ISLAMABAD: The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), in collaboration with Pakistani higher education institutions, is actively enhancing student support services across universities in Pakistan.
This initiative aims to equip students with essential skills crucial for success in today’s competitive global environment, according to a press release issued on Monday.
The 3rd annual summit, organized under USAID’s Higher Education System Strengthening Activity (HESSA), convened over 100 officials and faculty members from 16 partner universities throughout Pakistan. This four-day event underscores the strong partnership between the United States and Pakistan, highlighting their shared commitment to improving access to high-quality higher education for all Pakistanis.
The opening session of the summit was chaired by Prof. Dr. Bushra Mirza, Member (R&D) of the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan, alongside Maura O’Brien, USAID Deputy Mission Director. Dr. Mirza emphasized the importance of cultivating a sense of belonging within universities. “Higher education institutions must create inclusive and supportive environments where every student can thrive and shape their futures,” she remarked.
Ms. O’Brien underscored the significance of soft skills in her address, noting, “Prioritizing the development of soft skills enables universities to better prepare students for the demands of the modern workforce and enhance their career opportunities.”
Implemented by the University of Utah, the HESSA activity supports the Higher Education Commission and 16 partner universities across Pakistan in enhancing institutional capacity for market-driven education and research.
The summit addressed six key thematic areas crucial for supporting higher education institutions in Pakistan: financial aid, student leadership, student microenterprises, career readiness, alumni engagement, and mental health. This initiative reflects the United States’ commitment to strengthening higher education in Pakistan and empowering its citizens through quality education. The first two annual summits focused on student services and the development of financial aid.
