I hold a deep conviction that knowledge is central to societal progress, informed policymaking, and meaningful global engagement. It is with this understanding that I lead the Area Study Centre for Africa, North and South America, committed to advancing rigorous scholarship, intellectual openness, and responsible academic leadership.
I am guided by the core values of inclusivity, equality, diversity, academic freedom, and intellectual integrity. I believe that sustainable academic excellence emerges from environments that respect difference, encourage critical thought, and uphold ethical, evidence-based inquiry. These principles shape my approach to research leadership, academic governance, and institutional development.
My academic vision is to strengthen interdisciplinary and policy-relevant scholarship that deepens understanding of the historical, political, economic, cultural, and social dynamics of Africa and the Americas. Through high-quality research, scholarly exchange, and critical dialogue, I seek to contribute to evidence-informed policymaking and to support the Government’s broader mission of strengthening knowledge institutions and enhancing Pakistan’s constructive engagement at regional and global levels.
As Director, I remain committed to expanding research capacity, encouraging funded and applied research, supporting postgraduate and doctoral scholars, and fostering sustainable national and international collaborations with universities, research institutions, and academic networks of international standing.
I am equally committed to building an enabling academic and research environment through strategic planning, institutional coordination, and responsible resource mobilisation. By prioritising research funding, faculty development, and collaborative initiatives, I seek to ensure academic excellence, institutional sustainability, and long-term scholarly impact.
I am confident that, guided by shared values, strategic leadership, and collective effort, the Area Study Centre for Africa, North and South America will continue to make meaningful contributions to national priorities, global academic discourse, and the advancement of knowledge.
Dr. Raja Qaiser Ahmed