Amidst heavy rainfall in the Chitral region, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has taken a decisive step to ensure the safety and well-being of students. The government announced the cancellation of matriculation annual exams scheduled from Thursday to Saturday, impacting numerous students in the area.

The decision to cancel the exams was made during a crucial meeting chaired by Education Minister Faisal Khan Tarakai in Peshawar. Concerns regarding the adverse weather conditions and their potential impact on students’ ability to appear for the exams prompted the unanimous agreement to reschedule the cancelled exams for a later date.

This move by the KP government underscores its commitment to prioritizing the welfare and academic interests of students, especially in regions affected by challenging weather conditions. By opting to postpone the exams rather than risking the safety and convenience of students, educational authorities aim to ensure fairness and equal opportunity for all candidates in Chitral.

The cancellation of the matriculation exams in Chitral highlights the proactive approach of educational authorities in adapting to unforeseen circumstances and addressing the needs of students amidst challenging situations. It reflects a concerted effort to uphold the integrity and quality of the examination process while safeguarding the well-being of the student population.

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In a bid to protect students from scorching temperatures, the Punjab government has implemented revised Summer School Timings 2024 for regular classes during the summer season. The decision, announced by the provincial education department, aims to mitigate the impact of intense heat on students across the region.

Effective immediately, schools in Punjab will operate under adjusted Summer School Timings 2024, with regular classes commencing at 7:45 am and concluding at 1:15 pm on standard weekdays. Fridays will see an early dismissal, with classes ending at 11:45 am. For double-shift schools, the schedule will accommodate two sessions: from 7:45 am to 12:15 pm and from 12:45 pm to 5:15 pm.

This move underscores the government’s commitment to prioritizing the welfare and safety of students amidst challenging weather conditions. Notably, this adjustment follows previous modifications made in response to weather variations and security concerns.

During the winter period, which spanned from February to April 15, authorities implemented altered schedules due to extreme cold. Boys’ schools in the provincial capital and other cities operated from 8:30 am to 2:30 pm, while girls’ schools commenced classes at 8:15 am, concluding at 2:15 pm. On Fridays, schools closed earlier, with boys’ institutions ending classes at 12:15 pm and girls’ schools at 12:00 pm. Double-shift schools maintained uninterrupted sessions, running from 7:45 am to 12:15 pm and from 12:30 pm to 5:00 pm in the second shift.

These Summer School Timings 2024 adjustments reflect the government’s proactive approach to addressing climatic challenges and ensuring optimal learning environments for students across Punjab. By adapting school hours to suit seasonal conditions, authorities aim to uphold educational standards while safeguarding the well-being of the student population.

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In a momentous achievement for Pakistan’s higher education sector, eight universities from the country have made a remarkable mark in the latest QS Subject Rankings 2024. This year’s rankings have seen a surge in participation, with over 16,300 academic programs evaluated across various disciplines, reflecting a notable increase compared to the previous year.

The QS Subject Rankings 2024 encompass 55 distinct subjects grouped into five main categories. With a total of 1,559 institutions worldwide undergoing evaluation, including 64 making their debut appearance, the competition was intense.

Among the standout performers from Pakistan are COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) Islamabad, University of the Punjab (PU), Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS), Quaid-e-Azam University (QAU) Islamabad, Aga Khan University (AKU) Karachi, University of Engineering and Technology (UET) Lahore, and University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF).

NUST has once again reaffirmed its position as a global leader, securing the top spot in the QS Subject Rankings 2024 (Engineering and Technology). Close competitors include COMSATS University Islamabad and University of Engineering & Technology (UET) Lahore. Noteworthy performances were also observed from Quaid-i-Azam University and University of the Punjab, showcasing the diverse academic strengths within Pakistan.

NUST’s stellar performance in the QS Subject Rankings 2024 is particularly laudable, with a significant rise of 16 positions in the field of Engineering & Technology, securing the prestigious 144th spot globally. This achievement marks the eighth consecutive year of NUST’s dominance in this field in Pakistan.

