Islamabad (Staff Reporter) – A meeting of the Academic Council of Allama Iqbal Open University was held under the chairmanship of Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Nasir Mahmood, in which several important decisions were approved to further improve academic standards, introduce programs aligned with modern requirements, and make the teaching system more effective.

During the meeting, it was decided that from the next convocation, a minimum CGPA of 3.00 would be required to obtain Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals in order to recognize outstanding academic performance.

The Academic Council approved the renaming of the BS in Mass Communication program to Bachelor of Studies in Media and Mass Communication. In addition, approval was granted for new associate degree and BS programs in various disciplines, including 10 certificate courses in Mass Communication.

The meeting also approved the launch of FSc Pre-Medical and FSc Pre-Engineering programs from Fall 2026, which will provide greater educational opportunities to students aspiring to pursue science education.

The Academic Council also approved structural changes in MPhil and PhD programs, deciding that each faculty will offer one MPhil and one PhD program, including various specializations. The purpose of this decision is to ensure better student management, improved academic standards, and efficient use of university resources.

The final approval of all decisions taken in the meeting will be obtained from the Executive Council.

Addressing the meeting, Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Nasir Mahmood said that the university is continuously taking steps to promote quality, modern, and student-friendly education. He added that the decisions of the Academic Council will play an important role in further strengthening academic standards and providing education aligned with future needs.