Conferences, Events & Scientific Sessions

On October 26, 2026, a meeting was held at the Universities & Boards Department, Government of Sindh, with the Directors Finance of public sector universities across Sindh.
The meeting was chaired by:
🔹 Mr. Muhammad Abbas Baloch, Secretary, Universities & Boards Department
🔹 Prof. Dr. S. M. Tariq Rafi, Chairperson, Sindh Higher Education Commission (Sindh HEC)
🔹 Dr. Noman Ahsan, Secretary, Sindh Higher Education Commission
The meeting reviewed financial matters concerning public sector universities, with a focus on strengthening coordination, promoting transparency, and supporting the financial sustainability of higher education institutions across Sindh.
The discussion highlighted the importance of effective financial management and institutional collaboration in strengthening the higher education sector.

A meeting was held with Prof. Dr. S. M. Tariq Rafi, Chairperson of the Sindh Higher Education Commission (Sindh HEC), to discuss the challenges and issues facing higher education in Malir.
Brother Mola Bux Memon and other participants joined the meeting, where matters concerning the improvement of educational facilities, addressing local challenges, and expanding higher education opportunities for the people of Malir were discussed.
The meeting reflected a shared commitment to strengthening higher education and creating better educational opportunities for the youth of Malir.
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Prof. Dr. S. M. Tariq Rafi (T.I.), Chairperson, Sindh Higher Education Commission (Sindh HEC), attended the 1st International Summit of University Chancellors 2026 as Guest of Honour and Speaker on October 12, 2026, at Al Ghazali University, Karachi, in collaboration with the League of Islamic Universities.

The landmark summit brought together university chancellors, academic leaders, and international delegates from over 30 countries to promote global collaboration, strengthen academic partnerships, and explore the future of higher education.

In his address, Prof. Dr. Tariq Rafi emphasized the importance of embedding entrepreneurship across university curricula to empower young graduates, encourage economic independence, and contribute to national development.

He highlighted the need to equip students across disciplines with practical business skills, including costing, pricing, marketing, and record-keeping, while connecting academic projects with local industries such as agriculture, textiles, and technology. He also underscored the importance of ethical business practices, fair dealing, and community welfare.

Prof. Dr. Tariq Rafi further highlighted Sindh HEC’s efforts to develop specialized training programmes that enable university teachers to mentor student-led business ventures. He emphasized the importance of collaboration among universities, government, and industry in creating opportunities for young entrepreneurs.

The session reinforced the role of higher education in nurturing innovation, building entrepreneurial confidence, and equipping graduates with the practical skills needed to contribute to a prosperous and economically empowered Pakistan.

Karachi, October 22, 2026 — A Search Committee meeting was held at the Universities & Boards Department, Government of Sindh.

The meeting was attended by Prof. Dr. S. M. Tariq Rafi, Chairperson, Sindh Higher Education Commission (Sindh HEC); Mr. Muhammad Abbas Baloch, Secretary, Universities & Boards Department; and Mr. Nadeem Memon, Secretary, Colleges Department.

The meeting formed part of the committee’s proceedings concerning matters related to higher education institutions in Sindh.

Prof. Dr. S. M. Tariq Rafi, Chairman, Sindh Higher Education Commission (Sindh HEC), attended the inauguration of the ICON 2026 Summit at Indus Hospital & Health Network (IHHN), Korangi Campus, Karachi.

The summit brought together healthcare leaders, policymakers, medical experts and international delegates to discuss sustainable, climate-resilient and patient-centered healthcare in Pakistan.

The event featured discussions on artificial intelligence, precision oncology, climate-resilient trauma systems and primary healthcare reform, highlighting the importance of innovation and collaboration in strengthening the healthcare sector.

ICON 2026 represents an opportunity to promote knowledge sharing, strengthen institutional partnerships and develop sustainable solutions to emerging healthcare challenges.

On October 6, 2026, Prof. Dr. S. M. Tariq Rafi (T.I.), Chairperson, Sindh Higher Education Commission (Sindh HEC), participated in the First Regional Roundtable of the 7th Rectors’ Conference 2026, hosted by Salim Habib University and organized by the Association of Private Sector Universities of Pakistan (APSUP), Sindh Chapter.

The roundtable brought together Vice Chancellors and Rectors from more than 30 private sector universities across Sindh to discuss the future of higher education under the theme: “Redefining Success: From Belief to Character, to Leadership, to Institution and Civilization.”

During his remarks, Prof. Dr. S. M. Tariq Rafi emphasized the importance of character, integrity and responsibility in higher education, stating:

“Character begins at home and flourishes in universities when leaders first demonstrate the integrity and responsibility they expect from others.”

The discussion highlighted the vital role of academic leadership in promoting ethical values, character building and institutional development.

