09/04/2026
Strengthening Quality Excellence at HANDS IDS
HANDS Institute of Development Studies successfully organized a mandatory Faculty Orientation Session on Thursday April 09, 2025 on Introduction to Ripe - Review of Institutional Performance & Enhancement (RIPE), a key requirement of the Higher Education Commission’s Quality Assurance Agency (HEC QAA) under the Pakistan Precepts, Standards and Guidelines (PSG-2023) framework.
The session was expertly conducted by Dr. Rakhshinda Khurrum, Deputy Director, Quality Enhancement Cell (QEC), HANDS IDS. It aimed to equip faculty and staff with a clear understanding of the 16 RIPE standards spanning three major development areas: Institutional Strategic Development, Academic Quality Development, and Institutional Development.
Key Highlights of the Session:
• Detailed Explanation of the 16 Standards: Dr. Rakhshinda Khurrum walked participants through each standard, covering Expectations, Expected Outcome Indicators (EOIs), and Indicative Evidence.
• Document Requirements & Compliance: Emphasis was placed on the importance of proper documentation, evidence collection, and robust compliance processes to support Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI).
• Review Process & Stakeholder Involvement: A step-by-step overview of the RIPE process was provided, highlighting the active role of faculty and staff in internal quality assurance (IQA) and preparation for external quality assurance (EQA).
• Practical Guidance: Participants gained insights into how RIPE fosters a culture of excellence, accountability, and ongoing enhancement in higher education institutions.
In his concluding remarks, Prof. (Meritorious) Dr. Abu Zar Wajidi, Rector, HANDS IDS, appreciated the insightful and comprehensive delivery by Dr. Rakhshinda Khurrum. He underscored the critical role of RIPE in achieving Total Quality Management (TQM) and its strategic importance for the sustained growth and academic excellence of HANDS Institute of Development Studies.
This orientation reflects HANDS IDS’s strong commitment to quality assurance, alignment with HEC guidelines, and building a robust internal quality culture that benefits students, faculty, and the broader community.