ISLAMABAD, Aug 15: Reforms are being introduced to make higher education system more need-oriented and to create linkages between higher education and economic, social and national development.

This was stated by the minister for science and technology Prof Attaur Rahman at a meeting with the vice chancellors of public sector universities, at University Grants Commission. He was co-presiding with the education minister Zobeida Jalal.

Prof Ata, who is also the chairman of Higher Education Commission (HEC), said our universities were faring no better than low level colleges. Due to lack of planning the necessary linkages between universities and industrial sector have not been created and therefore universities were unable to play the required role in the national and economic development of the country.

Speaking to the vice chancellors, he said the HEC would address the root causes of the problems faced by universities.

He said, he was working to increase funding to universities without which improvement in higher education sector was not possible.

As faculty was the key to improving standard of education, steps would be taken to improve the salary structure of the faculty so that competent and highly qualified professionals are not reluctant to join the teaching profession.

The minister said curricula will be improved wherever required to make the standard of education compatible with international standards.

Dr Shams Kasim Lakha head of steering committee on higher education made a presentation on the finding and recommendations of the committee.

Discussions were held on the recommendations of steering committee and Prof Atta assured the VCs that their observations and apprehensions would be given due consideration.

A committee has been formed to look into the governance and management issues faced by the universities and to suggest amendments in Model University Ordinance prepared by the steering committee on higher education.