The Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan has signed an agreement with Overseas Technology Private Limited to acquire services of digital content, subsidized online courses and certification of high ranking renowned institutions to the recipients of Prime Minister’s Laptop Scheme.
The signing ceremony was held at the Commission Secretariat here on Tuesday.
Leila Khan, Chairperson, Prime Minister Youth Programme was the chief guest. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman HEC, Dr. Arshad Ali, Executive Director HEC, and other senior officers of the two sides were also present.
Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Leila Khan appreciated the managements of both HEC and Overseas Technology Pvt. Ltd. for taking measures to provide students with opportunity to secure internationally acclaimed specialization in diversified disciplines leading towards certifications through an online platform.
She said the courses will enhance learning capabilities of students in their professional career. She urged HEC and Overseas Technology to facilitate students at the time of registration in this programme and throughout their courses.
Welcoming Ms. Leila Khan to HEC, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed said the Government is paying due attention for promotion of higher education in the country. He said HEC is effectively implementing Prime Minister’s Laptop Scheme and Prime Minister’s Fee Reimbursement Scheme the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme. He maintained that laptop assembly plant has now been set up in Pakistan making the execution of PM’s Laptop Scheme easier.
The Chairman said over Rs. 6.5 billion has so far been reimbursed to students from less developed areas of Pakistan under the Fee Reimbursement Scheme, adding that HEC has also set up Education Testing Council to ensure free of cost entry tests for admission to universities.
Referring to Smart University concept, he underlined that HEC has so far enabled 15 universities with Wifi-enabled campuses linked with Safe Campus Project to not only facilitate students but also ensure their security. ‘HEC intends to rollout this concept at all public sector universities by 2018,” he added.
Earlier, briefing the Chairperson PMYP about significance of the agreement, Dr. Arshad Ali said that HEC is determined to improve effective utilization of modern technology, adding that improvement in the quality of education and access to education cannot be achieved without use of technology. He said the agreement is a step forward towards creating a learning environment for students.
The agreement will provide students with an opportunity to secure certifications from renowned institutions and will enhance their skills. A verified certificate from authentic online platform can serve as a proof for an employer that someone is abreast with cutting-edge tools and skills needed for a competitive career internationally.
MS and PhD level laptop recipients can sign up and enroll in 70 specialization and associated courses, initially offered under the programme. They can earn a completion certificate upon successful completion of their specific course.
