By Musarrat Arif
KARACHI: The Vice Chancellor of the University of Karachi, Professor Dr Khalid Mahmood Iraqi, inaugurated the newly constructed Academic Block for the Faculty of Science on Thursday.
The 30,000-square-foot block, completed at a cost of Rs283 million, was funded by the Federal Higher Education Commission and the Planning Commission of Pakistan. The building features three floors—Ground, First, and Second—each housing two modern classrooms with a seating capacity of 60 students, two laboratories with storage facilities, and dedicated rooms for lecturers, assistant professors, and professors. The Head of Department’s office is located on the ground floor.
Speaking at the inauguration, Professor Dr Khalid Mahmood Iraqi highlighted the need for expanding infrastructure to accommodate the growing number of students and departments. He emphasized that alongside construction, regular maintenance is essential for the long-term utility and effectiveness of university facilities. He thanked the Federal HEC and the Planning Commission for their support, noting that the new block would greatly benefit students.
Dean of the Faculty of Science, Professor Dr Balqees Gul, described the new Academic Block as a landmark addition that symbolizes collective dedication to education, research, and academic excellence. She welcomed the new facility, underlining that it reflects the Vice Chancellor’s vision of promoting high-quality education and modern research. Professor Dr Balqees Gul also expressed gratitude to the funding bodies and hoped the block would significantly enhance teaching and learning for faculty and students alike.
