. Nasreen Mahmud Kasuri was the Chief Guest. A total of 384 graduates were awarded In recognition of the services of Prof. Salima Hashmi, degrees out of which 291 conferred Bachelor, 91 Mrs. Nasreen Mahmud Kasuri, the founding Dean of Masters and two doctoral degrees. the School of Visual Arts and Design at BNU conferred the title of Professor Emeritus on Twenty gold medals were awarded this year out of Professor Hashmi for her contribution to Art and which 15 recipients were girls. The Arfa Karim gold Design Education.

22 NUMS, AMC hold Symposium on Medical Education & Practice

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. consisted of poster presentations displaying The event was attended by Maj. Gen. (Retd) research work of AMC undergraduate students, Muhammad Aslam, Pro-Vice Chancellor NUMS, which were appreciated by participants of Maj. Gen. Saleem Ahmed Khan, Principal, AMC, Maj. symposium. Gen. Nigar Johar, Vice Principal, AMC, Educationists, faculty members of AMC and NUMS, Postgraduate This symposium served as a platform for bringing Residents, Post-Doctorate Researchers and final- together renowned Educationists and Physicians to year medical students. share their experience and latest developments in various fields of Medical Education and Medical In his inaugural speech, Lt. Gen. Syed Muhammad Practice. On this occasion, a Memorandum of Imran Majeed, Vice Chancellor NUMS emphasised Understanding (MoU) was signed between NUMS, upon need of a platform to contribute in addressing Amcolians Alumni Association (AAA) and the healthcare needs of the country. Association of Physicians of Pakistani Descent of North America (APPNA) which entails collaboration Dr. Shabbir Ahmed Lehri, President Pakistan Medical with regard to capacity building, knowledge sharing and Dental Council (PM&DC) said that need of hour by bringing together leading academicians from is to provide outcome based training to medical medical profession in North America and Pakistan graduates in Pakistan. The symposium also and assist in placements, if and when required. NUMS Conducts Awareness Session to Promote Integrity Quality Assurance (QA) Directorate at National Dignified Workplace. Ms. Noor Amna elaborated University of Medical Sciences (NUMS) recently and shared the terminologies related to the topic conducted an interactive Awareness Session on with the audience, the Laws pertaining to the issue Creating Dignified Workplace at NUMS’ and Anti-Harassment Policy laid down by HEC to be Professional Development Centre (PDC). Ms. Maliha complied by the universities all over Pakistan. Hussain, National Resource Person was invited to create awareness and impart trainings to maximise The audience that comprised all levels of NUMS adult learning and bring social change as the Secretariat Management and participants from the keynote speaker. constituent Army Medical College, Armed Forces Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Nursing, Ms. Noor Amna Malik, Director QA and Quality Rawalpindi and Armed Forces Institute of Pathology Enhancement Cell (QEC) NUMS, opened the session (AFIP) and Armed Forces Institute of Radiology and with a talk on Role of Quality Assurance in Creating Imaging (AFIRI).

23 5th Conference on Biological and Computational Sciences The Department of Biosciences, Capital University of Science and Technology recently organised the 5th 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 to solve real problems. The keynote talk was enhance a constructive dialogue and collaboration delivered by Dr. Yousaf Zafar. He talked about pros on themes relevant to Biological Sciences and to and cons of current technologies and how present latest research results in all areas. The biotechnology can play a role in solving problems conference included 149 participants and 32 faced by the society and humanity in general. authors for Oral and 13 Poster presenters from almost 20 different institutions from all over the The poster session also started in parallel, where Pakistan. more than 13 posters were displayed. The concluding ceremony was chaired by Dr. Dr. Masoom Yasinzai, in his inaugural address, Muhammad Abdul Qadir, Dean, Faculty of Health emphasised the need for inter-disciplinary research and Life Sciences, CUST. Workshop on Citation Management in PIFD Pakistan Institute of Fashion Design (PIFD) in joined this workshop. The participants were given a collaboration with Pakistan Scientific and comprehensive briefing about Mendeley, value of Technological Information Centre (PASTIC) and citation, different citation styles and citation Pakistan Librarians Welfare Organisation (PLWO) management. recently conducted one day hands on training workshop on Mendeley, which is a Citation The participants of the training workshop were Management Software. taught skills related to the Mendeley which is one of the leading softwares for managing citation in the The faculty members from PIFD, researchers and present age of information and communication professionals from other academic institutions technology.

