SWABI: An office of Directorate of Financial Assistance and Development (FAD) was inaugurated at the Women University Swabi here on Wednesday.

The varsity’s founder vice-chancellor Prof Khanzadi Fatima Khattak inaugurated the office at a ceremony, which was also attended by Prof Mukhtar Ahmed, the Higher Education Commission Chairman.

Speaking on the occasion, Ms Khattak said it was great honour for them that vice- chancellors of various universities had gathered in Women University Swabi and discussed issues related to higher education.

“We are ready to play our role and contribute to improve the quality of education and conduct result-oriented research according to the requirements of the country,” she said.

The HEC chairman also inaugurated the offices of Office of Research Innovation and Commercialisation (ORIC) and Quality Enhancement Cell (QEC) at the varsity.

In his remarks, Prof Mukhtar stressed on result-oriented research. He discussed research and academic activities with the faculty members of the women varsity.

Vice chancellors of University of Swabi, Women University Mardan, Khyber Medical University Peshawar, Bacha Khan University Mardan, and Islamia College Peshawar, were also in attendance.

The HEC chairman said the commission had changed the entire landscape of higher education in the country and enhanced the quality while producing indigenous scholars.

The journey of excellence would continue because education is the only panacea for progress and prosperity, he said.

He appreciated the continuous efforts of the women varsity for improving quality of education and research programmes in such a short span of time.

He assured the varsity of HEC’s cooperation for promotion of higher education and women empowerment.

Published in Dawn, October 19th, 2017