News & Events

GCU, Durham UNIVERSITY to initiate joint academic programmes

The GC University Lahore and Durham University, United Kingdom have agreed to initiate collective research projects and joint academic programmes in the field of science, information technology, arts and humanities. The decision in this regard was made at a meeting of Durham University, UK International Office Director Sharne Procter with GCU Dean Faculty of Science and Technology Prof. Dr. Ikramul Haq and Director Research, Innovation and Commercialization Prof. Dr. Muhammad Zakria Butt at the GCU Vice Chancellor Office.

Speaking on the occasion, GCU Dean Prof. Ikram-ul-Haq said that research is at the core of GCU which shapes and inspires the disciplinary structure of its departments, several of which lead Pakistan in their fields. He expressed his confidence in the research and troubleshooting capabilities of faculty at GCU where, he said, new processes and working solutions are being developed for the local industry. He said that Pakistan researchers are highly talented and what they all need are resources and opportunities. 

Prof. Dr. Zakria Butt said that the Durham University has also shown interest in providing scholarships for the deserving students of GCU selected for studying joint-degree programmes in UK. He said that the academic experts of both universities would explore the areas for research and joint-degree programmes. He expressed that the GCU also laid stress on enhancing cooperation for the cultural understanding of both institutions by organizing joint seminars, conferences and faculty exchange programmes. Both the universities also deliberated on sharing information and data with each other for research projects.

Ms. Sharne Procter said that in UK, universities cross-disciplinary and cross-cultural research shapes local, national and international agendas. She said that that the quality and influence of Durham University's research was well-recognized and it was ranked among top 30 universities of the world for the 'citations' of Durham research by global academics.

(30-1-2012)

Prof. Dr. Muhammad Zakria Butt JOINED AS Director (RESEARCH) DRIC

The GCU has established the Directorate of Research Innovation and Commercialization (DIRC) to hone research potential of the university. The directorate is established after the approval of the university syndicate. As per notification No. EA-I/74-01/DRIC/11 issued by the Registrar’s office Prof. Dr. Muhammad Zakria Butt has joined as Director (Research), Directorate of Research Innovation and Commercialization (DRIC) GC University Lahore w.e.f. 20-01-2012. He will also look after the affairs of Director Academic Planning and External Links.

Prior to his current assignment, Prof. Zakria served Lahore Board and GCU Physics Department as Chairman. He did his PhD in Physics from the Manchester University UK. He was awarded Tamgha-i-Imtiaz (Medal of Excellence) by the Government of Pakistan for his meritorious service in educationist sector in 1997. Prof. Zakria has over 118 research articles published in international and national journals to his credit besides several books on the subject of Physics. He was instrumental in establishing the Metal Research Laboratories and Laser Physics Laboratory at GCU Center for Advance Studies in Physics. Taking charge as the DIRC Director on Friday, Prof. Zakria said that the DIRC would work to train young researchers and seek sustainable international and national collaborations to broaden the impact of research projects and their sustainability. He said that young faculty members are needed to be trained in effective bidding for external sources of funding, inter-cultural communication, advance research techniques and strategic skills like influencing, negotiating, presenting and embedding international partnership impact across institutions for developing and maintaining international networks. GCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Khaleeq-ur-Rahman has congratulated Prof. Zakria Butt on his appointment as Director DIRC.

(20-01-2012)

GCU TO ESTABLISH CENTRE FOR CHINA STUDIES

The Government College University Lahore will establish a Centre for China Studies in collaboration with the Chinese universities and Punjab government and a project plan in this regard has also been forwarded to the Pak-China Bureau, said GCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Khaleeq-ur-Rahman while talking to a 30-member delegation of students and teachers from Chinese universities during their visit to the Government College University Lahore. Punjab Secretary Higher Education Dr. Ijaz Munir, GCU Dean Prof. Dr. Khalid Pervaiz and Political Science Department Chairperson Dr. Khalid Mazoor Butt were also present. The Chinese delegation led by Southwest University of Political Science and Law Chairman Zhang Guolin and Tsinghua University Vice Chancellor Li Xiguang discussed in detail the policies of government on education and academic environment of Pakistan universities with the education secretary and GCU vice chancellor. GCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Khaleeq told the students that the subjects of Chinese constitution and Chinese economy are being taught at the GC University Lahore and it wished to strengthen the Pak-china friendship academically. He said that Pak-China friendship is guarantee to the peaceful future of this region.

Students and teachers from Chinese university pose for a photo with

Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Khaleeq-ur_Rahman during their visit to the GCU Lahore

Speaking on the occasion, Secretary Higher Education Dr. Ijaz said that the Punjab government is establishing four world-class women universities in Punjab to impart quality education to the female students, besides focusing on information technology and vocational training programmes to produce quality human capital for the country. He said that there are 492 collages and 12 public sector universities in Punjab. However, he said that private sector is also its play its role for promotion of education in the province.

