Senate body recommends provincial quota in COMSATS varsity.

ISLAMABAD -- Senate Standing Committee on Science and Technology was briefed on Wednesday on functions and working of COMSATS University, its campuses and staff and the under construction Quetta Campus. The committee was also updated on the Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC).

The committee, which met under the chairmanship of Senator Sardar Muhammad Shafiq Tareen, recommended that provincial quota may be implemented in COMSATS and that students from Balochistan may also be given special quota in admissions. It also showed concern regarding the lowering of university's world ranking. Regarding staff promotions the committee expressed its reservations regarding delay by the Selection Board. Reasons are to be submitted to the committee.

Discussing various projects that the university has been involved with, the committee stressed the need for COMSATS University to focus on sustainable energy projects.

Reviewing business development initiatives, the committee was informed that 129 companies have been enrolled at the Student Start Up Business Centre to-date. Regarding research projects, it was told that funding is carried out through different funding agencies. For the FY 2020-21 a total of 11 projects worth Rs91.75 million have been approved. The university won the 3G Research Excellence Award 2018 and 2019. Discussing recruitment and placements, the committee directed the COMSATS University to share its recruitment policy with the committee. It also stressed the need for ensuring that Balochistan is included in the divisible pool.

The committee was informed that 1450 scholarships worth Rs31,829,000 were awarded to students this year. Scholarships have also been awarded to students by HEC under the Ehsaas Programme.

Discussing establishment of the COMSATS...