Allama Iqbal Open University: The Light of Knowledge, the Fulfillment of Bhutto’s Dream

WNAM REPORT: When the dream of enlightening the nation with the light of knowledge was envisioned, it was not by an ordinary individual, but by Pakistan’s then Prime Minister, Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. The result of his foresight and educational vision emerged in 1974 in the form of Allama Iqbal Open University. An institution that, holding the banner of distance education, continues to spread the light of learning even today.
Established in Islamabad, this great university introduced a new direction in the field of education not only in Pakistan but around the world. Its message is clear: “Education at your doorstep.” The practical manifestation of this message can be seen in every corner of the country. The university has now completed fifty years since its inception, and during these five decades, it has produced five million graduates—a remarkable and unparalleled achievement. This success is not only due to the hard work and commitment of the university itself but also a testament to the vision of the renowned Pakistani leader Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, under whose leadership this educational institution was founded. It not only opened the doors to knowledge but also gave the country an educated generation that is bringing significant changes in the social, economic, and political arenas.
Today, there is hardly a home in the country without a graduate or student of this university. There is hardly a school, college, or university where a trained teacher from this institution is not serving. Here, there are no restrictions of age, gender, or location. The mother sitting in a rural area who couldn’t attend school in her childhood, or the young man who had to abandon his education due to financial responsibilities—this university, founded by Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, is enriching everyone with the wealth of knowledge. The number of students enrolled in this university exceeds the total number of students in all public universities in Pakistan. The semester system, quality curriculum, and degrees approved by the Higher Education Commission are hallmarks of this institution. Graduates from here are not only playing key roles in national development but are also bringing pride to Pakistan on the global stage.
Allama Iqbal Open University is not just an institution; it is the fulfillment of a dream. A flame that Zulfikar Ali Bhutto lit, and today that flame is illuminating millions of lives. Among Bhutto’s numerous achievements, the founding of Allama Iqbal Open University stands out as a significant and lasting contribution—worthy of admiration and a permanent chapter in the nation’s educational history. This institution is a manifestation of his vision, his commitment to the people, and his dedication to knowledge, which continues to enlighten the lives of countless students by turning their dreams into reality.
The university’s current Vice Chancellor, Professor Dr. Nasir Mahmood, is a visionary, knowledge-friendly, and forward-thinking leader. He is someone who not only believes in spreading the light of knowledge but is actively working towards this mission.
It was two years ago when he took charge as the university’s Vice Chancellor. A fire was burning in his heart. He didn’t deliver a formal speech or follow tradition—he made a promise. A promise that didn’t come from books but from the heart: “We will reach 1.5 million students.” At that moment, it was not words, but his determination that spoke.
Dr. Nasir Mahmood is among those few educational leaders who lead with action. He himself steps into the field to begin the journey of change. At the start of each new semester, when admissions begin, he visits the most underprivileged, remote, and low-literacy areas of the country—regions usually neglected in educational planning. Along with his team, he goes to rural and semi-urban areas, meets local people, tribal elders, parents, and youth directly, listens to their concerns, and raises awareness about the importance of education.
Dr. Nasir Mahmood’s style of communication is captivating and touches hearts. He doesn’t just show people dreams of a better future through education; he ensures that the facilities to achieve those dreams are also provided. Simplifying the online admission process, offering guidance in regional languages, providing fee concessions, and spreading opportunities for scholarships—these are some of the reforms he introduced at the university.
His vision is not just about increasing enrollment numbers but enhancing the quality of education and ensuring the learning process reaches every home. For him, education is not merely a degree—it is the foundation of a social revolution. That is why he aims to take knowledge beyond the city walls and into villages, settlements, and remote corners so that every child, every youth, every woman, and every man can have the opportunity to learn.
Under the leadership of Professor Dr. Nasir Mahmood, this university has evolved from just an educational institution to an intellectual and educational movement. The author is fully confident that with his visionary leadership, this institution will reach new heights of progress and success.