Prof Dr Muhammad Idrees of the University of the Punjab’s Centre of Excellence for Microbiology has been selected for the prestigious Distinguished National Professor (DNP) title by the Higher Education Commission (HEC), marking one of the nation’s highest academic accolades.
According to a report on Friday, the DNP title is conferred upon distinguished academics in acknowledgement of their substantial contributions to research, scholarship, and the tertiary education sector in Pakistan. The award, finalised under the HEC Framework for Distinguished National Professor (2024), underscores the Commission”s dedication to fostering merit, distinction, and meaningful academic work within the country”s higher education landscape.
Following a meticulous evaluation of various nominations for the 2025 cycle, the DNP Selection Committee, led by the Executive Director of HEC, recommended Professor Idrees for the honour. The committee scrutinised each candidate”s academic qualifications, research influence, published works, leadership roles, and both national and international acclaim before making its final decision.
Professor Idrees was formally chosen for the conferment under the field of ‘Natural Sciences, Mathematics and Statistics’.
According to the DNP framework, the esteemed title is a lifetime appointment. An associated honorarium is provided for three years from the date of the award or until the professor”s retirement, whichever comes first. Through this programme, the HEC continues its efforts to recognise and support eminent scholars who advance Pakistan’s research, innovation, and higher education ecosystem.