A delegation of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) called on Higher Education Commission (HEC) Chairman Prof Dr Niaz Ahmad Akhtar at the HEC Secretariat and discussed opportunities to strengthen collaboration between the higher education sector and the professional accounting body.
The meeting focused on potential avenues of cooperation in research and capacity building, along with matters concerning qualifications, accreditation and stronger linkages between universities and professional organisations.
Prof Dr Niaz Ahmad Akhtar highlighted the importance of quality education and continuous professional development in preparing graduates to meet the changing requirements of the national and global economy. He also stressed the need to promote entrepreneurship and equip students and professionals with knowledge of emerging technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence and digital technologies.
The discussions come amid HEC’s broader efforts to strengthen the quality, relevance and employability of higher education in Pakistan. The Commission has recently emphasized stronger coordination with accreditation councils and professional stakeholders to improve academic standards and enhance the international recognition of Pakistani qualifications.
ACCA’s qualification also has an established relationship with Pakistan’s higher education framework, with HEC recognising ACCA membership as equivalent to a Master’s degree for eligible members, subject to the applicable equivalence requirements.
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The meeting reflects growing emphasis on closer university-professional body collaboration to bridge the gap between academic qualifications and workplace requirements, while preparing graduates for an increasingly technology-driven economy.
