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January/February 2015

Accreditation Matters ! Higher Education Commission & Accreditation p -6 Chairman HEC Calls on CM KPK Councils Agree p -7 Symposium on Curriculum to Enhance Development in Higher Education Coordination nd p- 2 NBEAC p- 9 Deans & Directors Conference 4 Table of Contents Prize distribution for National Essay 4 Accreditation Councils and HEC Agree to 2 Competition Enhance Coordination 6 Chairman HEC Calls on CM KPK

6 Turnitin Usage in 's Universities Results in Phenomenal Decrease Symposium on Curriculum 8 HEC & IST Sign MoU for Promoting Development in Entrepreneurship among Youth 7 Higher Education nd 9 2 NBEAC Deans & Directors Conference 2015

ORICs Managers attend Training in Australia HEC, British 12 and Thailand Council to Increase Investment in 11 Research for 16 Promotion of Social Sciences Research Higher Education among HEC's Top Priorities: Chairman HEC

18 Lecture on American Education System News & Views is published every 19 HEC Scholar holds Solo Painting Exhibition month. No part of this publication in France may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission of 20 NCRC Reviews Curricula of Agricultural the publisher. Chemistry & Plant Protection

The views expressed by authors in th 22 11 Graduation Ceremony at National the articles is their sole responsibility Defence University and not of HEC. The Commission would like to thank all the 26 UoK Symposium on Molecular Medicine and institutions and individuals who Drug Research contributed information and photographs for this Magazine. 29 DUHS Scientists Receive Training on Biosafety

31 International Conference on Space

Editor Aayesha Ikram Graphic Designer Raja Ahmad Nadeem Publisher: Reporter Higher Education Waseem Khaliqdad Commission, Pakistan News & Views

Prize distribution for National Essay Competition

Youth has an important role in eradicating extremism from society: Irfan Siddiqui Mr. Irfan Siddiqui, Special Assistant to the Prime As many as 458 essays were received from all over Minister on National Affairs has advised the youth the country, which were evaluated by the to become a productive member of the society experts/judges and 60 position holders in the and contribute in the development of their category of and English were given homeland. He stressed on the significance of certificates and cash prizes in the five regions at education for eradicating extremist and negative college and university level. attitudes prevalent in our society. The Essays of position holders from all the regions He was speaking as chief guest at the prize were further evaluated in HEC at national level. distribution ceremony for the National Essay After evaluation by the judges, six students were Competition held in connection with the selected from all over the country for 1st, 2nd and Independence Day Celebrations. Prof. Dr. Mukhtar 3rd position in the Category of Urdu and English. Ahmed, Chairman, Higher Education Commission Their essays were evaluated keeping in view the, (HEC) and Dr. Mansoor Akbar Kundi, Acting creativity, structure, grammar, length and Executive Director HEC were also present at the expression. For recognition, appreciation and ceremony held at HEC Secretariat, . encouragement of the student they were given cash prizes of Rs. 100000, 75000, and 50000 at On the directive of the Prime Minister, while national level in both the categories. celebrating 67th Independence Day, HEC organized the National Essay Competition in five Regions i.e Mr. Siddiqui underlined the need to root out the Sindh, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab menace of extremism from the society, adding and Federal Area. The programme was advertised that education is the only tool that can eradicate with the theme “Celebrate the Freedom with extremist attitudes. Congratulating the winners Words”. and participants of the nationwide competition,

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he urged them to continue writing and use their analytical ability of the students but it also pen to bring the much desired change in the inculcates deeper knowledge of the socio- Pakistani society. economic and political issues of the country. “You also need to show to the world that our nation He appreciated the role of Higher Education especially youth is full of potential and is united to Commission for undertaking initiatives and face challenges faced by this country.” providing excellent platform to youth for enhancing their skills and developing a strong He elaborated different initiatives of HEC for human resource in the country. He reiterated the human resource development as well as Government's resolve to develop the education strengthening physical and technological sector and make quality education available infrastructure of the higher learning institutions. across the country. He shared with the audience how successfully HEC, with the support of the Government, has Prof. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed said that such been executing two important components of the competitions are helpful not only for enhancing Prime Minister Youth Scheme including Laptop the writing skills, language proficiency and Scheme and the Fee Reimbursement Scheme.

Prize Distribution Ceremonies held at Provincial Level

Position holders of National Essay Competition 2014 along Mrs. Farah Hamid, Secretary ST&IT, with Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan, Provincial Minister for Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Education & Literacy, and Dr. Mansoor Akbar Kundi, distributed prizes among winners at a Executive Director HEC. ceremony held in Peshawar.

Dr. Faizullah Abbasi, Vice Chancellor, Dawood University of and Technology (DUET), Karachi Mr. Ghulam Muhamamd Sabir, Secretary, was chief guest at Higher and Technical Education, Government prize distribution ceremony held in Karachi. Dr. Jaffar of Balochsitan, was chief guest in the prize Ahmad, Director, Pakistan Study Centre, University of distribution ceremony held at Quetta. Karachi was the guest of honor at the occasion.

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Ensuring Quality of Higher Education Accreditation Councils and HEC Agree to Enhance Coordination

The two-day activity was aimed at gathering all the accreditation councils of the country under one roof and discuss challenges faced by HEC and these councils as well as formulate a joint strategy to ensure accreditation process in a more effective manner, and align their objectives with the Government's Vision 2025 The fifth meeting of country's The Councils whose Chairmen, Accreditation Council (NAEAC), Accreditation Councils was Presidents and Registrars National Computing Education held at Higher Education attended the meeting included Accreditation Council (NCEAC), Commission (HEC) Islamabad Pakistan Bar Council (PBC), and National Business to discuss how the process of Pakistan Council for Architects Education Accreditation accreditation could be and Town Planners (PCATP), Council (NBEAC). revamped and strengthened Pakistan Engineering Council keeping in view the expansion (PEC), Pakistan Medical and Accreditation Councils are of higher education sector, and Dental Council (PMDC), responsible for Programme learning from international Pakistan Nursing Council (PNC), Accreditation at undergraduate best practices in the Pharmacy Council of Pakistan level across the country in the accreditation process. (PCP), Pakistan Veterinary respective subjects with Medical Council (PVMC), complete autonomy in terms of Prof. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, National Council for implementation under policy Chairman HEC chaired and Homoeopathy (NCH), National guidelines of HEC, whereas HEC inaugurated the meeting, Accreditation Council for is responsible for Institutional organized by the Quality Teachers Education (NACTE), Accreditation as per its Act. Assurance Agency (QAA) HEC. National Agricultural Education The two-day activity was aimed

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at gathering all the conferences, publishing the impact of zero visits upon accreditation councils of the programme accreditation institutional and programme country under one roof and reports on Councils' websites, accreditation. discuss challenges faced by publicity of QAA's and Councils' HEC and these councils as well policies for parents/students It was emphasized that zero as formulate a joint strategy to alerts. visits should not be taken as a ensure accreditation process in go-ahead signal for launching a more effective manner, and All the accreditation councils any Programme but will be align their objectives with the showed full confidence in the considered as Gap Analysis Government's Vision 2025, policies of HEC for ensuring visit. which has put special emphasis quality at all levels in the on ensuring quality of higher higher education sector. It was Any University/Degree education through Programme decided that meeting of heads Awarding Institution will be as well as Institutional of all accreditation councils will allowed to launch a accreditation. be held at least once a year Programme only after meeting while the Sub-Committee will all the requirements. HEC will Speaking to the extend full support participants, the to all Councils in Chairman HEC Accreditation Councils are developing their appreciated role of responsible for Programme Programme all the accreditation Evaluators capacity councils for their Accreditation at undergraduate level by providing them efforts to streamline across the country in the respective relevant trainings programmes in the and capacity respective fields. He subjects with complete autonomy in building workshops hoped that close terms of implementation under policy on a regular basis. coordination among these councils and guidelines of HEC, whereas HEC is It was also agreed HEC will ensure responsible for Institutional that each quality at all levels accreditation council of the higher Accreditation as per its Act. will hold national as education sector. well as international meet twice a year to discuss conferences in their respective On first day of the meeting, progress on the agreed issues areas to bring stakeholders on each Council presented its and further strengthen one platform as well as learn functions and future plans and coordination between HEC and from international practices. shared their good practices. the accreditation councils. Another important decision The second day focused on Most of these accreditation was holding of national agenda items like councils have already signed conference by HEC to be standardization of MoUs with HEC for revamping attended by all the accreditation process, and strengthening process of accreditation councils and implementation of effective accreditation of programmes in Quality Enhancement Cells communication strategy the respective disciplines, (QECs) of the country, bring all between HEC, Councils and while the remaining councils stakeholders, responsible for universities/ Degree Awarding agreed to sign MoUs on quality of higher education, on Institutions (DAIs), significance priority. one platform so that they align of MoU, training for evaluators their objectives and work in of the Councils, organization of Another important issue close coordination. national and international discussed in the meeting was

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Chairman HEC Calls on CM KPK Prof. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman Higher education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan recently called on Mr. Pervaiz Khattak, Chief Minister, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and apprised him of various HEC's initiatives for development of higher education sector of the country.

Dr. Mansoor Akbar Kundi, Director, HEC Regional Centre, of his Government for Executive Director, HEC, Peshawar were also present. retaining HEC as a Federal Secretary, Technical Education body. The Chairman HEC also KPK, Additional Secretary, The Chief Minister shared HEC's plans to Higher Education KPK, Mr. appreciated the achievements establish a university or its Awais Ahmed, DG (A&C) HEC of HEC during the last decade campus in every district of the and Mr. Zaheer Ahmed Awan, and assured complete support country.

