elcome and Orientation Day – Department of Botany, Hazara University

The Department of Botany, Hazara University, organized a Welcome and Orientation Day for newly admitted students of BS Botany, BS Forestry, MPhil Botany, and PhD Botany on 18th September 2025 in the Seminar Room. The event was attended by the newly enrolled students along with the distinguished faculty of the department.

The session began with the recitation from the Holy Qur’an, followed by a keynote welcome address by Prof. Dr. Ghulam Mujtaba Shah, Pro Vice Chancellor & Chairman, Department of Botany. In his address, he highlighted that Forestry and Botany are not only core scientific disciplines but also emerging fields of global relevance, particularly in the context of climate change, environmental sustainability, and biodiversity conservation.

Dr. Nazia guided the students on the academic requirements of the BS program.

Dr. Rabia Masood explained the syllabus and course structure.

The CMS Coordinator was introduced to facilitate smooth enrollment.

Dr. Abdul Majid warmly welcomed the students, elaborating on course contents and related academic matters with clarity and care.

Mr. Aftab Afzal spoke on discipline, campus law and order, and the importance of fulfilling one’s Islamic and moral responsibilities.

The Chairman appreciated the faculty and emphasized discipline, punctuality, and academic focus as key elements of success.

Motivational Insights by Dr. Alia Gul

Dr. Alia Gul, Associate Professor of Botany, delivered a highly motivational address, reminding students that “Hazara University is the body, and they are its soul.” She encouraged students to embrace the campus as their second home, offering both academic guidance and emotional support. She assured them that with discipline, determination, and mentorship, they would thrive in the university’s supportive ecosystem.

She introduced the wide range of facilities available to enrich their academic journey and well-being, including:

Wi-Fi-enabled study spaces and the Central Library

Hostels, Cafeteria, and Printing & Composing Centre

Gymnasium, sports facilities, and Medical Centre

Scholarships, linkages, workshops, seminars, study tours, and recreational trips

Dr. Gul emphasized that these opportunities are pathways to resilience, leadership, and confidence, urging students to balance academic responsibilities with healthy recreational activities for a well-rounded university life.

She concluded with an inspiring message:

“I am truly delighted to welcome you to the Department of Botany! This year will be a remarkable journey of learning, discovery, and personal growth. Together, we will support one another, embrace challenges, and create unforgettable memories. Remember—you are the soul of this university, and your energy makes us stronger. Let’s begin this exciting chapter with passion and purpose!”
— Dr. Alia Gul, Associate Professor of Botany

Her address received warm applause and smiling faces, reflecting the students’ excitement, confidence, and hope for the bright journey ahead.

The program concluded with words of thanks and appreciation from the Chairman, followed by a group photograph of faculty and students. Refreshments were served, and all participants prayed for the continued success of the Department. Special gratitude was extended to Prof. Dr. Ikramullah Khan, Vice Chancellor, for his approval and notification of the BS Forestry program, opening new academic avenues for students.