In order to facilitate research and development in the higher education learning system, a partnership was established between the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan and the British Council Pakistan under the project of Higher Education Links with British Universities in two phases. 50 higher education links between Pakistani and UK universities/education institutions were activated under the projects.

Seventeen more partnerships and exchanges are expected through INSPIRE, by which collaboration between HEC and British Council will be expanded so that the immense potential of the higher education sector in Pakistan can be enhanced and strengthened.

INSPIRE funding is being made available to support the development of higher education academic and research partnerships between the UK and Pakistani Institutions.

INSPIRE Strategic Partnerships are part of a five-year programme designed to grow high level strategic relationships between UK Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) and Higher Education Institutions in Pakistan. Selection of projects for support will be according to clear criteria that include high quality, innovative research and / or academic excellence.  

For the purposes of this project, a Strategic Partnership is one that is based on the development of collaboration at institutional level.  Over the course of the partnership, institutions should aim to involve diverse teams at different levels and multiple departments within the university to create a multi-dimensional, international relationship.