Plagiarism Cases Turnitin Usage in Pakistan's Universities Results in Phenomenal Decrease A recent report issued by the bought the Turnitin License in documents checked for iParadigms, a leading June 2009. HEC has been making originality went up to over international provider of cloud- effort to prevent plagiarism 6,00,000 while level of based educational technologies through Implementation of unoriginal writing has to prevent plagiarism, verify Plagiarism Policy and use of decreased to 18. 7 %, which is content, and evaluate written Turnitin at universities. Initially, a phenomenal decline. work, shows that increase in 60 public sector universities usage of Turnitin has were given access in 2009 while Using Turnitin for originality considerably decreased the at present 112 higher education checking is a proven method level of plagiarized research in institutions are availing this for reducing unoriginal Pakistan's higher education facility. research work. A recent study institutions. shows that institutions In 2009-10, the level of worldwide, using Turnitin for Turnitin software was created unoriginal writing in Pakistani originality, reduce unoriginal and launched by iParadigms in universities was 34.5 % among writing by 33 per cent with 1997. It is an Internet-based 42,000 documents including some institutions seeing plagiarism-prevention service research papers, thesis, reduction of up to 85 per cent. to check the unoriginal work. assignments at undergraduate, The more broadly the Turnitin The Higher Education graduate as well as doctoral level is used, the greater the Commission (HEC) of Pakistan while in 2013-14, the number of reduction.

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Symposium on Curriculum Development in Higher Education

Two days long national symposium on symposium was aimed at placing higher education “Curriculum Development in Higher Education” in its local milieu from the international context was held at Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU), that is kept in view when transplanting Islamabad. The symposium, organized by the educational practices, identifying and filling the Academics Division of Higher Education gaps that currently exist in higher education Commission (HEC), was aimed at brainstorming curriculum planning, responding to needs of the the most suitable procedure to be adopted as a society and related industries, fulfilling the guideline for undertaking curriculum revision and curriculum development needs with regards to development at undergraduate and graduate coordination and alignment, improving horizontal levels. Theme of the symposium was “Today's and vertical relationship in curriculum, and Curriculum Tomorrow's Nation”. revising the curriculum on regular bases for continuous improvement. Engr. Mian Muhammad Baligh ur Rehman, Minister of State for Federal Education and Speaking at the occasion, the Minister said that Professional Training was the chief guest in the curriculum is one of the most important inauguration ceremony. Prof. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, components of the education system and Chairman HEC, Dr. Shahid Siddiqui, Vice appreciated the Higher Education Commission for Chancellor AIOU, Dr. Mansoor Akbar Kundi, taking well-timed initiative to review the process Executive Director HEC, Dr. Mahmood-ul-Hassan of curriculum development and revision. He said Butt, former VC of AIOU as a keynote speaker as that timely revision of curriculum was imperative well as Vice Chancellors of different local for assuring quality of education and setting high universities were also present. standards for the education sector. He shared with the audience the establishment of National The experts, invited from relevant fields in Curriculum Council, which has representation of academia as well as industry, reviewed current all regions of the country and is aimed at setting practices of curriculum development in higher minimum criteria for curricula from KG to Grade- education and had focus group discussions to 12. He also added that an Inter-Provincial recommend strategies for improving the current Education Ministers Conference was held recently practices of curriculum development. The in Islamabad which was attended by education

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ministers and secretaries from all provinces, FATA, ensure that curricula taught at higher learning AJK and Gilgit Baltistan. "The response from all institutions fulfills the requirement of our society, regions of the country was very positive and the industry as well as government's policy making; participants discussed performance of the and to make national curricula at par with education sector and discussed future plan of international standards” Dr. Mukhtar said. action for the promotion of the education sector." In concluding session of the symposium, after The Chairman HEC elaborated the role of group presentations, Mr. Fida Hussain, Director erstwhile University Grants Commission and HEC, General Academics, HEC briefed the audience since its inception in 2002, for curriculum revision. about the group recommendations and said that a He said that though HEC's Curriculum Revision comprehensive report comprising solid Committees in different disciplines have been recommendations of the groups, for revamping meeting regularly to review curricula of respective the present curriculum development and review subjects but a need was felt to gather experts and process at HEC, will be finalized soon and evaluate the review process itself. “The basic implemented at the national level. He also concept of holding this symposium is to revamp appreciated the efforts made by group members, the curriculum review process and seek guidance group mediators and the officers/officials of from experts on how current practices of Curriculum/Academics Division in making the curriculum review may be further improved and event successful.

HEC & IST Sign MoU for Promoting Entrepreneurship The Research and Development Division, HEC and Institute of Space Technology (IST) have signed an MoU for rolling out “Start and Improve Your Business” Module in Pakistan. Prof. Dr. Tariq Mahmood, Adviser (R&D) HEC and Dr. Zafar M. Khan, Director collaboration with ILO is establishment/strengthening General (ORIC) IST signed the conducting a series of capacity of 5-7 micro, small and agreement at HEC Secretariat, building programmes for medium size enterprises. Islamabad. Fostering Business Development Service Training of entrepreneurs will entrepreneurship for men and Provider staff of 10 be conducted in universities' women is vital not only for universities. As per the MoU, own training venues, with Pakistan's economic growth IST officers, after having been technical guidance from ILO but also for reaping utmost trained as Master Trainers, will and HEC. benefits from our bulging cascade the training on youth population that is “Generate Your business Idea”, Integrating business or approximately 60 % of the total “Start Your Business” and entrepreneurship education population. “Improve your Business” with conventional discipline of modules for graduates, teaching will result into As an effort to enable the potential entrepreneurs and cultivating a culture of universities to play their part nascent startups. It is expected entrepreneurship in youth and not just as degree awarding that each training cycle will will enable the aspirant institutions but for socio- result in at least 10-12 doable entrepreneurs to launch economic growth, HEC, in business plans and successful businesses.

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Building Bridges and Fostering Collaborations in Business Education 2nd NBEAC DEANS & DIRECTORS CONFERENCE 2015

The National Business The strategic conference Nadeem, Fast School of Education Accreditation provided a platform for the Management, Dr. Syed Zahoor Council (NBEAC) and Institute participants to share their Hassan, LUMS, Dr. Muhammad of Business Administration experiences in establishing Mohsin, Institute of (IBA), Karachi organized the linkages and fruitful Management Sciences 2nd Deans and Directors contributions made to the Peshawar, Dr. Ehsan ul Haq, Conference entitled “Building development of business Suleman Dawood School of Bridges, Fostering education, industry and Business LUMS, Mr. Talib Karim, Collaborations in Business economy. IoBM, and Dr. Shaukat Brah, Ex- Education”. Dean KSBL and many others. Prominent speakers from The conference was a venue around the globe and country Speaking at the inaugural for experience sharing, based shared stimulating ideas. session, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed on discussions and Challenges faced by business appreciated the efforts of perspectives of business school institutions in establishing and NBEAC and IBA in organizing heads, industry professionals promoting linkages with other the conference and bringing and entrepreneurs. universities, local and national industry and academia on one businesses, family and public platform and discussing NBEAC, which was established corporate and SMEs at both challenges faced by the by the Higher Education national as well as business education community Commission (HEC) of Pakistan international level were also in Pakistan. He also launched in 2007 to assure quality in addressed. the first Business Education business education degree Magazine of NBEAC programmes, is a national level Eminent participants included “BizInsight”. accrediting authority to Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman organize and carry out HEC, Dr. Ishrat Husain, Director Dr. Hasan Sohaib Murad said comprehensive programme of IBA, Dr. Hasan Sohaib Murad, that NBEAC is functioning as an accreditation. Chairman NBEAC, Dr. Sadia accrediting authority to

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facilitate and enhance quality of business education in the country. He informed the audience that this year 105 registered business schools are participating in the NBEAC Deans and Directors Conference as compared to 86 participants in the previous conference.

Dr. Ishrat Husain said that the alliance between NBEAC and The session entitled The day two of the conference IBA will play an important role “Experience of International focused on ways to promote in enhancing quality of Linkages” was chaired by Dr. research collaborations and business education in Pakistan. Muhammad Mohsin. He said commercialization. that international linkages with “It is said that in Pakistan foreign institutions and bodies Speaking on the topic of beautiful plans are made but were of greatest importance. “Revamping Business they are never executed but Programmes in Collaboration IBA firmly believes in bringing Dr. Ehsan ul Haq said that one with the Business Industry”, those plans to life and this of the reasons LUMS has Dr. Shaukat Brah said, “We NBEAC incentive is a step to excelled is because it had need visionary leaders, who ensuring that quality education foreign associations in form of will act as effective agents of is being imparted to the its curriculum and in terms of it change and are capable of students of Pakistan”, he said. faculty. The speakers were taking ownership of unanimous that international organizations. We need to The session on “Academia and linkages were crucial but teach our students curricula Corporate Linkages” was Pakistani institutions faced that are attuned to local chaired by Dr. Sadia Nadeem. problems getting foreign business environment and She emphasized that to form students as exchange students local economy.” significant linkages between and foreign faculty to teach in academia and the corporate Pakistan as people were fearful The conference also touched world, more academics need to of the law and order situation. upon the Corporate Social go and venture into the Responsibility and how corporate world as just sending Another session on important it is for businesses out students is not enough to “Developing Entrepreneurship” to give back to the society so ensure cooperation and was chaired by Mr. Talib Karim, that the community benefits linkages between the two who addressed the importance and the country flourishes. diverse worlds. of developing an entrepreneurial mindset in Closing the ceremony, Dr. Dr. Syed Zahoor Hassan stated Pakistan. Speakers emphasized Mansoor Akbar Kundi, that key initiatives had been that the spirit of Executive Director, HEC taken by different institutions entrepreneurship was of congratulated NBEAC and IBA to engage with the corporate utmost importance for the for holding the conference, industry and it should be local scenario as it will help adding it was so important to noticed that every institution provide jobs, which are dire dilate on these issues as “the had their own creative way to need for the country and the nations are built and engage with the industry. economy. destroyed in the classroom.”