Zhang Guolin said that the purpose of visit of youth delegation to Pakistan is to transfer the decades-long Pak-china friendship to next generations. He laid a stress on initiating student-exchange programmes between the universities of both countries. Li Xiguang called on the Pakistani media to highlight the research work and achievements of Pakistani scientists and academicians, saying that “unfortunately, it’s not being done in Pakistan.”

Talking to media, a female Chinese student said that “we have been listening about the friendship with Pakistan but we never tasted it. However, we know it’s warm and sweet.” She lauded the hospitality of Pakistanis, saying that they would go back and tell the other students about the culture and universities of Pakistan. She said that education system of Pakistan seems to be comprehensive as there all the universities have all the departments like History, Physics, Law, and Chemistry and of languages.

(20-01-2012)

INTERMEDIATE POSITION HOLDERS OF ALL PAKISTAN BOARDS VISIT GC UNIVERSITY LAHORE

The position-holders from Balochistan, Sindh, Gilgit Baltistan, Azad Jammu Kashmir and Kyber Pakhttunkhwa visited the GC University Lahore and met with Prof. (Meritorious) Dr. Muhammad Khaleeq-ur-Rahman, Izaz-i-Kamal; Vice Chancellor, GC University Lahore. Punjab Director General Protocol and Old Ravian Asjad Ghani Tahir led the 50-member delegation of position-holders and their teachers to the 148-year old educational institution. The Deans and Director of Academic Planning and External Links of GCU Lahore were also present on the occasion.

Prof. (Meritorious) Dr. Muhammad Khaleeq-ur-Rahman; Izaz-i-Kamal, Vice Chancellor, GC University Lahore gave vent to his feelings by saying that the greatest strength of any nation is its youth, and the best way to strengthen the youth is to give them quality education which makes them innovative, logical, open-minded, cultured, responsible, honest and patriotic.  He said that the education which does not impart these virtues in youth is of no use.  He said that Pakistan has a great potential and our youth needs to transform that potential into technology and opportunities through hard work and knowledge. “If we are to take the genie of extremism by the horns we have to assign equal value to humanities and social sciences,” he added. Dr. Khaleeq appreciated the Chief Minister’s initiative of inter-provincial tours, saying that it is promoting national harmony and solidarity. He also shared his personal experiences with the position-holders in a light mood at the GCU Abdus Salam Hall and briefed them about the glorious history and eminent alumni of GC University Lahore which also include present Punjab Chief Minister. 

Position-holders from Balochistan, Sindh, Gilgit Baltistan, Azad Jammu Kashmir

and Khyber Pakhttunkhwa  pose for a photo with Prof. Dr. Muhammad Khaleeq-ur-Rahman;

Vice Chancellor, GC University Lahore.

The GCU library documentary was shown to the position holders besides the visit of GCU Natural History Museum and Sports Complex. It is pertinent to mention here that the museum has more than 5,000 preserved specimens which are used for teaching and research purposes. The students showed special interest in unique specimens, which include two-headed duckling, two-headed calf and three-legged hen. During the visit of the GCU Sports Complex, the students asked several questions about the famous Old Ravian sportsmen. They also asked about the academic performance of these cricketers.

Talking to the media, the position-holders said that very few of them had earlier visited Punjab but this visit has totally changed their minds about the people of that province. They laid a stress on establishing educational institutions like GC University Lahore and Kind Edward Medical University in other provinces of the country. They believed that Pakistani youth is highly talented and the government should provide scholarships to all position-holders for higher education aboard. “All the big names who have contributed in the development of Pakistan including Allama Muhammad Iqbal, Qauid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Dr. Qadeer Khan and Prof. Dr. Abdus Salam had once studied aboard,” they added. 

The students appreciated the initiative of “Inter-Provincial Tour of Talented Students”, saying that it would broaden their vision. They expressed pleasure that they are being provided special protocol in Punjab.

(29-11-2011)

National School of Public Policy Pakistan delegation visits GCU  

A delegation of BS-20 officers participating in 95th National Management Course (NMC) at the National School of Public Policy (NSPP) Lahore visited the GC University Lahore and met the Vice Chancellor...(more)

(19-10-2011)

GCU LAHORE & PFSA DECIDE TO HOLD WORKSHOPS WITH MUTUAL COLLABORATION

GC University (GCU) Lahore and Punjab Forensic Science Agency (PFSA) have decided to organize training workshops for professionals involved in law enforcement to understand forensics... (more)

(29-09-2011)

ACADEMIC & RESEARCH COLLABORATION BETWEEN AIT, THAILAND AND GC UNIVERSITY LAHORE

GC University Lahore has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), Thailand. This MoU has been signed by Prof. Dr. Muhammad Khaleeq-ur-Rahman Vice Chancellor GC University Lahore and Prof. Said Irandoust, President, Asian Institute of Technology, Thailand.

