Challenges Faced by the Higher Education Commission Following the Decentralization of Powers under the 18th Constitutional Amendment in Pakistan

Abstract

The 7th National Finance Commission (NFC) Award and the 18th Constitutional Amendment of 2010 brought profound changes to Pakistan’s governance, particularly in the education sector. These reforms transferred significant educational authority from the federal government to the provinces, aiming to promote decentralization, strengthen provincial autonomy, and facilitate policies better aligned with local needs. Nonetheless, the shift also posed numerous challenges for the Higher Education Commission (HEC) as it endeavored to fulfill its responsibilities in regulation, funding, and standard-setting. This study explores the implications of these reforms for the HEC, with a particular focus on the institutional, financial, and administrative challenges that have emerged due to the new distribution of powers. Employing a qualitative and analytical approach, the research utilizes thematic analysis of both primary and secondary data to examine changes in budget allocations, expenditure patterns, intergovernmental relations, and universities’ ability to sustain effective academic operations. The findings offer a comprehensive overview of the current landscape and underscore the key challenges facing higher education commission in Pakistan.