The Academic Council of Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) has greenlighted the introduction of various new programs, including BS degrees, Postgraduate Diplomas (PGD), certificate courses, and short-term courses. This decision was made during a meeting attended by department heads, key officers, and external members.
This was the council’s 67th meeting and also marked the 51st gathering of the Academic Planning and Development/Research and Educational Technology Committee (APD/RET) at AIOU. The session, chaired by Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Nasir Mahmood, was coordinated by Registrar Raja Umer Younis, and the minutes from the previous meeting were unanimously endorsed.
The council approved updates to course titles and content across several faculties, including the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Faculty of Education, Faculty of Arabic and Islamic Studies, and Faculty of Sciences.
Among the newly sanctioned programs are BS degrees in Political Science, International Relations, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, and Environmental Studies, along with a short IELTS course and a PGD in Clinical Nutrition. Agenda items from support departments, such as the Examination Department, Directorate of Regional Services, and Directorate of Academic Planning and Course Production, also received approval.
Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Nasir Mahmood urged faculty members and deans to comply with university and Higher Education Commission (HEC) policies when designing courses and preparing teaching materials. He introduced the new council members and reiterated a commitment to improving educational quality.
These decisions are set to be ratified by the University’s Supreme Body (Executive Council) at the next meeting.
