QEC

The primary function of Quality Enhancement Cell (QEC) at Qarshi University is to monitor and enhance the quality of education and academic programs offered by the institution. The QEC is responsible for implementing quality assurance mechanisms, conducting evaluations and assessments, and facilitating continuous improvement in teaching, learning, research, and administrative processes. It reports directly to Vice Chancellor and works in close coordination with him for development and implementation of quality parameters. Externally, QEC works in liaison with Higher Education Commission, Pakistan for uniform implementation of higher education policies. Quality Enhancement Cell at QU plays a crucial role in ensuring that the institution maintains high standards of quality and continuously strives for improvement in all aspects of its operations.

Introduction:

The Quality Enhancement Cell (QEC) at Qarshi University, Lahore, Pakistan, serves as a pivotal entity committed to fostering academic excellence and sustaining a culture of continuous improvement in alignment with the directives and standards set forth by QAA, Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan. Established under HEC’s guidelines, the QEC embodies the university’s unwavering dedication to elevating educational standards, ensuring institutional accountability, and promoting innovation in teaching, research, and community engagement.

Guided by the HEC-QAA’s objectives, the QEC at Qarshi University operates as a dynamic force for quality assurance, focusing on systematic monitoring, evaluation, and enhancement of academic programs, faculty performance, and student learning outcomes. Key functions include conducting rigorous internal and external program reviews, curriculum alignment with national and global benchmarks, capacity-building workshops for faculty, and fostering stakeholder engagement through feedback mechanisms from students, alumni, and industry partners.

By integrating HEC’s quality assurance framework, the QEC ensures compliance with national standards while striving to position Qarshi University as a leader in higher education regionally and internationally. Our commitment extends to cultivating a culture of excellence through data-driven decision-making, transparency, and collaborative governance, ultimately contributing to the socio-economic development of Pakistan and empowering graduates to meet evolving global challenges.

The QEC remains steadfast in its mission to uphold Qarshi University’s vision of delivering transformative education, grounded in ethical values and innovation, while advancing the HEC’s mandate to elevate Pakistan’s higher education landscape.

Key responsibilities of Quality Enhancement Cell (QEC):

1. Quality Assurance: Ensuring that academic programs meet national and international standards for quality and excellence. This often involves preparing for and undergoing quality assurance processes by Higher Education Commission and other relevant bodies.

   QEC has also developed an internal quality assurance framework for Qarshi University and is responsible to facilitate the implementation of this framework through various stakeholders of the university.

2. Program Evaluation: Assessing the effectiveness and relevance of academic programs through periodic reviews and evaluations. This includes gathering feedback from students, faculty, and other stakeholders to identify areas for improvement.
3. Curriculum Development: Collaborating with faculty members and academic
   departments to develop and revise curriculum frameworks that align with industry needs,educational trends, and best practices.
4. Faculty Development: Providing support and resources for faculty members to enhance their teaching skills, pursue professional development opportunities, and stay updated with advancements in their fields.
5. Student Support: Implementing initiatives to support student learning and success, such as academic advising, mentoring programs, and student feedback mechanisms.
6. Data Analysis and Reporting: Collecting and analyzing data related to academicb performance, student outcomes, and institutional effectiveness. This information is used to identify trends, strengths, and areas for improvement, and to inform decision-making at various levels of the institution. QEC also performs annual submission of higher education statistics to HEC and matters pertaining to Pakistan Qualifications Register (PQR).
7. Research and Innovation:  Promoting a culture of quality research and innovation within the institution in collaboration with ORIC.

Institutional Quality Circle (IQC):

In line with the commitment to fostering a culture of continuous improvement and excellence in quality education and learning for students, the Vice Chancellor has established the Institutional Quality Circle (IQC).  IQC will play a vital role in ensuring the university’s quality governance framework is robust, effective, and aligned with best practices in higher education. The members of IQC are:

• Prof. Dr. Syed Mansoor Sarwar, Vice Chancellor, Chairman
  All Chairpersons of Academic Department 
• Dr. Syed Salman Hassan (Director QEC), Secretary
• Ms. Kashaf Kamran (Student Representative), Member
• Mr. Asad Ali (Student Representative), Member

Terms of Reference (ToRs):

1. To monitor all relevant external guidance and requirements related to quality assurance, initiating and coordinating action as appropriate.
2. To develop and keep under review the university’s Academic Policy and Quality Framework, that  is, the systems, policies, and guidance for assuring and enhancing the quality of students’ learning experience and maintaining academic standards, and to consider and manage the outcomes of these processes.
3. To have oversight of the university’s approach to assuring the completeness, accuracy, reliability, and fitness for the purpose of the information provided for applicants and students.
4. To maintain operational oversight of academic and student-related policy and legislation, considering proposals for minor and operational legislative changes, and consulting with legal  services as appropriate.
5. To consider proposals for the addition, withdrawal, suspension, and exceptional amendment of programs of study of the university. This will normally be undertaken by the chair’s action for regular reporting to a subsequent meeting of the committee.

The IQC will meet four times a year and will act as the ultimate delegated authority for managing the university’s quality assurance processes.