24 Seminar on Intellectual Property Rights at PAF-KIET 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 He also explained what measures IPO, Pakistan is highlighted their importance and what actions are taking to secure rights of researchers and to be taken by an individual to protect his/her innovators. Ms. Zobia Hassan from IPO, Pakistan innovative work. explained in detail the procedure of filing patents. 1962 Students Awarded Degrees in UoK 28th Convocation

As many as 1962 students were awarded with one of the largest convocations of the country. He degrees during 28th Convocation of University of said that UoK is one of the most distinguished Karachi (UoK) held recently at the campus’ Valika academic institutions of the country and has Ground where 187 gold medals were also awarded remained amongst top priorities of the federal to the students who secured first position in their government. respective departments. While addressing the convocation, Dr. Muhammad Speaking on the occasion, Governor Sindh Ajmal Khan, the Vice Chancellor UoK said that Muhammad Zubair congratulated the graduating universities are the seats of learning where students, faculty and the Vice Chancellor for holding knowledge is not only created but also dispensed. Isra University holds 15th Convocation The Isra University recently conferred degrees upon students were also conferred upon a PhD degree in 453 students belonging to various disciplines Computer and Management Sciences. during its 15th Convocation. Five students were awarded gold medals and nine others were Dr. Asadullah Kazi, Chancellor, Isra University presented silver medals for their outstanding stressed on students to uphold image of our results. country, by letting the world know that we are a peaceful nation. As many as 254 students received Bachelors degrees in Medical Sciences, Dentistry, Nursing and On this occasion, Dr. Ghulamqadir Kazi, Vice Physical Therapy whereas 27 postgraduate degrees Chancellor, Isra University felicitated the students were awarded in different programmes of Medical and said that the main purpose of such events is to and Allied Medical Sciences. Apart from this, three honour those who have performed meritoriously.

25 PIEAS Inked DoU on Tele-Medical Education 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 Choudhary, on behalf of Hussain Ebrahim Jamal (HEJ) the occasion as Chief Guest. He appreciated the Research Institute of Chemistry signed the DoU. importance of long distance learning through tele- education resources. Moreover, HEJ Research Institute of Chemistry, a public-sector institute for Higher Education would Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman, HEC on behalf of additionally be responsible to arrange online video PERN, Dr. Masroor Ikram, Director Academics on conferencing lecture under Virtual Education Project behalf of PIEAS; and Dr. Muhammad Iqbal Pakistan according to the DoU. Recognition of Academic Performance Ceremony Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied the basis of their academic performances in the Science (PIEAS), Islamabad also organised a cash academic year 2016-17. Mr. Solehria, encouraged award ceremony to recognise academic students and congratulated them for being high performance of its students who are enrolled in BS performers in their respective semesters. programmes at PIEAS Auditorium. The criterion for PIEAS BS Cash Award is to obtain Maj. Gen. (Retd.) Munawar Ahmed Solehria, an overall CGPA of three or more on the scale of four Member Admin., Pakistan Atomic Energy with no repeated or failed courses and to have Commission, Dr. Nasir Majeed Mirza, Rector PIEAS, attained 1st, 2nd, or 3rd positions on the basis of and Dr. Mansoor Hameed Inayat, Pro-Rector PIEAS aggregate GPA of two semesters in an academic graced the occasion. year for first three years.

Dr. Anila Usman, Controller of Examinations, PIEAS, Twenty-eight cash prizes were distributed among presented summary of the students’ performance the top three position holders of the three BS and the cash awards were given to top three BS programmes for the sessions 2014-18, 2015-19 students of Electrical Engineering (BSEE), and 2016-20, amounting to Rs. 20,000 for 1st Mechanical Engineering (BSME), and Computer position holders, Rs. 15,000 for 2nd position holders and Information Sciences (BSCIS) programmes on and Rs. 10,000 for 3rd position holders.

