ISLAMABAD: Faculty members and administrative staff at the Federal Urdu University of Arts, Sciences and Technology (FUUAST) have expressed confidence in the leadership of Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Zabta Khan Shinwari, saying the university has witnessed academic, administrative and institutional improvements during his two-and-a-half-year tenure.
Speaking to the media, faculty and staff members said the university’s academic environment, international engagement and student opportunities have expanded under the current administration. They added that increasing admission demand and a peaceful campus atmosphere reflect growing public confidence in the institution.
Improved academic and media presence
According to faculty members, the university’s public image has improved due to strengthened academic management and greater visibility in both traditional and digital media. They said academic achievements, research activities and student accomplishments now receive more regular media coverage than in previous years.
Faculty members noted that academic and co-curricular activities are being organized consistently, helping students develop professional skills while enhancing the university’s reputation.
They also highlighted support for PEHEL, the university’s digital news platform, which provides practical training opportunities for Mass Communication students. Several graduates associated with the platform have secured positions in established media organizations.
In addition, faculty members said the PEHEL magazine and the quarterly newspaper Deep have continued publication during the current administration, providing students with hands-on journalism experience.
Research and international collaboration
Faculty members said research activities have expanded, with university journals being published regularly. They pointed to Political Vista, a publication of the Department of International Relations, as an example of ongoing academic contributions addressing contemporary international affairs and policy issues.
They also welcomed the establishment of the Seerat Chair, under which seminars on the life and teachings of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) are regularly organized. The events include participation from scholars in Pakistan and abroad, as well as student competitions in speech and naat recitation.
Faculty members further said the university has strengthened international cooperation through agreements with foreign institutions. Memorandums of Understanding have been signed with several universities, supporting conferences, academic collaboration and student exchange initiatives.
They cited a recent international conference held in Kazan, Russia, under the university’s umbrella, which brought together academics, researchers, diplomats and students from multiple countries. A delegation from Pakistan, including university representatives and faculty members, participated in the event.
New academic programmes and student facilities
Faculty and staff members highlighted the establishment of the Department of Pharmacy at the Islamabad campus after receiving approval from the Pakistan Pharmacy Council. They said demand for admission has exceeded available seats.
They added that a Department of Biotechnology is being launched and that several new academic programmes have been introduced to address emerging educational needs. The university has also received approval to offer an MPhil programme in International Relations.
Officials described the Qarshi Clinic as another significant development. Established with support from the Qarshi Foundation, the clinic provides free medical consultations and medicines to students, employees and local residents. The facility is also expected to support practical training for pharmacy students.
Infrastructure and sustainability initiatives
Administrative officers praised the implementation of a solar energy project across university campuses, saying the initiative will help reduce electricity costs while supporting sustainability goals.
Faculty and staff members said rising admissions and growing academic interest indicate increasing confidence in the institution. They added that the launch of new departments and programmes reflects a long-term strategy aimed at strengthening educational and research opportunities.
They emphasized the importance of constructive criticism but said unnecessary controversies over minor issues do not benefit the institution. According to faculty and staff members, FUUAST continues to play an important role in providing higher education opportunities, particularly for students from middle-income families, while advancing its academic and research mission.
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