The Higher Education Commission has lifted the affiliation ban on the Federal Urdu University of Arts, Science and Technology (FUUAST), Islamabad and has authorised the varsity to grant affiliation within the defined jurisdiction and only in the undergraduate degree programmes.

The HEC wrote a letter this week to this effect, informing FUUAST Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Zabta Khan, regarding lifting of ban, a spokesperson of the Urdu University told APP on Saturday.

The letter stated, the FUUAST is authorised to provide affiliation for undergraduate programmes within the specific geographical limits. The university shall follow HEC’s Institutional Affiliation Policy-2024 for all existing and future affiliated colleges, the letter read.

The FUUAST will update the HEC immediately on the status of de-affiliated colleges, along with details of ongoing investigations with the Federal Investigation Agency.

The university is also required to report issues related to illegal affiliations to its Senate and provide the proceedings of the relevant meeting.

The letter emphasized that the Urdu University needs to adapt to the HEC guidelines and ensure compliance with the new policies.