ISLAMABAD: The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has launched a new Mentoring Programme for Universities (MPU) to train academic leaders and faculty members across the country.
According to an official press release, the programme has been started through the National Academy of Higher Education (NAHE). It is an expanded version of HEC’s Women Empowerment and Mentoring Programme, which was launched in November 2024 for 18 women universities.
The new initiative aims to improve leadership skills and professional development in higher education institutions. It is a gender-inclusive programme that will support faculty members and academic leaders from both public and private universities.
The programme also aims to promote mentorship, collaboration, and knowledge sharing across universities in Pakistan.
HEC Chairman Engr Prof Dr Niaz Ahmad Akhtar formally launched the programme at a ceremony held at the HEC Secretariat. Members of the HEC senior management committee attended the event, while vice chancellors from different universities joined online.
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Speaking on the occasion, the HEC chairman said that mentoring is an important part of institutional development. He said Pakistan has many experienced academicians who can guide others, and this programme will help use their expertise.
He also appreciated NAHE for successfully running the Women Empowerment and Mentoring Programme and expanding it to all universities. He said the expansion was necessary and timely.
NAHE Managing Director Dr Noor Amna Malik highlighted the background of the initiative. She said the earlier women-focused programme was highly successful and helped expand the idea to a nationwide level.
She added that around 890 mentors and mentees were trained under the previous programme, which created a strong support system within universities.
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Dr Malik said the new mentoring programme will help remove personal and psychological barriers faced by academic leaders and faculty. It will guide participants to handle challenges, improve leadership skills, and contribute to the growth of their institutions.
Vice Chancellor of Lahore College for Women University (LCWU), Dr Uzma Quraishi, also shared her views. She said the earlier programme highlighted the importance of mentorship for both personal and professional growth.
She added that LCWU produced 240 mentors in three groups under the programme, who are now helping others and creating a positive impact. She also said the initiative allows universities to introduce new training modules according to their needs.
