ISLAMABAD, October 2026: COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI) has honoured six faculty members for excellence in teaching at the HEC Best University Teacher Award (BUTA) 2025–26 ceremony, with Rector Prof. Dr. Raheel Qamar urging educators to adopt innovative teaching methods and use artificial intelligence to improve student learning.
The prize distribution ceremony, held at the university’s Library Auditorium on Friday, recognised outstanding teaching performance and contributions to higher education. Addressing the gathering, the rector emphasised that AI should support teachers rather than replace them, highlighting the importance of direct interaction between educators and students.
Prof. Dr. Raheel Qamar, TI, who attended as chief guest, encouraged faculty members to embrace the concept of “Teaching 5.0”, combining active learning, student engagement and the effective use of emerging technologies.
Sharing a personal experience, he recalled how one of his own teachers had influenced his life, underscoring the lasting impact educators can have on their students.
He stressed that technological advancement should strengthen the relationship between teachers and students while helping universities improve teaching practices.
COMSATS announces Best University Teacher Award winners
The university presented certificates and cash prizes to six faculty members selected for the 2025 and 2026 awards.
For BUTA 2025, Prof. Dr. Nadia Nawaz received the Best University Teacher Award, while Prof. Dr. Khurram Saleem Alamgir secured the first runner-up position and Prof. Dr. Muhammad Awais Javed was named second runner-up.
For BUTA 2026, Prof. Dr. Fahad Munir Abbasi received the top award. Prof. Dr. Saqib Zia was named first runner-up, while Prof. Dr. Ahmad Naseem Alvi secured the second runner-up position.
Both award winners shared their teaching experiences and acknowledged the educators who had inspired them to pursue academic careers.
They also expressed appreciation for the support of their colleagues, students and the university administration.
Rector urges faculty to embrace Teaching 5.0 and AI
Speaking about the changing nature of higher education, Prof. Dr. Raheel Qamar called for teaching approaches that encourage active student participation and make effective use of digital technologies.
He said the concept of Teaching 5.0 placed emphasis on meaningful classroom engagement, interactive learning and the responsible integration of artificial intelligence.
The rector stressed that AI should be used as a tool to enhance teaching effectiveness without diminishing the central role of educators.
His remarks highlighted the need for universities to adapt their teaching practices as new technologies increasingly influence education and learning environments.
HEC award recognises excellence in university teaching
The Higher Education Commission’s Best University Teacher Award recognises educators for their contributions to teaching quality and student development.
At COMSATS University Islamabad, faculty nominations are assessed through the institution’s prescribed selection process in accordance with the HEC BUTA framework.
The evaluation considers several aspects of teaching performance, including teaching philosophy, course design, student assessment, classroom practices, technology integration, mentoring and student feedback.
The award programme is intended to recognise effective teaching practices and encourage continuous improvement in higher education.
The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks and a group photograph of the participants.