Zaman Research Centre

In the bustling academic landscape of Islamabad, a city known for its vibrant educational institutions and commitment to intellectual growth, the Zaman Research Centre at Quaid-i-Azam University (QAU) stands out as a hub of innovation and impactful scholarly work. While not a university in itself, the Zaman Research Centre is an integral and dynamic component within the prestigious Quaid-i-Azam University, specifically operating under the esteemed School of Sociology. This unique positioning allows it to leverage the extensive academic resources and intellectual capital of one of Pakistan's highest-ranked universities.

The Centre is a testament to the power of dedicated research in addressing real-world challenges and contributing to societal advancement. It focuses on critical areas, often bridging the gap between academic theory and practical solutions, particularly within the social sciences. For students, researchers, and policymakers in Islamabad Capital Territory, the Zaman Research Centre represents a beacon of advanced study and pioneering initiatives, fostering an environment where knowledge is not just created but also applied to benefit the community. It embodies the spirit of inquiry and a commitment to excellence that Quaid-i-Azam University is renowned for, attracting bright minds eager to contribute to significant research endeavors that shape our understanding of society and drive progress.

The Zaman Research Centre is ideally located within the expansive and serene campus of Quaid-i-Azam University Islamabad, specifically at the School of Sociology, University Road, Islamabad, Pakistan. This prime location places it in the heart of Islamabad's academic and research hub, making it highly accessible for students, researchers, faculty members, and collaborators from across the Islamabad Capital Territory and beyond.

Quaid-i-Azam University's campus itself is well-connected to various parts of Islamabad. For those relying on public transport, numerous routes serve the university, including local buses and ride-sharing services, ensuring a convenient commute. Students and researchers often utilize the university's dedicated transport services, which further enhance accessibility from different residential areas of the city. The spacious campus layout and well-maintained roads within the university also facilitate easy movement once on site. For visitors and researchers coming from other cities, Islamabad's well-developed road network and public transport infrastructure ensure that reaching Quaid-i-Azam University is straightforward. The university's prominent standing means it is a well-known landmark, making navigation simple for first-time visitors. The secure and academic environment of QAU provides a conducive setting for focused research and intellectual exchange, making the Zaman Research Centre not just accessible geographically, but also intellectually welcoming.

The Zaman Research Centre, as a specialized research entity within Quaid-i-Azam University's School of Sociology, offers a range of services primarily focused on research, analysis, and knowledge dissemination, contributing significantly to both academia and public policy. While not a typical university offering diverse degree programs, its services are invaluable to the academic community and the wider society:

• Applied Social Research: Conducting in-depth research on critical social issues, often with a focus on areas relevant to Pakistan, such as youth violence, consanguinity, road safety, and social welfare.
• Policy Development and Recommendations: Translating research findings into actionable policy recommendations for government bodies and non-governmental organizations, aiming to influence public policy for societal betterment.
• Academic Publications: Contributing to scholarly literature through the publication of research papers, monographs, and books in national and international journals and presses. This includes work on topics like exchange marriages, social movements, and cyber-ethics.
• Collaborative Research Projects: Engaging in inter-university and inter-disciplinary collaborations, bringing together experts from various fields and institutions (e.g., QAU, IIUI, NUST, LUMS) to tackle complex societal problems. A notable example is its work on comprehensive road safety systems.
• Data Analysis and Methodological Expertise: Utilizing advanced research methodologies and statistical analysis techniques to generate rigorous and reliable data-driven insights. This includes expertise in qualitative and quantitative research methods.
• Smart Solutions Development: Pioneering innovative technological solutions for societal challenges, such as the design of a revolutionary smart licensing model for enhanced road safety, integrating with government databases like NADRA and FBR.
• Conferences, Seminars, and Workshops: Organizing and participating in academic events to disseminate research findings, facilitate intellectual discourse, and build capacity among students and fellow researchers.
• Mentorship and Guidance for Researchers: Providing a platform for M.Phil. and Ph.D. scholars, particularly those from the School of Sociology and related departments, to conduct their research under the guidance of experienced faculty, contributing to their thesis work and academic development.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: Contributing to awareness campaigns based on research findings, particularly in areas like road safety, to inform and educate the public on crucial societal issues.

The Zaman Research Centre, operating within the prestigious Quaid-i-Azam University, boasts several distinguishing features and highlights that underscore its significance in Islamabad's research landscape:

• Focus on Impactful Applied Research: Unlike purely theoretical academic centers, Zaman Research Centre places a strong emphasis on applied research that directly addresses pressing social issues in Pakistan. This ensures its work has tangible relevance and potential for real-world impact, such as its studies on youth violence and road safety.
• Pioneering Smart Solutions: A key highlight is its innovative approach to leveraging technology for societal benefit. The ongoing development of a "smart licensing model" for Islamabad, integrating with government databases like NADRA and FBR for real-time traffic management and violation detection, showcases its commitment to cutting-edge, practical solutions.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: The Centre actively fosters collaboration with researchers from various faculties within QAU (like the School of Sociology) and other leading universities across Pakistan (including IIUI, NUST, LUMS, and Ibadat University). This consortium approach brings diverse perspectives and expertise to complex research projects, particularly in areas like comprehensive road safety systems encompassing mass transit, smart parking, and road management.
• Contribution to Public Policy: Under the leadership of figures like Prof. Dr. Mohammad Zaman, the Centre aims to translate its research into actionable policy recommendations. This direct engagement with public policy demonstrates its commitment to driving positive change and providing evidence-based solutions for governance.
• Leveraging QAU's Academic Excellence: Being housed within Quaid-i-Azam University, which is consistently ranked among Pakistan's top universities and boasts a strong research output, the Centre benefits from a robust academic infrastructure, access to a vast central library (Dr. Raziuddin Siddiqi Memorial Library), and a highly qualified faculty.
• Addressing Social Challenges: Research projects undertaken by the Centre delve into critical social challenges faced by Pakistani society, from examining "The Troika of Violence" (violence at home, school, and street) to studying the impact of consanguineous marriages on health and fertility. This focus ensures its research is relevant and contributes to understanding and mitigating societal problems.
• Knowledge Dissemination: The Centre is active in publishing its findings in reputable academic journals and presenting at conferences, ensuring that its research contributes to the broader academic discourse and is accessible to other scholars and policymakers.
• Mentorship for Future Researchers: It serves as a vital platform for M.Phil. and Ph.D. students to conduct their research, providing them with guidance, resources, and exposure to high-level academic inquiry, thus nurturing the next generation of Pakistani researchers.

As a research centre operating within a public university, Zaman Research Centre at Quaid-i-Azam University does not typically offer "promotions" or "special offers" in the commercial sense. Its value proposition is centered on its academic contributions, impactful research, and the inherent benefits it provides to the scholarly community and society. However, there are ongoing "offers" that might be of interest to prospective researchers, students, and collaborators in Islamabad:

• Access to High-Quality Research Opportunities: For M.Phil. and Ph.D. students enrolled at Quaid-i-Azam University, particularly within the School of Sociology and related social science disciplines, the Centre provides an exceptional opportunity to participate in cutting-edge research projects. This access to active, policy-relevant research is a significant academic advantage.
• Collaboration for Policy Impact: For government bodies, NGOs, and other research institutions in Islamabad, the Centre offers opportunities for collaboration on research projects that aim to inform and shape public policy. This includes working on innovative solutions like the smart licensing model for road safety, which is supported by the Higher Education Commission (HEC).
• Mentorship by Leading Scholars: Students and junior researchers have the chance to be mentored by distinguished faculty, including Prof. Dr. Mohammad Zaman, who are experts in their fields and are actively engaged in significant research initiatives. This direct interaction is invaluable for academic growth.
• Contribution to National Development Projects: The Centre is involved in larger "mega projects" sponsored by the HEC, focusing on providing innovative solutions to pertinent national issues. Participation in such projects offers unique learning experiences and the chance to contribute to national development.
• Access to University Resources: Being part of Quaid-i-Azam University means that researchers associated with the Centre benefit from the vast resources of the university, including its extensive central library, well-equipped departments, and a vibrant academic environment.
• Dissemination and Visibility: Through the Centre's research and publications, individuals contributing to its projects gain visibility within the academic community both nationally and internationally, enhancing their research profiles.

Individuals interested in research collaborations, postgraduate studies with a focus on applied social sciences, or seeking expert consultation on social policy issues are encouraged to directly approach the School of Sociology or the Zaman Research Centre at Quaid-i-Azam University for detailed information on current projects, research assistant opportunities, and collaborative avenues.

For all inquiries regarding the research activities, collaborations, or other information related to Zaman Research Centre, you can connect through the following details:

• Address: Quaid e Azam University Islamabad, School of Sociology, University Rd, Islamabad, Pakistan
• Phone: (051) 90642040
• Mobile Phone: +92 51 90642040

It is advisable to contact the Centre during regular university working hours for the most effective communication. Given its location within the School of Sociology, specific inquiries about its research projects or potential academic collaborations can be directed to the faculty members associated with the Centre or the administrative office of the School of Sociology at Quaid-i-Azam University.

For the residents of Islamabad Capital Territory, particularly students, aspiring researchers, and policymakers, the Zaman Research Centre at Quaid-i-Azam University stands out as an exceptionally suitable and vital institution. Its suitability stems from several key factors that directly benefit the local community and contribute to the region's intellectual and societal growth.

Firstly, its strategic location within Quaid-i-Azam University, a beacon of academic excellence in Pakistan, provides unparalleled access to world-class resources, expert faculty, and a vibrant research ecosystem. This means local students do not have to look far for opportunities to engage in high-level, impactful research. The Centre's focus on applied social sciences ensures that its research is directly relevant to the challenges and opportunities present within Pakistani society, particularly within the urban context of Islamabad. From studies on road safety and smart city solutions to analyses of social dynamics like youth violence, the research conducted here directly addresses issues that touch the lives of everyday citizens.

Furthermore, the Centre's commitment to developing practical solutions, such as the innovative smart licensing model, demonstrates a proactive approach to improving public services and safety in Islamabad. This not only benefits the city's infrastructure but also provides unique learning and collaboration opportunities for local talent. For post-graduate students in sociology and related fields, the Zaman Research Centre offers invaluable mentorship and hands-on experience, nurturing the next generation of researchers who will continue to contribute to the nation's development. In essence, Zaman Research Centre is more than just an academic entity; it is a catalyst for positive change, a fount of knowledge, and a tangible asset that empowers the local community of Islamabad through cutting-edge research and innovative solutions, shaping a brighter, more informed future.

Zaman Research Centre

Quaid e Azam University Islamabad, School of Sociology, University Rd, Islamabad, Pakistan