HEC Pakistan Calls for Research Proposals under NRPU 2025-26

Empowering universities to tackle national challenges through academic research

Overview of NRPU 2025-26

The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan has officially announced the Call for Research Proposals (First Stage) under the National Research Program for Universities (NRPU) for the years 2025–26. This initiative aims to support high-quality academic research across public and private universities in Pakistan.

Research Domains

Proposals are invited under two categories:

Open Call: All disciplines are welcome, with funding up to PKR 10 million.
Thematic Call: Focused on national challenges in:
- Food Security
- Water Management
- Energy
- Climate Change
- Information Technology and Telecom
- Societal Challenges

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must be faculty members with a PhD degree, employed at a university recognized by HEC (public or private sector).

Submission Details

Proposals must be submitted online via the HEC Research Portal: https://research.hec.gov.pk

Deadline: Monday, October 20, 2025

For queries, email: nrpu@hec.gov.pk

Why Research Matters in Universities

Research is the lifeblood of academic excellence. It empowers universities to:

Innovate: Discover new technologies, methods, and solutions to real-world problems.
Educate: Enrich teaching with cutting-edge knowledge and critical thinking.
Impact Society: Address pressing national issues like climate change, energy crises, and food insecurity.
Build Reputation: Enhance global standing and attract international collaboration and funding.
Develop Talent: Train future researchers, scientists, and thought leaders.

By investing in research, universities become engines of progress, shaping a better future for Pakistan and the world.

Contact Information

Director, National Research Program for Universities (NRPU)
Research & Innovation Division
Email: m.akram@hec.gov.pk
Phone: 051-90401932 / 90401904