The purpose of this MoU is to enhance cooperation between AIT and GCU Lahore for fostering advancement in teaching, research and cultural understanding of both institutions. This MoU will be effective from the date of signing by both parties up to a period of five years.

The activities under the scope of the MoU are:

             I.      Dual degree programmes in selected fields

           II.      Student Exchange at undergraduate/postgraduate levels

        III.      Exchange of faculty members

         IV.      Collaboration in research projects

           V.      Sharing of academic data, publications and information

         VI.      Joint conferences, seminars; workshops and other such activities

      VII.      Capacity Building Programs

    VIII.      Students Recruitment for mutual benefits

         IX.      Other projects of mutual benefit

(13-09-2011)

GC UNIVERSITY LAHORE SIGNS RESEARCH AGREEMENT WITH BONN UNIVERSITY

The Bonn University, Germany and GC University Lahore have signed an agreement to carry out research in flood-hit areas through social prospective and investigate vulnerability, resilience and coping strategies of average local population in the socio-cultural, political and economic context. GC University Lahore Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Khaleeq-ur-Rahman and Bonn University, Germany Center for Research Development (ZEF) Director Dr. Solvay Gerke signed the agreement to execute the research project titled “After the flood is before the flood: Vulnerabilities and coping capacities in flood affected communities of Punjab” which is being mainly funded by DAAD-German Academic Exchange Service.

Presiding over a meeting to ensure qualitative implementation of the project, GCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Khaleeq-ur-Rahman hoped that the research would contribute to develop an appropriate understanding about the problems of flood victims among national and international aid practitioners and policy makers, enabling them to design and implement adequate assistance programs for disaster prevention and livelihood support measures in flood prone areas of Punjab and beyond. Bonn University, Germany ZEF senior researcher Dr. Conrad Schetter also attended the meeting while GCU Dean Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences Prof. Dr. Khalid Pervaiz, Director Academic Planning and External Links Ms. Fauzia Shaheen and the chairpersons of Political Science, Statistics, Psychology, Economics, History and Sociology departments were also present.

Prof. Dr. Khalid Pervaiz said the best thing about the project is that the GCU researchers would address crucial issues which are especially debated in social sciences. He said that the research is, moreover, closely related to “Water Resource Management” and “Agriculture Sciences”. The Vice Chancellor hoped that the agreement between GCU and Bonn University would develop into a long-term partnership of mutual learning and research cooperation.

                                                                                                          (09-09-2011)

Call for application for participation  in Doctoral Course “A Social Science Perspective on Development” 2011/12 in Bonn/Germany under ZEF-GCU Research Project and Call for applications among MPhil/MS-students of social science departments at GCU to participate in German - Pakistani joint research project". The Deadline for applications is 25 August 2011. For details click on the following:

About the Program

(08-08-2011)

GCU LAHORE to strengthen Lahore Met Office database: The Vice Chancellor and DG PMC signs MoU

The GC University Lahore Geography Department will strengthen the database of the Regional Metrological Center Lahore (Met Office) by using the Remote Sensing Technology (RST) and Geographic Information System (GIS). GCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Ikram-ul-Haq (SI) and Regional Metrological Center Director Mahr Shaibzada Khan signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at a graceful ceremony held at the GCU Syndicate Committee Room. Pakistan Metrological Center Director General Arif Mahmood, GCU Dean of Arts and Social Sciences Prof. Dr. Khalid Pervaiz, GCU Registrar Prof. Anjum Nisar, Chairman Geography Department Prof. Ali Iqtadar Mirza, GCU Director Academic Planning and External Links Ms. Fauzia Shaheen and other university faculty members and Met office officials were also present on the occasion.

The Lahore Met Office has also pledged to provide research projects to the B.Sc (Hons) Geography students besides creating internship and job opportunities for them on priority basis in the Lahore Met Office. Both the parties would also jointly hold seminars, training workshops, conferences and lectures for the professional development of students and met officials. The Met Office has also agreed to share information and data with the GCU students for their research projects.

Speaking on the occasion, GCU VC Prof. Dr. Ikram-ul-Haq (SI) said that the GCU Geography Department is very well aware of the challenges and concerns of the globalize world and faculty members have designed special courses to train its students in survey tools, GIS Remote Sensing technologies and their application urban planning, disaster management, water resource management, land use planning and management. He said that the GCU Geography Department is also working as co-investigator with Penn State University, USA in foreign-funded projects. He said that the department is equipped with Total Station, GIS laboratories, GPS, Automatic Level etc.

Pakistan Metrological Center Director General Arif Mahmood said that the met office would further strengthen its ties with the GC University Lahore and would also sign agreements with its other departments for more research and development projects. He also expressed his confidence in the original research and troubleshooting capabilities of faculty at GC University Lahore.

