MUZAFFARABAD: In a significant step to enhance research and advocacy on the Kashmir issue, the Chairman of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan, Prof Dr Mukhtar Ahmed, has announced the establishment of Kashmir Resource and Communication Centres in all public sector universities of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK).

This initiative, launched under the directives of AJK President Barrister Sultan Mahmood, who also serves as the chancellor of all public sector universities in the state, aims to advance empirical research, preserve cultural heritage, and draw international attention to the Kashmir cause, according to a press release issued here on Thursday.

The announcement was made by the HEC chairman during a consultative meeting with the vice chancellors of all public sector universities in AJK. The participants included Prof Dr. Kaleem Abbasi, Vice Chancellor of the University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (UAJK); Prof Dr. Abdul Hameed Pirzada, VC of Women University Bagh; Prof Dr Rahmat Ali, VC of the University of Kotli; Dr Muhammad Younus Javed, VC of Mirpur University of Science and Technology and University of Bhimber; Prof Dr Ayesha Sohail; and Sardar Zafar Iqbal from UAJK.

While virtually addressing the meeting, The HEC chairman stressed the need for collaborative efforts with universities in Pakistan, international organisations, and research institutes to strengthen the initiative’s impact.

“These centres will evolve into think tanks, preserving the history of Kashmir and showcasing human rights violations through data-driven research,” he said.

He expressed optimism about establishing global linkages to amplify the Kashmir cause on international platforms.

UAJK Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Kaleem Abbasi, who hosted the consultative meeting, thanked the HEC chairman for his guidance and support in shaping this initiative. He also underscored the role of the proposed centres in utilising digital tools and communication channels to promote a compelling narrative for the Kashmir cause.

Earlier, Dr Ayesha Sohail presented a comprehensive draft outlining the centres’ name, vision, mission, objectives, administrative structure, and research mechanisms. Her efforts, developed in consultation with an established committee, were lauded by all participants.

The vice chancellors unanimously pledged to advance this initiative as a vital platform for research, advocacy, and global engagement, reflecting the collective vision of the AJK President and the HEC Chairman, the press release concluded.

Published in Dawn, December 13th, 2024