The federal government is planning to establish a dedicated University Town in Islamabad, a large-scale initiative aimed at transforming the capital into a regional hub for higher education and research. The project is being developed under the framework of Islamabad Vision 2027 and is expected to be formally announced in the near future.
The announcement was made by Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi while addressing a ceremony at Quaid-i-Azam University. He said the proposed University Town is part of a broader strategy to modernize Islamabad’s educational landscape and provide students from across Pakistan with access to international-standard academic facilities.
According to the minister, the concept of University Town is designed to bring multiple higher education institutions into a single, well-planned area. The project aims to create an integrated academic environment that combines teaching, research, innovation, and student life, similar to globally recognized university cities.
The planned University Town will offer state-of-the-art academic infrastructure, advanced research centers, libraries, and digital learning facilities. In addition, it will include purpose-built residential accommodations for students and faculty, ensuring a secure and accessible living environment close to campuses. Officials believe this approach will significantly improve the quality of student life while reducing housing pressures in other parts of the city.
Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi emphasized that the initiative is intended to attract students from all provinces, promoting educational inclusion and national integration. By offering modern facilities in one location, the government hopes to encourage talented students to pursue higher education within Pakistan rather than seeking opportunities abroad.
The project is also expected to strengthen Islamabad’s position as a center for research and innovation. With shared facilities and closer collaboration between institutions, policymakers believe University Town could foster interdisciplinary research and stronger links between academia and industry.
Education experts have welcomed the proposal, noting that a centralized university zone could help standardize infrastructure quality and improve regulatory oversight. However, they also stress the importance of transparent planning, sustainable development, and long-term funding to ensure the project meets its stated goals.
While details regarding the exact location, participating universities, and implementation timeline have not yet been disclosed, officials indicated that planning work is already underway. More information is expected to be shared once Islamabad Vision 2027 is officially unveiled.
If implemented as planned, University Town could become one of the most significant higher education initiatives in the country, reshaping Islamabad’s academic profile and expanding access to quality education for thousands of students nationwide.
