Governor Balochistan Lays Foundation Stone of HEC Regional Center in Quetta
Quetta :
Governor Balochistan Sheikh Jaafar Khan Mandokhail has termed the establishment of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) Regional Center in Quetta a historic milestone for the province, describing it as the realization of a long-cherished dream of an educated and progressive Balochistan.
Speaking at the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the HEC Regional Center in Quetta, Governor Mandokhail said that the project represents far more than a regional administrative facility. “This is not merely a regional center but the fulfillment of a longstanding aspiration for quality higher education in Balochistan. Today, the federation and the province are jointly strengthening the foundations of educational excellence for future generations,” he said.
The ceremony was attended by Chairman Higher Education Commission Dr. Niaz Ahmed Akhtar, Vice Chancellor University of Balochistan Professor Dr. Zahoor Ahmed Bazai, Vice Chancellor Women University Quetta Professor Dr. Rubina Mushtaq, Vice Chancellor University of Turbat Professor Dr. Gul Hasan, Vice Chancellor University of Loralai Dr. Ehsanullah Kakar, Vice Chancellor Mir Chakar Khan Rind University Sibi Professor Dr. Mumtaz Ali Baloch, Pro Vice Chancellor Dr. Alam Tareen, and several prominent educationists and university officials.
Governor Mandokhail highlighted the vital role played by the Higher Education Commission in advancing higher education across Pakistan. He noted that HEC has provided leadership and support to nearly 300 public-sector universities nationwide, helping strengthen academic standards, research capacity, and institutional development.
The Governor emphasized that the HEC Regional Center, being established at a cost of approximately Rs. 78.61 million, is expected to be completed by the end of the current year. He recommended that the project be shifted to a solar energy system from the outset to reduce long-term operational costs and promote environmental sustainability. He also suggested the inclusion of a guest house within the project to facilitate visiting academics, researchers, and officials.
“Special attention must be paid to maintaining quality standards while ensuring the timely completion of this important project,” Governor Mandokhail stated.
He expressed confidence that the new regional center would significantly strengthen universities, higher education institutions, and academic campuses throughout Balochistan. The facility, he said, would serve as a catalyst for innovation, research, academic collaboration, and institutional growth across the province.
Governor Mandokhail extended special appreciation to Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and HEC Chairman Dr. Niaz Ahmed Akhtar for their vision, commitment, and support in making the project a reality.
“The establishment of this center is not merely an administrative development; it is a transformative initiative that will contribute to sustainable development and educational progress in Balochistan,” he remarked.
Concluding his address, the Governor urged national electronic and print media organizations to provide extensive coverage of this significant educational milestone, emphasizing its importance for the future of higher education in the province.
The HEC Regional Center is expected to enhance coordination between universities and the Higher Education Commission, facilitate academic and research initiatives, and improve access to educational resources and support services throughout Balochistan.
