06/06/2026
Universities must transform themselves into engines of inclusive growth by promoting innovation, entrepreneurship and global collaboration to address emerging societal and economic challenges, speakers said at Vice Chancellors’ Conference under the “Exposure to Global Best Practices in Higher Education (EGBP-HE) Programme.”
The Vice Chancellor Ghazi University, Dera Ghazi Khan Prof. Dr. Ashfaq Ahmad Chattha participated in the Vice Chancellors’ Conference organized at University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, by the Punjab Higher Education Commission under the “Exposure to Global Best Practices in Higher Education (EGBP-HE) Programme.”
The conference brought together vice chancellors across the province, to discuss global trends in higher education, research collaboration, innovation and institutional development.
Addressing the participants, PHEC Chairperson Prof Dr Iqrar Ahmad Khan said universities must evolve into centres of innovation, entrepreneurship and societal development by aligning higher education with the country’s emerging economic and technological needs. He emphasized research-driven solutions, community engagement, global partnerships, entrepreneurship, startup culture, and stronger university-industry collaboration to enhance academic quality and socio-economic progress.
Prof. Dr. Paul Whitney emphasized that universities should focus on community impact, interdisciplinary collaboration and research-driven approaches to address global challenges. He also highlighted the need for flexibility, student-centered learning and a balance between academic freedom and institutional accountability amid rising education costs and changing demographic trends.
Prof. Dr. Asif Chaudhry said Pakistani universities have strong potential and should adopt globally recognized academic and governance models to improve research and institutional excellence. He emphasized university-industry linkages, faculty development, joint degree programs, and international collaborations, while highlighting the value of diverse academic environments in fostering innovation and adaptability.
Prof. Dr. Kulvinder S. Gill emphasized that universities should focus on societal impact, entrepreneurship and rural development rather than relying solely on traditional academic metrics. He called for entrepreneurship education across disciplines, impact-based faculty evaluation, and innovative low-cost business models to improve rural livelihoods and reduce urban migration.
Prof. Dr. Zulfiqar Ali said the initiative would help Pakistani universities learn from international experiences and strengthen academic standards, research culture and global engagement. He emphasized practical, impact-oriented research and stressed that universities should drive inclusive growth through innovation, startups, rural development and community-focused solutions.
Prof. Dr. Ashfaq Ahmad also shared his views, emphasizing that universities must promote innovation, quality research, industry collaboration and international partnerships to address contemporary challenges and contribute effectively to socio-economic development.