(27-06-2011)

A students’ delegation from Bangladesh visits GCU Lahore

A 20 member students’ delegation from Bangladesh, led by Dr.Shahid Akhtar Hussain visited Government College University, Lahore and met with the Dean Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences Prof. Dr. Khalid Perviaz and other officials of the University and discussed the issues pertaining to academics and future prospects of strengthening regional prosperity through education. A briefing about the academic and research progress made by GCU in the recent years was given to the delegation. GCU Documentary depicting the glorious history of the institution was also shown on this occasion to the delegates.

The delegation also visited the GCU sports complex, Postgraduate Library, Department of Computer Science, Nazir Ahmad Music Society, Department of Zoology, and Centre for Advance Studies in Physics along with other historically significant places of GCU Lahore during its one day tour to the university.  

(30-5-2011)

gcu Signs MOU With TEC Lahore TO STRENGTHEN University-Industry Linkages

The GCU Chemistry Department signed a memorandum of understanding with Technology Exchange and Coordination Limited (TEC) to set up Students’ Placement Centre at the Sundar Industrial State Lahore for placement of its talented students in reputed industries for their projects and career development. Prof. Dr. Ikram-ul-Haq (SI) Vice Chancellor GCU and Siddiq-ur-Rehman Rana Chief Executive Officer TEC signed the accord at the University Syndicate Committee Room. The Dean of Social Sciences and Arts was also present.

The GCU in collaboration with TEC would also establish Industry Resource Centre (IRC) for facilitation in establishing new industry in Punjab. The Centre would work as incubator for new projects and also provide turnkey solutions for production lines. The scientists from GCU Chemistry would provide all technical expertise in this regard, especially in the domain of chemical testing and analysis services, development of analytical protocols, method of process validation and development of documentation structures.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Dr. Ikram-ul-Haq (SI) said that the industry needs to shift their reliance from their dependence on the West to indigenous research outcomes. “They need to encourage research generated by the Pakistan academia so that strong knowledge-base could be established and broadened locally,” he said. He deplored that a serious trust-deficit existed among the investors vis-à-vis Pakistani research. He said that the investors need to acknowledge that the quality of our research has soared very high in the last decade. The Vice Chancellor said the future of the country lies in the hands of bright and productive scientists. He further added that GCU is laying a particular stress on interdisciplinary research. He said that its time to dissolve the boundaries of academic departments within academic institutions and increase cooperation between various disciplines to cultivate an environment for research. The Vice Chancellor expressed his confidence in the original research and troubleshooting capabilities of faculty at GC University Lahore where new processes and working solutions are being developed for the local industry.

(26-4-2011)

Iran Delegation visits GCU 

Iran wants its students to study in Pakistan and other Muslim countries but the ground situation is opposite. More than 30,000 Iranian are studying in India, however, there are less than one thousand students of Iran in Pakistan. These views were expressed by the members of Iranian delegation during their visit to the Government College University Lahore. The visit of delegation led by Fahim Research Institute, Iran Director Dr. Hoshang Dadashzadeh, was aimed at discussing the prospects of admission of Iranian students in GCU Lahore. The representatives of the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan, GCU Deans, Distinguish Professor of Persian Prof. Zahir Ahmed Siddique and Director Academic Planning and External Link Ms Fouzia Shaheen were also present.

Talking to GCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Khalid Aftab, the delegation said that Iran wants to strengthen its ties with the Muslim countries and the best way of doing it is through the exchange of students. The Vice Chancellor showed interest in providing maximum facilities to the Iranian students if they come to study here. He said that GCU can also hold special English classes for Iranian students, if a good number of them get admission in GCU Lahore. The Vice Chancellor also detailed the delegation about the academic programmes being offered by GCU.

Dr. Hoshang Dadashzadeh said that there is general trend among Iranian students for studying in India, Russia and European countries which needs to be changed to preserve the culture of Iran. He said that a large of ministers in Iran including incumbent foreign minister had completed their education from India. 

Later, the delegation visited the GCU Persian Department.

(07-02-2011)

GCU, WWF signs accord for nature conservation

The GC University Lahore and World Wide Fund for Nature –Pakistan (WWF-Pakistan) have joined hands for environmental awareness and nature conservation. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in this regard by GCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Khalid Aftab and WWF-Pakistan Director General Ali Hasan Habib here on Monday at the GCU Syndicate Committee Room...(more)

(11-01-2011)

Noble Prize inspires position OBTAINER students

The talented students of Balochistan, Sindh and Kyber Pakhttunkhwa visited the GC University Lahore and got inspiration from the Original Nobel Prize of Pakistan’s only Noble Laureate Prof. Dr. Abdus Salam, housed in the Library of the 146-year-old educational institution. A delegation of 32 position-holders of the three provinces has arrived in Punjab on a one-week visit under the Chief Minister’s Programme titled “Inter-Provincial Tour of Talented Students.” The Nobel Prize remained the centre of attraction among the position-holders and they were briefed in detail about the life and achievements of the great scientist. Director Academic Planning & External Links GC University Lahore and Director General Protocol Punjab Government organized the tour. 

