The University of Home Economics (UHE) Lahore, stands as a testament to the transformative power of education and the determination to empower women. Since its inception in 1955 as the College of Home Economics, the institution has been on a remarkable journey of evolution and growth. Rooted in the principles of fostering life skills, creative development, and academic excellence, the university has emerged as a beacon of empowerment for women in Pakistan.

The foundation of the College of Home Economics in 1955 marked a pioneering step towards educating women in various essential life skills. The institution’s primary aim was to equip young women with the knowledge and skills necessary for home and family life, while also nurturing their creativity. Partnering with Oklahoma University in the USA for curriculum development and teacher training highlighted the institution’s commitment to quality education.

In a span of merely a decade, the college expanded its offerings to include PhD MS and BS programs in Home Economics, demonstrating its adaptability and responsiveness to educational needs. Over time, the university broadened its educational scope, positioning itself as a platform to empower women to venture into diverse professional fields.

A significant milestone was achieved in the university’s history on February 8, 2017, with the passage of an act by the Punjab Assembly to elevate the institution to the status of a public sector university. The transition toward university status was officially initiated with the appointment of Prof Dr Kanwal Ameen as the first Vice-Chancellor of UHE Lahore on May 31, 2019. This period of transition heralds a new chapter filled with excitement, challenges, and high expectations for all stakeholders.

The UHE Lahore takes immense pride in its role in shaping mature, professionally equipped, cultured, and service-oriented graduates. The institution’s commitment to academic excellence is unwavering, with an uncompromising stance on teaching standards and discipline. The transformational power of education is evident in the institution’s efforts to empower women to become independent thinkers, professionals, entrepreneurs, researchers, and compassionate individuals.

Graduates of the UHE Lahore are positioned for success in a wide range of professional arenas. They can enter industries such as food companies, utility companies, supermarkets, and home equipment manufacturing. Home Economists often explore freelance entrepreneurship, media, advertising, product promotion, and testing. The education provided equips graduates to also take up roles as high school teachers, community activists, family counselors, and credit counselors. By advising on food choices, fashion, activity patterns, and healthy lifestyles, Home Economists contribute significantly to the well-being of families and communities.

 Vision and Mission

UHE Lahore’s vision revolves around fostering versatile growth among its students through diverse learning approaches that emphasize teaching and research excellence. This approach aims to cultivate empowered individuals with strong social responsibility, values, harmony, and cultural appreciation. The mission of the UHE Lahore is deeply entrenched in creating an equitable environment that motivates faculty and graduates to excel in an interactive learning process. The institution also places great emphasis on producing high-quality research and empowering young women with skills for lifelong learning and community service.

Commitment to Excellence

Prof Dr Syeda Faleeha Zahra Kazmi’s appointment as Vice-Chancellor of UHE Lahore on August 5, 2023, has ushered in a new era of Commitment to Excellence at our institution. Her tenure has been marked by a series of transformative initiatives aimed at enhancing the overall student experience and elevating the institution’s standing in various areas.

One of the most noteworthy initiatives undertaken by Dr Kazmi upon assuming her role was the establishment of dedicated Student Information Centers across the campus. These centers serve as hubs of information and support, ensuring that students have easy access to resources, guidance, and assistance, thereby enhancing their welfare.

In addition to prioritizing student welfare, Dr Kazmi has championed campus beautification efforts. The physical environment of our institution has seen significant improvements, making it a more attractive and conducive place for learning and research. These beautification projects contribute to the overall well-being of our academic community.

Moreover, Dr Kazmi’s commitment to infrastructure improvement has been unwavering. Through her leadership, substantial efforts have been made to upgrade existing facilities and create new ones. This commitment to enhancing the infrastructure is a testament to her dedication to providing our students and faculty with state-of-the-art resources and environments for teaching and research.

Dr Kazmi’s influence has extended to the realm of finance and planning. She successfully secured substantial funding for the library, increasing its resources and capacity significantly. The library’s funding was increased from 3 lakh to an impressive 50 lakh, ensuring that it remains a vital hub for academic research and knowledge dissemination.

In the pursuit of academic excellence, Dr Kazmi has also been instrumental in obtaining research grants totaling up to 7 million. These grants support faculty and student research endeavors, furthering our institution’s reputation as a center for cutting-edge research and innovation.

Furthermore, Dr Kazmi has worked tirelessly to engage alumni, fostering a sense of unity and collaboration between past and present members of our academic community. This involvement not only strengthens our institution’s network but also contributes to its overall growth and development.

Prof Dr Faleeha Zahra Kazmi’s tenure as Vice-Chancellor UHE Lahore has been marked by a steadfast Commitment to Excellence in every facet of our institution. Her visionary leadership and tireless efforts have led to significant improvements in student welfare, campus beautification, infrastructure development, library funding, research grants, and alumni involvement. Under her guidance, our institution continues to strive for academic achievement, innovation, and inclusivity, setting a shining example for the future.

Prof Dr Syeda Faleeha Zahra Kazmi is dedicated to enhancing academia and improving infrastructure for faculty and students. Their primary focus is to work tirelessly day and night with the main goal of facilitating students and creating a conducive environment for faculty. The aim is to ensure that students have access to excellent teachers so that they can shape a bright future for themselves, ultimately elevating the status of the educational institutions within the UHE Lahore.

