ISLAMABAD: To avoid another Comsats dual-degree programme lil(e situation in the future, the Higher Education Commission (HEC) is expected to present a new policy on dual-degree programmes for its commission in its next meeting.

`We are receiving input from universities on the draft policy. If consensus is reached we will present it before the commission for the final decision,` HEC chairperson Dr Mukhtar Ahmed said.

In the absence of a policy on dual-degree programmes, the HECandComsatsremainedatloggerheadsovertheComsatsLancaster University dual degree programme because Comsats had begun offering the programme without fulfilling the necessary requirements. The matter was eventually resolved when the Public Account Committee directed the HEC to recognise the Comsats degree.

`If the policy is approved all universities will have to follow it when making any agreement with foreign universities,` Ahmed said.

HEC spokesperson Ayesha Ilcram said that the HEC recently shared the draft policy with 40 vice chancellors and received a mixed response.

`We have constituted a committee to work on this proposed policy, and we are getting input from universities.

After receiving feedback, we will present the policy before the commission,` Ikram confirmed.

The draft policy on dual/joint/double degree programmes in Pakistan stated that, being the apex body in the country, the HEC recognises the collaboration of Pakistani Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) with reputable national and foreign HEIs It stated that the institutions of international repute, which are available in the world`s list by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) would be allowed to collaborate with Pakistani HEIs for such degree programmes.

The institutions must also have a provision to offer such programmes in their charters. The agreement must also be prepared in accordance with jurisdictional policies in line with national laws that satisfy the policies of respective accreditation bodies.

`The HEC`s consent/blessing for the subject programmes must be taken before signing the agreement,` the policy states. The proposed policy stated that the partnership agreement shall be executed in Pakistan and no such clause shall be included that is repugnant to the laws in Pakistan.

The proposed policy also stated that adequate opportunities should be created for faculty training and development, to cater to the needs of the required arrangements.

`The agreement should ensure a credible system of student evaluation. It should be made sure that examiners of the foreign institution and the external examiners are involved in the assessment of students.