ISLAMABAD, June 16: The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has invited applications from PhD students for sponsorship in foreign universities under its “International research support initiative programme”, says a press release issued on Thursday. The students of public sector universities and institutions can apply for the sponsorship for a period of up to six months.

The objective is to facilitate the PhD students in their research work in an area where required facilities are not available in Pakistan.

The HEC will provide travel cost (up to Rs80,000), monthly stipend of Rs70,000 and bench fee up to Rs200,000 once under the programme.

The applicant must have completed at least one year of PhD studies at an HEC recognized university/degree warding institution.

The candidates must also have an official invitation from the host university.

The successful candidates will have to enter into a bond with the HEC to serve the country at least for three years. —APP