Text & Photographs by Ar. Asma Qayoom
On June 4, 2025, the Department of Architecture and Planning (DAP) at Dawood University of Engineering and Technology (DUET) proudly celebrated a landmark achievement-the 100th lecture of its esteemed Design Spectrum Lecture Series. This milestone event marked over seventeen years of fostering a vibrant dialogue between architectural academia and professional practice, inspiring generations of students and practitioners alike with fresh ideas and enduring wisdom.
A Spiritual Beginning
The event opened with the verses of the Holy Quran for blessings, setting a solemn and reflective tone for the gathering. This spiritual invocation underscored the profound values of knowledge, ethics, and social responsibility that form the foundation of architectural education at Department of Architecture and Planning. Following this, a short video highlighting the journey of the Design Spectrum Lecture Series was played. The video captured key moments, memorable lectures, and the vibrant spirit that has defined the series
The Legacy of Design Spectrum
Following this, a short documentary chronicled the journey of the Design Spectrum Lecture Series. Through memorable snapshots and voices from the past, the video illustrated how the series has evolved into a vital platform for learning and professional exchange.
The Vision Behind the Series
The Design Spectrum Lecture Series was launched in 2008 by then-lecturer Prof. Dr. Yasira Naeem Pasha, who now serves as Dean of the Faculty of Civil Engineering and Architecture and Planning at DUET. Born out of a forward-thinking vision, the series was created to bridge a widening gap between academic learning and the realities of architectural practice.
At the time, architectural education in Pakistan was largely centered on classroom instruction, with limited exposure to contemporary practice and real-world challenges Prof. Dr. Yasira Naeem Pasha, recognized the need for a platform where students could regularly engage with practicing professionals – to hear firsthand about emerging trends, design thinking, and socially responsible approaches in architecture and planning.
From its inception, the series stood out for its inclusivity and intellectual depth. It welcomed not only prominent architects but also planners, conservationists, and designers working at the intersection of environment, community, and policy. Speakers were encouraged to share both their successes and the lessons learned from failures – offering students a realistic, well-rounded view of the profession.
Over time, the lecture series became a cornerstone of the department’s culture, fostering dialogue, mentorship, and inspiration. For many students, it served as a window into the vast possibilities within their field – encouraging them to think critically, act ethically, and design with purpose.
Today, with over 100 lectures to its name, the Design Spectrum Lecture Series continues to embody the values it was founded upon: curiosity, connection, and a commitment to meaningful, socially engaged design.
The inaugural lecture, delivered by Ar. Haider Raza on “Low-Cost Interior Design,” set the tone for what would become a deeply impactful tradition. Since then, the series has welcomed some of Pakistan’s most respected architects and thinkers – including Ar. Yasmeen Lari, Ar. Arif Hasan, Ar. Arshad Abdullah, and Ar. Faisal Bilwany – whose contributions have sparked inspiration and critical discourse.
Commemorating the 100th Lecture: Prof. Dr. Noman Ahmed’s Presentation
To honor this significant milestone, the department invited Prof. Dr. Noman Ahmed (T.I.), a distinguished alumnus and the Acting Vice Chancellor of NED University of Engineering and Technology, Karachi. His lecture, titled “DAP-Dawood Legacy: Learning from the Past to Step into the Future,” offered a compelling reflection on the golden era of the Department of Architecture and Planning at Dawood College of Engineering and Technology (DCET), spanning from 1972 to 2000.
Prof. Dr. Noman Ahmed (T.I.), Acting Vice Chancellor of NED University and a distinguished alumnus of the Department of Architecture and Planning (DAP) at Dawood College of Engineering and Technology (DCET), took the audience on a thoughtful journey through one of the most celebrated periods in architectural education in Pakistan.
A “Magical Chapter” in Architectural Education (1972-2000)
Prof. Dr. Noman Ahmed (T.I.), described the years from 1972 to 2000 as a golden era for DAP DCET-an era distinguished by a unique blend of intellectual rigor, innovation, and community spirit. It was a period when architectural education at the department transcended traditional methods, evolving into a vibrant, holistic movement that shaped not only skilled architects but socially conscious professionals.
He pondered what exactly made this era “magical” and whether such a time could ever be recreated. According to Prof. Dr. Noman Ahmed (T.I.), the answer lies in three pillars: the people, the philosophy, and the practices that defined the department.
The People: Visionary Leadership and Dedicated Faculty
The core strength of the department, Prof. Dr. Noman Ahmed (T.I.), emphasized, was its faculty. He paid tribute to the pioneering leadership of Professor Kausar Bashir Ahmad (KBA), whose visionary guidance helped transform DAP into a cradle of creativity and excellence.
Alongside KBA were a cadre of committed professors-Muhammad Amin Shaikh, Fahimullah Khan, Muhammad Asif Nawaz, Javed Haider, Ashraf Shanjer, Waqar Akbar Rizvi, and many others-whose mentorship and dedication were crucial in nurturing the students’ talents and aspirations.
Prof. Dr. Noman Ahmed (T.I.), also highlighted the role of visiting faculty and practitioners such as Arif Hasan, Najam Bilal, Sahibzada Farooq Rafeeqi, Yasir Aleem, and Ashraf Karim, whose contributions enriched the academic environment by bridging theoretical knowledge with real-world applications.
This diverse and passionate faculty created an ecosystem where students were encouraged not just to learn architecture but to live its values.
The Students: Bright Minds and Diverse Paths
During the era when Department of Architecture and Planning-DUET was the only architectural education institution in Karachi until 1990, it attracted some of the brightest and most motivated students. Dr. Ahmed reflected on the alumni’s broad influence across multiple fields including architecture, urban planning, conservation, and social development.
