The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan has taken a notable step towards embracing digital transformation by introducing a digitally and paperless system for attestation of degrees. The move will make academic verification much easier, a relief for millions of students and graduates nationwide and internationally. The HEC’s objective in adopting a digital-first strategy is to streamline the application process and reduce the hindrances of bureaucracy.
The Digital Attestation System (DAS): Faster and More Secure
Dr. Niaz Ahmed Akhtar, Chairman of HEC, unveiled a new, yet historic Digital Attestation System (DAS) at a formal event, announcing the scrapping of physical visits at all regional offices of HEC. The incorporation of Blockchain Technology is one of the most innovative aspects of this platform. This not only speeds up the certification process, but ensures the certification is also secure and impervious to tampering or fraudulent use.
The system is inclusive and fits with the recommendations of the National Assembly’s standing committee which made it possible to have services available, and accessible without logistical problems to students from far away places.
Key Features of the New Paperless System
The new system has superseded the previous manual system where applicants had to wait in long queues and submit academic documents by mail. Key highlights include:
Consistent with the vision of the E-massive Smart University, there will be no need for the applicant to visit HEC office or for him to manually bring his degrees.
OneLink Integration: now degree attestation fees can be paid online with OneLink, mobile banking apps or ATM without the bank-challan facility.
Real-time Notifications: automated notifications via SMS & email to students about their application status.
Digital E-Certificates: A digital e-certificate will be generated once verified, and can be downloaded and shared electronically with employers or foreign institutions.
How to Apply for HEC Degree Attestation Online
The process has been simplified so as to be as user friendly as possible via the HEC E-Services Portal. The step by step process is as follows:
Account Creation: Register at the HEC Official Website then on to the e-services Portal.
Profile Building: Type in all your information and a detailed academic background.
Attach: Submitting good quality and proper copies of degrees, transcripts and CNIC.
University Verification: It will auto guide your documents to the concerned University for initial verification of all documents in digital form before HEC verification.
Payment & Download: Pay online and get e-certificate to download immediately from your Dashboard.
It is believed that this would significantly lower the days of processing time to mere days, making the journey towards a Digital Pakistan come a step closer.
READ: More Informative Content
