Prof. Dr. Iftikhar Ahmad, TI
PhD, Materials Science and Engineering, University of Idaho, USA
Director, Center for Computational Materials Science, University of Malakand
Prof. Dr. Iftikhar Ahmad, TI, is a distinguished Pakistani academic, scientist, and educator. He has served as the Vice Chancellor of both Gomal University and Abbottabad University of Science and Technology (AUST). Currently, he is a Professor and the Director of the Center for Computational Materials Science (CCMS) at the University of Malakand (UOM). Dr. Ahmad is renowned for his contributions to quantum science, computational materials research, and higher education reforms in Pakistan. His achievements include establishing Pakistan’s fastest supercomputer, mentoring 38 PhD scholars, publishing over 250 research articles in leading international journals, and introducing the 2+2 Model of higher education. His published work has garnered approximately 7,000 citations, with an impressive h-index of 42.
Early Life and Education
Dr. Ahmad was born in Matta, Swat, into a family dedicated to education. His father, Mr. Muhammad Saeed (known as Serai Ustad), was the first teacher appointed to Matta School in 1945, playing a pioneering role in the region’s educational development. Dr. Ahmad is the youngest of four siblings, with two brothers, Dr. Habib Ahmad and Dr. Rashid Ahmad, who also served as Vice Chancellors in Pakistan.
Dr. Ahmad completed his MSc in Physics from Peshawar University and his MPhil from the Center of Excellence in Solid State Physics, University of the Punjab. He initially began his PhD in Physics at Quaid-i-Azam University (QAU) but later received a scholarship from the United States and completed his PhD in Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) from the University of Idaho, USA, a land-grant institution. During his time in the United States, he was recognized for his teaching excellence, receiving the Teaching Excellence Award at the University of Idaho and being named Best Teacher at Louisiana State University.
Career
Academic Leadership
Dr. Ahmad has held several prominent positions in Pakistan’s higher education sector, including:
- Vice Chancellor, Gomal University (2020 - 2023)
- Founding Vice Chancellor, Abbottabad University of Science and Technology (AUST) (2016 - 2019)
- Provost, University of Malakand (2012 - 2014)
- Director, Center for Computational Materials Science, University of Malakand
- Head of Department of Physics, UOM and Hazara University
His tenure as Vice Chancellor saw significant reforms in curriculum design, academic policies, and governance, modernizing higher education and equipping students with skills for the global job market. Dr. Ahmad’s leadership is marked by a commitment to discipline, governance, and inclusivity.
Administrative Reforms
Dr. Ahmad is renowned for his disciplined approach to leadership and his firm belief that growth in developing countries like Pakistan is only achievable through strong discipline and adherence to the rule of law, rather than personal preferences. His tenure as a leader is marked by a commitment to restoring order, ensuring fairness, and fostering inclusivity in academic institutions. He successfully eradicated drugs, pressure groups, and workplace harassment from Gomal University, AUST, and the UOM, creating safer and more academically-focused environments. Dr. Ahmad actively promoted inclusivity by supporting women in leadership roles, advocating for gender equity in the workplace, and extending strong support to underrepresented students, including those from low socio-economic backgrounds and individuals with disabilities, ensuring their access to education and opportunities. He demonstrated remarkable problem-solving skills by resolving long-standing and complex administrative challenges, such as addressing the decades-old degree verification issues at Gomal University and resolving problems related to the 2008 and 2014 selection boards, which had caused stagnation and unrest within the institution. Dr. Ahmad’s focus on discipline and governance has not only improved institutional functioning but has also established a culture of meritocracy, transparency, and accountability. His efforts have left a lasting impact on the academic institutions he has served, earning him widespread recognition for his transformative leadership.
Scientific Contributions
Dr. Ahmad is widely regarded for his groundbreaking research in quantum science and computational materials science. He is the Founding Director of the Center for Computational Materials Science (CCMS) at the University of Malakand, where he has overseen advancements in simulation-based research on materials and computational technologies.
One of his landmark achievements was developing the fastest supercomputer in Pakistan for academic research, with the support of a dedicated volunteer, Mr. Asif Osman. This accomplishment showcases his vision in high-performance computing. Dr. Ahmad’s extensive research contributions include over 250 publications in leading international journals, which have been cited approximately 7,000 times. His scholarly output reflects his status as a leading figure in the field, with an h-index of 42.
Dr. Ahmad has also mentored 38 PhD scholars, many of whom now contribute significantly to research and innovations. His efforts have played a pivotal role in building research capacity in Pakistan.
Advocacy for Educational Reforms
Dr. Ahmad has been a vocal advocate for systemic reforms in Pakistan’s education system. His initiatives focus on transitioning from outdated rote learning methods to a knowledge-based system that emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and problem-solving abilities. He has conducted workshops and training sessions across Pakistan to enhance the quality of education and improve faculty capacities.
His key focus areas include:
- Promoting quality higher education.
- Reforming the semester system to ensure meaningful learning outcomes.
- Introducing the 2+2 Model to improve access to and the quality of undergraduate education.
- Bridging the gap between education and industry by producing skilled graduates.
