The 81st Academic Council of Arid Agriculture University met in Rawalpindi on June 9, 2026, under the chairmanship of Prof. Dr. Qamar-uz-Zaman. The session, attended by Registrar Muhammad Aqeel Sultan, deans, institute directors, professors and associate professors, approved the minutes of the 80th meeting and considered a range of academic matters.
The council approved several new degree programs crafted to meet emerging industry needs with a strong emphasis on skill-based education. These programs are designed to enhance students’ employability through practical training, industry-relevant curricula and opportunities that build entrepreneurial capabilities so graduates can become job creators.
To keep pace with technological change, the Academic Council authorized all faculties to develop and integrate Artificial Intelligence course content into their respective degree programs. The council highlighted that AI education should be woven into curricula across disciplines to prepare students for a rapidly evolving job market and to strengthen Pakistan’s competitive edge.
Addressing the meeting, Prof. Dr. Qamar-uz-Zaman urged deans and directors to facilitate students within the framework of academic regulations and to intensify skill-based education and research activities. He emphasized the need to raise practical competencies, promote innovation and expand research capacity to meet both national and international challenges.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to continuously modernize curricula, raise academic standards and promote excellence in teaching, research and innovation across the university. By prioritizing employability and entrepreneurship, the university aims to support Pakistan’s workforce needs and contribute to local economic development.
