ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s higher education system is in for a revolution, driven by technology and ambitious initiatives. In an interview with a television, Higher Education Commission (HEC) Chairman Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed outlined bold plans to transform traditional education into a tech-savvy ecosystem.
The focus lies on equipping students with digital knowledge and preparing them for the demands of the tech industry. Initiatives like “smart teaching”, “smart campuses”, and “smart universities” promote a multi-technology environment.
HEC envisions a new learning system that embraces online tools and classrooms, enabling blended learning experiences for students and teachers. This includes exploring affiliation policies, online education strategies, and incorporating artificial intelligence into the system.
Recognizing the need for collective effort, Dr. Ahmed emphasized collaboration between HEC and other departments to review and modernize existing policies. Long-term strategies are being implemented to empower universities to deliver high-quality tech-based education and even open virtual campuses.
HEC is committed to making Pakistan a digital nation, and a vital part of this vision is enhancing data accessibility. Two cutting-edge data centers established by HEC provide researchers with high-speed, secure access to crucial information.
The “Smart University” project envisions campuses equipped with comprehensive Wi-Fi coverage, paving the way for the deployment of various smart technologies.
Recognizing the importance of inclusivity, HEC offers international scholarship programs to help deserving students, particularly those from less privileged backgrounds. Additionally, need-based scholarships are being allocated to ensure talented individuals don’t face financial barriers to education.