Islamabad (Kashmir Digital): President of the independent government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Barrister Sultan Mahmood Chaudhry, held a detailed meeting with Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman of Pakistan’s Higher Education Commission (HEC), at Kashmir House in Islamabad on Monday.
During the meeting, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed assured Barrister Sultan Mahmood Chaudhry that the HEC would extend full financial and technical support to universities in Pakistan-administered Kashmir. This includes assistance for ongoing and upcoming educational projects aimed at improving infrastructure, academic quality, and research capabilities in the region.
President Barrister Sultan Mahmood Chaudhry thanked the HEC chairman for the commission’s efforts to promote higher education in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and emphasized the need for continued collaboration. “The HEC must play a pivotal role in advancing academic activities and elevating the standard of education in Azad Kashmir’s universities,” he stated.
The two leaders also discussed plans to establish a new university in the region, a project described as critical for expanding access to quality higher education. While specifics of the proposed institution were not disclosed, both sides expressed mutual commitment to accelerating the initiative.
Kashmiri Inclusion in India-Pakistan Talks Reiterated
In a separate statement, Barrister Sultan Mahmood Chaudhry reiterated his long-standing position that Kashmiri representatives must be included in any future dialogue between India and Pakistan. “Whenever talks occur, the aspirations of the Kashmiri people must be central to the process,” he emphasized, reflecting the independent government’s stance on the Kashmir dispute.
Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed reaffirmed the HEC’s dedication to supporting educational development in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, calling it a “priority area” for the commission. The meeting also covered broader areas of mutual interest, including joint research programs, faculty exchanges, and efforts to address challenges faced by students in the region.
Strengthening Educational Ties
The discussion underscored the growing collaboration between the HEC and the independent government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Observers view the proposed university as a strategic step to reduce educational disparities and empower youth in the region, which has long faced infrastructural and resource constraints.
The meeting concluded with both leaders expressing optimism about future partnerships. “Education is the foundation of progress, and we are committed to ensuring Azad Kashmir’s institutions meet global standards,” Barrister Sultan remarked.
The development aligns with recent efforts by the independent government to bolster education, healthcare, and infrastructure in Pakistan-administered Kashmir amid ongoing geopolitical challenges.
