The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has directed all universities and degree awarding institutions in Pakistan to get accreditation for their business and management programs, according to reports on Saturday. According to the details, the move is expected to improve the quality of higher education across the country.
According to the HEC, all business and management programs must receive accreditation from the National Business Education Accreditation Council (NBEAC).
The council checks different areas such as the curriculum, teaching staff, research, student support, governance, and links with industry.
HEC Chairman Prof. Dr Niaz Ahmed Akhtar shared the instructions with vice chancellors, rectors, presidents, and heads of institutions.
He said that the commission wants to improve academic standards and strengthen the quality of education.
He further added that the goal is to help Pakistani universities become more competitive at the international level.
HEC said that many business programs are still operating without NBEAC accreditation. It has asked all institutions to complete the accreditation process before the Fall 2027 semester.
Universities must also meet the minimum quality standards set by the council.
The commission warned that institutions that fail to follow the instructions may face action.
HEC said that this could include the suspension of admissions in business and management programs that do not meet the required standards.
HEC also said that all information about the accreditation process is available online. It advised universities to use the official NBEAC website to submit applications and access the required guidelines.
HEC introduces revised policy for recognition of foreign degrees
Prior to this, HEC announced a new policy regarding the recognition and equivalence of foreign academic qualifications.
HEC introduced updated requirements for Pakistani students who obtain degrees from institutions abroad. It makes sure that the foreign qualifications meet accepted academic standards before they are recognised in Pakistan.
HEC has clarified under new rules that only degrees awarded by universities and higher education institutions that are officially recognised in their country of origin will be considered for recognition.
