Ensuring quality research

The Higher Education Commission (HEC) Journals and Publications Policy 2024 aims to elevate the academic standards of Pakistani research journals by aligning them with international norms through a comprehensive approach that emphasizes transparency, eligibility criteria, capacity building, and performance-based funding. However, a significant shortcoming is the lack of engagement with key stakeholders, particularly university professors and researchers, which could lead to a disconnect between the policy's objectives and the actual needs of those it affects, limiting its effectiveness. The decision to leave publication validation for faculty appointments to individual Quality Enhancement Cells (QECs) may create inconsistencies across institutions if these cells lack clear guidelines.

To ensure consistency and fairness, stronger collaboration between the HEC and QECs, alongside standardized guidelines, is essential. The current framework reveals missed opportunities, particularly in promoting interdisciplinary research and integrating technologies like artificial intelligence for peer review. To enhance policy effectiveness, it is crucial for the HEC to involve university faculty and researchers in the development process, leveraging their insights to create a framework that meets international standards while addressing unique challenges faced by Pakistani research journals.

Dr Intikhab Ulfat

Karachi