The higher education system of Pakistan has made another significant step towards cooperation with other countries because the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan has approved a new policy concerning dual degrees, double degrees, and joint degree programs.
In recent years, the higher education system has become globally interconnected. Pakistani universities have tried to enhance their cooperation with universities from foreign countries too. Hence, the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan has developed the aforementioned policy.
Under the new rules, universities will be allowed to launch collaborative undergraduate and graduate programmes only after meeting strict regulatory requirements. In addition, institutions must secure a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the HEC before offering any such programme.
The policy covers three categories of degree programmes. Dual degree programmes will allow students to earn two degrees in related or different fields. Similarly, double degree programmes will result in two degrees in the same discipline from partner institutions. Meanwhile, joint degree programmes will lead to a single degree issued and signed collectively by collaborating universities.
Besides, it is essential that universities sign memorandum of understanding (MOU) regarding the criteria for admission and graduation, transfer of credits, disclosure of the fee structure. Institutions must implement student protection measures even prior to launching a program.
Officials claim that this policy would give way to new academic horizons for the students of Pakistan. Therefore, students might get more opportunities for their international exposure, transfer of credits, collaboration on research, and academic mentoring. Specialists also note that graduates would become more competitive in the global labor market.
Additionally, universities would manage to achieve improvement in terms of quality assurance and curriculum development and international partnerships. This is how the HEC wants to support responsible internationalization and protect quality education and students’ rights.
