THE Higher Education Commission (HEC) does not seem to be qualified at all to conduct the Higher Education Aptitude Test (HAT). This I say on the basis of a series of observations as I recently prepared for it, like many other aspirants do, in the hope of getting nominated for the Commonwealth Scholarship programme for which HAT happens to be a prerequisite. Basically, it is the HEC that forwards the applications to the Commonwealth Committee.

As I went through the sample papers for a few days, I started losing faith in HEC’s capability to conduct the test. I have encountered several issues that I believe warrant attention. First, the questions, especially in the English section, use incorrect grammar, and they show no regard for punctuation. I need not stress the importance of proper punctuation and grammar, as even the removal of a comma changes the entire sentence.

Second, there are incorrect answers marked in the key provided at the end of the sample paper. How can we prepare with enthusiasm when we know that even our correct answers would be marked as incorrect?

Given that HEC is a national body entrusted with overseeing higher education institutions, it is essential that it should exercise the highest level of responsibility. Many foreign agencies, in addition to the Common-wealth, rely on HEC for the nomination of candidates. The relevant authorities should live up to their expectations before they stop expecting anymore.

Name withheld on request
Islamabad

Published in Dawn, November 21st, 2023