ASC has long sailed without a permanent director, the
centre’s head, amid reasons known only to the QAU administration. After the VC,
then the Dean of Social Sciences, has shouldered the helm, the post remains in
limbo.
The building, though housing many rooms, reveals an
odd distribution: M.Phil students squat in an internal library or a seminar
room, while PhD scholars claim a smaller room of their own, though it’s
decidedly cozier than their ambitions. Yet despite the hurdles, the classroom tech offered a
glimmer: a projector, when M.Phil and PhD classes ran in parallel, we have to
toss for a win. And when it worked, we have to find a piece of wall much neater
and cleaner for the reflection that we found after a long struggle. But yet
again, we love this exercise.
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Dr. Sadia Sulaiman: an inspiring educator, a role model
|
During our program, ASC joined
hands with the US Embassy to host the 16th International American Studies
Conference: Seventy-Five Years of US-Pakistan Relations. Being in the loop, a
senior student told this scribe that collaboration is always valuable, yet this
time not a single ASC M.Phil student received an invitation. “We only learned
of the conference through social media,” he lamented. “It could have been a
rich learning opportunity for us all if we’d been included,” he lamented.By the time I am inscribing this,
Dr. Sadia Sulaiman would have rejoined the centre as its in-charge. She taught
us Research Methodology (RM) for a brief period of time before going on a
semester break. Dr. Sulaiman carries a natural courtesy that endears her to
students and colleagues alike, and she stands firmly for meritocracy.
She has completed her PhD from Nanyang Technological
University, Singapore. Her area of interest is Strategic Studies. Students to
whom I have talked to, believe that Dr. Sulaiman has been an inspiration, and
her kind and positive attitude will always be remembered and we make sure to be
in contact with her forever.
One of a brilliant student of our batch opines, “Dr.
Sadia's brief but impactful presence left a lasting impression on me. Her
teaching style and expertise in research methodology won my heart, making the
subject come alive with practical applications.”
She goes on saying, “in just two weeks, Dr. Sadia's
teaching approach for RM struck a perfect balance between theory and practice.
Her on-point guidance and practical demonstrations made the subject truly
awesome to learn,” she concludes.
An exceptional teacher stays
hungry for knowledge, continually updating theories and methods, and welcoming
feedback as fuel for students’ growth. Dr. Bahramand Shah embodies this ethos.
He is insightful, approachable, adaptable, organized, and driven by passion and
optimism.
He is a genuine humanist, openly
honouring the vital roles women play in society. “I must commend ASC female
colleagues, especially, for handling responsibilities here at the Centre and at
home with exceptional competence. Men often take on domestic chores
reluctantly, as if it were a grudging duty, whereas women tackle them with
genuine care and gusto,” he asserts.
Dr. Shah’s
classroom feels more like a dynamic forum than a traditional lecture. He
usually opens with a soft murmur, “...oh my god… what do you think about this?”
and a lively, endless debate quickly unfolds.
Dr. Shah is a masquerader in ASC
as far as his ‘foreign look’ is concerned. With a PhD from Indiana University
of Pennsylvania and a Fulbright background, his scholarly heart lies in
American Literature. He’s well-groomed, soft-spoken, and remarkably
approachable, having taught us Multicultural Literature in the USA.
 |
| A cursory glance gives an impression this man on podium is a Spokesperson for the US State Department, but actually its our very own Dr. Bahramand Shah (a beguiler). |
He once
praised our 2022 batch as the most committed seekers of knowledge, only to
declare in 2023 that the current batch is merit-driven and ambitious and is the
best he’d seen. I smiled back at him without saying a word, recognizing the
truth in his evolving yet identical praise for all (batches).
When asked if he has ever faced an
existential crisis or nihilism like Herzog (a professor within or without us),
he nods and says yes, he wrestled with it, yet emerged without struggle. Dr.
Shah says he isn’t in the habit of judging students by caste, creed, colour, or
ethnicity; instead, he weighs them by their ideas and written work, though he
admits he also relies on a sharpened peripheral sense to read between the
lines.
Dr. Shah is a gem, approachable,
warm, who urges each student toward critical thinking to broaden their
understanding.