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HEC, British Council to Increase Investment in Research for Higher Education Mr. Ciarán Devane, the new Chief Executive Officer of the British Council visited Higher Education Commission (HEC), Pakistan recently to participate in the orientation event “The UK and Pakistan: Increasing Investment in Research for Higher Education.” The programme aimed to provide an opportunity to beneficiaries universities. Some of the He said that the universities of the HEC-British Council programmes in which HEC and can play a very important role collaborative education and British Council have in stimulating and contributing research initiatives to meet the cooperated include Research to innovation and social and new CEO and benefit from his Partnerships, Leadership, economic growth of any international experience and Knowledge Exchange, Capacity country. proficiency. Building of Senior Management of Higher This role is in addition to core Prof. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Education Sector in Strategic missions of teaching and Chairman HEC, Mr. Peter Management, Transnational research, complimenting and Upton, Country Director, British Education, Quality Assurance enhancing these. “It is very Council Pakistan and Dr. for Pakistani HEIs, Scholarships, promising to see that the Mansoor Akbar Kundi, Acting Policy Dialogues, Talented has Executive Director were also Research Exchange, Split-site expanding access to higher present, besides senior and PhDs, and Transforming English education and has worked junior level researchers from Language Skills for Higher substantially at policy level to Pakistan's higher education Education. improve scientific research sector. British Council has been activities in Pakistan. It is not working with HEC Pakistan Speaking at the occasion, Mr. simply about since 2004 with the launch of Devane said, “I am delighted to commercialization of science joint Higher Education Links meet the academic and through creation of spin offs, programme and later on with researcher community of licenses etc. It is so Phase II of the same Pakistan. I am grateful to HEC encouraging to see how British programme in 2006. for inviting me to speak and to Council Pakistan and HEC have meet so many partners doing worked together to make the The programme has been such good work together to Pakistani universities as 21st funded by the HEC and strengthen research and higher century universities.” managed by the British Council education in Pakistan. Its really in Pakistan. To date, the British impressive to see the great Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed said that Council has built 50 research work presented by senior the HEC and British Council and capacity-building links researchers which shows how relationship has helped to between higher education you are bringing together some strengthen Pakistan and UK instituions of Pakistani and UK. most important sectors of the links, raise the profile of the So far, over 160 partnerships society, including academics, Pakistan-UK partnerships as under various schemes have industry, students, media, and innovative and high-quality been funded in Pakistani civil society.” through demonstrating how

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researchers and academicians encourage multi-disciplinary contributed to policy can collaborate effectively, research, teaching dialogues/ global education significantly contribute to the collaboration and/or dialogues that have been held internationalisation of the knowledge transfer. It is across the South Asia region, institutions, contribute to pertinent to mention here that 78550 researchers and 97767 capacity building in HEIs, 98% of all university vice- students were involved in facilitate and build effective chancellors in Pakistan have partnerships, in addition to 688 and sustainable partnerships attended leadership training exchange visits from UK to based on research and/or programmes in the UK, 76% of Pakistan and vice-versa took teaching agendas, and all current vice-chancellors place.

Strengthening ORICs in Universities ORICs Managers attend Training in Australia and Thailand A 12-day training cum exposure visit programme at Australia and Thailand was organized by the Higher Education Commission, under Tertiary Education Support Programme on “Managing and Facilitating Research in HEIs” for Managers of the Offices of Research Innovation and The training provided an selection of innovation for IP Commercialization (ORICs). The opportunity of international and commercialization. training was conducted by the exposure to the participants AIT Extension Bangkok as who visited seven advanced At the concluding event of facilitating body. Twenty one universities of Australia certificate distribution, participants from different including University of Pakistan's High Commissioner universities across the country Queensland, University of New to Australia in Canberra, Ms. participated. South Wales, Griffith University Naela Chohan appreciated the and University of Sydney in role and initiatives of HEC not The key objectives of the tour order to see their research only for establishing ORICs in were to strengthen capacity of culture and to understand universities but also for ORICs by enabling ORICs' latest practices to manage strengthening capacity of Managers to successfully research and development ORICs by extending administer different activities activities. international exposure of the covering a variety of areas of advanced practices to research promotion, The main focus of interests participants and broadening administration and were understanding working of their horizon. She emphasized commercialization so as to their research offices, to see the need to cascade learning in effectively provide strategic their research policies, respective universities, and and operational support to the understanding procedure and urged the participants to play research activities and requirements for funding an effective role in the progress programmes in their respective research projects, transfer of IP and socio-economic institutions. rights and royalties, and development of the country.

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Chairman HEC Visits LUMHS Prof. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman, Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan along with Dr. Raza Bhatti, Member (HRD) HEC and Mr. Naveed Hussain Shah Tirmazi Director (Monitoring and Evaluation) HEC visited Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences (LUMHS), Jamshoro.

Prof. Dr. Noshad A. Shaikh, Vice Chancellor LUMHS, briefed the Chairman about various HEC funded and university owned projects which were highly acknowledged.

Prof. Dr. Aneela Atta Ur Rahman, Dean, Faculty of Community Medicine and Public Health Sciences, LUMHS presented a concept of establishing Institute of Community Health Sciences at LUMHS, the project was thoroughly discussed and it was agreed in principle that the PC-1 in this Later on, Dr. Mukhtar inaugurated LUMHS regard will be submitted to HEC. Community Health FM Radio established by the Faculty of Community Medicine and Public Health The Chairman HEC granted five million rupees to Sciences. He appreciated efforts for raising the Faculty of Community Medicine and Public general health awareness. The HEC delegation Health Sciences for establishing Health also paid a visit to Minimal Invasive Surgery Unit Management Information System (HMIS) Centre. and state-of-the-art Skill labs of LUMHS. Evaluation Committee of ISP Meets at HEC The 9th Meeting of the Technical Evaluation evaluation/scrutiny of proposals for strengthening Committee of Institutional Strengthening and up-gradation of laboratories and libraries Programme (ISP) was held at HEC Islamabad received from public sector universities and recently. Dr. Mansoor Akbar Khan Kundi, Executive degree awarding institutions for grant of funding Director HEC, chaired the meeting, which was up to Rs. 2 Million by the Higher Education attended by Ch. Muhammad Nazir, Director Commission. General, Department of Libraries, Dr. Aysha A total of 43 proposals were received for funding Khalique, Head, School of , National from various public sector universities, campuses University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Mr. and degree awarding institutions. The Committee Fida Hussain, Director General, Academics HEC, evaluated all proposals thoroughly and Mr. Ejaz Hussain, Director General, Finance & recommended 24 proposal for funding up to 40 Planning HEC, Mr. Liaqat Hussain, Director Audit million under the scheme. HEC and Dr. Muhammad Tahir Ali Shah, Deputy Director Academics HEC. Furthermore, it was decided that physical verification will be done by HEC from time to Mr. Fida Hussain apprised the members about the time, of those institutions to whom the grant has previous meetings of the Committee. He informed been released under the Institutional them that the basic function of TEC-ISP is Strengthening Programme.

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MUET holds IMTIC 2015 The Mehran University of Engineering and Technology (MUET), Jamshoro recently organized 4th International Multi Topic Conference (IMTIC '15) with the support of Higher Education Commission (HEC), Pakistan, Technical wide spectrum of international Limerick, Ireland discussed the Collaboration of European experts to facilitate promotion role of assistive technology (AT) Union Erasmus Mundus INTACT of knowledge transfer. and to support students accessing and LEADERS, Centre for collaboration. and participating in education. Telecommunication A Perspective of the Networks Infrastructure (CTIF), Alborg Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed in his of Future and Smart Cities University, Denmark, and address said it is a golden era were presented by the Prof. Dr. University of Umm Al- Qura, of the country that 163 Luis Manuel Correia, of Makkah, Saudi Arabia. Prof. Dr. universities are imparting Department of Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman, higher education in the public Telecommunication Higher Education Commission and private sectors and the Engineering, INOV-INESC (HEC) was the chief guest on number is still increasing. He Institute, Portugal. Dr. Florin the occasion. said that the conference will Popentiu Vlãdicescu, help in disseminating latest Department of Software In his opening overview, Prof. developments, research and Engineering/ UNESCO Chair at B. S. Chowdhry, chief organizer market trends to students, University "Politehnica" of of event and Dean FEECE, professionals, practitioners and Bucharest, Romania, presented MUET mentioned that IMTIC academicians. Earlier, the several aspects of software provides a forum for technical Chairman inaugurated the design methodologies in order exchange among researchers Mehran University Teachers to produce high quality from academia and industries and Students Centre. He was software. in various emerging fields of accompanied by Dr. Ghulam Computing, Wireless Raza Bhatti, Member (HRD) In the second day of Communication, Signal HEC. conference, Poster session was Processing, Speech and Pattern inaugurated by the IEEEP Recognition, Computer Prof. Hermann de Meer, Chair President Engr Mohsin M Syed. Systems and Networks, of Computer Networks and He praised the efforts of Wireless Sensor Networks, Computer Communications, students for creating excellent Neural Networks and Control University of Passau, Germany, ideas in their poster session in Systems, Power Electronics, gave his keynote on IT the diversified areas of Energy Energy Management, Challenges of an Intelligent Management, Internet of Nanotechnology, spanning Management of Energy Things, Wireless Sensor across seven tracks.” Systems. Prof. Dr. Seshadri, Networks, smart cities, and so Department of Systems on. Also, he attended several Prof. Dr. M. A. Uqaili, Vice Engineering, University of Guest speakers presentations Chancellor MUET in his Arkansas, USA talked about on “Characterization and welcome address thanked how Social Networks Meet Influence of Titanium Dioxide Chairman HEC for his support Mobile Multimedia Internet. Dr Via Ultrasonic Process for Dye and inaugurating the ICT Ian Grout of the Department of Sensitized Photovoltaic Solar Flagship event. He said that Electronic and Computer Cell”, “Global Trends in ROV'S IMTIC'15 brings together a Engineering at the University of Development and

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Applications”, “Internet of steering committee members SUPARCO Maj. Gen (R) Ahmed Things: From R&D to Startups”, are from Tech developed Bilal was the Chief Guest. In “Operational Excellence in countries. Initially there were his address, he highlighted the Clean Power Generation at more than 400 submissions significance of University- Minimum Cost and Utmost through EasyChair Conference Industry interaction by Reliable Through Fuel Cell system. fostering a problem-solving System at Small Foot Print of approach that encourages Installation” and so on. Dr. On the occasion of concluding researchers to work together Faisal Karim Shaikh, Chair TPC ceremony on the third day of across departments, fields, and informed that all the IMTIC the conference, Chairman industries.

