BY: FT Correspondent:
ISLAMABAD —Chairman Senate of Pakistan Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani has said that Pakistan’s progress is closely linked to the strength of its universities, which play a vital role in educating minds, building character, promoting responsible citizenship and preparing youth for future challenges.
He was addressing the closing ceremony of a three-day workshop titled “Strategic Planning and Leadership Excellence”, organised by the National Academy of Higher Education (NAHE), Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan, for Vice Chancellors, Pro-Vice Chancellors, Deans and heads of statutory bodies of universities at the National Institute of Banking and Finance (NIBAF).
Gilani appreciated HEC and NAHE for bringing together university leadership for the important initiative and said effective leadership, sound governance and strategic planning were essential for institutional growth and national development.
He stressed that Vice Chancellors were not merely administrators but leaders responsible for shaping education, research, innovation and the future direction of their institutions.
The Chairman Senate called for promoting innovation, excellence, collaboration and inclusivity in higher education institutions and urged universities to prepare youth to meet future challenges and contribute to society and the national economy.
Chairman HEC Dr. Niaz Ahmad Akhtar stressed the importance of following the laws and regulations of university Syndicates and statutory bodies. He highlighted the role of academic management and faculty in improving governance, enhancing quality and creating a conducive academic and research environment.
Dr. Noor Amna Malik highlighted the financial challenges facing higher education institutions and called for greater prioritisation, support and funding for the sector to achieve tangible outcomes.
Minister of State for Federal Education and Professional Training Ms. Wajiha Qamar also interacted with participants and termed visionary leadership a key pillar of strong universities. She stressed the importance of innovation, strategic governance, accountability and collaboration.
The three-day workshop covered strategic planning, university governance, financial management, institutional sustainability, resource mobilisation, performance management, stakeholder engagement and the role of artificial intelligence in higher education.
Participating university leaders appreciated the initiative and described it as a valuable platform for learning, experience sharing and finding solutions to challenges facing the higher education sector.
