04-29-2010, 09:22 AM
Virtual University of Pakistan:
The Virtual University of Pakistan (??????? ?????????? ?? ???????)is the first distance learning university in Pakistan based entirely on modern information and communication technologies. It was established by the Government of Pakistan as a public sector, not-for-profit institution with a clear mission: to provide extremely affordable education to students all over the country and abroad. Using free-to-air satellite television broadcasts and the Internet, the Virtual University allows students to follow its rigorous programs regardless of physical location. It thus aims at alleviating the lack of capacity in existing universities while simultaneously tackling the acute shortage of qualified professors in the country. By identifying the top professors of the country, regardless of their institutional affiliations, and requesting them to develop and deliver courses, the Virtual University aims at providing the best courses not only to its own students but also to students of all other universities in the country.
Recognition:
Governance:
The Board of Governors is the apex body of the University, responsible for the general supervision and control of administrative, academic and financial affairs and having the power to lay down the policies of the University. The Rector is the chief executive and academic officer of the University; this position's responsibility is to ensure that the provisions of the Virtual University Ordinances Statutes, Regulations, and Rules are faithfully observed in order to promote teaching, research, administration, general efficiency and good order of the University. Authorities of the University include:
- Executive Council
- Academic Council
- Boards of Studies
- Advanced Studies and Research Board
- Selection Board
- Finance and Planning Council
- Affiliation Committee.
Officers of the University include the Registrar, the Director Finance, the Director Administration, the Controller of Examinations, Manager IT and the University Auditor.
Bachelor of Science Programs:
The Bachelor of Science program prepares its students to meet the demanding challenges of the modern workplace. The degree requires more than 130 credit-hours of work. In the senior year, student will be required to spend a good deal of time completing a capstone project. Typically. this project will be done in collaboration with industry, under the guidance of a professional nominated by the University. The curriculum for various majors is based on the recommendations of the National Curriculum Revision Committees approved by the Higher Education Commission (HEC). However, the Academic Council of the University may update the curricula from time to time.
Virtual University of Pakistan offers two types of 132 credit-hour programs:
- Bachelor of Science programs for Intermediate or Equivalent Certificate holders
- Bachelor of Science programs for lower Bachelor degree holders (FAST TRACK program)
Campuses:
Virtual University was founded in 2002 since which it has expanded operations to reach more than sixty cities throughout the country with more than one hundred associated institutions providing infrastructure support to students. In addition, Pakistani students residing in several other countries in the region are also enrolled in the University's programs.
Virtual University has two types of campuses, its own, and those that are run by other organizations. These private campuses use buildings in private institutions in various cities. These facilities are required to have a computer lab and Internet access.
