A high-level meeting chaired by Professor Ahsan Iqbal, Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, brought federal and provincial officials together to advance higher education reforms in Pakistan. The gathering focused on developing clear performance metrics for universities and strengthening coordination between federal and provincial authorities to improve outcomes across the sector.
Participants highlighted the importance of balanced representation and expertise within university syndicates, ensuring that teaching, research and enterprise are all properly reflected in governance bodies. The discussion underlined the need for structured governance frameworks, enhanced financial transparency and closer alignment with global best practices to raise standards across public universities.
A detailed consultation was held on the draft Act for the proposed University of Engineering and Technology Narowal, with a presentation from Prof. Dr. Iqrar Ahmad Khan (HI, SI), Chairperson of the Punjab Higher Education Commission. His briefing covered PHEC initiatives and the specific provisions of the proposed UET Narowal Act aimed at modernising engineering education in the province.
The meeting also stressed practical steps to implement performance metrics and to support university capacity building so young people can access contemporary engineering and technical training. Attendees agreed that improved coordination and shared vision between federal and provincial levels are essential to deliver these reforms effectively.
Alongside Professor Ahsan Iqbal and Prof. Dr. Iqrar Ahmad Khan, the meeting included Minister for Higher Education Rana Sikandar Hayat, Secretary Higher Education Department Mr. Ghulam Farid, Special Secretary HED Mr. Tajammal Abbas Rana, Additional Secretary (Universities) Mrs. Zahida Azhar, educationist Mr. Muzammil Mehmood and representatives from PHEC and the Higher Education Department. Their contributions reinforced a commitment to transparent governance and stronger oversight as part of the ongoing higher education reform agenda.
