The University of Management and Technology (UMT) has officially launched its MS in Higher Education Leadership and Management (HELM) program, aimed at cultivating a new generation of visionary leaders to transform Pakistan’s higher education sector. The ceremony took place at UMT’s Johar Town Campus, under the auspices of the Dr Hasan Murad School of Management (HSM), with UMT Chairman and President Ibrahim Hasan Murad serving as the chief guest.
The event drew prominent figures from academia, including Rector Dr Asif Raza, Provost Dr Asghar Zaidi, Dean Dr Naveed Yazdani, vice chancellors from leading universities, educationists, and a large number of students.
In his keynote address, Ibrahim Hasan Murad described the HELM program as a “transformative milestone” in Pakistan’s higher education landscape. He stressed the urgent need for strategic leadership and academic governance, noting that only 10% of Pakistani youth currently have access to university-level education. “This figure must rise if we are to achieve sustainable national development,” he said, calling for responsible measures to bridge the gap. Murad underscored the importance of empowering young people with leadership and management skills to address the country’s educational and institutional challenges.
Rector Dr Asif Raza highlighted that achieving excellence in higher education requires sustained effort and sacrifice. He said the HELM program will not only introduce advanced global trends but also prioritize character-building and ethical development to prepare students as responsible leaders.
Provost Dr Asghar Zaidi urged students to actively participate in driving Pakistan’s economic and developmental progress, emphasizing that a well-educated youth is the country’s true asset. Dean Dr Naveed Yazdani noted that the program is expected to enhance innovation, institutional efficiency, and sustainability across the higher education system.
The launch event also featured a panel discussion chaired by Dr Zaidi, where experts explored leadership challenges, policy-making gaps, and future opportunities for higher education reform in Pakistan.
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The ceremony concluded with the presentation of souvenirs to distinguished guests, symbolizing UMT’s commitment to fostering academic leadership and strengthening institutional frameworks within the country’s higher education sector.