Female players from the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) handball team excelled at the National Women’s Handball League, part of the Prime Minister’s University Sports Olympiad.

The Olympiad brought together 3,000 athletes from across Pakistan, competing in various sports, including athletics, badminton, table tennis, judo, and handball.

Representing the Federal Team, which included seven IIUI players, the team secured third place after a closely contested match against Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The sports section of IIUI’s Female Campus, led by Ms. Nadia Mukhtar, Incharge of Sports and Organizing Secretary of Federal Women Handball, played an integral role in managing the team and supporting their success in the league.

gPunjab White clinched the first position, with Punjab Color as the runner-up.

The event’s closing ceremony was attended by distinguished guests, including Rana Mashhood, Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, as Chief Guest, and Prof. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman of HEC and Rector of IIUI, as Guest of Honor. They awarded prizes to the winning teams and praised all participants for their dedication and effort.

The Sports Department of the Directorate of Student Affairs (Male) kicked off a series of indoor and outdoor sports events, attracting students from 11 faculties. These competitions are in full swing and will conclude this week.

This sports event aimed to enable students to compete with one another in the true spirit of sportsmanship and to promote harmony within the university.

After the opening, various competitions were held that included tug of war, table tennis, cricket, futsal, snooker, chess, and various athletic events.

The indoor games kicked off with an opening ceremony at the Sports Hall of the Main Activity Center, while outdoor events were held at the university’s Cricket Ground.

Speaking at the events, Student Advisor Hafiz Ghufran Ali Khan emphasized the role of sports in empowering students, noting how such activities contribute to skills like teamwork, leadership, and confidence, while also reducing anxiety and promoting well-being.

He praised the students for their enthusiasm and highlighted the positive impact of sportsmanship on both personal and collective development.

Prof. Dr. Ahmed Shuja Syed, President International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI) chaired the 50th meeting of Finance and Planning Committee (F&P) held here in the Board Room, Administration Block on Wednesday at New campus of university.

During the meeting, IIUI President was briefed about the university’s financial landscape and matters pertaining to planning by the members of the committee. The committee discussed agenda items pertaining to finance and planning.

The meeting was attended by Mr. Munir Ahmed, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Education and Professional Training, Mr. Syed Naveed Hussain Shah, Director (M&E), Higher Education Commission, Secretary of the committee, Prof. Dr. Abdul Raheman, Vice President (A&F) / (Academics & Examinations), Director QAD, Prof. Dr. Rehmat Elahi, In-Charge Finance, Noor Hussain, Additional Director Finance, Ayaz Ali and Mr. Amir Ishtiaq, Project Director (P&P), IIUI.

Islamabad: Dr. Ghulam M. Chaudhary, Professor and Chair at the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC), held a meeting with Prof. Dr. Ahmed Shuja Syed, President of the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI), to discuss collaborative efforts towards establishing the first Islamic university in the United States. The discussion focused on potential partnerships, linkages, and engagement between IIUI and the proposed institution in the U.S.

During the meeting, Dr. Ahmed Shuja Syed shared an overview of IIUI’s outreach programs, emphasizing the role IIUI could play in advancing the initiative to establish an Islamic academic presence in North America. He highlighted IIUI’s commitment to promoting Islamic education globally and the university’s experience in managing a diverse academic ecosystem as valuable assets for the new project.

Professor Dr. Moazzam A. Khattak, faculty member at the Computer Science at QAU and a leading figure in the collaborative team alongside Dr. Chaudhary, was also in attendance. Dr. Khattak has been instrumental in planning the foundation of the Islamic university in the U.S., working to strengthen academic partnerships and provide valuable insights into the development of an institution that aligns with Islamic educational principles while meeting international standards.

The International Center of Excellence for Sirah Studies, Islamic Research Institute (IRI), International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) and Jamia Muhammadi Sharif, Chiniot, jointly organized a one-day Training of Trainers workshop on the theme of “Seerah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). It discussed Peacebuilding, Social Reconstruction, and Reconciliation” on the theme at Sheikh Zayed Islamic Center (SZIC), University of Peshawar.

