HEC, Spain’s IE University discuss academic cooperation for Pakistani students
ISLAMABAD, October 28, 2026: A delegation from IE University, Spain, visited the Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan and met Chairman HEC Dr Niaz Ahmad Akhtar to discuss prospects for academic cooperation and greater access to international higher education opportunities for talented Pakistani students.
The meeting was also attended by Advisor Global Engagement HEC Dr Muhammad Ali Nasir and his team. The visiting delegation included Ms Andrea Rodriguez Velez, Asia Pacific Director at IE University, and Mr Alejandro Alvargonzalez Largo, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Spain in Pakistan.
During the meeting, Ms Velez gave a detailed presentation on IE University’s global outlook, academic standards and range of programmes in business, law, technology, architecture and international affairs. She also briefed the participants on the university’s internationalisation initiatives and its interest in working with HEC to support the enrolment of Pakistani students in undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.
Dr Niaz Ahmad Akhtar appreciated IE University’s role in higher education, with particular reference to the achievements of IE Business School. He also highlighted the wide range of international scholarship programmes being administered by HEC to help Pakistani students pursue higher education abroad.
To further strengthen engagement and identify suitable candidates, the HEC Chairman suggested that the IE University delegation build links with leading Pakistani institutions, including the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) and the FAST-National University of Computer and Emerging Sciences (FAST-NUCES).
The meeting underscored the shared interest of both sides in exploring international academic collaboration and widening educational opportunities for talented students from Pakistan.