26 Kenyan High Commissioner Aims to Collaborate in Livestock Research

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. Central Laboratory Complex (CLC), Milk Plant, Pet Breeding and Training Centre, Ostrich and The Vice Chancellor briefed the Kenyan delegation Indigenous Poultry Farm, Dairy Animal Training and on UVAS academic, research, extension in dairy Research Centre, Sheep and Goat Research Centre, advisory services, clinical and disease diagnostic Poultry Broiler Farm, clinics and Buffalo Research facilities, development projects, vaccine production, Institute. various training programmes, national and international linkages, etc. The Kenyan High Commissioner said that Pakistan and Kenya have close relations and Kenya wants to Later, the Kenyan delegations visited various further promote these ties in all sectors, especially departments of Ravi Campus Pattoki including livestock, research and education. BU Organises Research Excellence Course An eight-Week Research Excellence Course was participants from industry and academia. Out of recently conducted at Bahria University, (BU) which 29 participants successfully completed the Islamabad. Dr. Sheikh Zahoor Sarwar, Senior course. Associate Professor in collaboration with Leadership Development Centre (LED) organised The participants were given training on art of and conducted the course. conducting research in organisational settings and in academia. Latest research based softwares Trainers from Bahria University, University of including ZOTERO, NVIVO, SPSS, AMOS, SMART Arizona USA, Manchester Metropolitan University PLS, Qualtircs, Endnote, Ref Works, Evernote, UK, London School of Economics UK, and Gallop TURNITIN and many others were communicated International Organisation imparted training to the with the help of hands on training in computer participants. The course was registered by 35 laboratory. Lead Auditor Course at IBA Karachi In order to develop a core team of lead auditors, end of 4th day, a two-hour exam was conducted to Quality Enhancement Cell, (QEC) IBA Karachi evaluate learning level of participants. recently organised a four day IRCA/LRQA Certified ISO 9001:2015 QMS Lead Auditor Course for its In the closing session, Dr. Shahid Raza Mir, Director head of functional departments and staff members. QEC encouraged them to implement it in their respective departments. In the end, certificates of The course was based on an interactive session that attendance were distributed amongst the helped boost motivation and participation. At the participants.

27 HEC Scholar Edits Book on Biocomposites Dr. Asim Shahzad, HEC Scholar edited a book The book contains 21 chapters from leading experts entitled Biocomposites: Properties, Performance of the world with various backgrounds and and Applications which has recently been published expertise. Apart from review articles, the book also from USA. contains chapters on recent developments in this field. A distinguishing feature of this book is the Biocomposites are exciting materials which have emphasis on the uses of these materials in experienced a renaissance in the 21st century in biomedical applications. response to the societal concerns regarding global warming and environmental pollution, shifting the Dr. Asim Shahzad availed HEC Overseas Scholarship focus towards materials made from renewable, from 2005-2009 at Swansea University, UK. He biodegradable and recyclable resources. As a completed his PhD research on Mechanical consequence, research and development of these Properties of Biocomposites. He is the author of six materials has increased in recent years which is chapters in edited books and 20 conference papers, reflected in their increasing application in industries. published by Elsevier, Wiley and Springer.

Scholar Authors Book on Biopolymers Dr. Farzana Khan Perveen, Chairperson and dedicated for advancement and engineering in Associate Professor, Department of Zoology, biopolymers for personal protective garments, Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University (SBBU), equipments, membrane separation processes, Sheringal, Upper Dir authored a book entitled purifications, and new generation of high- Recent Advances in Biopolymers. performance biomaterials.

The book contains 10 chapters which are divided A new numerical-cum-graphical method called into 3 sections. Section A covers synthesis of TI2BioP (Topological Indices to BioPolymers) has biopolymers while Section B describes applications been developed to estimate topological indices of biopolymers in biomedical, antimicrobial, (TIs) from two-dimensional (2D) graphical industrial, nanotechnology, laser-based thin films, approaches for the natural biopolymers DNA, RNA, and regenerative medicines and Section C is and proteins.

SALU Organises Workshop on Research Methodology 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 faced by young scholars. Keeping this notion in English with particular focus on research mind, HEC organised this programme to solve methodology. Research Methodology is a big issue research related issues.

28 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 CAUTIONED to immediately stop their operations, which are functioning.

Without prior approval/ NOC of HEC OR Have opened illegal campuses OR Offering foreign collaborative degree programmes without HEC NOC

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.

For details visit www.hec.gov.pk/site/HEIs

Director General (Accreditation & Attestation) Higher Education Commission, Sector H-9, Islamabad.

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