- Preparing students for challenges in the global job market.
Dr. Ahmad has also highlighted systemic disparities in the education system, such as the excessive burden placed on schoolchildren and the lack of skill development among university graduates.
2+2 Model of Higher Education
Dr. Ahmad recognized the fragmented education systems in Pakistan, with colleges following traditional annual systems and universities using semester systems, leading to varying standards and quality. To address this, he introduced the 2+2 Model, which integrates both systems1.
Key Features of the 2+2 Model:
- First Two Years: Students complete foundational courses at local colleges or universities.
- Final Two Years: Students transfer to universities with advanced resources and specialized faculty to complete their degrees.
This model aims to improve access to quality education, optimize resource use, and ensure students graduate with internationally competitive skills.
Benefits of the 2+2 Model:
- Enhanced Accessibility and Affordability: Reduces financial and logistical barriers by allowing students to start their education locally.
- Efficient Resource Utilization: Makes better use of existing educational resources.
- Alignment with Global Job Market: Prepares students for global job market demands by providing advanced knowledge and skills.
Dr. Ahmad’s 2+2 Model is considered a milestone in Pakistan’s educational reforms, aiming to improve both the quality and equity of higher education.
Quantum Initiatives Pakistan
Dr. Iftikhar Ahmad has been a guiding light of scientific enthusiasm and a catalyst for change in Pakistan’s educational landscape. In 2023, he launched “Quantum Initiatives Pakistan,” aimed at raising awareness and promoting quantum sciences nationwide. Initially themed “In Search of Schrödinger’s Cat,” the initiative evolved to “March for Quantum, March for Science: Every Step Counts” with the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, reflecting a mission to advance science and technology in Pakistan.
Dr. Iftikhar’s efforts to inspire the youth towards STEM are truly commendable. He travels extensively, engaging with students, educators, and communities to highlight the importance of these fields. His passion for fostering a culture of scientific inquiry and innovation is evident in every initiative he undertakes.
Widely recognized as a key figure promoting science and technology in Pakistan, Dr. Iftikhar focuses on physics, mathematics, engineering, and quantum mechanics. He actively runs awareness campaigns and organizes activities in universities and colleges nationwide, receiving strong support and recognition within the academic community.
Beyond "Shut Up and Calculate" – Championing Quantum Awareness in Pakistan
Dr. Iftikhar Ahmad’s commitment goes beyond administrative and promotional efforts. He initiated the “Beyond Shut Up and Calculate” campaign, which aims to make quantum mechanics more accessible to a broader audience. This initiative, along with his Quantum Awareness Campaign, highlights his dedication not only to advancing scientific knowledge but also to ensuring it is communicated effectively and engagingly.
Dr. Iftikhar Ahmad’s unwavering commitment to promoting and raising awareness of quantum sciences in Pakistan is paving the way for a new generation of scientists and researchers. His initiatives are not just about education; they are about inspiring curiosity, fostering innovation, and building a future where science and technology lead societal development.
Innovation in Physics Admissions Followed by Engineering Council
In 2010, as Head of the Physics Department at Hazara University, Dr. Iftikhar Ahmad pioneered an approach allowing biology students to enroll in BS Physics. Despite initial resistance from the physics community, its practical applicability led to its eventual adoption by universities nationwide.
In 2013, the National Curriculum Revision Committee (NCRC) for Physics, chaired by Dr. Iftikhar, formally approved the initiative during HEC meetings. This marked a significant milestone for interdisciplinary education in Pakistan.
In 2024, the Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC) adopted Dr. Iftikhar’s idea for engineering admissions, showcasing its far-reaching influence. For more details on the PEC decision, read the article here
Dr. Iftikhar has also been involved in efforts to make mathematics compulsory for all students in 11th and 12th grades, ensuring they develop essential foundational skills.
His work to integrate biology and physics education, and his advocacy for compulsory mathematics, reflect his commitment to breaking down academic barriers and promoting interdisciplinary learning. His visionary leadership continues to inspire educational institutions to innovate and adapt to the evolving needs of the scientific community.
Beyond shut up and calculate and quantum awareness campaign
Dr. Iftikhar initiated a drive with a theme of Quantum Initiatives Pakistan in 2023 and under this banner arranged many activities. He has initiated a drive initially in 2023 with a theme of In Search of Schrodingr’s Cat, but in the wake of the International year of quantum science and technology he switched the theme to: March for Quantum: Every Step Counts for the promotion of science in technology in Pakistan. He is encouraging youth for science and technology and mathematics and is traveling across the country for the promotion of science and technology.
He is the pioneer of the innovation allowing biology students in BS physics in 2010, when he was Head of Physics department, hazara university, where the same idea was adopted by the Pakistan engineering council for engineering admissions in 2024.
He is one of the key persons in the country for the promotion of science and technology in Pakistan with emphasis in physics, maths, engineering and quantum mechanics. He has been running an awareness campaign in this regard and has arranged activities in the various universities and colleges. He has developed a strong supporter
Honors and Awards
Dr. Ahmad has been recognized nationally and internationally for his contributions:
