The Research Wing within the Pakistan Institute of Education (PIE) is dedicated to conducting policy-oriented research aimed at informing and improving education policies and practices. This wing performs several key functions that contribute to the development and implementation of a robust research agenda.

A fundamental responsibility of the Research Wing is to develop a research agenda for PIE. This agenda serves as a guiding framework that identifies key areas of focus and priority research topics aligned with the institute's objectives. By establishing a well-defined research agenda, the Research Wing ensures that research efforts are targeted, relevant, and impactful.

To effectively implement the research agenda, the Research Wing collaborates with the universities in public / private sectors and research organizations and think-tanks to harness their research knowledge and skills. This partnership facilitates the mobilization of external expertise and resources, enhancing the quality and diversity of research conducted at PIE. By engaging a wide range of partners, PIE fosters a collaborative and interdisciplinary approach to policy research.

The Research Wing at PIE also organizes a fellowship program for short to medium-term research projects aligned with the research agenda. This program provides opportunities for researchers to delve into specific areas of education and contribute to the body of knowledge in education policy. Through these fellowships, the Research Wing nurtures talent, promotes innovative research methodologies, and cultivates a research culture within PIE.

To optimize the use of data for research purposes, the Research Wing liaises closely with the Management Information System (MIS) and Assessment Wings. This collaboration ensures the seamless integration of data from these wings into research projects. By leveraging data resources and expertise, the Research Wing enhances the empirical basis of its policy research and promotes evidence-informed decision-making.

Furthermore, the Research Wing places great emphasis on strategic research communication initiatives. It develops and implements effective communication strategies to maximize the utilization of policy research conducted at PIE. By disseminating research findings through various channels, such as policy briefs, reports, conferences, and digital platforms, the Research Wing ensures that its research outputs reach policymakers, practitioners, and other stakeholders who can benefit from the insights generated.

Recognizing the value of external perspectives and expertise, the Research Wing benefits from the Research Advisory Group (RAG) consisting of leaders in education policy research. This advisory group provides guidance, feedback, and recommendations on the research agenda, ensuring its relevance and alignment with the evolving needs of the education sector. The RAG's insights help shape the direction of the Research Wing's activities and enhance the quality and impact of its research endeavors.

In conclusion, the Research Wing plays a vital role in conducting policy-oriented research at PIE. Through functions such as developing a research agenda, collaborating with the private sector, organizing research fellowships, leveraging data resources, implementing strategic research communication initiatives, and establishing a Research Advisory Group, the Research Wing contributes to evidence-based policy formulation and decision-making in the education sector.