Moreover, NUST has solidified its global standing by ranking among the top 200 universities worldwide in subjects such as Computer Science, Electrical & Electronics Engineering, and Civil & Structural Engineering. Additionally, it has secured positions in the top 300 universities in Mechanical, Aeronautical & Manufacturing Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Material Science, and Mathematics. Notably, NUST has made its debut appearance in subjects like Accounting & Finance, Economics & Econometrics, and Medicine, showcasing its versatility and evolving academic landscape.

The University of the Punjab has also celebrated significant achievements, with 19 subjects ranked in the QS Subject Rankings 2024. Notable among these is Library and Information Management, which achieved a remarkable position in the 50-70 range globally, marking a historic milestone for the university. Other ranked subjects include Petroleum Engineering, Languages, Linguistics, Mathematics, Pharmacy, Agriculture & Forestry, Physics & Astronomy, Engineering & Technology, and Chemical Engineering.

This impressive showing by Pakistani universities underscores the nation’s commitment to academic excellence and innovation, positioning them as key players on the global higher education stage.

Related: QAU Leads the country in QS Subject Rankings 2024

The Sindh government has unveiled its blueprint for implementing a non-formal education system across the province, aiming to cater to the educational needs of over two million children who are currently out of school. The initiative intends to compress the elementary-level education into a span of four years.

During a meeting chaired by Sindh’s Education Minister, Syed Sardar Ali Shah, it was disclosed that a comprehensive curriculum and coursework have been devised for this non-formal education system. Moreover, efforts are underway to establish the ‘Sindh Non-formal Education Authority’ in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), operating in a Public-Private Partnership model.

Under this initiative, out-of-school children will have the opportunity to receive education up to class eight, alongside vocational training, with the overarching goal of empowering more than two million boys and girls in the province over the next four years. To ensure accessibility, non-formal education centers will be set up in areas where there is a higher concentration of out-of-school children.

In addressing challenges such as post-primary dropout rates, Minister Sardar Shah emphasized plans to upgrade primary schools where necessary, with a particular focus on prioritizing STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) in the curriculum.

Acknowledging the role of science exhibitions in stimulating student interest, the minister instructed education authorities to arrange such exhibitions at various levels, providing a platform for youth to exhibit their talents and innovative ideas.

In a separate meeting with officers from the Directorate of Private Institutions, Minister Sardar Ali Shah directed the enhancement of monitoring mechanisms for private schools. He also announced the appointment of 35 inspectors across the province to oversee the operations of private schools at the district level.

Additionally, private schools are required to offer scholarships to 10% of their students and include Sindhi language as a subject in their curriculum. Collaboration with the Sindhi Language Authority is also in the pipeline to train teachers in effectively teaching the Sindhi language.

Related: SHC Halts Fee Collection, Upholds Free Education Policy

Quaid-i-Azam University (QAU) Islamabad has once again emerged as a beacon of academic excellence, clinching the top spot in Pakistan (Natural Sciences) and earning global recognition in the prestigious QS Subject Ranking 2024. The university, which is already celebrated for its academic prowess, has reaffirmed its standing by securing impressive rankings across various disciplines.

According to the QS Subject Ranking 2024, QAU has excelled in numerous fields, including Mathematics, Statistics & Operational Research, Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, and Biological Sciences. These departments have not only secured commendable global rankings between 201 to 351 but have also claimed the first position in Pakistan in their respective subjects. Additionally, the Pharmacy & Pharmacology department has made significant strides by securing the 201st position globally and the 2nd position domestically.

Moreover, QAU’s Environmental Sciences and Agriculture & Forestry departments have garnered global recognition with rankings ranging between 251 to 450. Furthermore, the Computer Science & Information System, Economics & Econometrics, and Business & Management Studies departments have also performed exceptionally well, earning impressive rankings between 351 to 451.

Expressing his elation over the university’s remarkable achievement, Prof Dr Niaz Ahmad Akhtar, the Vice-Chancellor of QAU, extended his heartfelt congratulations to all stakeholders involved. He attributed this outstanding success to the relentless efforts and dedication of the university’s faculty, students, staff, ranking committee, and alumni.