A female student (while not being gullible) observes
that “Dr. Barhamand Shah's serious demeanor and focused approach greatly inspired
me. His concise, direct style ensured clarity, and his professional poise
sustains a high standard of conduct throughout the course.”
 |
Sharing light moments with Dr. Munawar Hussain
|
No member of the ASC faculty has enjoyed the kind of
public spotlight that Dr. Munawar Hussain commands, whether on television,
YouTube or across social media. Scholarly, eloquent and impeccably turned-out,
Dr. Hussain’s wheelhouse is international affairs, but his lectures are
kaleidoscopes: In the classroom, he is mercurial, opening many of his talks
with his trademark line, “… to bunyadi tor per baat ye hai ke…” and from there he weaves International Relations theory,
philosophy, metaphysics and empirical evidence into a single session, all to
interrogate and justify a student’s methodological choices in Research Methodology,
a delicate blend of art and science he seems uniquely gifted to teach.Once, moving his gaze around the circle of students, he
paused on me and announced with a hint of flair, “This fellow, Mahtab, is one
of my favourites. Well-dressed, cultured, the sort who minds his own business.”
It stunned us all. I’ll flip the script: Dr. Munawar stands out as a true
mentor, knows just when to give a gentle push, and expects one in return.
Dr. Munawar is the epitome of unpredictability. One
moment, he appears almost vulnerable (about recording his voice in the
classroom), observing students glued to their phones, and the next, he
transforms into a disciplinarian, rigid and old-school about maintaining order.
Yet, many students secretly view him as a bit of a swagger, someone who
commands attention effortlessly. As one student, who wishes to remain
anonymous, puts it, "When grading papers, he seems to zero in on a particular
student’s behavior in class, almost as if it influences his assessment."
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Dr. Munawar Hussain: A life-long mentor
|
At times, Dr. Munawar’s lectures meander into
tangents that seem to have little connection to the topic at hand (but that,
perhaps, is a story for another day). Even in his occasional rambling, he
effortlessly blends names of “George Bertrand Russell” and “Stephen Hopkins”- whether
by design, a slip of the tongue, or simple confusion. Regardless, there's no
denying that Sir Munawar is the department's trump card, a true standout. Overall, the atmosphere in Dr. Munawar’s classroom
was relaxed and often lively, filled with laughter, until a student's blunt
remark left a lingering tension, one that seemed to particularly affect Sir
Munawar. In an attempt to ease the situation, I suggested to that “shopaholic
student” that she might want to reconsider her monthly spending habits, and
humorously urged Sir. Munawar to explore alternative income streams to match
her shopping budget (pun intended).
That student once remarked, "Sir, my monthly
shopping bill surpasses your entire month's salary." That line haunted Sir
Munawar, echoing in his thoughts, probably, until the next batch arrived.
As I write this, Dr. Munawar's YouTube channel has
likely crossed the 1 million subscriber milestone, a feat he often predicted,
reminding students to subscribe, like, share, and hit the bell icon before
diving into the lecture. A key theme in his lectures is the emphasis on
instilling moral values in Gen Y or Z, making it a cornerstone of his
teachings.
Juggling multiple responsibilities with remarkable
skill, one could say Dr. Munawar is a master of time management. Yet, his
Achilles' heel remains his struggle with punctuality, a rare flaw in an
otherwise meticulously managed life.
 |
Students with Amb. Nadeem Riyaz- a keynote speaker in ASC's series of seminar
|
Dr. Munawar is a product of Quid-i-Azam University
(QAU), having completed his undergraduate, M.Phil., and Ph.D. at this
prestigious institution, which stands as one of the continent's finest. A
long-serving member of the ASC faculty, he proudly declares, "I am made in
Pakistan, and I take great pride in it." He goes on to highlight the
legacy of renowned researchers like Dr. Islam, Dr. Aslam Syed, Dr. Jaspal, Dr.
Cheema, and others, who have emerged from QAU and later served as distinguished
professors at top universities worldwide. Despite receiving an offer from
Stanford University, USA, Dr. Munawar chose to remain dedicated to his
homeland. A source of inspiration for countless students, Dr.
Munawar’s unwavering commitment has been instrumental in the growth of the ASC.
Along with the club's cabinet members, he has organized a series of lectures
featuring numerous diplomats and dignitaries. Full of innovative ideas, he is
confident that Pakistan will never face default, and that ‘cypher’ was a
reality.
In this Centre of Excellence, if there's one
character who could be described as garrulous but a "loquacious
sage", it’s undoubtedly Dr. Tahir Jamil, aka Dr. TJ. Engaging in
conversation with him is like opening a treasure trove of knowledge; he’s a
walking lexicon. Dr. Jamil is an erudite, astute, and progressive individual
who never hesitates to raise his voice against ‘the elite capture’ all the
time.
Dr. TJ is a passionate bibliophile and a dedicated
aficionado of classic Indian music. From what I've observed, his lectures wrap
up with a call to action for students, urging them to read more, engage in
thoughtful brainstorming, generate creative ideas, watch insightful films, and
partake in lively debates. And, of course, each session finishes with his
signature sign-off: "..... and that's the whole story like that."
