LOWER DIR: University of Malakand on Friday organised a research performance awards ceremony to recognise outstanding faculty contributions, with speakers highlighting the institution’s growing academic and research stature.

Additional secretary for Higher Education Muhammad Farooq and vice chancellor Prof Rashid Ahmad addressed the event arranged by the Office of Research, Innovation and Commercialisation (ORIC).

Speaking on the occasion, Prof Rashid Ahmad said the university has made significant progress in education and research, earning recognition both nationally and internationally. He added that the institution had consistently facilitated faculty members through research grants and donor support, while holding annual award ceremonies to encourage a strong research culture.

Mr Farooq also praised the university’s performance, noting that sustained investment in research and academic excellence was essential for national development.

Associate Prof of Biochemistry Dr Muhammad Zahoor was declared the best researcher in the science group for 2024-25, while Associate Prof of management sciences Nazim Ali received the award in the arts group.

Several other faculty members were also honoured for outstanding performance. In the science disciplines, awards were given to Prof Abdul Sadiq, Prof Manzoor Ahmad, Dr Khalilullah, Assistant Prof Muhammad Zahid and Assistant Prof Nasir Rashid.

In the arts and social sciences, recognitions were awarded to Assistant Prof Hanif Khan (tourism and hotel management), Prof Arab Naz (social sciences), Assistant Prof Sajjad Sajjad Ali (journalism and mass communication), Associate Prof Mazhar Ali (Pashto), along with Dr Maqsood, Dr Manzoor Ahmad, Dr Akhtar Badshah, Dr Fakhri Alam, Dr Aziz Ahmad, Dr Ataur Rehman and political science faculty including Merajul Hameed, Prof Altaf Hussain and Dr Jawad Hussain.

Published in Dawn, April 18th, 2026