Chairman of the Higher Education Commission (HEC), Prof Dr Niaz Ahmed Akhtar, officially inaugurated the first session of the Vice Chancellors Forum for the Islamabad-Rawalpindi twin cities at the University of Rawalpindi, marking a significant step toward enhancing collaboration among higher education institutions in the region.
The inaugural gathering brought together the leadership of more than 25 universities from Islamabad and Rawalpindi, providing a platform for dialogue, partnership, and the exchange of ideas aimed at advancing the higher education sector.
Addressing the participants, Prof Dr Niaz Ahmed Akhtar highlighted the importance of collaborative forums in helping universities move beyond individual efforts and work collectively to improve academic standards, strengthen research culture, and effectively address emerging challenges facing higher education.
The HEC Chairman appreciated the initiative and acknowledged the active participation of Vice Chancellors, Rectors, and Presidents from universities across the twin cities. He also paid special tribute to Mr Murtaza Noor, National Coordinator of IUCPSS, for his role in establishing the forum as a follow-up to the recommendations of the 6th International Students Convention and Expo, which was organized in collaboration with the Higher Education Commission.
Prof Akhtar expressed optimism that the Vice Chancellors Forum would evolve into a regular platform for meaningful engagement, institutional cooperation, and academic progress, helping universities build stronger partnerships and share best practices for the benefit of students and researchers.
The Chairman and participating university leaders also extended their gratitude to Dr Muhammad Abu Bakar, Chairman of the Board of Governors of the University of Rawalpindi, for hosting the inaugural event.
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The launch of the forum is expected to foster greater coordination among universities in the twin cities and contribute to the continued development of Pakistan’s higher education landscape.