“I’ve never had a fight with
anyone, or at least I can’t recall it now,” he says with a smile. “But one
thing’s certain, I respect everyone, and I expect the same in return. I don’t
concern myself with students’ lives outside the Centre, nor do I need to. When
it comes to the student-teacher relationship, humility, politeness, and an
eagerness to learn and engage in debate are what matter most.” And that's the
gist of it, according to Dr. TJ.
Dr. Tahir Jamil earned his Ph.D. from Claremont
College, USA, and is a proud Fulbright alumnus. His academic interests lie in
American Politics and Public Policy. A man with a keen sense of humor, Dr.
Jamil can effortlessly tickle your funny bone, though some might describe his humor
as "a bit warped." His quick-wittedness extends across a broad range
of topics, from domestic issues to international affairs, socio-economics to
religious politics.Dr. Jamil’s infectious joy brings a unique energy to
his U.S history lectures, transforming them into lively, engaging sessions. A
student recalls, "His enthusiasm ensures that there’s never a dull moment
in his class."
Dr. Jamil, known for his unconventional thinking,
constantly inspires students to engage in critical analysis. "In general,
it’s harder to assess girls, they tend to be more elusive and deceptive than
boys, and they often put in more effort when memorizing," he explains.
"This makes female students trickier to evaluate, but it's the teacher's
responsibility to be perceptive and fair when judging each individual,” TJ
said.
Dr. Jamil, a humble scholar at heart, enjoys spending
time with students in informal settings, whether at a hut or in the campus
cafeteria, regardless of the less-than-ideal conditions. His genuine nature and
unpretentious demeanor, both in and out of the classroom, have earned him a
reputation as a true scholar, one who doesn’t need to flaunt it.
In addition to his academic pursuits, Dr. Jamil also
holds the charge of student affairs and oversees the American Studies Club
(ASC). His versatility and wisdom continue to inspire students, leaving an
indelible mark on their academic journeys.
I feel incredibly fortunate to be a student about to
embark on my M.Phil thesis journey under Sir TJ's mentorship. As I search for
the ideal topic, Sir TJ has kindly offered to assist in refining both the
subject and synopsis in the days ahead.
Dr. Ayesha Siddiqa is presumably the youngest faculty
member at ASC, having earned her Ph.D. in English Literature from the University
of Durham, UK, on a prestigious Commonwealth Scholarship. Her academic passions
span African American Studies, Postcolonial Studies, and Critical Theory, and
her teaching style reflects her sharp intellect and dedication.
Renowned for her methodical approach in the
classroom, Dr. Siddiqa cultivates an atmosphere that is both interactive and
disciplined, ensuring that chaos and disruption have no place in her lessons.
I count myself fortunate not to be her student, as
otherwise, I’d likely be caught up in revising one of her demanding courses
instead of working on my thesis.
 |
believes empathy is more powerful than sympathy
|
On a more serious note, numerous students, when
speaking to me, had nothing but high praise for Dr. Siddiqa. They describe her
as a woman of strong character, dominant, punctual, and often reserved. She’s
perhaps the only faculty member who truly embodies the essence of her
profession. Whether interacting with students, responding to messages, or
engaging in classroom debates, she is always encouraging and supportive, said a
female student.Although a staunch feminist, Dr. Siddiqa does not let
her beliefs influence her grading, treating all students equally regardless of
gender. It’s no wonder she is one of the most popular instructors, admired for
her adaptability, empathy, and patience.
In her classroom, the exchange of ideas is vibrant,
and her focus on real-world learning makes every lesson valuable. However, one
aspect that stands out is her unwavering stance on grades. "She won’t give
an extra mark for anything, no matter the situation," one student
remarked. "Maybe she's not the most generous when it comes to grading
papers, but it’s good that she’s consistent and doesn’t play favourites."
 |
| We work together, & we achieve more? |
Arfa Khan, a third-semester M.Phil student, fondly
recalls her time in Dr. Siddiqa’s class: “Studying at ASC has been an
incredible experience, especially in Dr. Ayesha Siddiqa’s class. Her
professionalism and passion make the learning environment inspiring and
engaging. Even though I’m not a literature student, her American literature
class was one of the highlights of my academic journey.” Arfa goes on to
commend Dr. Siddiqa’s ability to make the subject come alive, making it not
only accessible but enjoyable, sparking interest in a way she never expected. “ASC is truly fortunate to have Dr. Ayesha Siddiqa,”
Arfa continues. “Her dedication to American literature and her skill in making
the material both compelling and relevant create a positive learning experience
for students from diverse academic backgrounds.”
