Muhammad Murtaza Noor
Istanbul, Türkiye,Pakistan has made a strong and impactful mark at the Eurasia Higher Education Summit (EURIE) 2026, held from 7–9 April in Istanbul, Türkiye, through a high-level academic delegation and the establishment of a dedicated Pakistan Pavilion, largest Pavilion in the expo. The country’s dynamic participation highlighted its growing academic strength, global outlook, and commitment to international collaboration in higher education.
A 45-member Pakistani delegation, led by Chaudhry Abdul Rehman under the platform of the Association of Private Sector Universities of Pakistan, represented the country at one of the world’s leading academic forums. The delegation comprised Chairmen Boards of Governors, Presidents, Vice Chancellors, and senior academic leaders from 17 prominent universities and key organizations, reflecting a unified and strategic national presence on the global stage.
Participating institutions included Superior University, University of Lahore, University of Faisalabad, University of Sialkot, Lahore Leads University, Iqra University, Riphah International University, Preston University, City University, CECOS University, Institute of Business Management, and GIFT University. Key organizations such as OIC-COMSTECH, Sindh Higher Education Commission, Bahria University, and University of South Asia were also part of the delegation, contributing significantly to policy dialogue and international outreach.
A central highlight of Pakistan’s participation was the Pakistan Pavilion, which emerged as the largest pavilion at the summit and attracted significant international attention. The pavilion showcased Pakistan’s higher education potential, research excellence, and innovation ecosystem while serving as a vibrant hub for academic exchange and global engagement. Delegations and university leaders from across regions actively interacted at the pavilion, engaging in meaningful discussions on partnerships and signing a number of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), making it a focal point of collaboration throughout the event.
The summit, which brought together participants from 61 countries and over 380 universities, provided Pakistan with a powerful platform to present its academic vision, achievements, and future aspirations. A defining moment of the event was the keynote address by Sumaira Rehman, Rector of Superior University and Commission Member of the Higher Education Commission Pakistan. As the sole female keynote speaker at the inauguration session, she delivered a compelling and thought-provoking address that resonated strongly with the international audience.
Emphasizing that “Pakistan has a compelling story to tell,” she highlighted the importance of transforming higher education beyond technical skill development to nurturing ethical, responsible, and purpose-driven leaders. She introduced the concept of “Leading with Character,” advocating for a values-based education system that integrates academic excellence with moral and social responsibility. Her address was widely appreciated and positioned Pakistan as an emerging thought leader in global education discourse.
Further strengthening Pakistan–Türkiye academic relations, a high-level meeting was held between the Pakistani delegation and Erol Özvar, President of the Council of Higher Education Turkey. The discussions focused on enhancing collaboration through joint research initiatives, faculty and student exchange programs, and technology transfer. Pakistani universities were also invited to participate in Türkiye’s “500 Research Projects Initiative,” opening new avenues for institutional partnerships and innovation-driven cooperation.
In addition to summit engagements, the delegation also visited the Secretariat of the D-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation, where they held a highly productive meeting with Secretary General Sohail Mahmood During the meeting, the Secretary General briefed the delegation on the organisation’s background, key objectives, functions, and priority areas. The discussions further focused on strengthening collaboration in the higher education sector, particularly by fostering deeper academic partnerships and promoting knowledge exchange among universities across member countries.
The delegation also visited leading universities in Türkiye and participated in high-level receptions hosted by APSUP and EURIE organizers. These engagements are expected to pave the way for long-term collaboration in higher education, research, innovation, and student mobility.
Pakistan’s impactful presence at EURIE 2026 reflects its growing commitment to internationalization, academic excellence, and global engagement. Through strategic partnerships and a unified national approach, the country continues to position itself as a progressive and collaborative player in the global higher education landscape.
