The Higher Education Commission’s Research and Innovation Division convened the first meeting of the reconstituted Evaluation and Management Committee for the Access to Scientific Instrumentation Programme at the HEC Secretariat under a revised policy framework. Committee members were briefed on expanded responsibilities designed to ensure efficient programme implementation and to uphold high standards of research support for institutions across Pakistan.
During the session the committee reviewed ASIP applications submitted in November and December 2025, with the explicit aim of facilitating timely access to advanced analytical facilities for PhD scholars. The evaluation process prioritised swift clearance where infrastructure needs align with research timelines to minimise delays for doctoral research projects.
Discussion centred on optimal utilisation of high-end research equipment and on strategies to strengthen inter-institutional collaboration and resource sharing. Members examined mechanisms to promote shared access across public sector universities and R&D organisations, emphasising coordination that maximises use of existing instruments while reducing duplication of costly facilities.
The meeting also addressed operational oversight to ensure service providers maintain the highest levels of efficiency and reliability. The committee underscored the importance of monitoring and service standards to protect research timelines and maintain confidence in ASIP-supported facilities.
HEC reaffirmed its commitment to removing financial and infrastructural barriers for researchers and to fostering a collaborative ecosystem through ASIP, enabling more equitable access to scientific instrumentation for Pakistan’s PhD community and supporting the broader national research agenda.