Beyond her academic prowess, Dr. Siddiqa is known for
her deep compassion. Several of her female students have shared that Dr.
Siddiqa secretly supported them financially during their coursework, ensuring
they could continue their studies. Her quiet generosity has been a lifeline for
many, cementing her role as both an educator and a mentor in the truest sense
of the word.
 |
With incumbent President ASC Khalil-ur-Rahman
|
Our batch was a vibrant mix of unique personalities,
each adding their own spark. Tahreem, Fatima, and Tabinda brought educational brilliance,
while Asad and Mujeeb embodied relentless determination. Mahnoor’s blunt
honesty kept us grounded, and Said Mohammad’s playful quirks never failed to
entertain. Roshni’s silence spoke volumes, Aftab Maken shared his experience in
journalism, and Arfa, the ever-chatty one, filled the room with endless
conversations. Mahtab Bashir, with his barrage of silly questions, kept
everyone on their toes with humour and mischief.The atmosphere in our class was always warm and
friendly. During exam time, the so-called 'elites' (as we were often labelled by
Sir. TJ and Sir Munawar) couldn't escape the nervous jitters. Before the strict
direction of Sir. Munawar, I, on the other hand, was always the first to set my
phone on the table, because I had the other one in my pocket.
Chicanery wasn’t a common sight in the class, but there were
always a few who lived by the mantra, "When the cat's away, the mouse
shall play,” and used the autonomy when teachers and invigilating staff vanished. During those critical
moments, the ASC support staff definitely proved their worth, though their
support seemed to favour certain students. All in all, our first two semesters
on campus were nothing short of enjoyable. Saying goodbye is tough, but it’s
time to move on.
QAU was no
stranger to me, having spent many days playing on its cricket ground during my
school and college years. Later, thanks to my schoolmate Raja Tahir Mahmood
(now Dr. Tahir Mahmood from Karakuram International University & from QAU
Economics Department), I found myself submitting my M.Sc. application at the
very last moment. I completed my M.Sc. from QAU (2000-2002) before stepping
into the media industry.
Fast forwarding, during my time at ASC, many
individuals, faculty, staff, and fellow students were instrumental in shaping
my experience. My heartfelt gratitude goes out to the faculty, office staff,
library officials, and everyone who played a part in my journey.
While some students, as noticed, struggled with
distractions like addiction, infatuations, or getting caught in the web of
student politics at QAU, I offer a simple piece of advice: “Time might be a
healer but it’s more like a cruel teacher”.
As the American Studies Club President, I owe a deep
thanks to my cabinet members. A special mention goes to Fatima and Alishba,
whose “unexpected support” led to my election. I must also acknowledge Arfa,
Mujeeb, and Asad, whose unwavering, or should I say 'weaving' support was as crucial as that election was.
 |
| ASC in inter-departmental cricket tournament does well. We are ousted in the semis. |
My gratitude extends to Khalil-ur-Rehman, the current
ASC President, for ensuring a smooth leadership transition during tumultuous
times, in the time of domestic and international turmoil.Aftab Maken, my classmate and colleague, deserves a
special mention. Despite our struggles as working journalists, we bridged the
gap between full-time students and ourselves, learning from each other every
step of the way. I often told him, day after day, that we seemed like misfits
in the classroom, but he always brushed off my words with his usual calm.
Words can
scarcely convey the depth of my respect and gratitude for the ASC faculty,
their tireless pursuit and sharing of knowledge have been truly remarkable.
Though, I never had the chance to see all of them gathered under one roof,
whether at an internal event or an outdoor excursion. And when I asked the
reason, the answer was simple: “Everyone’s balancing countless
responsibilities, and time isn’t exactly a luxury.” Perhaps not the full story,
yet I chose to accept it, at least for the moment.
Though many of us, I, in
particular, alongside the current ASC President Khalil, longed to see changes
in the institute’s infrastructure, its modest classrooms lacking modern
equipment, the absence of a dedicated cafeteria, and a more dynamic approach to
promoting ASC’s mission on both national and international fronts, the centre
still holds a special place in our hearts. Despite its imperfections, ASC
remains the place where we spent some of the finest years of our lives.
The laughter, the lessons, the day-night
discussions, and the shared moments of triumph and struggle will stay with me
for a lifetime. ASC wasn’t just a place of learning; it was where I discovered
myself. And though the time has passed, the bond I share with this place and
its people will remain, always.
Wishing all my mates the best of
luck and Godspeed!
The writer is pursuing M.Phil at the Area Study Centre,
Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, focusing research on a thesis titled “U.S.
Pro-Israel Policy: The Rise of Anti-American Rhetoric in Pakistan.”
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