HEC’s New Digital Degree Attestation System Faces Delays, Applicants Report Technical Issues

Pakistan’s Higher Education Commission (HEC) is facing growing criticism from students and graduates following the launch of its new digital degree attestation system. 

Applicants across the country have reported delays, technical glitches, and a lack of transparency in the online verification process, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the newly introduced platform.

The digital degree attestation system was launched as part of HEC’s efforts to modernise educational services and eliminate the need for physical paperwork. 

Under the new framework, applicants can submit degree attestation requests, upload documents, and pay fees online without visiting HEC offices.

However, many users claim that the system is not functioning as smoothly as intended.

Applicants Report Delays in Degree Attestation

Several applicants have complained that their degree attestation requests remain pending for extended periods without any clear explanation. Users say they are unable to track the exact status of their applications or identify the officials responsible for processing their cases.

According to reports, applications submitted from one city are often being routed to officers in other regions for verification. This cross-city handling has reportedly slowed down the process, as officials must coordinate with universities located outside their assigned jurisdictions.

Students seeking urgent attestation for admissions, employment opportunities, scholarships, and immigration purposes have been particularly affected by these delays.

Lack of Transparency Creates Frustration

One of the major concerns raised by applicants is the absence of a transparent tracking mechanism. Users claim that the portal does not provide sufficient information regarding where an application is being processed or how long verification is expected to take.

Many applicants have expressed frustration with the uncertainty surrounding their requests, especially as important deadlines approach.

Education experts believe that while digital transformation can improve efficiency, a lack of visibility and communication can create additional challenges for users.

Technical Glitches Impact User Experience

Apart from delays, applicants have also reported technical problems within the system. Some users claim they were unable to generate or download their attestation certificates even after the verification process was completed.

Others have highlighted difficulties with document uploads, status updates, and portal accessibility.

The complaints have intensified as more students rely on digital verification services for international admissions and professional requirements.

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hDemand for Urgent Attestation Facility

Another issue frequently highlighted by applicants is the lack of an urgent processing option. Under previous procedures, candidates could request expedited attestation by paying an additional fee.

The new digital system currently lacks a fast-track option, leaving applicants with limited options when facing strict deadlines.

Students and graduates have urged HEC to reintroduce an urgent attestation service to accommodate time-sensitive cases.

HEC Defends Digital Transformation Initiative

HEC officials maintain that the digital degree attestation system was introduced to streamline the verification process, reduce paperwork, and improve service delivery across Pakistan.

The commission believes that transitioning to a fully online model will ultimately make degree attestation more accessible and convenient for applicants nationwide.

Officials have emphasised that the initiative is part of a broader effort to modernise educational verification services and enhance operational efficiency.

Calls for System Improvements

As complaints continue to emerge, applicants are urging HEC to address technical shortcomings, improve case-tracking features, and enhance transparency on the platform.

Experts suggest that resolving system bottlenecks, strengthening technical support, and introducing clearer communication channels could help restore confidence in the digital attestation process.

While the move toward a paperless verification system represents a significant step in the modernisation of higher education services, applicants argue that immediate improvements are necessary to ensure the platform delivers on its intended promise of faster and more efficient degree attestation.