ISLAMABAD – Iqra University (IU) Islamabad H-9 Campus hosted its flagship grand alumni dinner, “The Ascent 2026 – Reconnect. Rise. Reimagine,” bringing together a distinguished assembly of graduates, industry leaders, and academic stalwarts to celebrate the university’s legacy.
The evening served as a strategic platform to bridge the gap between industry and academia. Key highlights included the official launch of the IU Alumni Mentorship Program, designed to promote professional collaboration and provide students with direct access to global industry insights.
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Badar Abbas Shah (Head of Career Services Office) emphasized that alumni are the university’s primary ambassadors. Dr. Eatzaz Ahmad (Associate Dean, Iqra University Islamabad) delivered the welcome address, noting that the event reinforces the university’s commitment to building lifelong, value-driven relationships with its graduates.
The night featured a blend of nostalgia and innovation, including "E-Meet" video messages from alumni across the globe, a lively Tambola session, and a musical performance. The evening concluded with a formal dinner and networking session, allowing former classmates to explore future business collaborations.
Alumni Excellence Awards 2026 – Honoring Remarkable Achievers
The highlight of the evening was the Alumni Excellence Awards, recognizing graduates who have made significant contributions to their fields.
|
Award Category |
Recipient |
Achievement Highlights |
|
Young Alumni Excellence |
Ms. Kinza Saeed |
Recognized for eco-friendly textile entrepreneurship and empowering women through vocational training. Her achievements include recognition by the Handicrafts Association of Pakistan as one of Pakistan’s best artisans (2024) |
|
Social Impact & Community Service |
Dr. Syed Asad Ali Shah |
CEO of Fake News Watchdog and Technology Research & Innovation Markaz (TRIM); honored for contributions to social research, media literacy, and community development. |
|
Entrepreneurial Excellence |
Mr. Moiz Jawed |
Founder of V Surfaces; recognized for massive and rapid business expansion in interior solutions across major Pakistani cities. |
|
Innovation & Technology |
Mr. Muhammad Umer Gulzari |
CEO of agefilms.; credited for work on Pakistan’s first Netflix original series and blending AI with filmmaking. |
|
Corporate Leadership |
Mr. Zeeshan Khan |
Honored for leadership in corporate communications within Pakistan’s energy sector and shaping national stakeholder engagement. |
|
Corporate Leadership |
Mr. Zeeshan Khan |
Project Director at HEC; recognized for overseeing a Rs. 22.6 billion portfolio and excellence in national project management. |
|
Academic & Research Excellence |
Dr. Faisal Riaz |
Dean at Mirpur University of Science & Technology; honored for pioneering research in autonomous systems and developing Pakistan’s first indigenous autonomous industrial loader. |
|
Adventure & Sports (Trailblazer) |
Ms. Nida Ali Khan |
First Pakistani woman to summit Laal Buti Peak (16,000 ft); recognized for promoting women’s empowerment in adventure sports. |