Public Sector Universities, Institutions and Centres of Interior Sindh Training of Treasurers and Employees of Audit & Accounts Departments

HEC is making continuous efforts to develop As many as 37 participants from different Financial Management and Accounting Systems Accounts, Audit and Finance departments across the higher education sector. To further this attended the workshop which was arranged by objective, Prof. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman Mr. Munir Ahmed Shaikh, Director Finance MUET HEC has directed to provide funds to all the public in coordination with Khawaja Zahid Hussain, sector universities to impart trainings to its Financial Management Specialist, HEC. officers and staff. Speakers and specialists shared their experiences Under this programme, Mehran University of and contributed thought provoking ideas on Engineering and Technology, (MUET) Jamshoro topics as Good Governance, Revenue organized a training cum workshop for capacity Diversification, New Accounting Model (NAM), building and enhancing the skills of the Treasurers Automation, ERP, Taxation, Procurement Process and employees of Audit and Accounts Internal Control and Financial Management. Departments of the universities of Sindh particularly those universities located in interior The participants termed the training valuable for Sindh not having such opportunities in the past. the capacity building of the university employees. They recognized the efforts of HEC and MUET in In his inaugural speech, Dr. Mohammad Aslam conducting an important workshop on FM Uqaili, Vice Chancellor MUET welcomed the Reforms. The Pre- and Post-Training tests showed participants and the resource persons. He thanked marked improvement in the understanding and HEC for providing an opportunity to the skills of the participants. universities to build capacity of their employees.

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Phase-III of Thematic Research Grants Programme Launched Promotion of Social Sciences Research among HEC's Top Priorities: Chairman HEC Prof. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Tradition and Change; The Chairman revealed that Chairman, Higher Education Balancing Global and Local Pakistan had gained Commission, has said that HEC Needs: Geo-political Economy; membership of the Asian has been endeavoring to Education Policy, Leadership Social Sciences Association promote and intensify research and Management for the 21st (ASSA) and Pakistan will host in Social Sciences. “We have Century; and Governance and the Association's first meeting setup a dedicated social Development. in October this year. sciences section at HEC to identify realities of diverse The Chairman further said that Moreover, he said that HEC, in social and human issues which the Committee for collaboration with the Pakistan is facing. Thematic Development of Social University of Peshawar, is Research Grants Programme, Sciences and Humanities in holding the 3rd Social Sciences whose third phase has been Pakistan (CDSSHP), established Conference in May 2015. launched, is specifically by HEC, has been tasked to designed to address deliberate upon and identify He also highlighted HEC's plan contemporary issues of the the problems, and recommend to establish Social Sciences country.” immediate, short-term as well Research Council, Pakistan. as long-term measures to “The aim of all these initiatives Further, the Chairman said that make Social Sciences is to identify indigenous needs the scholars and researchers of education vibrant, dynamic and priorities to address issues Social Sciences and Humanities, and attuned to the present and of national importance, who have theoretical, future needs of Pakistan. enhance interdisciplinary and conceptual, methodological and multidisciplinary research and policy orientation background, “The primary objective of this link Social Sciences for have been invited for grants. Committee is to develop providing solutions to issues existing level of faculty and to that face us. The ultimate aim “Their research projects may create an environment would be to advice the belong to any Social Sciences conducive to research and Government on National and Humanities discipline or development activities in Social Policy for more may be interdisciplinary as well Social Sciences and concerted work in the field.” as multidisciplinary in nature. Humanities. Groups or individual Dr. Mukhtar said that HEC is researchers/scholars from Besides, the Committee also also promoting societal public as well as private sector focuses on institutional and research through publications universities and degree infrastructure development, of research journals falling awarding institutions can and reviewing quality under the disciplines of Social submit their proposals,” he assurance standards. There are Sciences, Arts, Humanities and said. 14 Subcommittees in different Business Education. disciplines falling under Social “Evaluation, recognition, Research themes, on which Sciences, Arts, Humanities and categorization, funding and up proposals will be submitted, Business Education, and each gradation of journals of Social include Security Challenges in is chaired by individual Sciences and Humanities is Pakistan; Pakistani Society: member of CDSSHP, ” he said. being special attention.”

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HEC to Strengthen Inter-University Consortium for Social Sciences

The Higher Education It was agreed that the shared with the participants Commission is stepping up Consortium would share the plan to establish Social efforts for advancement of resources, exchange students Sciences Research Council, Social Sciences research with and scholars, conduct joint Pakistan and preparations special focus on impact on research projects and develop were afoot to promote and society. This was discussed in and enhance faculty strength achieve excellence by detail during a meeting of Dr. through exchange as adjunct encouraging scholarly Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman, faculty. cooperation and collaboration Higher Education Commission in the Social Sciences sector. (HEC) with members of the It will also help develop Inter University Consortium on linkages with national and The aim would include to Social Sciences. international organizations and identify indigenous needs and host joint seminars and priorities to address issues of Heads of universities from conferences. There was national importance, enhance members of the Consortium consensus on the dire need to interdisciplinary research and who attended the meeting revitalize Social Sciences link social sciences for include, Dr. Shahid Siddiqui, research and end duplication providing solutions to issues Vice Chancellor Allama Iqbal of work that was visible in that face us. Its ultimate aim Open University, Dr. working of various committees. would be to advice the Mohammad Ali, Vice A national conference on Social Government on National Chancellor Government Sciences is planned for May by Social Policy for more College University Faisalabad, University of Peshawar in a link concerted work in the field. Dr. Qaiser Mushtaq, Vice to revive waning interest in the Chancellor, Islamia University, sector. The member vice chancellors Bahahwalpur, Dr. Javed Iqbal, expressed their resolve to Vice Chancellor, University of Chairman HEC revealed that work for the renaissance of Balochistan, Dr. Zia Qayyum, Pakistan had gained the Social Science discipline Vice Chancellor, University of membership of the Asian Social and agreed to apply involving Gujrat, Dr. Mohsin Khan, Sciences Association (ASSA) in students in community work Director, Institute of November 2014 and Pakistan for the uplift of the adjoining Management Sciences would host the Association's as suggest by Chairman HEC. Peshawar and Dr. Aliya Khan, first meeting in October this The next meeting will be held Dean, Faculty of Social year. A Social Sciences at Allama Iqbal Open Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam conference will also be held at University at the end of the University. the same time. He further month.

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43 universities connected via video conferencing Lecture on American Education System

The Higher Education defined the development and be protect and the importance Commission hosted a lecture later creations of community of respecting the other's point to 43 university sites via its colleges, teaching colleges and of view and hence the need to video conference facility which research universities. He also be politically correct. was also attended by vice shared in detail the most chancellors and their important component of a He praised the progress representatives of successful system, being Pakistan has made in the last and Islamabad. HEC senior quality and various check and decade and encouraged the management also attended. balances that have been university leaders to have faith created to uphold the quality in themselves and experiment Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman of teaching. with new solutions. He said his HEC presided over the session. observations were based on He introduced the guest He highlighted the importance multiple visits to Pakistan and speaker Prof. Rodger A. Randel, of the President/Rector of a study of the system. who is two time Mayor, and university which in the US former President of University system is executive driven. He He said Pakistan possesses of Oklahoma. He is Director, stressed that the head of the great skill and potential for OU Centre for Studies in university is answerable to the new possibilities and Democracy and Culture and a Board of Governors and also innovations. He said he Professor at Department of responsible for guidance and witnessed exceptional Human Relations. being responsible for providing commitment and quality in the leadership and the ability Pakistan which can steer the Prof. Randel presented a to guide through transitions. country to success. He said if comprehensive overview of this skill was honed effectively, the American higher education Prof. Randel also mentioned he foresaw Pakistan as a global system. Outlining the evolution the need to maintain academic leader in the field of higher of the higher education he freedom and ways that could education.

