A prestigious reception in Lahore brought together Vice Chancellors, industry leaders and senior analysts to welcome Chairman HEC, Dr. Niaz Ahmad Akhtar. In his address he underlined the urgent need to deepen industry linkages between universities and the private sector to translate academic research into practical solutions for Pakistan’s pressing socio-economic and technological challenges.
He emphasised research and commercialisation as key pathways, calling for coordinated policies, investment in applied research and structured partnerships that enable universities to contribute directly to industrial competitiveness and job creation. Participants noted that strengthening industry linkages will accelerate innovation and ensure higher education remains aligned with national development priorities.
Distinguished speakers reaffirmed their commitment to fostering innovation and sustainable industrial development, pledging support for initiatives that promote research commercialisation and closer collaboration with industry. The Lahore gathering highlighted a shared resolve to make higher education a driving force for inclusive growth through practical, market-oriented research and well-defined industry linkages.
