Prof. Dr. Naveed Akhtar is an accomplished individual with a strong background in the field of pharmaceutical sciences. He was born in Bahawalpur, Pakistan, and received his early education from Govt. Abbasia High School and Govt. S.E. College Bahawalpur. He completed his B. Pharm. (Bachelor of Pharmacy) in 1989 and his MPhil (Master of Philosophy) degree in the subject of Pharmaceutics from the University of Punjab in 1991.
In 1994, Prof. Dr. Naveed Akhtar joined the Islamia University of Bahawalpur as a Lecturer in Pharmaceutics. He recognized the importance of further education and pursued his Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Cosmetics Technology from Anadolu University Eskisehir in Turkey, which he successfully completed in 2001.
Upon his return to Pakistan, Prof. Dr. Naveed Akhtar established the first state-of-the-art pharmaceutical cosmetics laboratory in the country. This laboratory played a central role in advancing research and development in the field of pharmaceutical cosmetics within Pakistan.
Throughout his career, Prof. Dr. Naveed Akhtar has shown dedication to education and research. He has supervised and mentored numerous students, guiding them toward higher degrees and academic success. Under his supervision, 35 PhDs and over 100 MPhil scholars have successfully completed their studies.
Prof. Dr. Naveed Akhtar has also made significant contributions to scientific literature, publishing around 300 research articles. His expertise and knowledge in pharmacy and cosmeceuticals are further evident through the authorship of six books, establishing him as a leading figure in the field.
His commitment to research has been recognized and supported by various funding agencies. He has successfully completed six research projects funded by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and the Pakistan Science Foundation.
In addition to his academic accomplishments, Prof. Dr. Naveed Akhtar has achieved significant milestones in his professional career. He has steadily progressed through the ranks at the Islamia University of Bahawalpur, being selected as an Assistant Professor in 2003, Associate Professor in 2008, and finally being promoted to the rank of Professor in 2011. These promotions reflect his expertise, experience, and impact in the field of Pharmaceutical Sciences.
Prof. Dr. Naveed Akhtar has also held various administrative positions within the university. He served as the Principal of the University College of Conventional Medicine from 2009-15, as Chairman of the Department of Pharmacy from 2011-2022, and later as the Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy in 2017 and the Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences in 2021. He was appointed as Pro-Vice Chancellor of the Islamia University of Bahawalpur in 2022. These roles have allowed him to contribute to the overall growth and development of the university, initiating flagship allied health sciences programs, research initiatives, and faculty development. He chaired many committees for the smooth running of university affairs and always practised ethical and judicious roles in all matters.
As a native of Bahawalpur, Prof. Dr. Naveed Akhtar’s personal connection to the region has further fueled his dedication to the development and progress of the university and the community. His recognition as the “Son of the Soil” signifies his acceptance and integration within the local community, fostering trust, integration, and mutual respect.
Prof. Dr. Naveed Akhtar’s commitment to excellence, adherence to the rules and regulations of the university, and understanding of the local context have played significant roles in his contributions to education, research, and administration. His work has had a positive impact on the university and the wider Bahawalpur community, making him a highly respected figure in the university and community.
Prof Dr. Naveed Akhtar has received several prestigious awards and recognitions for his outstanding contributions. These awards include the “Sitara Pakistan Gold Medal Award” and the “Quaid-e-Azam Gold Medal,” both awarded by the Tehreek-e-Istehkam-e-Pakistan Council (Registered) Pakistan in 2011. He has also received the “Research Productivity Awards” from the Pakistan Council for Science and Technology for the years 2010 and 2016. These accolades highlight his excellence, dedication, and significant impact in the field of pharmaceutical sciences.