PESHAWAR: The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has prepared a new regulatory framework for the establishment, chartering and accreditation of universities and higher education institutions in Pakistan, replacing guidelines that have remained in place for nearly 24 years.
According to sources, the Regulatory Framework for Establishment and Approval of Higher Education Institutions in Pakistan 2026 will be finalised after consultations with the provinces, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan before being submitted to the federal cabinet for approval.
An official letter sent by the HEC executive director to provincial higher education departments said guidelines approved by the federal cabinet in 2002 are currently applicable to the establishment of new universities and higher education institutions.
However, the commission said a review of the existing regulations had become necessary in view of changing requirements in higher education, evolving global standards and emerging trends in the sector.
The draft of the new regulatory framework was presented at a high-level committee meeting chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister on July 1, 2026.
The HEC has sought feedback and proposals from provincial governments, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan before finalising the framework. The revised draft will subsequently be submitted to the federal cabinet for approval.
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