Universities all over the country have been advised to set-up database of university alumni in order to harness potential of former students to play a critical role in the development of their alma mater.
Dr Atta-ur-Rahman, Chairman Higher Education Commission has, written to vice chancellors of all universities stressing the need to set-up database of alumni in order to enable universities to follow the careers of their students.
The database, said Chairman HEC, would consist of current positions, telephone numbers, email addresses etc which would be updated every six months. Students who have made an impact in different sectors of society could then be invited to university events, contribute funds or provide technical expertise and prove as an inspiration for present students.
The Western example of setting up chairs in various departments would also be followed once the database is developed. While many universities have alumni associations, but there does not exist an organised mechanism to follow-up their careers. The proposed step would enable alumni to work for the development of their respective universities and play a role in contributing scholarship awards, fund raising activities etc.