The Higher Education Commission has decided to reverify the academic credentials of 36,931 students enrolled at unauthorized campuses across Pakistan.
The decision was made during the 46th meeting of the commission. HEC Chairman Dr. Niaz Ahmad Akhtar chaired the session. The move marks a major step toward improving transparency in Pakistan’s higher education system.
Independent Committee to Review Student Records
The commission approved the formation of an independent committee. The panel will include experts from outside the HEC. This committee will re-examine the records of students whose documents were previously declared complete.
The HEC will provide only secretariat support to the committee. Therefore, the final review process will remain independent. However, some commission members recorded dissenting notes over the decision.
Previously Attested Degrees Also Under Review
The commission also reviewed cases involving graduates whose degrees had already been attested by the HEC. Later, officials suspended the verification status of those degrees. The issue emerged after authorities found that the students had studied at unauthorized campuses.
Now, the independent committee will reassess those cases as well. After the review, the committee will recommend whether further action is necessary.
Why the Decision Matters
Thousands of students may have enrolled in campuses that lacked proper authorization. Many of them completed their studies believing their degrees were valid.
As a result, the reverification process is crucial for students seeking clarity about their academic credentials. At the same time, the review aims to strengthen confidence in Pakistan’s degree verification system.
HEC Introduces Fully Digital Degree Attestation
In addition to the reverification process, the HEC approved significant reforms to its attestation and equivalence procedures.
The commission decided to replace the traditional physical attestation system with a fully digital, evidence-based verification mechanism. This change is expected to reduce delays and improve efficiency.
Moreover, applicants will no longer need to submit prior or subsequent academic qualifications for degree attestation.
Relief for Students and Graduates
The new digital system could make the attestation process easier for thousands of students and graduates. Previously, applicants had to submit multiple documents and visit offices in person. Now, the process will become more streamlined and accessible.
Consequently, students may receive faster decisions with less paperwork.
A Significant Step for Higher Education
The HEC’s latest decisions reflect a broader effort to improve oversight and accountability. By rechecking 36,931 student records, the commission aims to address concerns linked to unauthorized campuses.
Meanwhile, the shift to digital attestation signals a modern approach to academic verification. Students affected by the review should monitor official updates from the HEC regarding the next steps.
