In a significant step toward strengthening Pakistan’s higher education landscape, the Senate Standing Committee on Federal Education and Professional Training on Thursday approved two key legislative proposals: the Al-Biruni International University Bill, 2025, and the Danish University Bill.
The meeting was held at Parliament House under the chairpersonship of Bushra Anjum Butt and featured detailed clause-by-clause deliberations on both bills.
Al-Biruni International University Bill, 2025
The Committee first examined the Al-Biruni International University Bill, 2025, a private member’s bill introduced by Senator Khalil Tahir on behalf of Senator Mohammad Abdul Qadir after its prior passage by the National Assembly.
Officials from the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training, the Ministry of Law and Justice, and the Higher Education Commission (HEC) briefed members on the proposed legal and regulatory framework.
During discussions, Azam Nazeer Tarar, Federal Minister for Law and Justice, stressed strict compliance with HEC standards for all institutional affiliations, reiterating that academic quality assurance mechanisms would not be compromised.
A procedural observation was raised by Senator Syed Masroor Ahsan, who noted that any amendment at the committee stage would constitutionally require the bill’s referral back to the National Assembly. The Chair directed that all legislative procedures be followed meticulously.
After incorporating clarifications into the record, the Committee unanimously approved the Al-Biruni International University Bill, 2025.
Danish University Bill: A Flagship Public Sector Initiative
The Committee then considered the Danish University Bill, presented by Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar with the Chair’s permission.
The proposed institution is envisioned as a flagship public sector university, established on the direction of the Prime Minister, with a focus on information technology, emerging sciences, and advanced interdisciplinary research.
Members were informed that Rs. 40 billion has been allocated for its establishment, alongside the creation of a permanent endowment fund to ensure long-term financial sustainability and institutional autonomy. The university aims to provide fully funded, high-quality education to exceptionally talented students nationwide, with academic standards comparable to leading private institutions.
A central feature of the bill is its governance framework, which includes an independent and professionally structured Board of Trustees designed to shield the institution from political and bureaucratic interference. The model emphasizes transparency, merit-based administration, institutional autonomy, and continuity of academic vision.
Chairperson Bushra Anjum Butt noted that the Danish Schools network has already demonstrated the transformative power of merit-driven education and expressed confidence that Danish University would emerge as a premier center for higher learning.
Following detailed deliberations, the Committee unanimously approved the Danish University Bill.
