Karachi (HRNW)- The Department of Applied Physics proudly organized a special ceremony to mark the launch of the Professor Dr Azhar Ahmad Ansari Legacy Award for Academic Excellence in Applied Physics, aimed at recognizing outstanding academic performance among BS Applied Physics students.
The event was chaired by the KU’s Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Khalid Mahmood Iraqi, and distinguished guests, faculty members, alumni, and students attended the event held at the departmental auditorium on Friday. The ceremony highlighted the department’s commitment to promoting academic excellence and honoring the legacy of eminent educators.
The departmental in-charge Dr Zeeshan Alam Nayyar informed the audience that Legacy Award has been instituted to acknowledge students who secure top academic positions each year. This includes an Award of Academic Excellence for all the position holders of BS Applied Physics (Morning and Evening Programs) and a cash prize of Rs50,000, which will be awarded to the First Position Holder of the BS Applied Physics (Morning Program).
“This prestigious initiative has been generously established by the Applied Physics Alumni of the 1978 and 1979 Cohorts. Their contribution reflects a deep sense of gratitude and commitment to their alma mater.”
He highlighted the significance of recognizing merit and preserving the legacy of distinguished scholars.
Dr Zeeshan Nayyar shared that the award is a tribute to Professor Dr Azhar Ahmad Ansari, whose visionary leadership, academic integrity, and lifelong dedication to teaching and mentorship shaped the Department of Applied Physics for several decades. His enduring influence continues to inspire both students and faculty.
Earlier, in his address, the KU VC Professor Dr Khalid Mahmood Iraqi appreciated the initiative and emphasized the importance of alumni engagement in fostering academic excellence and institutional growth.
He praised the department’s decision to dedicate the Excellence Award to Dr Ansari, calling it “commendable and worthy of emulation.” He noted that Dr Ansari was usually described as a key figure in Applied Physics, but, actually, his stature extended far beyond the department, making him “a great and proud name for the entire University of Karachi.”
The KU VC Professor Dr Khalid Iraqi highlighted that Dr Ansari played a vital and effective role in various capacities during his service at KU. “There are only a few individuals in society who believe that academic activities alone are not enough, and that one must contribute meaningfully in every sphere of life. Dr Azhar Ansari was among those distinguished personalities.”
He further emphasized that recognition should always be based on performance, lamenting that in Pakistan priorities are often misplaced. He added that nevertheless, it is essential to acknowledge such individuals and their services.
The KU VC Professor Dr Khalid Iraqi stressed that Dr Ansari’s creative vision was inseparable from his practical achievements. “He was an outstanding researcher and a great teacher, with the ability and courage to transfer knowledge to the younger generation and constantly encourage them to pursue quality education.”
The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks, expressing sincere appreciation to the alumni, who decided to honor outstanding student performance and commemorate the remarkable contributions of the late professor.
