HEC honors Pakistan's top 2% scientists, NRPU awardees for excellence in research

KARACHI, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 23rd Jul, 2026) The Higher Education Commission (HEC), Pakistan, organized a recognition ceremony at NED University of Engineering and Technology, Karachi, to celebrate the outstanding achievements of distinguished researchers and scientists from Sindh and Balochistan.

The event honoured scholars featured in the globally acclaimed Top two percent Scientists List in recognition of their exceptional research excellence and international impact. The ceremony also recognized recipients of the National Research Program for Universities (NRPU) 2025–26 research grants for their contributions to advancing high-quality research, innovation, and knowledge creation in Pakistan.

The ceremony was graced by Governor Sindh, Syed Muhammad Nehal Hashmi; Sardar Muhammad Ismail Rahoo, Provincial Minister for Universities and Boards, Government of Sindh; Prof. Dr Niaz Ahmad Akhtar, Chairman HEC; Dr Fahad Shafiq, Coordinator, Prime Minister’s Youth Programme (Sindh); and Prof. Dr Atta-ur-Rahman, renowned scientist and former Federal Minister for Science and Technology, said a news release.

The event was attended by vice chancellors of public and private sector universities from Sindh and Balochistan, heads of higher education institutions, eminent researchers, scientists, academicians, NRPU awardees, and other distinguished guests.

Speaking at the occasion, the Governor Sindh congratulated the researchers and scientists on their remarkable achievements, stating that their accomplishments have brought immense pride to Pakistan on the global stage. He commended the HEC for creating a conducive environment that supports research excellence and innovation.

Emphasizing the transformative power of research, he encouraged scholars to continue producing impactful knowledge that addresses societal challenges, improves the quality of life, and contributes to sustainable national development.

Chairman HEC, Dr Niaz Ahmad Akhtar, emphasized the significance of recognizing outstanding researchers as a means of promoting a culture of excellence and innovation in Pakistan. He highlighted the transformative role of artificial intelligence in shaping the future of education, research, and economic development, and appreciated the contributions of the vice chancellors of Sindh's universities in strengthening the province's research ecosystem. He encouraged universities to continue fostering collaboration, innovation, and impactful research for national development.

Provincial Minister, Sardar Muhammad Ismail Rahoo, congratulated the researchers recognized among the world's Top two percent Scientists and the recipients of the NRPU grants.

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He acknowledged their invaluable contributions to scientific advancement and reaffirmed the provincial government's commitment to supporting research, innovation, and academic excellence across higher education institutions.

Coordinator, Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, Sindh, Dr Fahad Shafiq briefed the participants on the Government of Pakistan's flagship initiatives aimed at empowering youth through education, skills development, entrepreneurship, innovation, and digital opportunities. He highlighted the government's commitment to equipping young people with the skills and opportunities needed to contribute effectively to Pakistan's socio-economic development and knowledge-based economy.

Earlier, the ceremony commenced with a welcome address by Dr Syed Habib Ali Bokhari, Member (Research and Innovation) HEC. He highlighted the vision and strategic initiatives of HEC’s Research and Innovation Division, emphasizing HEC's commitment to strengthening Pakistan's research and innovation ecosystem. This was followed by a comprehensive presentation by Adviser, Research and Innovation Division, HEC, Prof. Dr Muhammad Ali Nasir, who elaborated the Division's flagship programs, major achievements, and future initiatives aimed at promoting excellence in research, innovation, commercialization, and higher education.

Prof. Dr Atta-ur-Rahman, renowned scientist and former Federal Minister and founding Chairman HEC, congratulated the distinguished researchers on their remarkable achievements and underscored the pivotal role of sustained government support in advancing research, innovation, and the knowledge-based economy.

He emphasized that continued investment by the Governments in science, technology, and higher education was essential for Pakistan's long-term economic growth and global competitiveness.

The ceremony concluded with closing remarks by Prof. Dr Muhammad Tufail, Vice Chancellor, NED University of Engineering and Technology, who thanked the Higher Education Commission, distinguished guests, researchers, and participating institutions for making the event a success. He reaffirmed the collective commitment of universities, government institutions, and HEC to further strengthen Pakistan's research and innovation ecosystem through sustained collaboration, academic excellence, and impactful research for national development.