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ISLAMABAD: The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has barred universities from signing direct agreements with international organizations.
Chairman HEC Dr Mukhtar Malik sent a letter to the Vice Chancellors and heads of educational institutes expressing concern over engaging and collaborating with international organizations.
The letter said that it has been observed that universities have been collaborating and engaging with international organizations such as the United Nations and its constituent agencies on “politically sensitive matters” without consulting the Foreign Office or other relevant ministries.
“This practice, in turn, renders the HEIs fallible to represent Pakistan’s stated position/policy on such matters. The Foreign Office has also taken note of the issue and has accordingly conveyed to HEC,” the letter added.
The HEC restrains the universities from directly signing contracts with international organizations without permission from the relevant ministries and departments.
He stated that universities are working with international organizations on sensitive and political matters which does not portray a positive image of Pakistan.
Earlier in July, the federal government approved the Higher Education Commission (HEC) Amendment Bill, 2023.
The federal cabinet approved the HEC Amendment Bill and the prime minister has been given the controlling authority of the Higher Education Commission.
The prime minister been granted powers to remove an HEC chairman before the expiry of the employment period.
