ISLAMABAD (Special Correspondent) – A delegation from IE University, Spain, visited the Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan on 26 October 2026 to explore academic collaboration and expand international higher education opportunities for talented Pakistani students. The delegation met with HEC Chairman Dr. Niaz Ahmad Akhtar to discuss the development of institutional partnerships and enhanced student mobility initiatives.

Key Points

• A delegation from IE University, Spain, held formal talks with HEC Chairman Dr. Niaz Ahmad Akhtar in Islamabad.
• The meeting focused on facilitating Pakistani student enrollment in various undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
• HEC encouraged the Spanish delegation to partner with major local institutions such as NUST and FAST-NUCES.
• The initiative aims to improve access to global education and exchange best practices in the higher education sector.

Strategic Educational Partnerships and Global Mobility

During the session, Ms. Andrea Rodriguez Velez presented an overview of IE University’s academic programs, emphasizing its global outlook and internationalization strategy. The discussion centered on creating viable pathways for students to pursue degrees in Spain, marking an important step in the HEC’s ongoing effort to diversify international educational opportunities. This mission aligns with the broader objective of connecting Pakistani youth with top-ranked universities worldwide.

Expanding Research and Institutional Linkages

Chairman Dr. Niaz Ahmad Akhtar formally acknowledged the contributions of IE University and briefed the visitors on the current HEC international scholarship programs. He explicitly invited the delegation to engage directly with prominent Pakistani research institutions, including the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) and the Foundation for Advancement of Science and Technology (FAST-NUCES). Both parties concluded the meeting with a mutual commitment to fostering long-term academic linkages, knowledge sharing, and the promotion of excellence in higher education sectors in both countries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the main purpose of the visit by the Spanish delegation?

The delegation visited the HEC to explore potential academic collaborations and create pathways for Pakistani students to enroll in undergraduate and postgraduate programs at IE University.

Which local institutions were highlighted during the meeting?

HEC Chairman Dr. Niaz Ahmad Akhtar suggested that the delegation engage with leading Pakistani institutions, specifically mentioning NUST and FAST-NUCES.