The Higher Education Commission’s Research and Innovation Division has concluded the rigorous blind-review first phase for the NRPU Call 2025-26 after assessing a record number of submissions from universities across Pakistan. In total, reviewers evaluated 6,926 research proposals, the highest volume received for this programme to date.
To protect transparency and academic merit, leading subject experts and reviewers from top universities were engaged at the Islamabad headquarters, regional centres in Peshawar, Lahore, Karachi and Quetta, and through online arrangements. The NRPU team coordinated thousands of independent evaluations, maintaining strict review protocols throughout the process.
Efficient teamwork and strong support from HEC senior management ensured the review phase finished on schedule. The commission extended appreciation to the reviewers for their commitment and professionalism and congratulated applicants who have advanced to the second stage of the NRPU Call selection process.
Shortlisted teams are required to submit their detailed proposals by 6 February 2026. Researchers and university administrators preparing submissions are advised to follow HEC guidelines and timelines for the next stage of review under the NRPU Call.