Noteworthy alumni such as Sheema Amir, Khadija Jamal, Perween Rahman, Faiz Kidwai, Hafiz Habibi, and Essa Khan exemplify the department’s far-reaching impact. Their work-ranging from conservation projects in Gilgit-Baltistan to grassroots social development in Karachi’s Orangi Pilot Project-speaks to the department’s emphasis on human-centered, socially responsive design.
The Philosophy: Socially Responsive Architecture as a Moral Compass
A defining feature of the department’s pedagogy, Prof. Dr. Noman Ahmed (T.I.), emphasized, was its dedication to socially responsive architecture-a philosophy that linked design with social ethics, contextual awareness, and community well-being.
This approach was championed by Professor Kausar Bashir Ahmad and his contemporaries, encouraging students to think beyond aesthetics or technicalities to the broader social implications of their work. The department’s studio exercises, especially those pioneered in 1979 under Dr. Javed Haider and Arif Hasan, were designed to integrate theory with practice in meaningful ways that addressed real societal needs.
One notable example shared by Dr. Noman Ahmed was the thesis project of Muhammad Naseer from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, whose design inspired by the concept of paradise showcased the creative freedom and cultural sensitivity nurtured at Department of Architecture and Planning.
The Environment: Freedom, Mentorship, and Intellectual Exchange
Dr. Noman Ahmed painted a vivid picture of a vibrant academic community where learning extended far beyond classrooms and studios. The “magic” of the department lay in an environment fostering freedom of thought, mentorship, and discovery.
He spoke of the faculty’s personal investment in students-not just academically, but in life mentorship-whether in informal settings such as the well-known Café Iranian, faculty offices, or even their homes. These close-knit relationships fostered a strong sense of belonging and commitment among students.
Innovation and Global Recognition
In the 1990s, DAP DCET continued to innovate by launching Pakistan’s first Urban Design Graduate Programme, attracting international faculty such as Dr. Sumer Gurel and Professor Derek Bradford from Rhode Island School of Design.
Dr. Noman Ahmed also highlighted the department’s recognition by the Commonwealth Association of Architects, which uniquely exempted its graduates from the rigorous RIBA Part 1 and Part 2 examinations-a significant achievement that enhanced the global mobility and stature of its alumni.
The department’s pioneering launch of Pakistan’s first peer-reviewed architecture journal in 1994 further established it as a thought leader in the discipline.
Reflecting on the Present and Future
Closing his lecture, Dr. Noman Ahmed posed a crucial question: Can the magic of the past be recreated? His answer was optimistic but clear-it would take more than nostalgia.
To revive that spirit of excellence and relevance, Dr. Ahmed urged stronger alumni engagement, active collaboration with other institutions, and a strategic repositioning of the department to align with today’s educational and societal challenges.
He emphasized that by learning from its rich history, the Department of Architecture and Planning at Dawood University can once again become a beacon of innovative, socially conscious architectural education-preparing future architects to design with purpose and impact.
A Thoughtful Conversation and Celebration to Remember
After Prof. Dr. Noman Ahmed’s inspiring talk, the room came alive with energy as students asked questions and joined a lively discussion. This wasn’t just a typical Q&A – it was a chance for students to connect the lessons from the past with their own hopes and ideas for the future. The conversation was full of curiosity and enthusiasm, showing how the Design Spectrum Lecture Series truly brings people together to learn and grow.
Next, Prof. Dr. Yasira Naeem Pasha, Dean of the Faculty of Civil Engineering and Architecture and Planning at DUET, stepped forward to deliver a warm and heartfelt vote of thanks. She expressed deep appreciation to everyone who contributed to the success of the design spectrum lecture series-from the dedicated faculty and students to the ever-supportive alumni and guest speakers.
In particular, she extended special thanks to Prof. Dr. Noman Ahmed for taking time out of his incredibly busy schedule to be part of this milestone lecture. Prof. Dr. Yasira Naeem Pasha also spoke with great affection and respect, noting that Dr. Noman Ahmed had been her teacher, and continues to be a valued mentor in her professional journey. Her words reflected deep gratitude, highlighting the lasting bonds and mentorship that shape the spirit of the Department of Architecture and Planning community
One of the most exciting moments was unveiling the Design Spectrum logo. Prof. Dr. Yasira Naeem Pasha (Dean of the Faculty of Civil Engineering and Architecture and Planning at DUET), Dr. Noman Ahmed (Acting Vice Chancellor of NED University of Engineering and Technology), Ar. Reena Majid Memon (Chairperson of the Department of Architecture and Planning at DUET), Ar. Sheema Amir (Secretary of the DAP-DUET Alumni), and other faculty members Department of Architecture and Planning-DUET proudly revealed the new logo together. This fresh symbol represents the series’ ongoing growth and commitment to creativity and excellence.
The event ended on a happy note with a cake-cutting ceremony and a group photo. Everyone’s smiles captured the strong bond and joyful spirit of the Department of Architecture and Planning community.
Looking Forward: Keeping the Spirit Alive
As the event wrapped up, there was a hopeful feeling in the air. The Design Spectrum Lecture Series and the rich history of the department remind us that the passion for architecture and learning is still alive and well – and can be even stronger in the future.
But to keep this magic going, the department needs more than just memories. It will take active support from alumni, closer teamwork between schools and professionals, and a clear plan to meet today’s challenges.
By learning from the past and working together, the Department of Architecture and Planning at Dawood University of Engineering and Technology Karachi is ready to help shape architects who don’t just design buildings – but who create thoughtful, meaningful, and sustainable spaces for the future.
The Design Spectrum Lecture Series stands as a shining example of how sharing ideas, mentoring one another, and exploring creativity can change lives – not just inside the classroom, but in communities everywhere.
In charge Design Spectrum Lecture Series: Ar. Tabish Tariq