GCU Chief Librarian told the Director of Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP) Italy, Prof Dr Katepalli R Sreenivasan, had gifted the original certificate to GCU because Prof. Salam had studied from the Government College from 1942 to 1946 and taught here from 1951 to 1954. He said that despite being a scientist, Prof. Salam has great interest in literature and the same is evident from the fact that he was also editor The Ravi, an annual literary magazine of GCU. Dr Salam had received the Nobel Prize Certificate from King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden on December 10, 1979. The certificate reads “For their contributions to the theory of the unified weak and electromagnetic interaction between elementary particles, including, inter-alia, the prediction of the weak neutral current.”

Talking to media and GCU teachers, the position-holders pledged they would also follow in the foot prints of the great scientist, Prof. Abdus Salam, and earn laurels for their country. They said that people like Prof. Salam are the real heroes of Pakistan.  They believed that Pakistani youth is highly talented and the government should provide scholarships to all position-holders for higher education in the country as well as aboard. A student from Kyber Pakhttunkhwa said that all the big names who have contributed in the development of Pakistan including Qauid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah had once studied aboard. They appreciated the initiative of “Inter-Provincial Tour of Talented Students”, saying that it would broaden their vision. They expressed pleasure that they are being provided special protocol in Punjab.  The students also took their photographs standing in front of the Prof Salam’s Nobel Prize.

The position-holders also visited the Naqoosh Museum where more than 5,000 letters and manuscripts of the renowned men of letters, intellectuals and writers have been preserved. They also visited the Abdus Salam Hall and Sports Complex of the University.

(24-12-2010)

National School of Public Policy delegation visits GCU LAHORE

The GC University Lahore has completed more than 113 development projects and civil works besides to introduce 53 academic programmes and 11 new disciplines in the last 13 years, said GCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Khalid Aftab while talking to a delegation of National School of Public Policy, led by Ahmad Yar Khan...(more)

(08-12-2010)

Rescue 1122 engages GCU expertise 

The Punjab Emergency Service (Rescue 1122) has engaged the expertise of GC University Lahore clinical psychologists to work on post-traumatic stress among rescue workers, and develop modern psychological test system for selection of right people in the life saving emergency services. GCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Khalid Aftab and Rescue 1122 Director General Dr. Rizwan Naseer signed the agreement carried out between the GCU Department of Clinical Psychology and the Punjab Emergency Service. Department of Clinical Psychology Director Prof. Zahid Mehmood was also present. “Rescue workers are daily exposed to traumatic stress while helping people in emergency. Dealing with situations like terrorism, fire, car accidents and rape develop traumatic stress disorder in workers which reduces their efficiency and commitment,” said 1122 Director General while requesting the clinical psychologists of the university to help the Punjab Emergency Service in coping with the situation.

The GCU and Rescue 1122 have also pledged to work for development of safer communities in Pakistan through research projects and joint practical initiatives including conferences, workshops, awareness and training programmes and seminars. Both the intuitions have also pledged to share resources, knowledge and expertise for caring out the above mention joint projects. They would also conduct behaviour studies of communities to prevent road traffic accidents and injuries. 

However, GCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr Khalid Aftab said that the university professors and researchers should also work with the emergency service officials to manage post-traumatic stress among public after emergency or disaster. The vice chancellor and Rescue 1122 officials appreciated that Clinical Psychology Department have already successfully developed psychological tests for the Pakistan Air Force and these days it was working with the PAF on stress management in pilots. They hoped that the new psychological test system developed by the GCU for Rescue 1122 would help in selection of right people in the life saving emergency services and would reduce the drop-out percentage of rescue workers.

Director Planning and External Links GCU Ms Fauzia Shaheen told the meeting that under the agreement, the Rescue 1122 would also provide internship and research opportunities for students of GCU. She said all the Rescue 1122 data of accidents, fire incidents; crime and prank calls would also be available to GCU students for research.    The meeting also discussed in detail the fallouts of recent incident of “street justice” in Sialkot and termed the situation “alarming.” The GCU and Rescue 1122 also planned to hold a seminar in the university on the issue of “street justice.”    

(04-10-2010)

GCU SIGNED AGREEMENT WITH DESCON: an example of University-Industry Liaison

The Department of Chemistry, GC University Lahore has recently signed an agreement with Descon Chemicals Limited to provide expertise and technology for industrial production of chemicals being currently used in Pakistan.  More...

