HEC and British Council Discuss UK Transnational Education

HEC and British Council Discuss Transnational Education

The Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan and the British Council Pakistan held a roundtable discussion in Islamabad titled “Enabling UK TNE in Pakistan: From Growth to Strategic Partnership.” The session focused on strengthening transnational education in Pakistan and expanding sustainable partnerships between local higher education institutes and UK universities.

Key Officials Attend Islamabad Roundtable

The roundtable brought together major educational leaders and government officials from both countries. Attendees included:

• Stephen Doughty: UK Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
• Dr. Niaz Ahmad Akhtar: Chairman HEC
• Dr. Zia Ul Haq: Executive Director HEC
• Ms. Jane Marriott: British High Commissioner
• Mr. Chris Mathews: Managing Director British Council
• Mr. James Hampson: Country Director British Council
• Ms. Sarah Parvez: Head of Education British Council
• Dr. Najeebullah Marwat: Member Science, Technology & ICT (Planning Commission)

Vice chancellors from various universities and senior HEC officers also participated in the deliberations.

Strengthening Academic and Research Linkages

During the discussion, UK Minister of State Stephen Doughty reiterated the UK Government’s commitment to building higher education partnerships with Pakistan through the British Council. Officials highlighted the role of transnational education in empowering people and advancing research linkages between the two nations.

Last checked: October 8, 2026. Please verify future updates and official policy announcements directly through the official HEC Pakistan portal or the British Council Pakistan website.