Our Correspondent
MARDAN: Vice Chancellor of Women University Mardan, Professor Dr. Razia Sultana, on Thursday briefed the media about the university’s ongoing progress, current challenges, and future plans, highlighting its growing role in advancing female education in the region.
The briefing was attended by Registrar Mr Adnan Ahmad, Director ORIC Miss Haleema, Public Relations Officer Mr. Kamran khan and PS to VC Miss Sajida karim.
The university, she said, has 18 affiliated colleges offering 36 programs in diverse disciplines. Admissions are currently in progress, with the institution offering a secure and enabling environment for women across the Mardan region.
Dr. Sultana underscored the university’s commitment to supporting underprivileged students through various means, including 11 different scholarship schemes and the Higher Education Commission’s laptop scheme. “These laptops are a lifeline for students, particularly for those involved in research and income generating activities from platforms like Amazon have become essential tools for academic success,” she noted. A total of 500 laptops will be distributed across 18 departments under the ongoing scheme.
Calling it a “significant achievement,” the Vice Chancellor announced that the university’s new state-of-the-art campus is expected to be completed and operational by 2026. “Modern laboratories and a well-equipped library are being established, especially to cater to the needs of science students,” she added. Currently the University is offering admissions in 13 MPhil and Two PhD programs besides 18 BS disciplines.
Dr. Sultana also revealed plans to set up a Skill Centre focused on artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies. “Our goal is to connect students with market opportunities, so they can become entrepreneurs and, in turn, create employment for other women,” she said. The university is seeking collaborations with institutions like NUST and the KP IT Board to further enhance its academic and technical offerings.
Emphasising the transformative power of education, Dr. Sultana said, “Educated women are the most effective agents of change in society. Fields like Data Science and Information Technology not only empower women but also enable them to contribute economically to their households.”
However, she also pointed out the financial challenges the institution is facing. “The work on the university’s new campus is 58 percent complete, but we need an additional Rs 300 million to finish the construction. So far, Rs100 million has been pledged. We urge the government to support us in completing this vital project.”
The Vice Chancellor concluded with a strong appeal for societal support, saying, “Our society must provide space and trust to women. Girls’ education is not just a right — it is a necessity for a progressive and inclusive society.”