The event’s opening session was chaired by Prof. Dr. Rashid Ahmed, Director SZIC. Justice Prof. Dr. Qibla Ayaz, Member of the Shariat Appellate Bench, Supreme Court of Pakistan, was Chief Guest. Keynote speaker Dr. Hafiz Muhammad Sajjad (AIOU) emphasized the importance of behavioral transformation through the teachings of the Prophet’s (PBUH) Seerah.

Prof. Dr. Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq, Director General of IRI, led the concluding session, highlighting the Seerah Project’s objectives and its role in social reconstruction. He also discussed the continuation of the Paigham-e-Pakistan narrative through such academic initiatives.

At the end of the workshop certificates were distributed among participants by Prof. Dr. Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq and Prof. Dr. Hafiz Abdul Ghafoor.

The workshop concluded with a vote of thanks by Sahibzada Muhammad Qamar-Ul-Haq, President, Jamia Muhammadi Sharif, Chiniot.

Islamabad – Professor Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and Acting Rector of the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI), called for a renewed spirit of openness and accountability during his recent address to university officers. Stressing the importance of candid dialogue and constructive engagement, he highlighted the need for transparent discussion on genuine concerns to bridge gaps between officers and the administration.

Dr. Mukhtar’s address, marked by a call for equitable and merit-based progress, was part of a broader initiative aimed at nurturing a collaborative environment within IIUI. Emphasizing his commitment to these principles, he encouraged officers to embrace a culture of self-responsibility, mutual respect, and accountability.

In response to officers’ concerns, which were met with attentive listening, Dr. Mukhtar pledged to address them gradually and concretely, acknowledging the importance of constructive, ongoing dialogue. He underscored the role of educational institutions as “hubs of the legacy of the Prophets” and advocated for an Islamic renaissance that aligns with IIUI’s unique identity as both an Islamic and international institution.

Asserting his vision for inclusivity, he pledged that hard work and dedication would remain top priorities under his leadership. Plans to digitize processes through an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system, improve hostel management, and instill a culture of teamwork without internal politics were also outlined, with Dr. Mukhtar reiterating that respect is a fundamental right for every individual in the institution, from the top to the bottom.

Addressing the challenges facing the institution, particularly funding constraints, Dr. Mukhtar noted that IIUI, like the 265 universities nationwide, bears significant responsibilities. He urged officers to take ownership of their roles and maintain discipline, positioning it as a core value for organizational success.

Concluding his address, Dr. Mukhtar reaffirmed the importance of creating opportunities that honor IIUI’s Islamic and international character, and he called upon university officers to work together for a brighter, more unified future.

Earlier, The Acting President of IIUI, Prof. Dr. Ahmed Shuja Syed, in his address echoed this vision, calling for meaningful exchanges to foster a positive institutional legacy. He said the administration is keen to revive the legacy and repute of the university.

The address of the Rector was also attended by the Vice President, Administration and Finance, Prof. Dr. Abdul Raheman, Incharge Female Campus, Dr. Amna Mehmood and other relevant high ups.

Islamabad: Dr. Asma Mansoor, an Assistant Professor in the Department of English, has taken on the role of Incharge of Protocol and Public Relations at the International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI) on Thursday.

Dr. Mansoor, who joined the International Islamic University, Islamabad in 2006, specializes in Posthuman Studies and has contributed research to international journals, including Compare: A Journal of Comparative and International Education, Critique: Studies in Contemporary Fiction, Curriculum Inquiry, Asiatic, New Writing: The International Journal for the Theory and Practice of Creative Writing, South Asian Review, International Journal of Leadership in Education, and Palgrave Communications.

Dr. Asma Mansoor has co-edited the Journal of Contemporary Poetics for three years and is a reviewer for international journals. Currently, she is editing Pakistani Literature, the Pakistan Academy of Letters’ journal, and recently translated the novel Habs by Hassan Manzar into English.

Islamabad: The Central Admission Committee of the International Islamic University (IIU) held a key meeting chaired by the Vice President Academics/A&F, Prof. Dr. Abur Raheman where it was confirmed that the admission process for the Spring-2025 semester will begin on November 17. The meeting was attended by Deans, Directors, and other relevant officials.
The committee discussed critical matters, including formulating a streamlined admission policy, determining the campaign duration, finalizing offered programs, and setting the admission test schedule. Committee members contributed valuable insights to create a more student-friendly admission policy, aiming to attract a wider pool of applicants.

