- HEC has asked public and private universities to take part in the QS World University Rankings 2028.
- A nationwide capacity-building initiative is expected to conclude by December 2026.
- Muhammad Ali Baig has been named National Coordinator for National University Rankings.
- HEC says overall participation by Pakistani institutions remains relatively limited.
The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has called on universities in both the public and private sectors to take an active part in the QS World University Rankings 2028. The commission wants to strengthen Pakistan's representation and standing in global higher education.
The appeal was made in a letter sent to vice chancellors, rectors and heads of institutions across the country.
Encouraging results, limited participation
In the letter, HEC Executive Director Dr Zia Ul Haq noted that several Pakistani universities have performed encouragingly in international rankings. However, he pointed out that overall participation from the country's institutions is still relatively limited.
He advised universities to submit their institutional data on time and to meet all other requirements within the prescribed deadlines.
Nationwide capacity-building initiative
To help institutions with the process, HEC has launched a nationwide capacity-building initiative. It focuses on ranking methodologies, data requirements and institutional preparedness.
The initiative is expected to conclude by December 2026.
A national coordinator for guidance
HEC has appointed Muhammad Ali Baig, Deputy Director of the Higher Education Data Repository Division, as National Coordinator for National University Rankings. His role is to facilitate guidance and coordination with universities.
Why HEC says participation matters
The commission emphasised that broader participation, sustained engagement and evidence-based planning are essential to improving the international standing of Pakistani universities.
The capacity-building initiative is expected to conclude by December 2026. Universities are expected to submit their institutional data and meet all other requirements within the prescribed deadlines.
Questions and answers
What has HEC asked universities to do?
HEC has urged public and private universities to participate actively in the QS World University Rankings 2028 and to submit their institutional data on time.
Who is the National Coordinator for National University Rankings?
HEC has appointed Muhammad Ali Baig, Deputy Director of the Higher Education Data Repository Division, to facilitate guidance and coordination with universities.
How is HEC helping universities prepare?
It has launched a nationwide capacity-building initiative covering ranking methodologies, data requirements and institutional preparedness. The initiative is expected to conclude by December 2026.
Image: Saadz / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
