A high-level meeting on the "Framework for Processing Concept Proposals for New Projects under the Pakistan-UK Education Gateway Phase 2" was held in Islamabad today with Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal in the chair.

The meeting was briefed that the British Council successfully facilitated 21 Research Travel Grants and eight large-scale Research Partnership Grant projects. In addition, research capacity-building training was provided to over 1,000 researchers and reviewers across Pakistan, and 51 universities received certification for their Office of Research, Innovation, and Commercialization.

It was further outlined that Phase 2 of the Pakistan-UK Education Gateway aims to build on the partnerships and successes of Phase 1.

Speaking on the occasion, Ahsan Iqbal emphasized the need for a focused approach to engage top-tier researchers who can make a meaningful impact on Pakistan's diverse sectors. This should include partnerships with high-ranking universities to elevate research standards.

The Minister underscored the importance of visits by Pakistani researchers to the United Kingdom serve a clear purpose, contributing to institutional capacity-building and delivering tangible benefits upon their return.

The Pakistan-UK Education Gateway Phase 2 reflects the commitment to fostering an internationally competitive higher education environment that aligns with Pakistan's socio-economic goals.