HEC degree dispute, 11,515 Al Khair graduates face comprehensive test

ISLAMABAD: The long-running dispute over degree attestation for Al Khair University graduates remains unresolved, with a Senate committee directing the university’s vice chancellor and the Higher Education Commission (HEC) chairman to work together to find a solution before its 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 concerning degree recognition and attestation, as well as the implications of Supreme Court and High Court decisions issued in 2014 and 2025 regarding relief for affected graduates.

One of the key concerns is the status of thousands of graduates whose degrees have not been recognised by the HEC. The committee was informed that, out of 75,894 graduates recorded in 2018, the commission recognised 64,379 degrees, while the remaining 11,515 graduates from affiliated colleges were required to pass a comprehensive test.

The requirement has left a significant number of graduates awaiting a resolution to their degree-related concerns, making the issue a matter of considerable importance for those seeking recognition of their academic qualifications.

To address the longstanding dispute, Senator Bushra Anjum Butt instructed the vice chancellor of Al Khair University and the HEC chairman to coordinate their efforts and settle the matter in accordance with the relevant court directions.

The committee expects both officials to make progress before the next session, signalling renewed efforts to resolve an issue that has remained a source of concern for affected students and graduates.

HEC’s Digital Attestation System Processes Thousands of Cases

During the meeting, the committee also received a briefing on the HEC’s paperless online degree attestation system, which was launched on May 11, 2026.

According to the information presented, the digital system has processed 73,146 cases involving 139,021 academic documents.

The initiative is intended to simplify the attestation process by enabling applicants to submit and manage their requests online, reducing reliance on traditional paperwork and making the service more accessible.

However, the committee’s discussion highlighted that the introduction of digital services has not eliminated older disputes involving degree recognition and attestation, which still require institutional attention.

Warning Against Unauthorised Student Fees

The committee also examined procedures for verifying student records and educational documents, stressing the importance of transparency and compliance with established rules.

Senator Bushra Anjum Butt directed educational institutions to follow the prescribed procedures and refrain from charging students unauthorised or excessive fees.

She warned that cases involving unlawful charges would be referred to the Federal Investigation Agency for investigation.

The committee emphasised that students must be protected from improper financial demands while institutions ensure accurate verification of academic credentials.

The next meeting will be important in determining whether the HEC and Al Khair University can agree on a way forward for the 11,515 affected graduates. For those awaiting clarity over their qualifications, the committee’s intervention offers a fresh opportunity to address the longstanding dispute.