Higher education is essential for human capital Higher education is crucial for human capital development and socio-economic growth. However, rising harassment cases in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa universities, particularly involving male teachers exploiting female students, are alarming. Despite global recognition of harassment as a civil rights violation since the 1970s, research in Pakistan remains limited. Effective solutions require anti harassment training, improved reporting systems, and cultural shifts. Key recommendations include leadership commitment, policy monitoring, HR student collaboration, third-party involvement, and linking complaint platforms to the ombudsman. Curriculum changes and continuous education are also necessary to foster safer, more inclusive university environments.
_________________________The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan, established in 2002, aims to enhance the country's higher education system to foster socio-economic development. Despite the development of the HEC Vision 2025, which outlines a strategic approach to improving education quality, relevance, and accessibility, challenges persist in policy execution and resource allocation. The HEC Vision 2025 emphasizes innovation, research, and global academic partnerships but struggles with inconsistencies and insufficient funding for research and development. The paper highlights key issues including federal-provincial conflicts, inadequate investment in R&D, and the need for effective policy implementation. Recommendations for addressing these challenges include resolving devolution disputes, introducing split scholarship programs, adopting the Triple Helix model, utilizing modern technology like GIS, engaging donors and private entities, and ensuring equitable access to higher education across all regions. A strategic focus on these areas could potentially lead to significant improvements in the effectiveness of Ph.D. scholarships and overall socio-economic growth.
_________________________Railways are a crucial mode of transportation for both freight and passengers, with a longstanding historical presence in industrialized nations. Pakistan Railways, the second largest institution in the country, has historically used Broad Gauge (BG) tracks, which have significant strategic and operational importance. This paper examines the feasibility of converting Pakistan Railways' BG network to Standard Gauge (SG) and finds it impractical due to prohibitive costs and operational disruptions. The analysis reveals that while SG offers advantages in terms of spare parts and market access, the high cost and operational challenges of converting existing BG tracks outweigh the benefits. The paper concludes that SG should only be introduced in isolated new networks or cross-border areas where gauge breaks are unavoidable. Recommendations include maintaining the current BG system, constructing new SG lines in strategic locations, and enhancing local production capabilities to reduce dependency on international markets.
_________________________The efficiency of Pakistan’s tax system is currently hindered by a low tax-to-GDP ratio and persistent fiscal deficits, exacerbating the country’s reliance on external borrowing. Recent advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and blockchain technology present an opportunity to enhance revenue generation and streamline tax administration. This paper explores the transformative potential of integrating these technologies into Pakistan’s tax system, identifying both the benefits and the challenges associated with their adoption. Key challenges include the need for substantial infrastructure investment, concerns over data privacy, and the necessity for a supportive legal framework. The paper recommends several policy actions, including the establishment of a regulatory framework for AI and blockchain, legal amendments to support these technologies, and the development of robust IT infrastructure and digital identity systems. Addressing these recommendations will be crucial for modernizing Pakistan’s tax administration and improving compliance, ultimately helping to break the cycle of debt and foster economic growth.
_________________________Agriculture is crucial for Pakistan, contributing 24% to the national GDP and employing 37.4% of the workforce, with over 70% of the population relying on it for income. Despite its significance, the sector faces severe challenges, including low crop yields driven by water scarcity, outdated farming practices, limited access to modern technologies, climate variability, inadequate infrastructure, and policy constraints. These issues undermine food security, exacerbate poverty, and increase income disparities. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach: improving water management, adopting climate-smart agricultural practices, enhancing soil health, and integrating advanced technologies. Strategic reforms and enhanced institutional support are vital to boost productivity and resilience. This research explores the root causes of low crop yields and suggests comprehensive solutions to advance agricultural practices. By proposing targeted interventions and policy changes, the study aims to contribute to sustainable development, food security, and rural prosperity in Pakistan.
_________________________Migration has long been integral to South Asian economies and societies, with significant global impact due to the substantial South Asian diaspora. Countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and Bhutan contribute a major portion of global migrants, primarily as laborers in low and semi skilled occupations. Between 2000 and 2020, migration from Central and Southern Asia to North Africa and West Asia surged, reflecting a broader trend of labor migration from these countries. Indian and Pakistani migration policies, particularly regarding unskilled workers, exhibit notable differences. India has developed extensive support systems and protection mechanisms for its migrants, including skill certification programs, whereas Pakistan's policies are less comprehensive and less effective in safeguarding unskilled workers, especially women. Recommendations include enhancing legislation, expanding skill development, and strengthening bilateral agreements to improve the migration process and support for Pakistani workers in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
_________________________