ISLAMABAD: Educational experts on Monday discussed an effective strategy to enhance access to higher education as limited access and lack of awareness among talented students was hindering social mobility.

A panel discussion was held on the challenges and opportunities surrounding access to higher education under Serena Hotels’ public diplomacy initiative, Raabta.

The discussion brought together experts, policymakers, educators and stakeholders to explore the barriers, discuss effective strategies and propose actionable recommendations.

The panel comprised eminent educators and policymakers, including Pro-rector Academics Nust Dr Osman Hasan, Saleem Abdul Razaque, USEFP programme director; Higher Education Commission (HEC) ChairmanDr Mukhtar Ahmed and Head of Education, British Council, Sarah Pervez.

The discussion revolved around work of various frameworks and institutions in providing education at all levels, including the role of the HEC in creating opportunities which were inclusive for all genders.

When contacted after the seminar, Dr Mukhtar Ahmed said access to higher education was improving in the country. He, however, said there was still a lot of work to be done to bring more improvement in higher education sector and provide better access to higher education to students.

He said currently tertiary rate as around 12pc.

The HEC chairman also stated that contrary to the past, more girls were taking admissions to institutions, which was a great sign, adding that at present, 48pc (girls) and 52pc (boys) were pursing higher education.

He said the federal government and the HEC had been taking several steps to bring more improvement in the higher education sector.

The panel discussion was followed by question and answer session, which engaged the audience comprising students from various educational institutions.

Published in Dawn, July 11th, 2023