News

AHPC Delegation Visits Northern University for Allied Health Sciences Accreditation

Tuesday, 6 May 2025

Northern University, Nowshera, proudly hosted a distinguished delegation from the Allied Health Professionals Council (AHPC) for a “zero visit”, a critical preliminary stage in the accreditation process for Allied Health Sciences degree programs. The visit marked a significant milestone in the university’s ongoing commitment to aligning its academic offerings with national standards of quality and professional excellence.

The purpose of the visit was to evaluate four undergraduate programs offered by the Department of Allied Health Sciences:

• BS Medical Laboratory Technology (MLT)
• BS Radiology
• BS Surgical Technology
• BS Anesthesia Technology

Distinguished Delegation and University Leadership

The AHPC delegation included Dr. Aman Ullah (Principal, RCAHS), Mr. Hilal Jan, and Mr. Nazir Taj from the Health Department, Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The visiting team was warmly received by Northern University’s senior management, including:

• Mr. Taha Sawar, Pro-Rector and Member, Board of Trustees
• Ms. Mehik Ikram, Head of Department, Allied Health Sciences
• Dr. Syed Tahir Ali Shah,
• Mr. Khurram Shahzad, Registrar
• Mr. Muhammad Ihsan, Additional Registrar

Institutional Overview and Academic Vision

During the visit, the delegation was provided with a comprehensive briefing on Northern University’s mission, vision, and academic contributions since its establishment in 2002. Special emphasis was placed on the Department of Allied Health Sciences, which holds the distinction of being the first university-level allied health department in the districts of Nowshera, Mardan, Swabi, and Attock, reflecting the university’s leadership role in healthcare education in the region.

AHPC Evaluation and Feedback

Addressing the session, Dr. Aman Ullah highlighted AHPC’s commitment to maintaining high academic and professional standards in allied health education across Pakistan. He emphasized the importance of institutional readiness, modern laboratory facilities, qualified faculty, and student protection policies as essential components of the accreditation process. He also appreciated Northern University’s efforts in strengthening its academic infrastructure.

The delegation conducted a detailed tour of the university’s classrooms, laboratories, and student support facilities, carefully reviewing teaching resources, equipment, and learning environments. Constructive feedback and practical recommendations were shared to further enhance program readiness and quality assurance.

Key Outcomes of the Visit

Major highlights of the AHPC zero visit included:
• Evaluation of four undergraduate Allied Health Sciences programs
• Review of academic infrastructure and laboratory facilities
• Positive feedback on institutional preparedness
• Practical recommendations for strengthening accreditation readiness
• Reinforcement of quality assurance and student protection standards

Commitment to Quality and Accreditation

Northern University views the AHPC visit as a collaborative step toward achieving recognized accreditation and academic excellence in Allied Health Sciences. The university remains committed to continuous improvement, ensuring that its graduates benefit from quality education, professional recognition, and enhanced employability at national and international levels.

Northern University extends its sincere appreciation to the AHPC delegation for their valuable time, guidance, and support. The visit represents an important step forward in the university’s mission to serve as a center of excellence in allied health education for the region and beyond.

Posted Under: Accreditation | Allied Health Sciences | Academic Affairs

Northern University Forges Academic Alliance Through UK-Pak Synergy Project

Friday, 18 April 2025

Northern University proudly announced its participation in the UK–Pakistan Synergy Project, marking a historic achievement as the first university in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to establish a strategic international academic partnership under this prestigious initiative. Led by the British Council, the UK–Pakistan Synergy Project aims to strengthen institutional collaboration between higher education institutions in the United Kingdom and Pakistan, with Northern University emerging as a prominent and proactive partner.

The partnership represents a significant step toward global academic engagement and focuses on three key strategic areas designed to enhance research capacity, academic development, and inclusivity.

Key Areas of Collaboration

The UK–Pakistan Synergy Project at Northern University is structured around the following core components:

• Research Collaboration: Faculty members will engage in joint research initiatives with UK-based universities, with a strong emphasis on science, technology, and social sciences, promoting innovation and high-impact scholarly output. • Remote PhD Supervision Opportunities: The project introduces remote PhD supervision models, allowing research scholars to benefit from British academic expertise while remaining in Pakistan. This initiative enhances access to global mentorship and strengthens doctoral research standards. • Women’s Empowerment Initiatives: A central pillar of the partnership is the promotion of women’s participation and leadership in academia through targeted scholarships, research opportunities, and professional development programs for female researchers.