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Dr. Sophiya Umar has completed PhD in Fine Arts HEC Scholar holds Solo Painting Exhibition in France Dr. Sophiya Umar has around. The topic of the completed her PhD degree in exhibition “Vers Le Ciel” the field of Fine Arts from towards the sky speaks for Universite Jean Monnet-Saint- itself. Paintings related to sky, Etienne, France under HEC galaxies and the world beyond scholarship programme imagination were the part of entitled “Overseas scholarships this event. At the same time for MS/MPhil leading to PhD in mix cultural effects and Selected Fields (Phase-II).” impacts were clearly evident from Dr. Sophiya's work. She organized a solo painting exhibition in Saint-Etienne, Paintings at the same time Vandecasteele, Director and France. She is an exceptional represented local indigenous responsible for International Pakistani woman who has done elements like kites, topic of Relations Fine-Arts her PhD from France, where Basant, Balloons, etc. whereas department. They highly she learned a new language there was depth and profound appreciated the efforts and and even completed her PhD abstraction in the background welcomed future collaboration thesis in French language. with subtle and sober colours. among the various universities of France and Pakistan. She organized her first solo The opening speech was painting exhibition in France. delivered by Mr. Serge Riffard Dr. Sophiya Umar informed the For the University Jean Monnet the Vice President of audience about Pakistani art, it was for the first time that a University, followed by culture and food. The painting exhibition by any speeches of Madam Brigitte knowledge of Pakistani culture Pakistani artist was organized Renouf, delegate for imparted by her paintings was in the Hall named L'Atrium, International Relations and highly appreciated by the which made the event even Director for Common Services audience and visitors who more special for everyone of Documentation and Mr. Eric came from all over France.

Honour for CEMB's PhD Scholar Mr. Azeem Mehmood Butt, a research scholar at He recently presented an abstract of his PhD the National Centre of Excellence in Molecular research work entitled, "Identification and Biology (CEMB), University of the Punjab , Expression Profiling of microRNAs in Hepatitis C is working on Hepatitis C Viruses under the Patients by Using Next Generation Sequencing" supervision of Dr. Muhammad Idrees Khan. for poster presentation in the Viral Hepatitis Congress held in Frankfurt, Germany. His research project is on genome-wide expression profiling of small non-coding RNAs in His abstract was selected for presentation and Hepatitis C patients. Mr. Butt has been selected awarded a fellowship of free registration in the for a six-month IRSIP fellowship and is currently at conference. It was published in the supplement the Imperial College, London where he is issue of the Journal of Viral Hepatitis (impact performing next generation sequencing data factor 3.37) and he was awarded a Certificate of analysis under the supervision of Dr. Leandro Excellence. Castellano at the Hammersmith Hospital campus.

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NCRC Reviews Curricula of Agricultural Chemistry & Plant Protection A meeting of the National Committee for Curriculum Revision was recently held at HEC Regional Centre, Karachi to review and upgrade syllabus for BS and MS in Agricultural Chemistry.

Mr. Fida Hussain, Director General (Academics) HEC briefed the participants about objectives of the meeting through video link from HEC Islamabad. Ms. Ghayyur Fatima, Director (Academics) HEC coordinated the meeting. The Committee unanimously selected Dr. Shad as Convener and Dr. Rashid Mahmood as Secretary. Another meeting of National laboratories and libraries in The Committee thoroughly Curriculum Revision the universities. reviewed existing scheme of Committee of Plant Protection studies and course contents for was organized at HEC Regional To avoid brain-drain, the BS Agricultural Chemistry. Centre, Lahore. Professors and young scientists should be After in-depth deliberations scientists from various encouraged to stay in the course contents were universities, degree awarding Pakistan. It was also revised to make them in-line institutions and research recommended that full with modern trends and organizations across the semester hands on training or international standards so that country attended the meeting. internship of undergraduate graduates are more students at research institutes competitive in the global The curriculum of Plant or agro based industrial scenario. Protection subject was organizations should be thoroughly reviewed and introduced. For this purpose, The scheme of studies for MS updated by including latest appropriate financial support in Agricultural Chemistry was developments and innovations. to universities was also also revised. Several new Some new courses, as needed recommended. The startup courses were included. The in future, were also coined and research grant for MSc/PhD Committee recommended that incorporated in undergraduate student was also emphasized. laboratory facilities in and graduate curricula. To Agricultural Chemistry should implement practical Prof. Dr. Ghulam Jilani, Dean, be upgraded and strengthened knowledge, it was Faculty of Agriculture, Lasbela so that students get recommended that HEC should University convened the acquainted with modern provide ample funds for meeting and Prof. Dr. Ahmad- analytical techniques and establishment of state-of-the- Ur-Rahman Saljoqi was equipment. art Plant Protection Secretary of the meeting.

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TESP Activities 2nd Steering Committee Meeting held at HEC The second steering committee meeting of Tertiary Education Support Programme (TESP) was held at Higher Education Commission (HEC) Islamabad. The meeting was chaired by Dr. Mansoor Akbar Kundi, Executive Director HEC.

In his welcome note he commended the role of TESP in supporting the implementation of the MTDF HE-II. He briefed the participants on the role played by HEC in serving the cause of higher education in Pakistan, and the role of the TESP secretariat in supporting HEC in attaining its goals and objectives. The Programme Coordinator TESP presented the progress on DLIs, legal covenants, trainings and procurement. The Committee expressed its satisfaction from the implementation progress and appreciated the role of the incumbent TESP team in improving the status of TESP from moderately unsatisfactory to moderately satisfactory, as rated by the Review Mission of the World Bank.

TESP Steering Committee strongly proposed that the case for reallocation of the cancelled amount of US$77.82 million may be taken up with the World Bank and the HEC, for extension of the Project beyond December 31, 2015.

Workshop on Environmental and Social Management Plan HEC has conducted environmental assessment and prepared an Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) for the purpose of monitoring and reporting on the issues faced during construction work in the universities. Under TESP, HEC organized a training workshop for the stakeholders of public sector universities on December 11, 2014.

In the opening session Mr. Asad Khan, Programme Coordinator TESP, presented the progress on DLIs, legal covenants, trainings and procurement. Mr. Irfan Ullah, Deputy Director (M&E) briefed about the Environmental and Social Management Plan. He said that ESMP defines the role and responsibilities of stakeholders and presents a set of environmental mitigation measures, which focus at avoiding and preventing the adverse environmental and social impacts of the projects. He said that ESMP also suggests institutional setup for ensuring smooth implementation, compliance and monitoring and reporting of the stakeholders. Mr. Saadat Ali consultant ESMP briefed the participants about role and responsibilities regarding ESMP. He also sensitized the participants on the environmental and social impacts associated with the ESMP.

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th along these lines during their 11 Graduation Ceremony at studies here at NDU.

National Defence University Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed conferred degrees to the graduating students of PhD, MPhil, and MSc programmes. He said that NDU presents a fine blend of military and civilian students, besides a sizeable number of foreign military officers.

The alumni of NDU feels proud to be part of NDU as they find ample opportunities and extensive exposure through The 11th graduation ceremony silence was also observed to interaction with intellectuals, was recently held at National display solidarity with the think tanks and national and Defence University, Islamabad. Shuhada of APS Peshawar. international institutions. He Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman, further congratulated NDU for Higher Education Commission Lt. Gen. Javaid Iqbal, President its pivotal role in promoting (HEC) graced the occasion as NDU, congratulated the research while creating a chief guest. graduating batch and stated single platform for all that a nation's character is politicians, military and civil The ceremony was attended by shaped by its educational society. graduates, faculty, dignitaries institutions. and senior military and Dr. Mukhtar stressed the government officials. He added that our leadership is importance of education and groomed in centres of training which would further In total, 228 students of PhD, excellence that train the lead to nation building. He MPhil and MSc were awarded leaders in interpreting said it is the hour of need for degrees from the Faculty of pragmatically the events that Pakistan to unite under the Contemporary Studies. Eight unfold at national and banner of education and students were honored gold international level. promote the sentiments of medals for their outstanding nationalism while leaving our achievements in their Thus, civilian scholars and cocoons by joining hands and academic career. Two minutes graduates have been trained resolving our internal issues.

Symposium on WW1 and its Impact on South Asia The year 2014 marks the Defence University (NDU) Sahibzada Yaqoob Khan, centenary of the First World Islamabad in collaboration former Foreign Minister of War, which is such a with the High Commission of Pakistan, graced the occasion devastating period in the United Kingdom organized an as the chief guest. British High history that it needs international symposium on Commissioner to Pakistan Mr. remembering. To observe the “World War I and its Impact Philip Barton delivered a centenary commemorations of on South Asia” at NDU keynote speech in the opening World War – I, National Islamabad. session. The event was largely

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attended by the services officers, academicians, historians,students and policy makers.

Extending warm welcome to the guests, President NDU, Lieutenant General Javed Iqbal, HI (M) highlighted that First World War had an indelible extensive bearing on the then sizable Muslim contingent majority of troops was evolving environment of within the then British Indian enlisted from Punjab which South Asia. The Symposium Army. The topics discussed at included today's Khyber featured discussions and the Symposium ranged from the Pakhtunkhwa. presentations from leading overall context of South Asia academics, international before and during the War, the Prof. Daniel Marston of speakers and First World War impact of the War on the region Australian National University experts from Australia, the UK and the personal experiences of said that one of the reasons and Pakistan. soldiers and 'sepoys'. was that the military was the only organised and intact The event highlighted Experts and analysts including institution at the time of awareness of the contribution Dr. Hassan Askari, Mr. Jehangir independence in 1947. The made by the Commonwealth Ashraf Qazi and Dr. Razia Symposium also highlighted and in particular South Asia in Sultana said that the largest political and geographical the First World War, especially portion of the Indian budget in scenario of the region, as the the role played by a very 1914 went to defence and a vast World War ensued. GIK Institute team leaves for Manila A seven-member team of Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute (GIKI) of Engineering, Sciences and Technology has left for Manila, Philippines to participate in Shell Eco-Marathon Asia 2015, scheduled to be held from February 26 to March 1 and a total of 14 teams of different universities from Pakistan would participate in the contest.

