Role of University Leaders Crucial for Higher Education Reforms, Says Wajiha Qamar
ISLAMABAD, (APP – UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News – 18th Aug, 2026) The National Academy of Higher Education (NAHE) and Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan have organized a three-day workshop on ‘Strategic Planning and Leadership Excellence’ to empower senior university leaders with enhanced leadership and management skills. The event aims to tackle academic, administrative, governance, and financial challenges in higher education institutions.
Workshop Details
The workshop is hosted at the National Institute of Business and Finance (NIBAF) and gathers Vice Chancellors, Pro-Vice Chancellors, senior Deans, and statutory heads from public sector universities in Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK) and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), as well as women’s universities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Rawalpindi region.
Training Objectives
The training program focuses on:
- Enhancing strategic planning and institutional sustainability.
- Resource mobilization and governance.
- Performance management and digital transformation, including AI integration.
- Fostering innovation in higher education.
It provides a platform for academic leaders to share experiences and discuss emerging trends and opportunities in the sector.
Keynote Speaker
The Minister of State for Federal Education and Professional Training, Wajiha Qamar, served as the Chief Guest at the opening ceremony. Dr. Noor Amna Malik, Managing Director of NAHE, and her team, also attended the event.
Minister’s Address
In her speech, Minister Qamar emphasized the pivotal role of university leaders in shaping the future of higher education and driving sustainable institutional development. She highlighted Pakistan’s abundant natural resources and the need for universities to contribute to national development by cultivating knowledge, technology, and skilled human capital.
The Minister encouraged moving beyond conventional approaches and called for empowering graduates with relevant skills for self-reliance. She stressed the importance of industry-academic partnerships, advocating for industry-driven institutions that offer hands-on training and better employment prospects.
"Redundant disciplines should be eliminated, and youth should be equipped to keep pace with global advancements," she stated.
Participant Engagement
Minister Qamar encouraged participants to openly discuss challenges and propose solutions, assuring her continuous support for a holistic transformation.
Dr. Noor Amna Malik also noted in her opening remarks that the workshop would provide a platform for meaningful discussions and knowledge exchange among university leaders.