Leadership PerspectiveLeadership Perspective

Commenting on the achievement, Mr. Taha Sawar, Pro-Rector of Northern University, stated:

“It gives me immense pleasure to collaborate on this important initiative. Northern University is committed to building meaningful international academic linkages that create long-term value for our faculty, researchers, and students. This partnership reflects our vision for academic excellence and global connectivity.”

Project Coordination and Implementation

To ensure effective coordination and successful execution of project activities, the university has appointed Mr. Khalid Mehmood Zaman, Assistant Professor, as the official focal person for the UK–Pakistan Synergy Project. He will serve as the primary liaison between participating institutions and oversee the implementation of agreed initiatives.

Key Outcomes and Impact

highlights of Northern University’s participation in the UK–Pakistan Synergy Project include:

• First university in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to join the initiative • Establishment of formal academic linkages with UK institutions • Expanded access to international research collaboration • Introduction of innovative remote PhD supervision models • Dedicated focus on women’s empowerment in higher education

Advancing Global Academic Engagement

The UK–Pakistan Synergy Project brings together selected universities from both countries with the shared goal of knowledge exchange, teaching innovation, and impactful research collaboration. Northern University’s inclusion in this initiative underscores its growing reputation as a forward-looking institution committed to internationalization, academic quality, and inclusive development.

Northern University remains dedicated to strengthening its global partnerships and creating transformative opportunities that benefit its academic community and contribute to national and international knowledge advancement.

Posted Under: International Collaboration | Research | Academia

Northern University Hosts 92Startups & DawnFest Startup Competition in Nowshera

Tuesday, 18 February 2025

Northern University, in collaboration with 92Startups, successfully hosted the 92Startups & DawnFest Startup Competition, the largest startup pitching event ever held in Nowshera.

The event provided a dynamic platform for aspiring entrepreneurs to present innovative business ideas while engaging with investors, industry leaders, and startup mentors.

With strong support from Mr. Taha Sawar, Trustee and Pro-Rector of Northern University, the competition aimed to foster entrepreneurial talent by offering startups opportunities for mentorship, incubation, and investment. Participants demonstrated exceptional creativity and business acumen, setting a new benchmark for startup growth in the region.

Distinguished Panel of Judges

The competition was evaluated by a renowned panel of judges with extensive industry experience:

• Umer Hadeed – CEO, The Collective / Ali Xeeshan Theatre Studio
• Muhammad Nabeel – Co-founder & CTO, Healthwire
• Imran Cheema – Serial Entrepreneur & CEO, Zemotify
• Rukhsh Ali – Product Lifecycle & Growth Manager, Cridio Studio
• Ahmad Raza Cheema – Director of Product Innovation & Strategy, CubeWP

Impact on the Startup Ecosystem

This landmark competition represents a significant milestone in strengthening the startup ecosystem of Nowshera. By connecting emerging entrepreneurs with industry experts and investors, Northern University continues to position itself as a hub for innovation, leadership, and entrepreneurial development.

Posted Under:Entrepreneurship | Innovation | Industry Linkages

Northern University Expands Academic Offerings at 13th Academic Council Meeting

Monday, 27 January 2025

Northern University, Nowshera, convened its 13th Meeting of the Academic Council, focusing on strategic academic growth, curriculum enhancement, and policy alignment with the Higher Education Commission (HEC).

The meeting was chaired by Prof. Dr. Syed Munawar Hussain Shah, Rector, and attended by representatives from the Board of Trustees, Board of Governors, Higher Education Department (HED), Pro-Rector, Registrar, Controller of Examinations, Deans, Heads of Departments, and other council members.

Curriculum Advancements Aligned with HEC Standards

The Academic Council reviewed and approved curriculum advancements in accordance with HEC Graduate and Undergraduate Policies. These updates ensure the delivery of contemporary, high-quality education aligned with national academic standards.

Approval of New Degree Programs

A major outcome of the meeting was the approval of several new undergraduate and graduate degree programs, expanding academic opportunities across health, technology, and science disciplines.