(05-07-2010)

GEOGRAPHY DEPARTMENT GCU SIGNS MoU to develop PHATA database

The GC University Lahore Geography Department students will digitise manual maps and develop a database for the Punjab Housing and Town Planning Agency, Punjab (PHATA) by applying modern techniques of the Digital Cartography. GCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr Khalid Aftab and PHATA Director General Rashid Manzoor signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in this regard. The senior officials of both sides were present also on the occasion. Chairperson Geography Deartment Ali Iqtidar Mirza and Director Academic Planning and External Links Ms Fauzia Shaheen highlighted about the MoU. The GCU will organise workshops for the officials and experts of PHATA to train them about the latest tools and technologies of Geographic Information System (GIS), Remote Sensing, Global Positioning System (GPS), Total Station and Automatic level. However, the PHATA will provide internship opportunities and research projects to the students of GCU Geography Department. The GCU and PHATA has also showed resolve to coordinate and cooperate with each other for joint planning and development ventures and exchange of research material and other relevant information. The university and planning agency will also collaborate to hold conferences and seminars on water resource management, disaster management and land use planning. 

Addressing the MoU signing ceremony, Vice Chancellor GCU Prof. Khalid Aftab laid a stress on interdisciplinary research, saying the challenges and problems of urban development are so diverse and complicated that experts of one discipline cannot address them. “There is dire need to bring together engineers, geographers, economists and experts of different disciplines on one platform to solve the issues,” he said. The Vice Chancellor revealed that the university is also planning to establish Urban Development Study Centre where experts of various disciplines would work on urban planning and resources management. He also laid stress on true implementation of projects planned by the experts without any political pressure. He said that public welfare should be preferred on self interests.

Rashid Manzoor Director General PHATA said that the mushroom and haphazard growth is the biggest challenge of the 21 century which cannot be addressed without the cooperation of the experts. He vowed that the university students would be provided all-out support for their research projects. He hoped that the formal link between GCU and PHATA would prove vital to boost result oriented research.

(28-06-2010)

PROF. SEIK WENG MEETS GCU VICE CHANCELLOR

The Universities all over the world have entered into a ranking race. Prof. Seik Weng Ng, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur said that the Universities have expedited their research programmes to ensure superior places in the list of top universities  in a meeting with Prof. Dr. Khalid Aftab Vice Chancellor, GC University and senior faculty members... More

AP&EL GCU ORGANIZES a Seminar on Enterprising research through UIP

Academic Planning and External Links Department GCU organized the first ever seminar on ‘Enterprising Research through the University-Industry Portal (UIP)’ in collaboration with the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) and Institute of Research Promotion (IRP) to motivate researchers and universities to develop demand-driven researches and sell them to the local industry to generate revenue. GCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr Khalid Aftab chaired the seminar also included the training sessions for researchers regarding the use online UIP developed by LCCI and IRP as a direct communication link between the researchers and industrialists. They researchers were briefed about the methods of marketing their research through UIP.

Addressing the seminar, GCU Vice Chancellor Professor Khalid Aftab laid a stress in developing the research culture in Pakistani universities. . He said that the bulk of the researches were undertaken as part of the requirements for the completion of master's and doctoral degrees. “Opportunities and incentives can play important role in motivating researchers and developing the culture of research,” Professor Khalid said.

“Pakistan has a huge potential. Its research centers and universities have enough knowledge and researches, what we all need is to transform this knowledge into technology through academia-industry partnership, said Dr Farid A.Malik, the former Chairman Pakistan Science Foundation, while addressing the seminar. He claimed that in many cases researches conducted in Pakistan were better than that of China, but unfortunately they were never transferred to the industry. He said that the industry-academia linkages are not enough, rather a functional framework to transfer the technology to the industry is required. He said that it was astonishing for him that the country which can make missiles is importing CNG cylinder of worth millions of dollars annually. However, he said that the technology of making CNG cylinders was developed ingenuously due the efforts of PSF and transferred to the private sector for production.

Discussing the window of opportunities for universities provided by LCCI, Faisal Iqbal Shiekh Vice President LCCI said that Chamber is committed to making an effective contribution to the nation's economic development through the promotion of trade, industry and research. He said that innovation – constant creativity in Research and Development is one of the foremost aims of the chamber. He said that they have developed UIP to facilitate the researchers and universities to market their research and now its time for them to make a maximum utilization out of it. He said that LCCI would take more steps to bring the industry and academia more close to each other.

IPR CEO Abid said that IRP is also bridging the gap among the universities, research institutes, public and corporate sector by developing the culture of creating and sharing knowledge. Life Technology CEO Mushtaq Ahmed brought the attention of researchers towards Biotechnology, Global Warming and Green Technologies, saying that the earth temperature was going to rise by one degree Celsius in the 25 years and would reduce the productivity of the land of warm countries like Pakistan. He highlighted the role of professionals in industrialization. The Deans, Chairpersons, Administrative Heads and Director AP&EL were also present on the occasion.  

