PROVINCE REPORT
MARDAN: Under the patronage of Prof. Dr. Razia Sultana, Vice Chancellor, Women University Mardan, the Quality Enhancement Cell (QEC) organized a Capacity Building Training on Verification of Research Publications under the HEC Journal Recognition Policy on July 7, 2026, reaffirming the University’s commitment to strengthening research quality and ensuring compliance with the quality assurance standards of the Higher Education Commission (HEC).
The training was attended by Dr. Monazza Serwar, Coordinator QEC; Ms. Afshan Wahab, Assistant Coordinator QEC; Dr. Maryam Ahmed Mujtaba, Lecturer, Department of Biotechnology; Ms. Haleema Ikram, Deputy Director ORIC; Dr. Nargis Jamila, Associate Professor, Department of Chemistry; and Ms. Sadaf Ijaz, Office Assistant, ORIC. The session was facilitated by Ms. Zohra Shehzad, Director ORIC, Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Women University, Peshawar, who served as the resource person.
The training focused on the verification of research publications through official HEC resources, identification of HEC-recognized journals, and awareness regarding predatory and cloned journals. Through practical demonstrations and interactive discussions, participants enhanced their understanding of the HEC Journal Recognition Policy and the best practices required to uphold research integrity, publication quality, and ethical scholarly standards.
Speaking on the occasion, the organizers emphasized that continuous professional development and awareness of HEC policies are essential for maintaining excellence in research and academic publishing. The training reflects Women University Mardan’s ongoing efforts to build institutional capacity, promote high-quality research, and strengthen compliance with national quality assurance standards.

