HEC degree attestation dispute: 11,515 graduates asked to pass comprehensive test

A longstanding dispute over degree attestation for Al Khair University graduates remains unresolved, prompting a Senate committee to direct

Islamabad:  A longstanding dispute over degree attestation for Al Khair University graduates remains unresolved, prompting a Senate committee to direct the university’s vice chancellor and the Higher Education Commission chairman to work together and settle the matter before the committee’s next meeting.

The issue was discussed during a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Federal Education and Professional Training, chaired by Senator Bushra Anjum Butt. The committee reviewed complaints linked to HEC degree attestation and the impact of Supreme Court and High Court decisions issued in 2014 and 2025 concerning relief for Al Khair University students.

The committee was informed that, out of 75,894 graduates in 2018, the HEC recognised 64,379 degrees. The remaining 11,515 graduates from affiliated colleges were required to pass a comprehensive test.

Seeking a solution in line with court directions, the chairperson instructed the vice chancellor of Al Khair University and the HEC chairman to coordinate and resolve the issue before the next committee session.

The committee was also briefed on the HEC’s paperless online degree attestation system, launched on May 11, 2026. According to the information presented, the system has processed 73,146 cases covering 139,021 academic documents.

The online system is intended to make degree attestation easier by allowing applicants to use a digital process. However, the committee’s discussion showed that older complaints involving degree recognition and attestation still require attention.

The committee also reviewed procedures for checking student records and educational documents. Senator Bushra Anjum Butt directed institutions to follow the established rules and procedures and not charge students unauthorised or excessive fees.

She warned that cases involving unlawful charges collected from students would be referred to the Federal Investigation Agency for investigation. The direction was aimed at ensuring that students are not asked to pay fees that are not permitted under the applicable rules.

The committee stressed the need for transparency, proper verification procedures and protection of students’ rights. Its direction to the HEC and Al Khair University places responsibility on both institutions to work towards a solution to the longstanding degree attestation issue before the next meeting.