In his remarks, the Vice President emphasized the need for a well-coordinated campaign, underscoring that dedicated efforts would be essential to make the admission process smooth and accessible for prospective students. The meeting concluded with a commitment to ensure a comprehensive and effective admission drive, aiming to meet the university’s standards and outreach goals.

A two-day training workshop for the non-academic staff of NED University of Engineering and Technology was conducted by the Regional Da’wah Center (Sindh), Karachi of Da’wah Academy, International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI).

The workshop aimed at enhancing the professional skills and personal development of the participants, with a total of 40 staff members in attendance.

The Incharge of the Regional Da’wah Center (Sindh), Karachi, delivered a talk on “An Introduction to the Quran,” while Nisar Musa Baloch provided an in-depth discussion on personal development and improving administrative skills.

The opening session featured Dr. Shehzad Channa, who highlighted the training activities of Da’wah Academy and introduced the course objectives.

On the second day, Dr. Mahmood Ghaznavi addressed the vital role of employees in the growth of institutions during the first session.

The second session focused on the study of Seerah (the life of the Prophet Muhammad, PBUH), presented by the In-Charge Regional Da’wah Center.

The workshop concluded with a speech by NED University’s Pro-Vice Chancellor, Professor Dr. Muhammad Tufail, who praised the program’s effectiveness.

He expressed hope that the skills gained would significantly enhance staff productivity and performance. Dr. Tufail also thanked Da’wah Academy’s officials, acknowledging their exemplary role in education and training, and expressed a desire for continued collaboration in the future.

On the occasion participants also shared positive feedback about the workshop, deeming it beneficial and requesting similar training programs in the future to further enrich their professional growth.

International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI) has reached notable positions in the latest QS World University Rankings 2025., 2024. IIUI stands at 243rd in Asia and holds 51st in the Southern Asia region, marking a significant achievement in its academic reputation.

Earlier, International Islamic University Islamabad was placed among 51-100 in the subjects of Theology, Divinity & Religious, whereas it is globally placed at 351-400 in Mathematics. In addition, for the first time, IIUI is placed at 601-640 in Physics across the world in 2024 edition of the QS – world’s top most university rankings agency. Also IIUI has been placed at 1001-1200 in QS World University Rankings 2025.

These achievements highlight the success of the ongoing reforms and strategic initiatives outlined in IIUI’s Strategic Plan (2022-26), which is designed to elevate academic standards through structured, scientific implementation. University leaders attribute these results to the collective efforts of the faculty and staff, reflecting the impact of sustainable transformation efforts at the institution.

The university leadership believes that these reforms and initiatives have yielded a transformation which is entering into advanced stages of success and sustainability.

IIUI interim Rector, Prof Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed and interim President, Prof. Dr. Ahmed Shuja Syed, while expressing gratitude for the achievements, congratulated the academic and administrative staff of the University and hoped that they would remain committed by continuing their hard work so that the institution gets the top slots in all world rankings in future.

They appreciated the hard work of Prof. Rahmat Ellahi, Director Quality Assurance Department (QAD) and his team. Director Quality Assurance Department Prof. Dr. Rahmat Ellahi has vowed that in the supervision of the varsity leadership, the efforts with the help of the varsity researchers and the departments will continue to bring IIUI further high in international rankings.

Islamabad: Prof. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed was warmly welcomed on Monday upon his arrival at the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) as Acting Rector. The reception, held at the university’s new campus, was attended by the Acting President of IIUI, the Vice President (Administration and Finance), as well as faculty, officers, and staff members.

In his inaugural address, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed called upon the IIUI community to uphold the university’s legacy of academic excellence. He highlighted the need for unity and dedication among all members of the institution. Emphasizing transparency and accessibility, he stated that his office would be open to all and pledged to maintain impartiality in university affairs.

“Favoritism, bias, and enmities are attitudes that must be discouraged,” Dr. Mukhtar stressed, adding that his leadership would be based on fairness and equal opportunity for all. He also expressed gratitude to the Saudi government for its continuous support in fostering IIUI’s growth and development.

His speech focused on promoting a collaborative environment, committed to the ideals of inclusivity, professionalism, and integrity.

With these guiding principles, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed hoped to strengthen IIUI’s academic and cultural environment, ensuring that the university remains a premier institution of learning and a beacon of unity for all.

