MARDAN: Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan hosted the Job Fair Open House 2026, bringing together 45 national and international companies to provide employment opportunities, industry networking and project exhibitions for students and graduates.
The event featured 223 project stalls set up by students, while participating companies conducted on-site interviews and issued job letters to selected candidates. Organisers said the initiative aimed to strengthen links between academia and industry while supporting youth employment.
The job fair was organised under the supervision of Dr Ehtesham, Director IBL, and Dr Bilal, Director CDC. Representatives from universities, colleges, industries and business organisations from across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa attended the event.
Grant announced for university research
Special guest Zahir Shah Toru announced a grant of Rs10 million from his personal fund to support research activities at the university.
Addressing students, he encouraged young graduates to focus on innovation, creative thinking and emerging technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), to remain competitive in the future job market.
He also urged industries to create more opportunities for young professionals entering the workforce.
Focus on research and skill development
Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Jamil Ahmed said the university was making progress in academic quality, research and professional training.
According to the vice chancellor, the university currently ranks first in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and is among the top 10 universities in Pakistan in the Times Higher Education Rankings.
He added that several projects were under development at the university, including fisheries research centres, bee farms, animal vaccine production and health-related product initiatives.
The university is also working on establishing a business incubation centre, business park and skill development centre to improve technical and entrepreneurial skills among students.
Commemorative shields were distributed among participating companies and organisers at the conclusion of the event.
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