Capacity Building Initiative in Pakistani Public Sector Universities - A joint Initiative by the HEC and the University of Utah

A partnership of joint efforts announced between Pakistan’s Higher Education Commission (HEC) and the the University of Utah is a leap towards building a stronger, more resilient higher education sector in Pakistan. The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), through its Higher Education System Strengthening Activity (HESSA), aims to address crucial areas of faculty development, strategic planning, and policy reforms vital elements for any institution striving for excellence.

The HESSA initiative has already had a significant impact on Pakistan’s higher education ecosystem, and this new agreement extends its reach to an additional 16 universities, doubling the number of partner institutions receiving critical support. With these additional partnerships, Pakistani universities will have access to resources and guidance tailored to their unique challenges, allowing them to develop more robust governance structures and adopt internationally recognized academic standards. This initiative reflects a profound commitment to the future of Pakistan’s academic institutions.

The University of Utah brings a wealth of expertise, and its role in faculty development and institutional governance will provide Pakistani universities with the tools and the confidence to meet contemporary academic demands.

The ceremony commemorating this partnership was held at the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan and attended by notable figures, including HEC Chairman Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed and USAID Deputy Mission Director Andrew McKim. It highlighted the shared vision of both countries. Adviser Global Engagement at HEC, Mr. Awais Ahmed, and Dr. Michael Barber, a professor of civil engineering at the University of Utah, formalized this initiative with signatures on behalf of their respective institutions, underscoring a joint commitment to strengthening Pakistan’s educational foundation.

USAID’s support is particularly noteworthy, as it underscores a recognition of education as a tool for empowerment and economic growth. The collaboration between HEC and the University of Utah represents an innovative approach to capacity building, ensuring that Pakistan’s universities are equipped to prepare students for a globalized workforce. Beyond technical improvements, such partnerships foster cultural exchange, encouraging new ideas and broader perspectives essential for promoting creativity and critical thinking.

According to Prof. Dr. Muhammad Mukhtar, Vice Chancellor of the National Skills University Islamabad, this initiative is a beacon of progress as Pakistan navigates an evolving educational landscape. The HEC and the University of Utah’s partnership reaffirms a commitment to quality education and represents a shared aspiration for a world where knowledge transcends borders and builds bridges. It is a reminder that cooperation is not just an option but an imperative in education.