The Higher Education Commission’s R&I Division convened the first meeting of the reconstituted Evaluation and Management Committee for the Access to Scientific Instrumentation Programme (ASIP) at the HEC Secretariat in Islamabad. The session marked the Committee’s initial review under a revised policy framework designed to streamline access to shared research infrastructure.
The HEC ASIP Committee was briefed on its expanded responsibilities to ensure efficient programme implementation and to uphold high standards of research support across participating institutions. Members discussed mechanisms to monitor progress, improve turnaround times for service delivery and maintain transparent governance of ASIP-funded resources.
During the meeting the Committee evaluated applications submitted in November and December 2025 to facilitate timely access to advanced analytical facilities for PhD scholars. Deliberations centred on ensuring equitable access, prioritising projects with clear research outcomes and aligning instrument scheduling to meet doctoral researchers’ timelines.
Participants explored strategies for optimal utilisation of high-end research equipment and for strengthening inter-institutional collaboration and resource sharing among public sector universities and R&D organisations. The Committee also addressed operational oversight to ensure service providers maintain the highest levels of efficiency and technical support.
HEC reaffirmed its commitment to removing financial and infrastructural barriers that hinder scientific inquiry, emphasising a collaborative ecosystem that supports PhD research and enhances national research capacity through shared instrumentation and coordinated institutional partnerships.