Prof Dr Syeda Faleeha Zahra Kazmi is actively involved in administrative improvements to provide better opportunities for students to receive quality education and training. Their entire attention is directed toward equipping students with better knowledge and professional training so that they can progress on the path of self-development through their education.

In this way, their efforts are geared towards bringing about administrative improvements that will provide enhanced educational facilities and resources for both students and faculty within the UHE Lahore. The ultimate goal is to establish it as a reputable educational institution where students receive valuable knowledge and professional preparation. Through the efforts of Prof Dr Syeda Faleeha Zahra Kazmi, the UHE Lahore aims to secure its place as a premier educational institution.

A Message from the Vice Chancellor

Prof Dr Syeda Faleeha Zahra Kazmi, the Vice-Chancellor UHE Lahore, leads the institution with a vision of inclusivity, diversity, creativity, and excellence. Her message resonates with the commitment to uplift, inspire, and transform lives through education and empowerment.

Expanding Academic Horizons and Infrastructure

The College of Home Economics and Social Sciences stands as a testament to the UHE Lahore’s continuous pursuit of academic excellence and its commitment to offering a comprehensive range of programs that cater to a diverse array of disciplines. This expansion not only underscores the institution’s growth but also reinforces its position as a hub for holistic education.

The institution’s commitment to academic growth is mirrored in its investment in state-of-the-art infrastructure. The construction of a newly built administrative block underscores the importance of efficient administrative operations to support the academic mission of the UHE Lahore. This modern administrative center not only streamlines processes but also provides a conducive environment for administrative staff to excel in their roles.

Diverse Range of Programs

The expansion has resulted in the introduction of an impressive array of academic programs. Currently, there are 23 Bachelor of Science (BS) programs, 3 MPhil/MS programs, 1 PhD program, and 4 awaiting approval from the Higher Education Comission (HEC) Pakistan. These programs span across a wide spectrum of fields, catering to diverse student demographics and evolving industry demands. Ranging from traditional home economics disciplines to modern social sciences, the institution ensures that students can select programs aligned with their interests and career aspirations. This comprehensive approach not only empowers students with specialized knowledge but also equips them with a multidisciplinary perspective crucial in today’s interconnected world.

Beyond the BS/MS/PHD programs, the university offers postgraduate diplomas, enabling students to further enhance their expertise in specific areas. The inclusion of 6-month diplomas across six disciplines underscores the UHE Lahore’s commitment to providing short-term, skill-focused programs tailored to practical and industry-specific needs. These offerings culminate in a well-rounded educational experience, combining theoretical knowledge with hands-on skills, thereby preparing graduates to excel in their chosen fields.

Infrastructure Development and Modernization

The upcoming incubation center, generously sponsored by a private entity, is a testament to the university’s recognition of the importance of fostering entrepreneurship and innovation among its students. This center is poised to become a hub for creative ideation, business development, and collaboration, providing students with the tools and resources to turn their innovative ideas into reality.

Establishing Several Specialized Centers at UHE Lahore.

Under the visionary leadership of Prof Dr Faleeha Zahra Kazmi, several specialized centers have been established at UHE Lahore to cater to diverse student needs and enhance their university experience:

Career and Placement Center, Independent Living Center for Special Needs, Begum Ra’ana Liaquat Ali Centre for Training, Student’s Admission Information Center, Transportation Information Center, Financial Aid Center

These centers stand as a testament to Prof. Dr. Faleeha Zahra Kazmi’s dedication towards creating a supportive and conducive environment for students, offering holistic support beyond academic pursuits, and contributing to their overall growth and success at UHE.”

A Glimpse into the Future: Academic Block and Main Hall

As part of its ongoing commitment to excellence, the university is embarking on the construction of a seven-story academic block. This ambitious project is a clear indication of the institution’s dedication to providing top-notch facilities that enable cutting-edge teaching and research. The academic block will not only accommodate classrooms and laboratories but will also serve as a hub for intellectual exchange, collaborative research, and interdisciplinary engagement. This expansion not only enhances the student experience but also positions the university as a leader in academic infrastructure.

Furthermore, the construction of a main hall designed to host workshops, seminars, and student and faculty functions signifies the university’s recognition of the importance of creating spaces that foster community interaction and knowledge dissemination. This hall will serve as a central venue for academic and cultural events, contributing to the vibrant campus life that the university is known for.

A Legacy of Empowerment and Excellence

In culmination, the UHE Lahore, has transcended its humble beginnings as a college for home economics to become a pioneering public sector university. Its journey of empowerment, education, and excellence is embodied in its commitment to nurturing graduates who are not only academically proficient but also socially responsible. The institution’s expansion into diverse academic disciplines, coupled with its investment in modern infrastructure, sets the stage for a dynamic future of growth, innovation, and transformation. The UHE Lahore, remains dedicated to its mission of shaping empowered individuals who are poised to leave an indelible mark on various fields and contribute to the progress of society at large.

Related: UHE Lahore showcases 83 Art Work at Int’l Symposium on Art & Design

Author, Ihsan Aslam,  is the Protocoal officer to the VC UHE Lahore, and can be reached at aslamihsan.aslam@gmail.com.

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Student Experience
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