The prototype car made by GIK Institute team after rigorous efforts has cost one million rupees. The car made by them could play both with fuel and electricity but its cost is nominal as compared to consumption of other vehicles. Dr. Javed A. Chattha, Pro-Rector Academic is Adviser of the team. distance per kilowatt per hour but for the upcoming marathon our car speed is enhanced to The GIK Institute team stood 6th in the previous 300 kilometers distance per kilowatt per hours,” competition but now they had improved their car. said Kazi Sher Ahmad, who leads the seven- “Last year, our car covered 205 kilometers member team.

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On-campus Training of Faculty at Punjab University

Dr. Mujahid Kamran, Vice Chancellor, University of because of concentration of wealth while around the Punjab, Lahore has said that teachers must 1.5 billion Muslims of the world had almost no study unbiased and original history besides share in creation of new knowledge. He advised mastering their subjects so that they have proper the faculty members to perform their duties in a understanding of national and international affairs. responsible manner and give maximum time to the students. He was addressing a session of Assistant Professors of Punjab University who completed indigenous Dr. Zakria Zakir said that the training provided an on-campus training programme jointly organized opportunity to the teachers to interact with by HEC and University of the Punjab. The teachers of the other disciplines. He said that Programme's Convener and Dean, Faculty of teachers had not only obtained knowledge of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Dr. Zakria Zakir, various rules and regulations but their Registrar Dr. Liaqat Ali, and a large number of administrative skills had also improved. Assistant Professors were present on the occasion. He said that teachers must make all-out efforts to The Vice Chancellor said that the great nations promote culture of research on campus and were under the control of world's financial elite respond to intellectual needs of the society.

Dr. Abida Taherani Assumes Charge of VC University of Sindh Newly-appointed Vice Chancellor, University of Sindh Prof. Dr. Abida Taherani has took over the charge of her new office.

Dr. Taherani was welcomed by deans of faculties, office-bearers of Sindh University Officers Welfare Association (SUOWA), as well as employees.

The acting Vice Chancellor Dr. Imdad Ali Ismaili handed over the charge to Dr. Taheran. Speaking at the occasion, the new Vice Chancellor said she She said she had plans to train newly appointed wanted to develop Sindh University so as to make teaching and non-teaching staff in order to get it a model university in the country. She said that required goals, adding that opportunities will be her priority was to provide quality education to created for students to learn in a modern way students in the varsity. with fully equipped classrooms.

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Faculty of Education building at SALU The US Consul General in Karachi, Mr. Brian Heath, along with Sindh Education Minister Nisar Ahmad Khuhro, Dr. Parveen Shah, Vice Chancellor, Shah Abdul Latif University (SALU), Dr. Fazlullah Pechuho, Secretary for Education and Literacy, and Dr. Ghulam Raza Bhatti, Member (HRD) HEC that Sindh Chief Minister is about the salient features and inaugurated the USAID funded committed to provide available facilities at the (US$1.9 million) Faculty of education to people at their building. He said the SALU Education building at SALU doorstep. Faculty of Education has a Khairpur. covered area of 15,679 square Dr. Parveen Shah appreciated feet and comprises six “We are committed to help USAID for selecting SALU as its classrooms, three seminar Pakistan develop strong partner to promote teacher's halls, a library and a laboratory, educational institutions, and quality education in the Upper one learning resource centre, inauguration of this new Sindh region. Dr. Shah said one multi-purpose hall and a building is a symbol of our provision of such excellent faculty lounge, and an elevator resolve to promote education infrastructure in the shape of for the handicapped. “This is a in Pakistan,” said Mr. Heath, Faculty of Education Building state-of-the-art, wifi-enabled addressing a gathering of offers world-class facility to and environmental-friendly students, faculty and members nurture teachers into great building. It is one of the six of the SALU community. teachers. Dr. Fazlullah Pechuho Faculties of Education buildings and Dr. Ghulam Raza Bhatti constructed across Pakistan, Mr. Nisar Ahmed Khuhro said also spoke at the occasion. three of which are at that Shah Abdul Latif University Universities in Sindh, including is imparting higher education Earlier, Dr. Ghulam Ali Mallah Sindh University, Hyderabad to the upper Sindh. He said briefed the Consul General and University of Karachi."

Prof. Anwar-ul-Hassan Awarded Dr. Z. A. Hashmi R&D Gold Medal Prof. Anwar-ul-Hassan Gilani, HEC Distinguished National Professor and Director, Natural Products Research Programme at the Aga Khan University has been awarded “Dr. Z. A. Hashmi R&D Gold Medal” by the Pakistan Science Foundation (PSF) for being the most outstanding and productive Principal Investigator The Medal was awarded in a ceremony held of Pakistan Science Foundation funded projects in 10 at PSF Islamabad on the occasion of World years (2001-2011). Science Day for Peace and Development.

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Prof. Gilani, who holds multiple honours and Achievements Award by the HEC, has also been awards including two civil awards (Pride of conferred the prestigious Fellowship of TWAS- Performance and Sitara-i-Imtiaz), Salam Prize in The World Academy of Sciences for the Biology by TWAS, Boehringer International Advancement of Science in Developing Research Award and Life-Time Academic Countries.

UoK Symposium on Molecular Medicine and Drug Research

The four-day 5th International Symposium-Cum- increasing number of research papers annually, Training Course on Molecular Medicine and Drug quality of education and international ranking of Research (MMDR-5) was recently held at the institutions reveal that the country owns International Centre for Chemical and Biological essentially positive activities. Sciences (ICCBS), University of Karachi (UoK). Over 350 scientists, including 60 scientists from 28 Dr. Muhammad Qaiser said that PCMD was countries attended the event, organised by Dr. playing a pivotal role in the field of molecular Panjwani Centre for Molecular Medicine and Drug medicine and drug research. “This is highly Research (PCMD), UoK. encouraging that a galaxy of scientists has come to the University from abroad despite country's Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman HEC was the chief bad law and order situation. This was an guest in the inaugural ceremony. Dr. Muhammad extraordinary opportunity for young scientists to Qaiser, Vice Chancellor UoK, Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman, learn from vast experience of these scientists,” he former Chairman HEC, Dr. Syed Abid Azhar, Dean maintained. Faculty of Science and Dr. Muhammad Iqbal Choudhary, Director ICCBS were also present. Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman said that progress of any country depended on positive polices and Speaking at the occasion, the Chairman said that priorities of the government. He reminded the Pakistani universities have made their mark at audience about the initiatives in the field of international level and some of our universities higher education taken by HEC, adding that are among top 300 Asian universities. He said that Pakistan had only 57 universities in 2001, and HEC is trying to improve quality of higher now this figure is 163. He said that about 0.25 education in the country and help institutions million students were enrolled in the varsities improve their rankings. when HEC had started its journey but now that numbers has crossed 1.3 million. “Although Pakistan was passing through a crucial time, scientific activities were continuing in the Senator Abul Haseeb Khan, Chancellor Hamdard country,” adding that many international University, Ms. Sadia Rashid, Managing Trustee delegates come to Pakistan with negative image Muhammad Hussain Panjwani Memorial Trust, of the country but when they go back their Ms. Nadira Punjwani, Dr. Asmat Saleem and other perspective is totally changed. He said that dignitaries also attended the event.

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QAU Trainings on Effective Management Skills The Quaid-i-Azam University (QAU) in collaboration, under Higher Education Commission's Modern University Governance Programme, recently organized a series of training programmes on “Effective Management Skills”. As many as 90 non- teaching staff members of QAU, affiliated ICT colleges and surrounding universities and policy making, effective Higher Education Commission attended three training communication and organized a five-day programmes, which were aimed interpersonal skills, time international workshop on to equip the university management, government “Clinical Pharmacy”. management with latest financial rules, strategic governance tools and to bridge management, change During the workshop, the gap between management management, constitutional internationally renowned and academia. and legal framework and experts in Clinical Pharmacy effective decision making. from Malaysia shared their The participants attended professional experience with sessions on personal Workshop on Clinical Pharmacy students including a practical effectiveness, developing team The Department of Pharmacy, orientation of students at work, attitude management, QAU in collaboration with the Federal Government Services stress management, procedure University of Sains Malaysia and Hospital. Indigenous On-campus Training at QUEST A five-day Indigenous On-Campus Training (IOT) workshop was recently held at Quaid-e-Awam University of Engineering, Science and Technology (QUEST) Nawabshah. The capacity building workshop was designed for non-teaching staff of BPS-16 and above cadre from QUEST as well as from the surrounding universities/colleges to promote good governance on campus and to bridge distance between all universities stakeholders. The comprehensive workshop, comprising 15 sessions, covered diverse for enhancing professional skills of the topics as good governance, leadership and administrative staff of higher education administration skills, quality assurance, career institutions of Pakistan. The workshop development, ethical behaviour, team work, finance, coordinator, Dr. Pradeep Kumar explained auditing, reporting, IT/computer skills, technical writing, objective of the workshop. He said that the management, intra-departmental communication, etc. focus of HEC, during the last decade, was to produce highly-qualified teaching faculty at Dr. Abdul Karim Baloch, Vice Chancellor, QUEST public sector universities. However, now HEC Nawabshah was the chief guest in the opening is also targeting at the skill development of ceremony. He appreciated the HEC training programmes administrative and management staff.

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BNU holds 9th Convocation The ninth convocation of Beaconhouse National University (BNU) was held recently where 362 graduates received their degrees of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes offered at the University.

