I am Dr Farheen shaikh, Director QEC, and Focal person PUMHS-W, (HESSA UDSAID) Project. Peoples University of Medical & Health Sciences for Women (PUMHS-W) has been working with the Higher Education System Strengthening Activity (HESSA) USAID program for the past three years. This partnership has significantly contributed to the university's development in various areas, focusing on leadership development, Student support services, Alumni engagement, Financial aid, Career Readiness. Mental health and Microenterprise. The HESSA program has three main components, each playing a crucial role in the progress of PUMHSW.

The HESSA program has three main components, each playing a crucial role in the progress of PUMHSW.

A. Leadership Development and Institutional Governance
Under the HESSA USAID program, PUMHSW has made substantial advancements in leadership development and institutional governance. The key initiatives include:
• Strategic Planning: The PUMHSW planning team developed a comprehensive Strategic Plan for 2023-2028. This plan outlines the university's goals and strategies for the next five years, ensuring a clear roadmap for future development.

B. Teaching, learning and research
Total Thirteen (13) teaching faculty of PUMHSW visited USA/ South Korea /Indonesia and received training in different areas

C. Student Support Services

The collaboration with HESSA has greatly enhanced the student support services at PUMHSW. Some of the notable achievements are:
• Policies for Student Societies: PUMHSW developed and implemented policies for fair and unbiased student elections and selections for various societies. This includes standard operating procedures for the creation and management of student societies.
• Soft Skill Development: Various training programs and workshops were conducted to enhance the soft skills of students, preparing them for professional success.
• Mental Health Initiatives: Awareness sessions on mental well-being for students, faculty, and staff were conducted. The university also established a 24/7 online support service for mental health assistance.

• Career Readiness: Regular sessions and seminars were conducted to prepare students for the job market. Efforts were made to create job opportunities for newly graduated students, ensuring productive results and successful employment.

• Financial Aid
Financial aid is a crucial aspect of making education accessible to all deserving students. Through the HESSA USAID program, PUMHSW achieved the following:
• Fundraising Plan: A comprehensive fundraising plan was developed and approved by the syndicate, ensuring sustainable financial support for students.
• Financial Aid Policy: A detailed financial aid policy was formulated and approved, streamlining the process of providing financial assistance to students.
• Digitalization of Financial Aid: The financial aid process was digitalized, making it more efficient and accessible for students.
• Fundraising Committee: A dedicated fundraising committee was established, and a bank account was approved to manage the funds raised for student aid.

Achievements of Student Societies and Clubs
PUMHSW hosts 13 student societies and 5 clubs, which actively engage students in various co-curricular activities. These organizations play a vital role in fostering personal and professional development among students. Some of the societies include:
• Debating Society: The Debating Society won second place at the HEC Regional Round of Pakistan Universities Debating Championship for the Sindh region in Karachi. • Entrepreneurship Society: Organized an art and craft exhibition and launched a new souvenir shop.
• Art and Craft Society: Actively participated in various co-curricular activities, showcasing their talents and skills.

Alumni Engagement
PUMHSW has made significant strides in alumni engagement through the HESSA USAID program:
• Alumni Policies: Policies for alumni engagement were developed and approved by the syndicate.
• Alumni Registration: An online platform for alumni registration was created, allowing better communication and networking among graduates.
• Alumni Events: Regular alumni events were organized to foster lifelong relationships and professional networking.
• Alumni Donations: A dedicated bank account for alumni donations was approved, facilitating financial contributions from alumni to support university programs and scholarships.