The process for the appointment of the new chairman of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) has entered its concluding phase, as five shortlisted candidates have been called for a second round of interviews scheduled for Friday, December 5.
Federal Secretary for Education and Professional Training Nadeem Mahboob told The News that during the first round conducted earlier with 30 candidates, the Search Committee unanimously decided that the top five contenders should undergo detailed interviews to ensure that “the best among the best” is recommended to the prime minister.
He added that calling the top candidates for an additional round is “not a new practice and is often followed in the private sector to ensure rigorous assessment and optimal selection.” According to sources, the five candidates shortlisted for the final round are Prof Dr Hashmat Lodi, Dr Niaz Ahmad, Dr Muhammad Ali Shah, Dr Sarfaraz Khalid and Dr Khalid Hafeez. The Search Committee will forward one recommended name to the prime minister for final approval.