This year, 20 graduates were awarded gold medals of which successfully completing their opportunities present in the 14 were girls. Another 23 degrees. Mrs. Nasreen world. “The world is your arena students received certificates Mahmud Kasuri, Chairperson, and you can responsibly play of distinction on account of BNU Board of Governors, said your ambassadorial roles for their outstanding performance. that very few universities have your country as global citizens,” dared to venture into the realm he said, adding that BNU is The ceremony was presided of liberal arts and BNU is proud functioning as a national over by renowned human to be the first one in Pakistan university addressing the rights activist Ms. Asma Jilani to do so. academic needs of a diverse Jahangir. In her address, she student population from all talked about women Mr. Shahid Hafiz Kardar, Vice provinces of Pakistan besides empowerment and Chancellor BNU, advised the hosting students from all eight congratulated the graduates on graduates to seek SAARC countries.

Dr. Shahna Kazmi Joins DIHE as Rector Prof. Dr. Shahana Urooj Kazmi has assumed the Over 50 MPhil and PhD charge of Rector of Dadabhoy Institute of Higher scholars have completed Education (DIHE). Dr Kazmi brings with her more their degrees under her than 39 years of rich experience as an supervision. She is academician, researcher and administrator. author/co-author of many books and has completed her She has formerly worked as Meritorious Professor post-doctoral studies from of Microbiology and Immunology and as Advisor the University of Maryland, and another post- to Chancellor on Academics at Jinnah University of doctoral fellowship from University of Tennessee, Women, and as Pro Vice Chancellor, Dean Faculty USA. Dr. Kazmi is a recepient of Life Achievement of Sciences and Chairperson, Department of Award for her contributions to Microbiology, Microbiology at University of Karachi. Immunology and Biotechnology.

News Flash The Department of Food Science and Technology, Bahauddin Zakariya University (BZU), Multan is organizing a two-day international conference on "Malnutrition in South Asia: The Peril Persists" from February 23-24, 2015. Detail of the conference are available at www.icmsa2015.foodsciencebzu.com/index.php

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DUHS Scientists Receive Training on Biosafety A team of scientists from the along with diagnostics. Dr. participants presented their Department of Molecular Saeed Khan and his students research through impressive Pathology, Dow University of Maria Zahid and Fatin Zehra posters. Health Sciences (DUHS) under received travel grant to the supervision of Dr. Saeed participate in the conference Third and fourth days were Khan attended the 9th Annual and training workshop. packed with informative Asia Pacific Biosafety workshops on topics covering Association Conference and First day of the session started various important topics such training workshop entitled with an impressive inaugural as BSL, ABSL-3 High “Biosafety and Biosecurity ceremony that not only Containment Facility Design Collective Partnership towards comprised of welcoming note and Containment Principles, One World One Health” at by the organizers who Working Safely with Bangkok, Thailand. highlighted the importance of Tuberculosis, The Global biosafety and related safety Biotech Revolution “Preserving The Department of Molecular procedures and their strict the good of powerful science in Pathology, DUHS has been regulations in the laboratory. a dangerous world' Biorisk successfully providing high- Assessment in Laboratory quality Molecular Diagnostic Second day comprised of pre- Emergency and Animal, Staff, services at a very low cost. The conference lectures. Poster and Operational Needs in a Department is also actively presentations also took place Biocontainment Animal involved in quality research on the second day in which Research Facility.

Conference on Emerging Trends in Engineering Management and Sciences The City University of Science and IT, Peshawar recently organized a conference on Emerging Trends in Engineering, Management and Sciences in partnership with CDA Training Academy and collaboration with East Carolina University (ECU) and Auburn University USA at institutions, professional Chairman, Peshawar Model Islamabad. The inaugural bodies, representatives from Educational Institutions (PMEI) session was presided over by Government and private and Mr. Mushtaq Ghani was Dr. Mansoor Akbar Kundi, sectors, participated in the the chief guest at the occasion. Acting Executive Director HEC inaugural ceremony. Dr. Kundi and Mr. Atif Khan, Minister of highlighted the importance of Dr. Attaullah Shah shared the Education KPK was the chief conferences and workshop for conference report with the guest at the occasion. quality enhancement and audience. Mr. Mushtaq Ghani research in universities. appreciated the City University Academia, professionals and of Science and IT Peshawar for researchers from various The concluding ceremony was arranging a conference of academic and research chaired by Mr. Zahoor Sethi, international standards.

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Indus University holds 5th Convocation

The fifth convocation of Indus Mr. Khalid Amin, Chancellor Engineering, Science and University, Karachi was held Indus University emphasized Technology, Faculty of Business recently. on developing entrepreneurial Administration and Commerce, skills among the students as it Faculty of Art and Design and The chief guest, Mr. Nisar is need of the hour. Faculty of Social Sciences. Ahmed Khuhro, Senior Minister for Education and Literacy, Muhammad Ahmed Amin, Vice A documentary produced by applauded the journey of Indus Chancellor, Indus University the founder of Indus University University since its inception. shed light on the milestones Civil Society (IUCS), Huzaifa He said that that the role of achieved in the last two years. Abbasi was also screened Indus University has been reflecting memorable instrumental in strengthening The University awarded moments of higher the education sector of degrees to undergraduates and management and faculty along Pakistan. graduates in the Faculty of with the students.

A N N O U N C E M E N T Conference on Power Generation & Renewable Energy The Department of 11, 2015 at Quaid-e-Azam opinions/solutions for , Auditorium, Old Campus industrial and domestic International Islamic (Shah Faisal Masjid) energy crisis. The conference University, Islamabad (IIUI) Islamabad. will also give an opportunity will host its 2nd International to young engineers/ Conference on Power The experts and researchers professionals to present their Generation Systems and in the field of power research findings in the field Renewable Energy generation/renewable energy of power generation and Technologies from June 10- will give their valuable renewable energy.

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International Conference on Space

Pakistan Space and Upper further by collaborating with The three-day conference Atmosphere Research IST, Pakistan's premiere space connected space Commission (SUPARCO) in technology institute. The professionals, decision- collaboration with Institute of Conference also helped makers, academicians, Space Technology (IST) SUPARCO identify focus areas researchers and scientists as recently organized the for development of closer and well as students of space International Conference on more meaningful sciences and technologies to Space (ICS-2014) at collaboration with the showcase their achievements, COMSTECH Secretariat, academia. and share latest development Islamabad. in space technology and The theme of ICS-2014 was applications. The Inter-Islamic Network on “Space for Development”. The Space Sciences and focus was on how emerging During three days, the Technology (ISNET) co- space-faring nations can Conference covered 18 sponsored the Conference. effectively apply space- parallel technical sessions on derived techniques and different topics of five Sequel to the first Space solutions to solve complex thematic areas mentioned Conference held in September development issues. above. 2012, International Conference on Space ICS-2014 Papers were invited on five In addition, five panel is an initiative of SUPARCO to thematic areas of the discussion sessions on connect various entities Conference, including Space themes of the conference related to Space for sharing Technology, Space were held. A total of 104 latest developments in space Applications, Space Sciences, papers and posters were science technologies and their Space Law, Policy and presented, four tutorials were applications. This year, Regulatory Issues, and Space held and a poster SUPARCO took ICS one step and Youth. competition was organized. 10th Convocation of MAJU Islamabad The 10th Convocation of Mohammad Ali Jinnah occasion as the Chief Guest while Main Amer University (MAJU), Islamabad was held recently, Mahmood, Chancellor MAJU, was also present. where over 550 graduates of different disciplines were awarded degrees. Seven PhD scholars Dr. M. Mansoor Ahmed, Executive Vice President received their doctoral degrees. Renowned welcomed the guests and hoped that graduates nuclear scientist Dr. Samar Mubarakmand graced will contribute towards scientific and

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technological development of the country with determination and commitment.

Dr. Samar said that education does not end with acquiring a degree, it is a lifelong affair exploring new horizons, and broadening of the vision, marching on a never-ending journey towards new frontiers of knowledge. different types and it is higher education which “The role of higher education becomes more plays a key role in determining the position of a prominent and wide ranging. In the present times, nation in today's knowledge driven economy,” he we do not only need conventional types of said. education, we are faced with challenges of

PhD Symposium for Scholars of Twin Cities

The Department of Computer cities who participated in the Mohammad Ali Jinnah Science, Mohammad Ali expert panel. Students were University, Islamabad, Pakistan. Jinnah University, Islamabad asked to submit their PhD recently organized a PhD extended abstract. Students presented their symposium, to help PhD research work to the expert scholars working in a The abstracts were received panel, subsequently, the expert specialized area to give them from different universities of panel provided guidance and feedback on their problem twin cities. Among them nine direction to their future work. statement, methodology, and abstracts were shortlisted for The review on the research issues related to their the one-day activity. idea, its feasibility, research. applications, significance, The session was chaired by Prof. methodology, and possible There were 16 professors from Dr. M. Abdul Qadir, Dean, future directions were different universities of twin Faculty of Computing at discussed.

