The Department of Chemistry was launched in 1984 at the Muzaffarabad Campus, recognizing the vital role of chemistry in national development. Initially, the department offered only MSc programs in Physical, Inorganic, Organic, and Biochemistry. Over time, it responded to societal demands by providing skilled manpower and enhancing its academic standards. With dedicated efforts in education, the department grew significantly by recruiting qualified faculty and establishing state-of-the-art laboratories. To keep pace with global standards, a four-year BS Chemistry program has been initiated, aligned with the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan’s policy framework.
Academic excellence and research distinction at the department have been acknowledged nationally. Notably, a faculty member received the prestigious “Sitara-e-Imtiaz” from the Government of Pakistan. Six faculty members were recognized as “Best University Teacher” by HEC and UAJK. Two others received the “Salam Teacher Award”, while several others earned gold medals at the national level. These accolades reflect the department’s commitment to high-quality education and research.
Understanding the pivotal role of education in societal progress, the department continuously refines its programs to meet contemporary needs. The aim is to produce chemists equipped to serve the community in diverse ways. In addition to core scientific education, soft-skills and Professional Development (PD) courses are planned to further enhance the capabilities of graduates, making them more versatile and employable.
The department is actively engaged in research, with many faculty members listed among the Productive Scientists of Pakistan by the Pakistan Council for Science and Technology (PCST). Key research areas include natural products, metal extraction, coordination chemistry, surface and environmental chemistry, bio-analytical and analytical chemistry, organic synthesis, sonochemistry, and biological activity studies. Faculty members regularly publish in internationally recognized journals.
The curriculum follows HEC guidelines, ensuring national and international recognition. Graduates are well-positioned for careers in education, with many serving from primary to university levels. Others have joined esteemed institutions such as HEJ Research Institute, Quaid-i-Azam University, PINSTECH, PIEAS, National Centre for Physics (NCP), and the University of the Punjab. Many are also pursuing PhDs at prominent universities both in Pakistan and abroad.
Co-curricular activities are essential for personal and professional development. The department organizes and encourages participation in events such as exhibitions, poster sessions, awareness walks, and seminars aligned with international observances. Students actively engage in university and inter-departmental sports and cultural programs, promoting teamwork and leadership.
The department plans to commence classes at the newly built King Abdullah Campus, Chatter. Future initiatives include launching specialized courses such as Computational Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, and Material Chemistry at the M.Phil. level, ensuring alignment with global advancements in the field.
Swiss scientist Christopher Glaser defined “chymistry” in 1663 as the art of dissolving and recombining substances to create refined materials. In 1999, Brown, LeMay, and Bursten described chemistry as the “central science” linking disciplines like physics, biology, and geology. Reflecting these perspectives, our BS program offers a multidisciplinary curriculum. Students gain a strong foundation in chemistry while also studying mathematics, physics, botany, zoology, statistics, geography, and economics.
The program includes compulsory courses in English, Islamic Studies (or Ethics), Arabic, and Pakistan Studies. Students are also encouraged to participate in co-curricular activities, such as competitions and educational tours. Interdisciplinary research is offered on a merit basis. Regular seminars and workshops with national and international scientists enrich student learning, fostering academic excellence and presentation skills.
Phone: +92 5822 960406
Email: chemistry@ajku.edu.pk