Chairman Higher Education Commission (HEC) Dr Niaz Ahmed Akhtar on Monday underscored the importance of quality over quantity in academic research, stating that publishing a single paper with a credible impact factor is far more valuable than producing multiple papers lacking scholarly significance.
Speaking at a ceremony held at Sindh Madressatul Islam University, Dr Akhtar remarked that research publications without impact factor carry little academic or practical value. “It is better to produce one impactful research paper than to publish 20 papers that fail to contribute meaningfully,” he said.
The event was also addressed by the vice chancellor of the university, Dr Mujeeb Sahrai, who highlighted ongoing academic initiatives at the institution. During his visit, Dr Akhtar inaugurated a smart classroom at the university and commended the performance and leadership of the vice chancellor, acknowledging efforts to modernise teaching and learning facilities.
Emphasising the relevance of research, the HEC chairman urged young faculty members and researchers to focus on studies that yield tangible benefits for society and industry. “Research must address real-world challenges and contribute to national development,” he said, adding that Pakistani scholars should strive to elevate the country’s global academic standing.
Dr Akhtar described his visit to the historic institution as an honour, noting that the founder of Pakistan, Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah, had once studied there. He further stated that provincial higher education commissions and the federal HEC would work in coordination to promote higher education and research across the country.
