2nd Vice-Chancellors Conference

The University of Home Economics (UHE) in collaboration with BARGAD organization for youth development, organized the 2nd Vice-Chancellors conference on ‘The Challenges of Academic Governance, Achieving Excellence and Equity in Higher Education’ here on Thursday at Faletti’s Hotel. This conference was attended by former Minister for Higher Education Punjab, Mr. Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, Chairperson of Punjab Higher Education Commission, Vice-Chancellors, and representatives of seventeen public sector universities along with experts and representatives from marginalized communities including minorities.

While speaking during his opening remarks Mr. Rana Mashhood said that the government’s special quotas have resulted in the inclusion of minority youth in the mainstream of higher education. He also urged the vice-chancellors to ensure the implementation of the HEC Harassment Policy.

Prof. Dr. Shahid Munir, Chairperson of PHEC said that statutory bodies of the universities must be functional in order to improve academic governance. He announced the PHEC Expo, to showcase the research & development-based products of the universities.

While addressing the conference Prof. Dr. Kanwal Ameen Vice-Chancellor, University of Home Economics, emphasized the social and cultural acceptance of equality of students from marginalized communities on campuses. She also stressed the importance of academic governance to achieve excellence and quality for the improvement of academics, as per 21st-century challenges.

She further said that there is a need to ensure widespread awareness of available quotas for minorities, and to review academic policy to address issues of equity. Experts should introduce a minority-friendly curriculum in the country that protects the beliefs of all the citizens, she added.

Ms. Sabiha Shaheen, Executive Director Bargad stressed the need for inclusive development in higher education. This is also aligned with Pakistan’s commitments made under the sustainable development goals 4, 5, 10 & 16 which aim at quality education; gender equality; reduced inequality, and peace, justice & strong institutions.