“This remarkable achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our brilliant faculty, hardworking students, staff, ranking committee, and alumni,” remarked Prof Dr Akhtar. “Securing the top position in Pakistan and earning global recognition in the QS Subject Ranking 2024 is a matter of great pride for Quaid-i-Azam University.”

He further emphasized QAU’s commitment to maintaining its reputation for excellence and its dedication to continuous improvement. “We aim to continue producing outstanding results in the future and remain at the forefront of academic excellence,” Prof Dr Akhtar affirmed.

With its exceptional performance in the QS Subject Ranking 2024, Quaid-i-Azam University has once again proven its commitment to excellence and innovation in higher education. As the university continues to strive for academic distinction, it remains a source of pride for the nation and a shining example of Pakistan’s potential on the global stage.

Related: Mir Sarfraz Bugti: Remarkable Journey from QAU to CM House

The Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) has invited young aspiring entrepreneurs from Punjab to submit their startup ideas for incubation at the new Regional Plan 9 incubation centers in the cities of Rawalpindi, Kharian and Kamra. In collaboration with the Air University and National Aerospace Science and Technology Park (NASTP), these centers aim at providing vital support and resources to startups in the region.

The newly established incubation centers offer a range of support services tailored to the needs of budding entrepreneurs. Startups will have access to mentorship programs, networking opportunities, office space, as well as free legal services and business development assistance in these incubation centers.

One of the unique features of these incubation centers is strategic location within the National Aerospace Science and Technology Park (NASTP). This proximity offers startups unparalleled access to technical expertise and support from professionals working in industries. Additionally, startups will have the opportunity to leverage manufacturing facilities and infrastructure for prototyping and production, particularly advantageous given Kamra’s status as the home to the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC).

Furthermore, the presence of educational institutions like the Air University and technical training centers in the vicinity provides startups with access to a rich talent pool of skilled professionals and potential recruits. This synergy between industry and academia creates a conducive environment for innovation and growth, further enhancing the prospects of startups in the region.

In this regard, PITB Chairman Faisal Yousaf stated, “The establishment of these incubation centers underscores our commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in Pakistan. With a total of 11 centers now operational and having incubated 286 startups, creating over 2600 jobs, we are proud of the impact that our initiatives have had on driving economic growth and job creation in the region.”

“PITB is committed to supporting the entrepreneurial ecosystem and look forward to witnessing the continued success of startups in Kharian, Kamra, and Rawalpindi,” he added.

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Islamia University Bahawalpur (IUB) students showcased the vibrant cultural heritage of Pakistan at the International Culture and Arts festival hosted by Sichuan Agricultural University (SICUA) in China. The event saw participation from students representing eleven countries, each contributing their unique cultural elements.

Under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Islamia University of Bahawalpur and Sichuan Agricultural University, students who had been awarded scholarships also took part in the festival alongside their Pakistani counterparts. The Pakistani team captivated the audience with displays of traditional attire, intricate jewellery, handicrafts, mesmerizing mehndi designs, local delicacies, and energetic cultural dances.

The management and students of Sichuan Agricultural University were deeply appreciative of Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage. Their warm reception and admiration for the Pakistani representation reflected a shared appreciation for diversity and cultural exchange.

In a thrilling culmination, the team from Pakistan, led by students from Islamia University Bahawalpur, clinched the top honors at the cultural festival. Among the standout performers were Rabia Tahir, Sameera Naseer, Tahmina Kausar, and Umar Arshad, who exhibited exceptional talent and dedication to promoting Pakistan’s culture on an international stage.

Prof. Dr. Abdul Rauf, Director of Students Affairs at Islamia University Bahawalpur, and Dr. Abid Hussain Shahzad, Director of International Linkages, lauded the students’ outstanding performance. They praised the team’s efforts in representing their country with pride and excellence, underscoring the significance of such initiatives in fostering global understanding and appreciation for cultural diversity.

The success of Islamia University Bahawalpur students at the International Culture and Arts festival not only brought accolades to their institution but also served as a testament to the power of cultural exchange in building bridges between nations.

Related: US Consul General Kristin Hawkins Visits IUB