(18-05-2010)

Dr JAVID Laghari CHAIRMAN HEC of PAKISTAN opens state of the art student services Centre at GCU

GC University Lahore has established the state-of-art Student Services Centre (SSC) which is offering counseling, medical, career guidance, internal advisory and job placement services to the university students. Higher Education Commission Chairman Dr Javaid R Laghari visited the all sections of the centre and discussed the working with the concerned staff and students.

CHAIRMAN HEC, VICE CHANCELLOR GCU and OTHERS

ON THE OCCASION OF INAUGURATION OF SSC

He unveiled the modern student services set up with the financial support of Rs 25.581 million from the commission. Barrister Kamal Azfar Former Governor Sindh and GCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr Khalid Aftab were also present on the occasion.

The Career Guidance and Placement Centre provides assistance and guidance to students in academic planning, making career choices and exploring future professions and placement opportunities. The centre offers a wide range of services including individual and group guidance, scholarships information, internal advisory services and job placement for which a Recruitment Section has also been built in the basement of the centre. Chairman HEC and accompanied by Prof. Khalid Aftab also visited the Medical Centre and inspected emergency healthcare facilities for the students. He was told that an ambulance is also available around the clock for students. Dr Javaid was told that Students Counseling Centre led by a clinical psychologist helps students who are experiencing emotional and psychological problems and learning difficulties. The centre helps such students through individual counseling, therapeutic groups and workshops.

VICE CHANCELLOR PRESENTING SOUVENIR TO CHAIRMAN HEC

The HEC chairman also saw the newly-established Girls Cafeteria, GCU Bookshop, Career Resource Library, Computer Lab, Seminar Room, Conference Hall and the offices of Director Intermediate Studies, Adviser Student Affairs, Environment Protection Society and Secretary Proctors Board located in the Student Services Centre (SSC).

Addressing the SSC inauguration, Dr Javaid laid a stress on universities for developing resources for generation of funds for their development projects. He said that the world over universities have developed their endowment funds of billion of dollars with the help of their alumni. Talking about the SSC, Dr Javaid said that the services being provided by the GCU to students are highly beneficial for future social networking between students and their alma maters. “If the educational intuitions take care of their students, they will return the debt after entering into their professional lives. Don’t look down on students, look up to them, they are the future CEOs, politicians and bureaucrats,” the HEC chairman said. He also advised the public sector universities to market their researches to generate revenue. Dr Javaid, however, also pledged Higher Education Commission support for the promotion of Quality education in the universities.

Speaking on the inaugural occasion, Prof. Khalid Aftab said a university is as good as its resources are and the public sector universities are dependent on the HEC and provincial governments for the financial support for their development projects. He, however, said that the GCU has established endowment fund in 2003 and it has been working for generating funds to help the needy students of the university and its development projects.

Later, addressing the luncheon hosted by Professor Khalid Aftab in the honour of the HEC chairman, Barrister Kamal Azfar said the GCU is the producer of great people as well as great ideas. He remembered the services of great old Ravians including Allama Muhammad Iqbal, Faiz Ahmed Faiz and N.M Rashid for the Muslims. Barrister Kamal Azfar also requested the HEC Chairman to provide funds to GCU for establishment of its new campus at Kala Shah Kaku.

(27-04-2010)

NSPP Lahore delegation visits the GCU to discuss and learning about the policies and their implementation

A delegation of National School of Public Policy Lahore comprising the participants of the 92nd National Management Course visited the GCU to discuss and learning about the policies and their implementation.

Prof. Dr. Khalid Aftab said the GCU had disbursed some Rs. 11 million among the needy students during the ongoing financial year. He said there was need to do a lot more for the needy students, so that they can continue their education without mental stress. “The university status gave us an opportunity to revamp our education system, curriculum and opened new doors for development,” he added.

In reply to a question about the career guidance of students, the Vice Chancellor said, we did no’t leave our student in lurch after the completion of their education. The Career Guidance and Placement Centre and Directorate of External Links GCU made efforts for their internships and jobs in well reputed organizations. We also guide them about the available foreign scholarships and other higher education opportunities,” he added. In reply to another question, Dr Khalid Aftab said that GCU is apolitical campus. “It promotes the culture of tolerance and intellect through debates, seminars, conferences, lectures and publications. Being the bastion of liberal education in Pakistan, GCU had nurtured some of the most prominent luminaries of the world, the Vice Chancellor said. He called the GCU motto “Courage to know” the motto of enlightenment. He said that enlightenment means ‘sharing knowledge’, not imposing knowledge. “Every person has his own faith, ideas and knowledge. It is not necessary that you should agree with them. However, you should respect their knowledge and ideas,” he added.

The participants of 92nd National Management Course pose for a group photo with

the Vice Chancellor GCU Lahore during their visit to the university.

Later, GCU Director Academic Planning and External Links briefed the delegates about the recent achievements and development projects of the university.  The delegates also visited the CASP .They were also shown a documentary about the history of the Government College University, Lahore.