Prof. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) has assumed the charge as the Acting Rector of the International Islamic University Islamabad.

According to a notification issued by the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training, the President of Pakistan and Chancellor IIUI, approved his appointment as the Acting Rector of IIUI.

Prof. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, an esteemed academic leader, brings a wealth of experience in higher education to IIUI. Dr. Mukhtar’s interim leadership is expected to strengthen the university’s dedication to building an environment conducive to high-quality education and research.

Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed is the current Chairman of the Higher Education Commission ( HEC). He has previously served as Chairman HEC from 2014 to 2018, Executive Director HEC from 2013 to 2014 and as Member (Operations and Planning) HEC from 2005 to 2011. He has also served as Executive Director at HEC. Dr. Mukhtar has also served as Deputy Director General, Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ISESCO) based in Rabat, Morocco, where he was responsible for Directorates of Education, Science, Culture and Communication, ICPSR, CPID (Planning and Strategic Division) and ISESCO Regional Centres.

With a Bachelors and Masters of Science from University of Agriculture, Faisalabad and Masters in Business Administration and PhD from University of California, Riverside, USA, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed has over three decades of educational development and management experience at national and international level that includes teaching, research, administration, policy development, linking educational research to industry / commercialization, introducing entrepreneurial approaches to education and a diverse range of educational development programmes. His distinguished career is enriched with diverse academic, research and administrative experience both in public and private sectors of higher education in Pakistan and abroad.

Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed has played a key role during the last two decades to formulate and implement reforms in the higher education, be it increase in the access to university education, strengthening quality assurance systems, convincing federal and provincial governments to raise funding for higher education, development of universities’ infrastructure, promoting national and international collaborations of faculty, researchers and universities, steps to stop and discourage illegal practices in the higher education sector, and a number of other initiatives.

A two-day training workshop for faculty members of NED University of Engineering and Technology was organized by the Regional Dawah Center of Dawah Academy, International Islamic University Islamaba.

The workshop aimed to deepen educators’ understanding of Quranic teachings and the study of Sirat e Tayyaba. Over 30 university teachers attended the sessions, which featured lectures by prominent scholars and trainers.

Dr. Shahzad Channa, during the workshop’s opening session, introduced the Dawah Academy’s objectives and outlined the training activities designed for faculty members. He emphasized the importance of integrating Quranic values in academic environments to foster ethical and harmonious societies.

Mufti Khalid Bukhari, an esteemed religious scholar, led a session on the teachings of Surah Hujarat. He emphasized the chapter’s guidance on mutual respect, brotherhood, and justice, highlighting how politeness, obedience, and a commitment to justice are fundamental principles for community life. He said the Holy Qur’an urges us to uphold each other’s rights and to cultivate relationships of courtesy and respect.

Dr. Syed Aziz ur Rehman, in-charge of the Regional Dawah Center (Sindh), Karachi, delivered a session on the significance of the Quran as a source of life guidance. He noted that the 114 chapters of the Quran offer comprehensive teachings that support the development of a just, peaceful, and prosperous society. On the workshop’s second day, Dr. Aziz ur Rehman delved into the Sirat e Tayyaba, underscoring that Prophet Muhammad ﷺ’s life serves as a timeless model. “The Sirat Tayyaba provides a perfect example for addressing societal issues and achieving personal growth,” he explained, encouraging participants to follow the Sunnah to seek success in this life and the hereafter.

Nisar Musa Baloch, renowned trainer and coordinator of the Center for Leadership Development, addressed the role of teachers as leaders. He highlighted the need for educators to adapt to contemporary advancements in technology and media. “By equipping ourselves with modern skills, we can better prepare our students and contribute to the nation’s growth and welfare,” Baloch noted.

Participants found the workshop insightful and expressed hope for future initiatives from the Dawah Academy, emphasizing the value of such programs in enhancing educational and ethical standards.

The Special Committee on Transport and Hostel Issues for Students’ Satisfaction held its inaugural meeting.

The committee, led by Prof. Dr. Muhammad Zia ul Haq, along with members from various departments, reviewed pressing issues regarding transport and hostel facilities at both the male and female campuses.

During the meeting, feedback from concerned departments was gathered to understand the challenges faced by students.

