Islamabad, – Chairman of the Higher Education Commission (HEC), Prof. Dr. Niaz Ahmad Akhtar, has reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to deepening academic ties with Germany, specifically aiming to harness Germany’s global leadership in engineering and technology to transform Pakistan’s industrial and educational landscape.
Chairman made these remarks during a meeting with the German Ambassador to Pakistan, Ina Lepel, at the HEC Secretariat on Wednesday. The meeting, which was also attended by the Executive Director HEC, Dr. Zia Ul Haq, and representatives from the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), focused on expanding the strategic partnership between the two nations through structured academic exchange and technical cooperation.
Chairman emphasized that Germany’s strength in technical education serves as a benchmark for the world. He noted that by strengthening the bond between universities, Pakistan ensures its students and researchers are equipped with the specialized skills necessary to drive the national economy forward.
During the session, Ambassador Lepel expressed Germany’s continued support for the vision of the HEC, noting that the synergy between the two countries remains a cornerstone of international educational cooperation and a vital link for scientific progress.
A primary focus of the discussion was the creation of more robust frameworks for university-to-university collaboration. Both parties agreed that increasing the volume of joint research initiatives and faculty exchange programs is essential for modernizing curricula and fostering innovation.
To further this objective, the Chairman advocated for the increased placement of Pakistani scholars in German universities. He proposed expanding opportunities for both short-term research stays and long-term degree programs, ensuring that a greater number of Pakistani academics can benefit from Germany’s advanced pedagogical standards and world-class laboratory environments.
The meeting also highlighted the importance of the German alumni network within Pakistan. The participants discussed enhancing the networking of these professionals to create formal platforms where expertise can be shared effectively.
The Chairman also appreciated the services provided by DAAD, praising their consistent support in offering scholarships and facilitating academic mobility. He noted that this collaboration remains instrumental in providing Pakistani talent with exposure to international standards of excellence.
