Research in focus

This refers to the news item ‘Aurangzeb hints at rationalisation of government spending’ (December 30, 2024). The finance minister has hinted at reviewing the expenditure of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and some other government entities. To my knowledge, the HEC has been trying its utmost to improve the academic performance of our universities. As for the calibre of Pakistani students, they are now being readily picked up by international companies and are even enjoying senior positions.

The HEC, however, has not been able to ensure quality research in universities despite strict monitoring. It is true the students admitted to universities have not been oriented to creative thinking and genuine research in their schools and colleges. The university teachers too need the motivation and will to ensure creative research work and the inadequate budget of the HEC must also be addressed. Furthermore, the VCs of the universities should be firmly advised to ensure quality research in their institutions.

Dr Najeeb A Khan

Islamabad