Dr Zia Ul-Qayyum Takes the Helm of South Asian University

Advertisements by Academia Magazine

In a significant development for higher education in Pakistan, Executive Director of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) Dr Zia Ul-Qayyum has been elected Chairman of the Governing Body of the South Asian University (SAU). This prestigious appointment, announced at the SAU Governing Body meeting held in Nepal, will see Dr Qayyum lead the collaborative university initiative for the next year.

The SAU, with its headquarters in New Delhi, India, serves as a beacon of regional cooperation, established by the eight member nations of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC): Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. Since its inception in 2010, the South Asian University has provided high-quality postgraduate and doctoral programs in diverse fields, fostering academic exchange and understanding across the region.

Dr Qayyum’s selection as Chairman signifies a recognition of his leadership and expertise in the higher education landscape. This appointment brings immense honor to the HEC and Pakistan, strengthening the country’s role in shaping the SAU’s vision and growth. His leadership is expected to further solidify collaborative efforts and enhance academic initiatives within the SAARC nations.

The news has been met with enthusiastic responses from academics and education experts in Pakistan. “Dr Qayyum’s appointment is a testament to his dedication to international education and regional cooperation,” remarked Dr Ayesha Hamid, Professor at Quaid-i-Azam University (QAU). “This leadership role will undoubtedly benefit Pakistani students and contribute to the SAU’s continued success.”

Dr Qayyum’s tenure as Chairman promises to be a landmark for the South Asian University, paving the way for increased opportunities for academic exchange, joint research projects, and faculty development initiatives within the South Asian region. With his extensive experience and unwavering commitment to academic excellence, Dr Qayyum is poised to guide the South Asian University towards a future of even greater collaboration and regional impact.