In a significant move aimed at elevating the standards of higher education, the Higher Education Commission (HEC) has enforced a ban on universities recognizing new colleges and institutions. This decision comes as part of HEC’s ongoing efforts to ensure the provision of quality education and address concerns surrounding substandard institutions in the country. By revising the Affiliation Policy/Criteria, the HEC intends to enhance the overall educational landscape and protect the interests of students.
Curbing Substandard Practices
The ban on granting new affiliations to colleges and institutions stems from the HEC’s growing apprehensions regarding certain public sector universities’ affiliation practices. Despite clear directives from the HEC, these universities have been affiliating colleges and institutions lacking essential infrastructure, qualified faculty, and auxiliary facilities. Such practices compromise the quality of education and tarnish the reputation of the higher education sector as a whole.
HEC’s Directive and Implications
To address this pressing issue, it has unequivocally instructed all public sector Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) with the authority to grant affiliations to immediately cease affiliating new colleges, institutions, and programs until revised criteria are issued. This prohibition serves as a temporary measure to ensure that only institutions meeting the necessary standards are affiliated, thereby enhancing the quality of education in the country.
While the ban applies to new affiliations, it does not affect the extension of affiliation for already affiliated programs and institutions. However, it has implemented an important safeguard to maintain oversight. For the renewal of affiliation, the presence of nominee in the Affiliation Committee is now mandatory. This ensures that the HEC’s representative actively participates in the evaluation process and safeguards educational quality.
Furthermore, to prevent any misleading information or false advertising, public sector HEIs have been directed to promptly withdraw any advertisements related to granting affiliations published in print and social media. This measure aims to uphold transparency in the affiliation process and ensure that students and parents receive accurate information regarding the recognized institutions.
Consequences of Non-compliance
Non-compliance with the HEC’s directives regarding the ban on new affiliations will have severe repercussions for the non-compliant HEIs. Degrees issued by these institutions will not be recognized or attested by the HEC, rendering them ineffective for employment purposes. It is imperative for HEIs to adhere to these guidelines to protect the credibility and employability of their graduates.
Legislative Authority and Societal Development
The HEC’s decision to ban new affiliations is well-grounded in the authority granted to it by legislation. The relevant ordinance, No. LIII of 2002 (Amendment Act No. XXI of 2021 and Second Amendment Act No. XXII of 2022), empowers the HEC to establish policies, guiding principles, and priorities for HEIs to promote Pakistan’s socio-economic development. The legislation also grants the HEC the authority to prescribe conditions for the opening and operation of institutions, including those outside the state educational system.
Debates and Concerns
While the HEC’s ban on new affiliations is aimed at improving educational quality, it has sparked debates and raised concerns within the education sector. Proponents argue that the ban is necessary to uphold educational standards, protect students’ interests, and safeguard the reputation of universities. Affiliating with substandard institutions diminishes the value of degrees and dilutes educational excellence. By implementing stricter criteria, the HEC aims to enhance the overall quality of education and encourage a culture of excellence.
However, critics caution against unintended consequences. They contend that many private colleges and institutions rely on affiliations with universities to provide quality education, particularly to students who lack access to traditional university programs. They argue that a blanket ban on new affiliations might limit educational opportunities and hinder the growth of the private education sector.
To strike a balance between quality assurance and accessibility, the HEC must address these concerns. The revised affiliation criteria should be comprehensive, transparent, and fair to both public and private institutions. Inclusivity and collaboration with stakeholders, including universities, colleges, and students, will be vital in refining the policy. Active engagement will help address challenges, gather feedback, and ensure the smooth implementation of the revised criteria.
Read more: HEC approves New Policy to enhance Undergraduate Education Programs
The HEC’s ban on universities recognizing new colleges and institutions is a proactive step toward fostering quality education in Pakistan. By focusing on enhancing educational standards and curbing substandard practices, the HEC aims to safeguard the interests of students and elevate the reputation of the higher education sector. The ban, coupled with the revision of affiliation criteria, paves the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for higher education in Pakistan.