(30-03-2010)

Centre for Development Research, Bonn University delegation visits GCU Lahore

A delegation from Centre for Development Research, Bonn University, Germany visited the GC University Lahore and met with Vice Chancellor Dr Khalid Aftab to discuss the scope of collaboration in the fields of research and faculty and students exchange programmes. Speaking on the occasion, Dr Khalid Aftab said that GCU is focusing on producing indigenous and qualitative research both in the fields of natural and social sciences and it has developed active linkages with local industries and foreign universities for research development. He said that the university is ranked among top universities of Pakistan for producing a large number of quality research papers in national and international universities.

The delegation comprising Dr Conrad Schetter and Ms Katja Miekle showed keen interest in the visit of Bonn University students to GCU. Dr Conrad Schetter said that he has been working in Pakistan for the last several years and he has fell in love with this country. The delegates said that they wanted to show the world the real and true Pakistan. They also lauded the hospitality of the Pakistani people.

The Deans, Director Academic planning & External Links and foreign faculty members of GCU were also present on the occasion.

(18-02-2010)

Prof Lusane delivers a lecture on “The Struggle of Inclusion: The US Experience in Advancing Women and Minority Rights” at GC UNIVERSITY Lahore

The image of Pakistan as portrayed by the international media is very much negative in the United States. The majority of Americans are ignorant about the real Pakistan. There is a need to highlight the true and broad image of the country abroad. This was stated by Clarence Lusane a professor at School of International Service, American University, Washington D.C. while delivering a lecture on ‘The Struggle of Inclusion: The US Experience in Advancing Women and Minority Rights.” at GCU Lahore. He traced the history of the blacks’ struggle from the slavery to the White House. He believed that it is history that made Barack Hussein Obama the President of United States; the history of the struggle of blacks for their rights. Prof. Lusane also briefed the students how women in the United States got their right to vote. He also discussed in detail with the students the USA electoral politics and race relations.

Later, Prof. Lusane met with GCU Vice Chancellor Dr Khalid Aftab and discussed the matters of mutual interests. Dr Khalid and Prof. Lusane showed great interest in the faculty and student exchange programmes between the two universities. Dr Khalid Aftab laid a stress on developing active academic linkages which would benefit the students of both universities. The Vice Chancellor also briefed the guest about the history of Lahore and the GCU Lahore. Prof. Clarence Lusane also visited the various departments of the GCU and appreciated the facilities being provided to the students.

(08-03-2010)

Licensing and Regulations Strategic Export Control Division delegation visits GCU

A delegation headed by Naeem Azid Director Licensing and Regulations Strategic Export Control Division (SECDIV) visited the GCU and observed the research facilities including chemistry labs, Institute of Industrial Biotechnology and Centre for Advanced Studies in Physics under the SECDIV Outreach and Awareness Programme. Dean of Sciences and Technology Prof. Dr Ikaram-ul- Haq and Director Academic Planning and External Links Fouzia Shaheen briefed the delegation about the university’s various research facilities. The delegation lauded the working of the GCU students and professors on various projects. Naeem Azid at an awareness lecture at the Fazl-e-Hussain Reading Room apprised the university professors and officials about the export control on various goods, technologies, material and equipment related to nuclear and biological weapons. He also answered the questions raised by the university faculty about the export and import of various chemicals used for research purposes. He said that the Government of Pakistan is committed to provide all kind of assistance to the universities’ scholars for research purposes.

The Heads of GCU academic and administrative departments and foreign faculty members from Abdus Salam School of Mathematics were also present on the occasion.

(6-03-2010)

18 FEMALE STUDENTS FROM BALOCHISTAN VISIT GCU

A group of 18 female talented students from Balochistan visited the GC University Lahore and were enthralled by music performances and fine arts exhibition at the university. The students also visited the GCU Natural History Museum which is one of the Asia’s oldest and largest natural history museums established by Dr. Lt. Col. Stephenson in 1906. In reply to their queries, the bright students of Balochistan were told that the museum has more than 5,000 preserved specimens which are used for teaching and research purposes. The students showed special interest in unique specimens, which include two-headed duckling, two-headed calf and three-legged hen. In addition, the Museum has a good collection of butterflies and bird skins. The students also liked the newly established section called “The Fauna of Pakistan”. They delegation also visited the GCU sports complex.

Later, the delegation witnessed a special display of paintings and other fine arts works of the GCU students at the university’s Abdus Slam Hall. 

(26-02-2010)

GCU, KIU explore research collaborations

Karakoram International University (KIU), Gilgit-Baltistan Vice Chancellor Dr Najma Najam and senior faculty members visited GCU and called on the Vice Chancellor Dr Khalid Aftab to discuss and learn from the experiences of GCU which has emerged as one of top universities of Pakistan despite space and financial constraints.(more...)

(13-01-2010)