Graduate-Level Programs:
• Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS)
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in English

Undergraduate-Level Programs:
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing
• Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Technology (MLT)
• Bachelor of Science in Radiology
• Bachelor of Science in Anesthesia Technology
• Bachelor of Science in Surgical Technology
• Associate Degree Program (ADP) in Mathematics
• Bachelor of Science in Mathematics with Machine Learning
• Bachelor of Science in Mathematics with Cyber Security

Adoption of HEC Policies and Academic Reforms

To further enhance academic governance and student services, the Academic Council approved the adoption of key HEC policies, including the Fee Refund Policy, Postgraduate Admission Criteria, and Rules for the Award of Degrees.

Expansion into the Health Sector

A landmark decision of the meeting was Northern University’s formal entry into the health sector with the launch of multiple healthcare-related degree programs. These initiatives aim to produce skilled professionals capable of meeting industry and societal needs.

Commitment to Academic Excellence

The Academic Council reaffirmed Northern University’s commitment to academic excellence, policy-driven governance, and student-centered development. The strategic decisions taken during the meeting will play a vital role in strengthening the university’s academic framework and reputation.

Posted Under:Academic Affairs | Policy & Governance | Curriculum Development

Higher Education Commission (HEC) Delegation Visits Northern University

3–5 January 2018

An exclusive delegation from the Higher Education Commission (HEC) undertook a formal visit to Northern University from 3rd to 5th January 2018.

The visit focused on a comprehensive review of the university’s academic, administrative, and research activities.

Purpose of the Visit

The HEC delegation conducted an in-depth assessment aimed at evaluating institutional practices, academic quality, governance mechanisms, and research infrastructure. The visit served as an important step toward strengthening alignment with national higher education standards.

Strengthening Institutional Collaboration

This engagement highlighted a shared commitment between the HEC and Northern University to enhance collaboration, mutual understanding, and continuous improvement in higher education practices across Pakistan.

Commitment to Quality and Standards

Northern University views the HEC visit as a significant milestone in its journey toward academic excellence, institutional transparency, and quality assurance. The university remains committed to adopting best practices that support sustainable growth and high academic standards.

Posted Under:Regulatory Affairs | Academic Quality | Institutional Development

Northern University Introduces New Bachelor’s Degree Programs

Academic Year 2018–2019

In the Academic Year 2018–2019, Northern University introduced a new range of Bachelor of Science (BS) degree programs, reaffirming its commitment to providing diverse, high-quality educational opportunities that meet evolving academic and professional demands.

Newly Introduced BS Programs

The newly launched programs were thoughtfully designed to cater to a wide range of academic interests and career aspirations across humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.

• BS Urdu
• BS Mathematics
• BS Environmental Sciences
• BS Pakistan Studies
• BS Political Science
• BS Psychology

Expanding Academic Horizons

The introduction of these programs reflects Northern University’s strategic focus on academic diversity, interdisciplinary learning, and student-centered education. These degree offerings aim to equip students with critical thinking, analytical skills, and subject-specific expertise required for successful careers and higher studies.

Commitment to Quality Education

Northern University remains dedicated to continuously enhancing its academic portfolio in line with national standards and global best practices. The launch of new Bachelor’s degree programs marks another step toward strengthening the university’s role in shaping future leaders and professionals.

Posted Under:Academic Affairs | Program Development | Undergraduate Studies

Northern University Holds Board of Governors Meeting

Northern University convened a meeting of its Board of Governors, bringing together senior leadership and key stakeholders to deliberate on strategic, academic, and administrative matters essential to the institution’s continued growth.

Key Agenda Items

The Board reviewed a wide range of agenda items, including academic program development, infrastructure planning, and financial oversight, with a focus on strengthening governance and institutional sustainability.

Review of Institutional Progress

Members examined progress reports from various departments, acknowledging achievements and identifying areas for improvement to ensure the delivery of quality education and effective administrative support.

Strategic Direction and Governance

The meeting served as an important platform for strategic decision-making, policy guidance, and long-term planning, enabling the university to address current challenges and explore future opportunities.

Commitment to Excellence

Northern University remains committed to excellence in governance and academic delivery. The Board of Governors continues to play a vital role in supporting the university’s mission, vision, and institutional development.

Posted Under:Governance | Strategic Planning | Institutional Development