The committee also conducted site visits to monitor bus departures, ensuring that transportation services are efficiently meeting students’ needs. Noting several concerns raised by students, the committee assured that addressing these issues remains a top priority.

The committee is set to reconvene today, aiming to finalize and propose actionable recommendations to improve transport and hostel services.

Important circular

Professor Dr. Ahmed Shuja Syed, Vice-President (Research & Enterprise) has assumed the charge as President of International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI) with immediate effect and till appointment of the permanent President of the university.

The university’s Directorate of Human Resource Management & Development (HRM&D) issued the official notification regarding this appointment, effective immediately, until the formal appointment of a permanent President.

Dr. Ahmed Shuja in addition to serving as Vice President (Research & Enterprise) is also founding Executive Director, Centre for Advanced Electronics & Photovoltaic Engineering & Advisor to the Rector & President (Engineering Programs). He is  Principal Investigator of Islamic Development Bank’s Funded International Research Grants, namely, Advanced Electronics Laboratories Project and Photovoltaic Energy Engineering Labs. He is also the Proponent & Focal Point of US Department of Energy’s Users Facility Access Agreement with International Islamic University and Govt. of Pakistan’s PSDP support grant to the Centre.

Prof. Shuja is also Visiting Professor at James Watt School of Engineering at University of Glasgow, UK. Prof. Shuja holds MS and Ph.D. in Electrical & Electronic Engineering from Sweden and UK; respectively. Besides serving in EU/UK and USA during his professional career; he previously remained the Dean of Faculty of Engineering & Technology at IIU, Islamabad and Executive Director of Centre for Emerging Sciences, Engineering & Technology, Islamabad. Currently; He is also the Member Board of Governors of three universities in Pakistan as well as Life-time Member of Pakistan Engineering Council. Dr. Shuja developed a pioneering teaching and research program, in Pakistan, in the area of Advanced Electronics in 2007.

The Sports Office, Female Campus at the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) hosted a Pink Ribbon Basketball Tournament.

It was Supervised and organised by Ms. Nadia Mukhtar, Incharge Sports under the Directorate of Student Affairs.

This event seamlessly integrated competitive sports with breast cancer awareness, creating an impactful experience for participants and spectators alike.

According to organisers, this unique initiative combined a basketball tournament with educational activities aimed at raising awareness about breast cancer, fostering support for those affected, and emphasizing the importance of health and fitness.

The iconic pink ribbon—a global symbol of breast cancer awareness—was a central element of the event, symbolizing solidarity and shared commitment.

The event saw participation from five teams representing the twin cities, including Bahria University, Fast University, Shifa University, and two teams from our university, Team A and Team B. Each team showcased remarkable enthusiasm, creating an energetic and supportive atmosphere throughout the tournament. Ultimately, Team A from IIUI clinched first place in the competition.

The basketball matches not only highlighted athletic talent but also served as a platform to emphasize the importance of health, fitness, and breast cancer awareness.

In a thrilling showdown at the HEC Intervarsity Championship Zone E final, the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) cricket team emerged victorious against National University of Modern Languages (NUML), securing their spot in the All Pakistan HEC Intervarsity Tournament.

NUML won the toss and chose to bowl first, limiting IIUI to a score of 143 in 31 overs. Saad Ahmad (39), Imdadullah (32), and Hamza Nisar (29) led IIUI’s batting lineup, setting a competitive target.

In response, NUML was bowled out for 104 in 31.4 overs, thanks to IIUI’s impressive bowling attack. Azam Khan and Ehtisham ul Haq delivered a powerful opening spell, with Ehtisham claiming 3 wickets, Hamza Hayat also taking 3, Shahbaz Khan 2, Azam Khan 1, and Hamza Mashwani 1.

Following the hard-fought victory, Dr.Ghufran Students Adviser, Muhammad Khalid Ch. Incharge sports and Naseer Ahmad, the team coach, extended their heartfelt congratulations to the IIUI cricket team for their remarkable performance and dedication. “Alhamdulillah, this victory has paved the way for IIUI to compete in the All Pakistan HEC Intervarsity Tournament. Our team’s dedication and teamwork have truly paid off,” he said.

IIUI now looks forward to representing Zone E in the national tournament and continuing their journey in pursuit of excellence in university-level cricket.