The Arid Agriculture University held its 81st Academic Council meeting in Rawalpindi under the chairmanship of Prof. Dr. Qamar-uz-Zaman, with Registrar Muhammad Aqeel Sultan, deans, institute directors, professors and associate professors in attendance. The council approved the minutes of the 80th meeting and reviewed a range of academic matters aimed at strengthening student outcomes.
Council members approved several new degree programs designed to meet emerging industry needs, with a clear emphasis on skill based programs that prioritise hands-on training and employability. The new offerings aim to prepare graduates for immediate entry into the workforce while also equipping them with the tools to pursue entrepreneurship and create jobs.
The Academic Council authorised all faculties to develop and incorporate Artificial Intelligence course content across degree programmes, stressing that AI education should become an integral part of curricula. By embedding AI in diverse disciplines, the university intends to ensure students gain contemporary technical competencies alongside their core studies.
Addressing the meeting, Prof. Dr. Qamar-uz-Zaman urged deans and directors to facilitate students within the framework of academic regulations and to redouble efforts on skill based programs and research activities. He highlighted the need to enhance practical skills, foster innovation and strengthen research so graduates can meet national and international challenges.
The Academic Council concluded with a commitment to continuously raise academic standards, modernise curricula and promote excellence in teaching, research and innovation across the university. These steps signal a strategic shift toward competency-driven education with a focus on employability and entrepreneurship.
