ISLAMABAD: The Higher Education Commission (HEC) is reviewing a new policy for government-funded students studying abroad, aimed at revising existing rules and reducing penalties for those who are unable to complete their PhD degrees.
Officials said the proposed changes would allow overseas PhD scholars to return to Pakistan without facing fines if they fail to complete their degrees within the stipulated period. The move is intended to make the scholarship framework more flexible while addressing concerns raised by students.
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The HEC noted that global PhD failure rates are estimated at around 50 percent, compared to approximately 5 percent in Pakistan, highlighting the need for a more balanced approach.
Review of bonds and service requirements
As part of the proposed policy, the commission is also reviewing affidavit and bond conditions signed by scholars before departure. This includes the existing requirement for graduates to serve in Pakistan for five years after completing their studies.
Under the new framework, scholars who return to Pakistan after failing their degrees would not face legal action or financial penalties. Officials said the aim is to encourage their reintegration rather than impose punitive measures.
Action against those staying abroad
However, stricter measures are being considered for scholars who fail to complete their degrees and choose to remain abroad for employment or residency. The policy may include provisions to discourage unauthorized stays and misuse of scholarship opportunities.
HEC officials said more than 100 overseas scholars who either failed or absconded currently owe significant financial penalties, amounting to millions of rupees.
The proposed policy is part of broader efforts to ensure accountability in publicly funded scholarship programmes while supporting students facing academic challenges.
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