HEC launches Global Scholars Network to connect overseas experts
A subsidiary organisation of the Higher Education Commission (HEC), known as NAHE, has formally launched the Global Scholars Network (GSN), a new initiative aimed at connecting overseas Pakistani academics and researchers with universities across the country.
According to the 24NewsHD TV channel, the platform has been established to strengthen academic collaboration and enable experts living abroad to contribute to Pakistan’s higher education sector through research, teaching and mentorship opportunities.
According to officials, the digital platform will allow overseas scholars to participate in research projects, supervise PhD candidates and collaborate with local institutions without the need for physical relocation.
The initiative is expected to facilitate greater knowledge exchange between Pakistani universities and the international academic community.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, HEC Chairman Dr Niaz Ahmed Akhtar described the Global Scholars Network as a major step towards integrating Pakistan’s higher education sector with the global academic landscape.
He said Pakistani and international experts based abroad would be able to contribute through guest lectures, faculty development programmes and industry partnerships, helping universities benefit from international expertise and experience.
Managing Director of NAHE, Dr Noor Amna Malik, said the GSN platform had been designed to ensure transparency and foster data-driven connections between scholars and institutions.
She added that the system would provide an efficient framework for collaboration while ensuring that universities and researchers can identify suitable academic partners based on expertise and research interests.
Dr Noor Aman Malik also expressed appreciation to the team at the Institute of Space Technology for providing technical support during the development of the digital platform.
Education experts believe the initiative could help strengthen research capacity, improve academic standards and encourage greater engagement between Pakistan’s universities and leading scholars around the world.
Reporter: Bilal Naizi