Prof. Dr. Zia Ul Haq Assumes Charge as Executive Director HEC | Pakistan Higher Education

Prof. Dr. Zia Ul Haq Assumes Charge as Executive Director HEC

A New Era of Academic Excellence Begins in Pakistan’s Higher Education Sector

Renowned academician, researcher, and public health expert Prof. Dr. Zia Ul Haq has officially assumed charge as the Executive Director of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan. His appointment marks a significant moment for the country’s higher education landscape, as he brings with him extensive leadership experience, a distinguished academic career, and an impressive portfolio of research contributions. Stakeholders across the education sector have expressed optimism, hoping that his expertise will help steer the HEC toward innovation, stability, and growth.

Prof. Dr. Zia Ul Haq has served as the Vice Chancellor of Khyber Medical University (KMU), Peshawar, for the past six years, during which the university witnessed transformative changes in governance, academic excellence, research productivity, and financial management. His proven administrative capabilities made him a strong candidate for the prestigious HEC role, which carries immense responsibility at the national level.

A celebrated academic figure, Dr. Zia Ul Haq has been ranked among the top 2% scientists in the world, according to the latest global ranking issued by Stanford University, USA. This internationally recognized list highlights the world’s most influential scientists across various disciplines, based on standardized citation indicators such as citations, h-index ranking, and impact in their respective research areas. His inclusion in this elite group underscores his remarkable contributions to public health, medical research, and scientific innovation in Pakistan and abroad.

In recognition of his outstanding services, the President of Pakistan conferred upon him the Sitara-i-Imtiaz, one of the country’s highest civilian awards. The honor, awarded on March 23, 2025, highlights Dr. Zia Ul Haq’s exceptional efforts in advancing public health research, promoting medical education, and representing Pakistan on global academic platforms.

Dr. Zia Ul Haq completed his MBBS from Khyber Medical College, followed by a PhD in Public Health from the University of Glasgow, UK, one of the world’s leading institutions. His academic journey reflects deep commitment to scholarship and an unwavering dedication to improving healthcare and educational systems. Prior to taking on leadership roles, he served in various capacities in teaching, research, and policy development.

He has also played a vital role in provincial educational reforms, serving as the Convener of the Higher Education Task Force, established by the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Through this role, he contributed to shaping higher education policy, enhancing institutional performance, and aligning academic programs with global standards.

During his dynamic tenure as Vice Chancellor of KMU, the university reached unprecedented milestones. Under his leadership:

• KMU improved its governance structure and administrative efficiency.

• Financial stability was strengthened through strategic planning and resource generation.

• Academic quality and research output increased significantly.

• New disciplines, departments, and academic programs were introduced.

• KMU became one of Pakistan’s leading institutions in medical education and public health research.

A prolific researcher, Dr. Zia Ul Haq has authored 105 research publications in reputable international journals. His work spans public health, epidemiology, disease burden analytics, and health systems strengthening. He has secured over Rs. 5 billion in competitive research grants, demonstrating his ability to attract national and international funding for large-scale projects. These achievements reflect both his academic rigor and his commitment to fostering a strong research culture in Pakistan.

His appointment as the new Executive Director of HEC has been welcomed widely by academicians, researchers, policymakers, and university administrators. Many believe that his diverse experience—spanning research, governance, policy-making, and institutional development—positions him perfectly to address Pakistan’s ongoing higher education challenges.

As he steps into this critical role, expectations are high. Dr. Zia Ul Haq is anticipated to focus on:

• Strengthening financial sustainability across universities

• Enhancing academic and administrative governance

• Supporting high-impact research initiatives

• Expanding international collaborations and academic partnerships

• Promoting digital transformation and modern research facilities

• Improving faculty development and student learning outcomes

• Ensuring transparency, quality assurance, and accountability within institutions

Education experts note that Pakistan’s higher education sector is currently facing numerous challenges, including budget constraints, administrative bottlenecks, faculty shortages, and the need for updated curricula aligned with global trends. With his strategic insight and hands-on leadership experience, Dr. Zia Ul Haq is expected to guide the HEC toward solutions that foster national development and global competitiveness.

Universities across the country have expressed confidence that his leadership will bring renewed energy and direction to the sector. Many believe his emphasis on excellence in teaching, research, and innovation will help elevate Pakistan’s universities in global rankings.

Prof. Dr. Zia Ul Haq’s appointment represents not just an administrative shift but the beginning of a new chapter for Pakistan’s higher education framework—one that prioritizes quality, innovation, equity, and global relevance. As he takes charge, stakeholders are optimistic that he will steer the HEC with a clear vision and a mission to transform the academic landscape for future generations.