The event concluded with a shared commitment to meaningful progress and transformation across the higher education sector in Sindh.

On 20 September 2026, Prof. Dr. S.M. Tariq Rafi (T.I.), Chairperson, Sindh Higher Education Commission, attended the inaugural session of JMDC-CON 2026, the 1st International Conference of Jinnah Medical & Dental College, as Chief Guest and Keynote Speaker.

Held under the theme “Challenges for Better Health: Education, Innovation, Linkages,” the conference brought together national and international experts, distinguished guests, faculty members, researchers and students.

The inaugural session, themed “Innovate: Educate, Connect: Accelerating Progress Toward Health and the SDGs,” provided an opportunity for knowledge sharing, innovation, education and meaningful academic connections focused on improving healthcare and contributing towards the Sustainable Development Goals.

The event highlighted the importance of collaboration, education, innovation and strong linkages in addressing emerging challenges in healthcare and advancing a healthier and more sustainable future.

Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC) hosted Women Cancer Excellence Week 2026 from 14–18 September 2026, focusing on prevention, early detection and timely treatment of women’s cancers.

A key highlight was the Policy Makers’ Session held on 15 September 2026 at the Najmuddin Auditorium. Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho, Minister for Health and Population Welfare Department, Government of Sindh, attended as Chief Guest, while Prof. Dr. S.M. Tariq Rafi (T.I.), Chairperson Sindh Higher Education Commission, attended as Guest of Honour and Key Speaker.

Prof. Dr. S.M. Tariq Rafi participated in discussions focused on strengthening policies for cancer awareness, prevention and effective referral pathways.

The programme brought together senior medical specialists, oncologists, histopathologists, radiologists and national and international experts, providing a multidisciplinary platform for sharing knowledge and discussing contemporary approaches to cancer diagnosis and management.

The event highlighted the importance of multidisciplinary care, early detection, reliable data systems and effective policy development in reducing the impact of cancer and improving healthcare outcomes.

Prof. Dr. S. M. Tariq Rafi (TI), Chairperson, Sindh Higher Education Commission (SHEC), conducted a comprehensive session on “Higher Education: Issues, Challenges, Policy Options & Sindh’s Higher Education Landscape” for the participants of the 3rd Senior Management Course (SMC) at TMR Wing, SGA&CD, Government of Sindh.
The session was held on September 29, 2026, at Latif Hall, TMR Wing, and focused on key issues, challenges and policy considerations related to higher education in Pakistan, with particular emphasis on Sindh’s higher education landscape.
Drawing on his extensive academic and administrative experience, Prof. Dr. S. M. Tariq Rafi shared insights on higher education governance and policy, providing participants with a practical understanding of the challenges facing the sector and possible policy directions.
The session reflects the importance of strengthening the capacity of senior public-sector officers in education governance and promoting informed decision-making, effective coordination and quality improvement across the higher education sector.

Today, 1st October 2026, a Search Committee meeting was held at the Universities & Boards Department, Government of Sindh.
The meeting was attended by Prof. Dr. S.M. Tariq Rafi, Chairman Sindh Higher Education Commission, and Mr. Muhammad Abbas Baloch, Secretary Universities & Boards Department.

The meeting was also attended online by Mr. Sarosh Hashmat Lodhi, Chairman CIEC, Sindh HEC, and Mr. Akbar Zaidi.
The distinguished members shared their valuable insights and contributions, leading to a productive and meaningful discussion.

Had the pleasure of attending a dinner at Dynasty Restaurant, Karachi, along with distinguished guests and friends.

It was a warm and memorable evening with meaningful conversations and an opportunity to further strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Pakistan and China.

On September 17, 2026, I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Feng Deheng, Consul General of China in Karachi, to discuss opportunities for strengthening educational cooperation between Sindh and China.
Our discussion focused on strengthening collaboration between universities, particularly in talent development, academic exchanges, and institutional cooperation.
I highlighted Sindh’s commitment to strengthening educational ties with China and the role of the Sindh Higher Education Commission (SHEC) in facilitating meaningful collaboration between universities in Sindh and their Chinese counterparts.
We look forward to further strengthening Pakistan–China educational cooperation and creating new opportunities for students, faculty, researchers, and higher education institutions.

On September 17, 2026, I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Feng Deheng, Consul General of China in Karachi, to discuss opportunities for strengthening educational cooperation between Sindh and China.

Our discussion focused on strengthening collaboration between universities, particularly in talent development, academic exchanges, and institutional cooperation.

I highlighted Sindh’s commitment to strengthening educational ties with China and the role of the Sindh Higher Education Commission (SHEC) in facilitating meaningful collaboration between universities in Sindh and their Chinese counterparts.

We look forward to further strengthening Pakistan–China educational cooperation and creating new opportunities for students, faculty, researchers, and higher education institutions.