Meeting the demand for research development opportunities in Pakistan, Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) inaugurated an individual office of research, innovation and commercialisation (ORIC).

The main purpose leading to its creation is to maintain a strong link with the industrial sector and contribute to new research development in related fields.

On the inauguration ceremony of ORIC, the Vice Chancellor of the university Professor Dr. Shahid Siddiqui said this office will perform its duties as a bridge between researchers as well as the end-users for the application of new knowledge (new innovation) in the specific field and the society should get the advantage of research findings, being carried out in the educational institutes.

He shared his view that the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan (HEC) charges a massive fund for the research work. He emphasised the importance of local universities to maximise their potential by tapping into this opportunity to develop and present their research findings between the end users as well as the policy-makers. The exchange platforms suggested are through broadcasting research journals, seminars and conferences leading to the socio-economic development of Pakistan. The head of ORIC, Professor Dr. Nowshad Khan said that a core working group would be established to evaluate and link the research discoveries to the relevant end user.

British Council Pakistan strives to support universities, institutions and other education decision makers in their advancement and partnership development strategies to consequently strengthen collaboration within local universities and UK institutions.

Trans-national education (TNE) is a growing market in Pakistan and recent data shows evidence of over 40 such programs running successfully in affiliation with British universities at undergraduate and graduate level, according to the British Council. Overall, the UK takes about 65 per cent of the TNE market in Pakistan, at a clear majority.

For details on partnership development, contact the SIEM Pakistan team for customised consultancy services.