Higher Education – HEC Launches Nationwide Drive to Overhaul Distance Learning Standards

The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has launched a major nationwide initiative to ensure universities effectively implement its new Open and Distance Learning (ODL) Policy 2024, beginning with an intensive five-day capacity-building workshop in the capital.

In a joint effort with Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU), the HEC commenced the training program at AIOU”s Academic Complex. This event marks the start of a country-wide series of regional workshops planned by the HEC”s Quality Assurance Division for selected universities, according to HEC report today.

The inaugural ceremony was attended by Ms. Aayesha Ikram, Director General (Global Engagement) HEC, and Mr. Nasir Shah, Director General (Quality Assurance) HEC, who were present as Guests of Honour.

The primary goal of the initiative is to significantly strengthen the institutional capability within Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) for the successful execution of the commission”s updated ODL framework.

This program is specifically designed to improve the competencies of attendees in areas vital for modern remote education. These fields include e-learning methodologies, instructional design principles, the integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), and quality assurance protocols in distance education.

The workshop convenes key faculty members and administrators from various institutions to encourage collaboration and promote innovation. The ultimate aim is to drive excellence in Open and Distance Learning, which will expand educational access and elevate its quality throughout Pakistan.