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PIDE hosts 30th AGM and Conference of PSDE The 30th Annual General Meeting and Conference Hussain from FC College University, Lahore. Dr. of the Pakistan Society of Development Alkire argued in favour of using the Economists (PSDE) was held at the Pak-China Multidimensional poverty index to replace Friendship Centre, Islamabad recently. The conventional measures of poverty, Dr. Gordon conference, hosted by the Pakistan Institute of talked about child poverty and Dr. Akmal Hussain Development Economics (PIDE) was the largest dilated upon how poor quality of institutions in AGM in many years with a broad based Pakistan is contributing to poverty. participation from students, academia and policymakers. One of the sessions at the conference was devoted to the launch of World Bank's flagship In his opening remarks, Dr. Asad Zaman, President report on Inequality in South Asia. Dr. Martin PSDE and Vice Chancellor, PIDE stressed that Rama, Chief Economist, South Asian Region World poverty is a combination of thousands of small Bank, the lead author of the report, delved upon problems and change in social norms is the key to the salient features of the report. The session was poverty alleviation. He asserted that new agenda chaired by Dr. Rachid Benmessaoud, Country for poverty alleviation should focus on software Director of the World Bank in Pakistan. instead of hardware of development. Dr. Zaman emphasized on the need for reversal of traditional The panel discussion on Political Economy of thinking about development process; improve the Inequality, chaired by Dr. Nadeem Ul Haque, lives of the poor, give them lives of dignity, and former Deputy Chairman, Planning Commission they will actually create the development that we and Chancellor of PIDE, drew appreciation from desire. the participants, for his deft moderation that brought out the best from the panelists. The The inaugural address was delivered by Mr. Sartaj panelists included Mr. Shahid Kardar, Dr. Aasim Aziz, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Security Sajjad Akhtar, Dr. Ali Cheema, Dr. Karamat Ali and Issues and Foreign Affairs. Mr. Aziz said that to Dr. Imran Ali. combat poverty skewed distribution of land ownership needs to be addressed through land The panel discussion on “Ending Extreme reforms. Other factors, according to Mr. Aziz, that Poverty:Results and Realities in Graduating the will help alleviate poverty include sharing power Poorest” was chaired by Mr. Richard Montgomery, with poor, resolving tribal, ethnic, and religious the country head of DFID Pakistan. The panelists polarization in the country, providing budgetary included Dr. Syed Hashemi and Dr. Mahaboob resource for the social sector and addressing the Hossain from Brac Bangladesh, Mr. Qazi Isa, CEO, bias of the macroeconomic policy in favour of Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund and Dr. Nuzhat industry at the expense of agriculture. Ahmad, Senior Research Fellow at the International Food Policy Research Institute. The Of special interest to the participants were the panel discussion on Issues in Measurement of two lectures, via video link, by the professors from Poverty, chaired by Dr. G.M. Arif, Joint Director MIT and Harvard University. Prof. Daron Acemoglu PIDE, brought to fore the salient issues that and Prof. James Robinson, the authors of the constrain the accurate measurement of poverty, bestseller 'Why Nations Fail', lectured on two in Pakistan. The panelists included Dr. Sabina successive evenings from MIT and Harvard. The Alkire, Dr. Sohail Jehangir Malik, Dr. Ghazala crux of their talks was that inclusive institutions Mansuri and Dr. Talat Anwar. The panel discussion hold the key to economic growth. on Progressive Reform Agenda for Inclusive Growth was chaired by Dr. Waqar Masood, Other keynote speakers at the conference Secretary, Ministry of Finance. Panelists included included Dr. Sabina Alkire from Oxford, Dr. David Dr. Pervaiz Tahir, Mr. Saqib Sherani and Dr. Idrees Gordon from Bristol University and Dr. Akmal Khawaja.

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Though the conference was largely academic with Chancellor PIDE and the Panelists included Dr. more focus on technical issues, one of the panel Abdul Bari, Mr. Amjad Saqib, and Sayeda Ghulam discussions was organized solely to look at the Fatima. The conference was organized by PIDE practical approaches for poverty alleviation being and sponsored by the Higher Education followed in our country at non-governmental level Commission (HEC), Friedrich-Eibert-Stiftung, in education, health and labor sector. The panel UNDP, BRAC, WWF-CCAP-EU, International discussion on “Alternate Strategies of Poverty Growth Centre, PPAF, PSSP-USAID-IFPRI, and the Alleviation” was chaired by Dr. Asad Zaman, Vice World Bank.

IoBM Students to Participate in Int’l Contest A team of Institute of Business agenda of six brands, including Management (IoBM) Lifebuoy, Dove, Pureit, Walls, students, comprising Taha Blue Band, and Surf Excel. Afzal, Rauha Rafiq and Kiran Khawaja, has been judged by IoBM winning team will now a panel of nine top executives represent Pakistan at including the Chairman Unilever’s Future Leader’s The winners will also get Unilever as top team in League in London in March direct access to the Unilever Pakistan with their 2015. Their journey started Future Leaders Programme marketing/strategy case on with initial participation of 300 (UFLP) Assessment Centre, Blue Band. teams from all over Pakistan which is a first step towards to 13 shortlisted ones to six employment as a This year’s competition finalists and finally one Management Trainee at focused on the sustainability winner, the IoBM team. Unilever Pakistan.

Dr. Rasul Jan Elected as PAS Fellow Dr. Muhammad Rasul Jan, Vice Chancellor University of Peshawar has been elected as Fellow of the Pakistan Academy of Sciences (PAS).

The Academy serves as a think tank for policy making and delivers scholarly documents to those at helm of affairs for betterment in important of Analytical Chemistry in its congratulated him on his sectors particularly energy, 61-year history. Father of inclusion in the elite list. The biotechnology, engineering and biotechnology in Pakistan and delegation offered joint fateha water management. the newly elected President of for the departed souls of Army PAS Dr. Anwar Naseem Khan Public school and showed their Dr. Jan is the 89th scientist along with Dr. Zabta Khan resolve to work jointly for elected by the Academy on the Shinwari and Vice Chancellor promotion of education in the basis of his credentials as a University of Karachi visited homeland so as to defeat the productive scientist in the field Dr. Rasul Jan and evil forces.

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UHS Workshop for Pathologists

A two-day workshop on “Practical Approach to better understanding of interpretation of mucosal Diagnostic Gastrointestinal (GI) and Liver biopsies, liver biopsies, pancreatic/biliary Pathology” was recently organized by the disorders, current concepts in staging, and the Pathology Department of the University of Health application of modern techniques to Sciences (UHS), Lahore.The workshop was gastrointestinal disorders. facilitated by senior Consultant Pathologist, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, USA, Dr. Saba Yasir and was Prof. A. H. Nagi, Head of Pathology Department attended by practicing pathologists and pathology said that born out of increasing awareness of residents. subspecialty gastrointestinal pathology services and increased patient awareness of laboratory The workshop presented a practical overview for errors, there was an increasing trend toward pathologists who encounter gastrointestinal and referral of tissue specimens to surgical liver specimens in daily practice. Interpretation of pathologists with special interest in biopsies of the upper GI tract mucosa and the gastrointestinal pathology.He maintained that liver was addressed, as well as recent advances in application of immunochemistry and molecular pancreatic and biliary pathology.Case pathology to conventional morphologic analysis in presentations were featured to emphasize establishing the correct diagnosis was mandatory presented concepts. The participants were given a in all sub specializations of Pathology. UMT holds Workshop on Counter Terrorism Terrorism Research Initiative was attended by members of non-compostable loss in the (TRI), one of the largest armed forces, intelligence and now research organizations for organizations, university educational institutions are enhancing security through schooling, civil society, think taking precautionary measures collaborative research in the tanks, academia and UMT and increasing their security. field of Terrorism Studies, has students. established its Pakistan The Rector applauded TRI for Chapter at the University of Addressing the conference, opening up its Pakistan Management and Technology Dr. Hasan Sohaib Murad, chapter and anticipated that where UMT's School of Rector UMT, said that researchers, scholars and Governance and Society (SGS) terrorism is a global issue analysts together would make would be collaborating with TRI that besides politically and contributions towards in its projects. militarily solutions, needs to studying and analyzing the be tackled by theoretically, phenomena of terrorism and Recently, a five-day academically, and present the best solution of International workshop was ideologically means. He said this problem through this held at Lahore. The workshop that Pakistan has suffered platform.

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National Consultation on Livestock Development at UVAS A two-day National Consultation on Livestock Development in Pakistan Way Forward was recently organised by the University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (UVAS), Lahore in collaboration with the Pasha, Animal Husbandry ways to exploit potential of Ministry of National Food Commissioner, Dr. Qurban Ali livestock sector to meet Security and Research, and a large number of domestic requirements, Islamabad. stakeholders and experts from improve rural livelihood and public and private sector were generate surplus for export. Federal Secretary for National present on the occasion. Food Security and Research Mr. Nasim Sadiq said that with Mr. Seerat Asghar chaired the Mr. Seerat Asghar said that the help of local resources and concluding session while many issues were being faced trained manpower and Secretary Livestock and Dairy by livestock sector in meat, collective effort of Provincial Development Department dairy and poultry sub sectors. and Federal Government Punjab, Mr. Nasim Sadiq, Vice The national consultation is a Livestock sector is working Chancellor Dr. Talat Naseer step forward in exploring the progressively.

SZABIST hosts 4th International Research Conference Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto Institute of Science and Technology (SZABIST) hosted the 4th International Research Conference at its Karachi Campus. This year's conference theme was “A step in the future”, in which 77 papers were presented. The chief guest for the inaugural session was Dr. Sajid Mirza, Member Space and Technology, SUPARCO and the Session Chair was Dr. Altaf Mukati, Dean of Computing and Engineering Sciences, SZABIST. centres with proper research and technical management offering the opportunity of Dr. Mukati, in his welcome address elaborated on collaborative research. how each revolution in human history adds to the knowledge and development of mankind and how Ms. Shahnaz Wazir Ali, Acting President, SZABIST, technology has changed communication. said that when Niel Armstrong took his first step on the moon, mankind experienced a revolution Dr. Sajid Mirza shared his views on how academics and that revolution has continued and added on in Pakistan can take a step into the future. He said to improve the possibilities and opportunities that Pakistani graduates are well educated and around us. She said that SZABIST provides a good have been performing well nationally and opportunity for students and researchers, and internationally. He suggested that universities accepted Dr. Mirza's suggestion on collaborative should take the initiative of opening research research.

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