MARDAN, October 28, 2026: The Department of Physics at Women University Mardan (WUM) successfully conducted MPhil thesis defences for scholars from its first and second batches, highlighting research in renewable energy, water treatment and advanced energy storage technologies.
Eight MPhil Physics scholars defended their research before external examiners on Wednesday, marking an important academic milestone for the university’s postgraduate research programme.
The research covered several areas of scientific and technological importance, including photocatalytic water treatment, improving the efficiency of organic solar cells and developing energy storage devices.
The university said the successful completion of the thesis defences reflected its commitment to promoting scientific research, academic excellence and quality higher education.
Scholars present research findings
From Batch-I, Aneela, Najmul Huda and Mehreen Ameen defended their research under the supervision of Dr Ambreen Ayub, Assistant Professor and Head of the Department of Physics.
Three other scholars from the same batch, Ghazal, Laila and Hifsa Tufail, completed their thesis defences under the supervision of Dr Syeda Javeria Kazmi, Lecturer in the Department of Physics.
From Batch-II, Salma and Malaika Bibi defended their research under the supervision of Dr Ambreen Ayub.
The external examiners included Prof Dr Aurangzeb Khan, Chairperson of the Department of Physics at Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, and Dr Shahida, Assistant Professor at Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Women University Peshawar.
The examiners evaluated the scholars’ research and academic work as part of the university’s postgraduate assessment process.
Research focuses on energy and environmental challenges
The research projects addressed scientific areas relevant to environmental sustainability and emerging energy technologies.
Among the subjects explored were photocatalytic methods for water treatment, techniques to improve organic solar cell efficiency and advances in energy storage devices.
These research areas have applications in water purification, renewable energy development and energy storage technology.
The Department of Physics said the thesis defences demonstrated the research capabilities of its postgraduate scholars and the department’s efforts to encourage scientific investigation.
Vice chancellor appreciates academic achievements
The department expressed gratitude to Women University Mardan Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Razia Sultana for her continued support in promoting research and higher education.
It also acknowledged the cooperation of the Office of Research, Innovation and Commercialisation (ORIC), Examination Office, Registrar Office, Quality Enhancement Cell, Administration Office and IT Office in organising the academic proceedings.
Following the thesis defences, a cake-cutting ceremony was held in the presence of the vice chancellor, external examiners, university officials, research supervisors, faculty members and scholars.
The Department of Physics congratulated the successful MPhil scholars and their supervisors, expressing hope that their academic achievements would contribute to further research and professional development.
The university reiterated its commitment to strengthening postgraduate education and creating opportunities for women to pursue advanced scientific research.