ISLAMABAD, Aug 20 (APP):Chairman Senate Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani on Thursday emphasised the need for effective leadership, sound governance and strategic planning to strengthen Pakistan’s higher education sector and transform universities into centres of excellence, research, innovation and entrepreneurship. Addressing a gathering on “Strategic Planning and Leadership Excellence” as Chief Guest, organised by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) through the National Academy of Higher Education, the Chairman Senate said that …
Gilani calls for strategic leadership, innovation, strong governance in universities
ISLAMABAD, Aug 20 (APP):Chairman Senate Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani on Thursday emphasised the need for effective leadership, sound governance and strategic planning to strengthen Pakistan’s higher education sector and transform universities into centres of excellence, research, innovation and entrepreneurship.
Addressing a gathering on “Strategic Planning and Leadership Excellence” as Chief Guest, organised by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) through the National Academy of Higher Education, the Chairman Senate said that universities today have responsibilities far beyond imparting knowledge.
He said higher education institutions must equip young people with critical thinking, creativity, ethical values, leadership skills and the capacity to respond to a rapidly changing world.
The Chairman Senate appreciated HEC, particularly the National Academy of Higher Education, for bringing together Vice Chancellors and Pro Vice Chancellors from Azad Jammu & Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the Rawalpindi region.
He termed the initiative timely and important, saying that such programmes provide an opportunity for university leadership to exchange experiences, strengthen governance practices and develop effective institutional strategies.
Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani observed that strategic planning is not merely an administrative exercise but an essential requirement for institutional growth and excellence.
He stressed that strong universities require a clear vision, transparent governance, responsible use of resources and an institutional culture that promotes innovation, collaboration and research.
He particularly appreciated the participation of women universities in the programme, saying that the advancement of women through higher education is fundamental to national development. “When we invest in women’s education and leadership, we strengthen families, communities, institutions and the economy,” he remarked, adding that women educators and academic leaders across Pakistan have consistently demonstrated excellence and leadership.
The Chairman Senate said Pakistan’s progress was closely linked with the strength of its universities.
He called for transforming higher education institutions into stronger centres of research, innovation, entrepreneurship and policy development, enabling graduates to make meaningful contributions to society and the national economy.
Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani said education was one of the strongest pillars of national unity and sustainable development. As Chairman Senate, he emphasized that universities across all regions of Pakistan have a vital role in promoting social harmony, strengthening democratic values and contributing to national progress.
He said institutions in Azad Jammu & Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, Sindh and Balochistan all have an important role in building a stronger, more prosperous and united Pakistan.
The Chairman Senate commended HEC for investing in institutional leadership and strategic capacity building, noting that initiatives of this nature enable university leaders to develop strategies that respond effectively to international developments as well as Pakistan’s national priorities.
He urged Vice Chancellors and Pro Vice Chancellors to foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, inclusivity and innovation within their institutions.
He called for universities that encourage discovery, promote research, support entrepreneurship and prepare students to become responsible citizens and future leaders.
The Chairman Senate congratulated the participants and organizers, expressing hope that the discussions and exchange of experiences would contribute meaningfully to strengthening higher education across Pakistan.
“Let us build universities that not only educate minds, but also develop character, leadership and a spirit of service to the nation,” he said.
The Chairman Senate prayed for Pakistan’s peace, prosperity and continued progress and reiterated his commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at strengthening education, institutional capacity and national development.
