16/01/2025
SAARC Delegation and World Bank Officials Visit Virtual University Headquarters
Islamabad, January 16, 2025 – The Virtual University of Pakistan hosted an esteemed delegation from SAARC countries, World Bank representatives, and the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan as part of the "Promoting South Asia Regional Cooperation in Higher Education Conference" held in Islamabad.
The delegation comprised prominent education leaders and experts from across South Asia, including:
Professor Dr. SMA Faiz, Chairman, University Grants Commission, Bangladesh
Ms. Ugyen Tshomo, Chief Program Officer, Ministry of Education and Skills Development, Bhutan
Dr. Ali Haidar Ahmed, Minister of Higher Education, Labour and Skills Development, Maldives
Professor Dr. Dev Raj Adhikari, Member Secretary, University Grants Commission, Nepal
Senior Professor N.A.P.J. Kapila Seneviratne, Chairman, University Grants Commission, Sri Lanka
These delegates were joined by World Bank representatives, Miss Inga Afanasieva.
The distinguished guests were warmly welcomed by Rector Virtual University, Professor Dr. Arshad Saleem Bhatti, alongside senior officials including Registrar Professor Dr. Athar, Examination Controller Dr. Faisal Tahseen Shah, Dean Faculty of Science and Technology Professor Dr. Mohsin Javed, and Director Quality Enhancement Dr. Fakhar Inam Raja.
During the visit, Rector Professor Dr. Arshad Saleem Bhatti delivered a comprehensive presentation on the Virtual University’s milestones and contributions over the past 22 years. "From its inception in 2002, Virtual University has grown into the largest IT university in Pakistan, with over 150,000 students currently enrolled. Our mission is to make quality education accessible to all, regardless of geographical barriers," he stated.
The Registrar, Professor Dr. Athar, presented a detailed overview of the Registrar’s Department, focusing on the university’s growth in admissions. He highlighted the increasing student enrollment trends and the measures taken to simplify the admissions process. Dr. Athar also discussed the innovative strategies adopted by the Registrar’s Office to ensure inclusivity and outreach to students in remote regions.
The delegation also attended detailed presentations from other university officials:
Dr. Faisal Tahseen Shah, Examination Controller, explained the university’s rigorous examination system and its role in ensuring academic integrity.
Professor Dr. Mohsin Javed, Dean Faculty of Science and Technology, shared insights on academic achievements and research initiatives.
Dr. Fakhar Inam Raja, Director Quality Enhancement, outlined the university's commitment to maintaining educational excellence.
The visit included a tour of Virtual University’s state-of-the-art studios and satellite TV channels, which play a vital role in delivering quality education to students nationwide.
The delegates expressed their admiration for the Virtual University’s efforts in transforming higher education in Pakistan and acknowledged its significant contributions to promoting regional collaboration in higher education.
Professor Dr. Arshad Saleem Bhatti concluded the visit by thanking the SAARC delegates, World Bank representatives, and HEC officials for their participation and support. He emphasized, "Virtual University will continue to innovate and expand its reach to ensure that quality education is accessible to all, including out-of-school children.
Higher Education Commission, Pakistan
World Bank
World Bank Pakistan
