Karachi, April 2026 — Following his assumption of office, the Chairman of the Federal Higher Education Commission (HEC), Prof. Dr. Niaz Ahmed Akhtar, paid his first official visit to Karachi, during which Karachi Metropolitan University (KMU) had the distinction of being the first university in the city to host him. Upon arrival, he was warmly received by Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Waseem Qazi, marking a significant engagement with the academic community.
During the visit, the Chairman, accompanied by the Vice Chancellor, visited Mazar-e-Quaid to pay homage to the Founder of Pakistan.
A special ceremony was organized at KMU to mark a landmark contribution by the alumni community. The KMDC Alumni Association announced scholarships worth PKR 50 million for 46 deserving students, reflecting a strong culture of institutional giving back.
The ceremony was attended by students, faculty members, distinguished guests, and a large number of alumni. High-achieving students were also awarded certificates in recognition of their academic excellence.
The event commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by remarks from Dr. Bushra, Co-Founder of the KMDC Alumni Association. She congratulated the scholarship recipients and reiterated the alumni’s commitment to giving back to their alma mater, encouraging students to carry forward this spirit of contribution.
Addressing the audience, Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Waseem Qazi emphasized the importance of expanding access to quality education. He highlighted the challenges faced following KMDC’s transition into a university and noted that activating the alumni network was a key strategic initiative. He described the scholarship initiative as a “milestone achievement” for the institution.
In his keynote address, Chairman HEC Prof. Dr. Niaz Ahmed Akhtar appreciated KMU’s progress under the leadership of the Vice Chancellor and commended the university’s efforts despite limited resources.
He outlined HEC’s ongoing initiatives aimed at enhancing educational quality, including the establishment of collaborative centers with international institutions to ensure global recognition of Pakistani degrees. He also announced the launch of a free 46-hour professional development program designed to support graduates in transitioning into professional careers.
Additionally, he highlighted the development of a digital job portal to connect students with international employment opportunities.
Emphasizing the broader purpose of education, the Chairman stated that universities are not only centers of knowledge creation but must also focus on the practical application of skills and the development of strong moral and ethical values. He stressed that knowledge without application holds limited value and underscored that integrity and character must never be compromised.
He also praised the alumni for their sense of responsibility and commitment to supporting future generations, terming their contribution exemplary.
The ceremony concluded with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to promote quality education, professional excellence, and ethical values.
