PURPOSE

In pursuance of the Higher Education Commission’s Pakistan Precepts Standards and Guidelines (PSG-2023) and in fulfillment of the University’s commitment to academic excellence, institutional effectiveness, and continuous quality enhancement, the Capital University of Science and Technology (CUST), Islamabad, hereby establishes the Institutional Quality Circle (IQC) as the apex quality governance and oversight body of the University.

The IQC, as approved by the 49^th Executive Committee meeting held on July 9, 2024, is constituted to institutionalize a comprehensive quality assurance framework that embeds a culture of evidence-based decision-making, systematic self-assessment, and sustainable improvement across all academic, administrative, and support functions of the University. Operating within the broader governance structure of CUST and in alignment with the regulatory standards prescribed by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan, the IQC serves as the principal strategic forum responsible for ensuring the maintenance and enhancement of academic standards, learning outcomes, institutional processes, and the overall student experience.

Chaired by the Worthy Vice Chancellor and comprising senior academic and administrative leadership, the IQC functions in close collaboration with the Quality Enhancement Cell (QEC) to provide institutional leadership in quality assurance matters. The IQC is mandated to review and endorse institutional self-assessment reports, monitor compliance with national quality standards and accreditation requirements, evaluate the effectiveness of academic programs and support services, and guide the formulation, implementation, and periodic revision of quality-related policies and strategic initiatives.

Through structured deliberations, rigorous analysis of performance indicators, stakeholder feedback mechanisms, and systematic review processes, the IQC ensures that quality assurance is not merely a compliance exercise but a continuous institutional commitment toward excellence. The Circle is entrusted with fostering a quality culture that promotes innovation in teaching and learning, supports scholarly research and professional development, enhances operational efficiency, and positions CUST as a leading institution of higher education both nationally and internationally.

The IQC operates transparently, inclusively, and collaboratively, ensuring that all academic and administrative units are actively engaged in quality improvement initiatives and that institutional strategies are consistently aligned with HEC’s PSG-2023 framework, international best practices, and the evolving needs of students, industry, and society.

IQC COMMITTEE

TERMS OF REFERENCE

1. To monitor all relevant external guidance and requirements related to quality assurance, initiating and coordinating action as appropriate.
2. To develop and keep under review the university’s Academic Policy and Quality Framework, that is, the systems, policies and guidance for assuring and enhancing the quality of students’ learning experience and maintaining academic standards, and to consider and manage the outcomes of these processes.
3. To have oversight of the university’s approach to assuring completeness, accuracy, reliability, and fitness for purpose of information provided for applicants and students.
4. To maintain operational oversight of academic and student-related policy and legislation, considering proposals for minor and operational legislative changes, and consulting with legal services as appropriate.
5. To consider proposals for the addition, withdrawal, suspension, and exceptional amendment of programmes of study of the university. This will normally be undertaken by the chair’s action for regular reporting to a subsequent meeting of the committee.