NA panel concerned over non-provision of financial resources to tech varsity

ISLAMABAD: The Standing Committee of the National Assembly on Science and Technology expressed deep concern and strong disappointment over the failure of the government to Honor its commitments regarding the timely provision of essential financial resources and the promised buses for the National University of Technology (NUTECH).

The meeting of the Standing Committee of the National Assembly on Science and Technology was held with its Chairman Khawaja Sheraz Mehmood in the chair here at the National University of Technology (NUTECH) on Thursday.

The chairman and members of the committee visited various departments and faculties of the university to observe the academic environment, ongoing research activities, and the overall infrastructure. During the visit, they interacted with faculty members, administrative staff, and students to gain firsthand insight into the institution’s strengths, challenges, and future potential.

The committee emphasised that such breaches undermine the growth and operational efficiency of a national institution of high strategic importance.

The committee strongly recommended that all pending promises made to NUTECH be fulfilled without further delay, ensuring that the University continues on its path of excellence and service to the nation. Lieutenant General (R) Eng Moazzam Ejaz, Rector of NUTECH briefed the committee on vision and mission of the university, its structure, faculties, programs courses, enrollment criteria, library resources, facilities, quality management system, scholarships, students improvement projects, online education system, industrial and creative activities, collaborations with national and international institutions, organisations, chambers, defence organisations, collaboration with Reko Diq Mining Company, linkages with ministries, public enterprises, software technology parks, industrial projects, AI based Intelligent Rebar Counting System, participation in SIFC and remarkable achievements during last 6 years.

The committee commended the exemplary leadership of the Rector of NUTECH and his dedicated team for their outstanding efforts, remarkable achievements, and invaluable contributions to the development of the university.

The committee acknowledged that within a short span of just six years, NUTECH has emerged as a premier institution at both national and international levels—an accomplishment that reflects the visionary planning, academic excellence, and tireless commitment of its administration, faculty, and students.

The members of the committee emphasized the importance of launching a comprehensive awareness campaign to inform and inspire students from remote and underprivileged areas of the country about the academic opportunities available at the University.

They noted that many talented students from far-flung regions remain unaware of such institutions due to a lack of outreach and communication. Several members also strongly encouraged the University administration to incorporate agriculture-based courses into its academic offerings.

They highlighted the significance of agricultural education in a country like Pakistan, where the economy is heavily reliant on the agriculture sector. Such programs, they noted, would not only empower rural youth but also contribute to national food security and sustainable development.

The Committee Members offered land and assured full support for the establishment of additional campuses in Southern Punjab and Sindh.

They affirmed that these regions, rich in potential yet historically underserved in terms of educational infrastructure, would greatly benefit from a local presence of a high-quality institution like this University.

The Committee urged the management to seriously consider these proposals in their expansion strategy, ensuring equitable access to quality education across all regions of the country.