HEC Chairman Prof. Dr. Niaz Ahmad Akhtar Leads Session Hosted by UET Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Shahid Munir
The University of Engineering and Technology (UET) Lahore hosted an interactive meeting of vice chancellors from more than 80 public and private universities across Punjab to discuss the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies into Pakistan’s higher education system. The session, chaired by HEC Chairman Prof. Dr. Niaz Ahmad Akhtar and hosted by UET Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Shahid Munir, focused on curriculum reform, digital learning, research, innovation and workforce development.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Dr. Niaz Ahmad Akhtar stressed that AI is rapidly reshaping higher education, industry and the global economy. He urged universities to modernise curricula, degree programmes and teaching methods in line with Federal Government directives, ensuring graduates develop practical digital skills alongside academic knowledge. He also called for stronger emphasis on AI, Data Science, Robotics, Cybersecurity, Biotechnology and Entrepreneurship to meet evolving industry demands.
Prof. Dr. Shahid Munir highlighted UET Lahore’s ongoing initiatives in AI education and research, noting that the university has introduced specialised programmes and is prepared to share its curriculum, teaching resources and expertise with institutions nationwide. Vice chancellors also exchanged ideas on AI integration, research collaboration, digital transformation and institutional challenges, concluding with recommendations to the Higher Education Commission aimed at strengthening Pakistan’s higher education ecosystem and global competitiveness.
