USAID Supports Partnership Between HEC and University of Utah to Transform Higher Education in Pakistan

Celina Ali

Islamabad: The Higher Education Commission (HEC), Pakistan and the University of Utah have signed a partnership to promote capacity-building initiatives in public sector universities across Pakistan.

This initiative, supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) through its Higher Education System Strengthening Activity (HESSA), aims to enhance faculty development, strategic planning, policy reforms, and institutional governance.

The signing ceremony was attended by Chairman HEC Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Deputy Mission Director USAID Mr. Andrew McKim, and other senior officials from HEC, University of Utah, and USAID. Adviser Global Engagement HEC Mr. Awais Ahmed and Professor of Civil Engineering University of Utah Dr. Michael Barber signed the document on behalf of their respective institutions. The initiative adds another 16 Pakistani universities to the fold of partnership, as 16 universities are already being supported through HESSA.

This partnership reflects USAID’s mission to strengthen Pakistan’s higher education sector through international collaborations, ensuring that Pakistani universities are equipped to meet global challenges and provide quality education to youth. The partnership with the University of Utah underscores HEC’s dedication to building lasting global academic relationships that benefit both students and faculty.

Speaking on the occasion, Chairman HEC Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed emphasized the importance of such collaborations, stating, “This partnership with the University of Utah will empower faculty and institutional leaders to elevate education standards across Pakistan.” He shed light on the outcomes of previous collaboration with the US and appreciated the USAID for contributing huge resources for the youth of Pakistan. He said Pakistani youth are the ‘goldmine’ for the country, emphasizing the need for making maximum investment in honing the talent of the youth.

Echoing the shared commitment, Mr. Andrew McKim said, “USAID is proud to support this transformative initiative, which reinforces the role of education in driving sustainable development in Pakistan.”

Expressing his views, Dr. Michael Barber said the University of Utah is highly enthusiastic for the collaboration. “We are honored to partner with HEC in advancing Pakistan’s education system. Together, we aim to foster innovation, promote knowledge-sharing, and encourage academic growth.”