Nadeem Mahbub Appointed Acting Chairman of Higher Education Commission
The Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training has appointed Nadeem Mahbub as the Acting Chairperson of the Higher Education Commission (HEC), following the completion of Prof Dr Mukhtar Ahmed’s three-year term. Mahbub, who currently serves as Federal Secretary for the ministry and is an existing HEC member, will immediately assume the interim role.
The appointment, made with the approval of the Prime Minister under Section 8(3) of the HEC Ordinance 2002, is set to last for up to three months or until a permanent successor is named. This decision aims to ensure continuity in the governance of higher education at a time when the sector is confronting multiple challenges.
While the move is seen by some as necessary for maintaining institutional stability, it has also drawn criticism. Observers have expressed concerns that frequent leadership changes at the HEC could disrupt ongoing reforms and policy initiatives, warning that repeated interim appointments may lead to uncertainty across universities and research institutions.
Supporters of the appointment argue that the government is adhering to proper procedures and taking essential time to identify a qualified, visionary leader for the HEC. The effectiveness of the transitional arrangement in maintaining confidence and stability within the sector will become clearer in the coming months, as the process of selecting a permanent chairperson progresses.
