The University of Haripur has signed an agreement with the School of Economics and Management at Shihezi University, China, to enhance academic and research cooperation between the two institutions, according to a report published by Gwadar Pro on Friday. Under this arrangement, both universities agreed to collaborate in key academic areas, including joint research projects, research exchanges, student exchange programs, such as winter schools, faculty exchange initiatives, faculty development programs and student scholarships.

The partnership aims to strengthen academic standards, expand research capacity and increase international exposure for students and faculty members. Speaking at the ceremony, Prof. Dr. Shafiq Ur Rehman welcomed the collaboration and thanked Shihezi University for its cooperation. He said the partnership would create mutually beneficial opportunities by promoting knowledge sharing, innovation and long-term academic engagement.

In comments to Gwadar Pro, Prof. Dr. Abdul Majid said the agreement reflects the University of Haripur’s broader strategy to expand international linkages and provide global learning and research opportunities for its academic community. He said that the MoU builds on recent academic engagements between the two universities. In December 2025, an Innovation Learning Camp hosted by Shihezi University concluded successfully, with eight students from the University of Haripur completing the program.

During the camp, the participants demonstrated strong academic performance and actively took part in cultural exchange activities. Earlier, in September 2025, Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Shafiq Ur Rehman led a University of Haripur delegation to the College of Science at Shihezi University as part of the university’s international outreach efforts. The visit focused on exploring joint research initiatives and expanding academic opportunities for students and faculty, discussions that have now culminated in the signing of the MoU.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP) — Pak-China