Pakistan & US have launched a $19 million initiative to improve higher education

The US and Pakistan have started a $19 million five-year programme to improve Pakistan's higher education system and increase university graduates' employability. The Higher Education Commission will implement the programme, which will be launched by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) (HEC).

It will benefit 15 public Pakistani universities across the country, including five women's universities, by integrating best practises in teaching, research, governance and sustainability. It will also enable universities to provide students with research opportunities, soft-skills training, and support services such as career counselling. The programme will also assist to match academic preparation with workforce needs through cooperation with industry.

"USAID is happy to cooperate with the Higher Education Commission on this programme," said Julie A. Koenen, mission director for USAID.

"The Higher Education System Strengthening Activity (HESSA) will strengthen Pakistani universities by providing students with the education and research experiences they require to be more employable in the local labour market. This will equip talented young people with the skills they need to find work and begin their careers. It will also assist industry's demands, boost hiring and productivity, and spur more economic growth," she added.

The programme, according to a statement released in this regard, is another illustration of the breadth of cooperation between the US and Pakistan as they commemorate 75 years of diplomatic relations.