Enumerate the measures adopted by HEC for promotion of higher education and qualitative research in Pakistan. (CSS-2017)
HIGHER EDUCATION COMMISSION (H E C)
HEC is an independent and autonomous institution which was established in 2002 through an amendment in the constitution. It is responsible for making higher education policy and accrediting academic degrees. It can develop new institutions as well as upgrade the old ones. It plays a leading role in building knowledge based economy in Pakistan. HEC is empowered to grant scholarships for higher education and research both at home and abroad. It is also authorized to upgrade colleges and universities via assessing the level of research and development and other academic activities in the institutions. It is the successor organization of University Grants Commission (UGC).
Higher Education Commission (HEC) is continued to improve access to quality higher education as a key element of its strategy to bring higher education revolution in the country. HEC is focused on creating the knowledge capital and technology required to enable Pakistan to join the ranks of the industrially advanced countries. With the continuous support of Government of Pakistan, HEC has provided access to quality education to masses, upgraded teaching and research labs, provided merit and need based home-grown and foreign scholarships to the talented youth and free access to scientific literature through digital library.