HEC launches Global Scholars Network to link overseas experts with Pakistani universities

ISLAMABAD: (Staff Reporter) – The Higher Education Commission (HEC), through its subsidiary organisation National Academy of Higher Education (NAHE), has launched the Global Scholars Network (GSN) to connect overseas Pakistani academics and researchers with universities across the country.

The initiative aims to strengthen academic collaboration and enable Pakistani scholars living abroad to contribute to the country’s higher education sector through research, teaching and mentorship opportunities.

The digital platform will allow overseas experts to take part in research projects, supervise PhD students and collaborate with local universities without relocating to Pakistan, officials said.

The GSN is expected to promote knowledge exchange between Pakistani universities and the international academic community while helping institutions benefit from global expertise.

Speaking at the launch ceremony, HEC Chairman Dr Niaz Ahmed Akhtar termed the initiative an important 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.

Managing Director NAHE Dr Noor Amna Malik said the platform had been designed to ensure transparency and create data-driven connections between scholars and institutions.

She said universities and researchers would be able to identify suitable academic partners based on their expertise and research interests, providing an efficient framework for collaboration.

Dr Malik also appreciated the Institute of Space Technology team for providing technical support in the development of the digital platform.

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Education experts believe the initiative will help improve research capacity, raise academic standards and encourage stronger engagement between Pakistani universities and leading scholars worldwide.