The Department of Political Science was founded in 1962 at the University of Peshawar, the oldest and most renowned institution located in the northwestern region of Pakistan. Since its inception, the department has offered a comprehensive platform for studying and analysing political theory, comparative politics, public policy, governance, and international relations. Dedicated to promoting scholarly excellence, the department emphasises evidence-based knowledge production, the use of interdisciplinary frameworks and methodologies in the study of politics, and policy relevance.
Established in 1962, the Department of Political Science is among the oldest teaching departments at the University of Peshawar. Prof. Dr. Mrs. Afsar Saleem Khan was one of the pioneering founders, who will be remembered for her contribution to establishing the department. The learned professor led a team of dedicated faculty members who played an equally vital role in its development. Among those committed individuals were Prof. Dr Asrar Hussain, Dr Muhammad Riaz (of Law College), Prof. Dr Raja Muhammad Naib and Prof. Iqbal Tajik. All these faculty members elevated the institution’s academic standards. In the 1980s, the two specialized courses, namely Public Administration and International Relations, offered at the department, enabled the faculty to develop into two separate institutions, i.e., the Institute of Management studies and the Department of International Relations. The department is proud of providing manpower resources to higher education institutions, the civil service of Pakistan, and various private and public sector organizations.
When I joined university, I had heard little about how undergraduate life works, leaving me with little guidance. But on the 1st day, I had a class with Dr. Ayub Jan who became my instant favourite and bursted many bubbles about university. Gradually I got to know more faculty who always motivated and encouraged me to do well, always reminded me of my potential and guided me wherever I felt stuck. The administration is top-notch and treats us like family. The environment is quite conducive to discussions on every type of topic. My life as an undergraduate student at this department has been a transformative journey; personally, professionally and academically.
Abdullah
My name is Amama Arif. I’m from the 3rd semester in the Department of Political Science. I thoroughly enjoy the multitude of subjects that come with taking Political Science as a subject. This can mean anything from Law and Philosophy to Economics and Quantitative Reasoning. The multifaceted curriculum was what initially piqued my interest when I was deciding what department to join. It helps me never get bored.
Amama Arif
I really appreciate the department’s efforts in maintaining clean and healthy environment for better learning. The faculty is rich in experience but availability is a little low to junior classess. Proper use of technology and addition of co curricular activities on daily basis has always been a key contribution of political science department. Overall the department provide a strong academic experience .
Hanif Akbar
I’m Muhammad Haider Toheed , a student of political science at University of Peshawar. My experience in this department has been very enriching. In this institute, I didn’t just learn about political science, but it was also equipped with modern tools of discourse building. My institute didn’t just improve my speaking skills ,but it also enhanced my analytical capabilities.
Muhammad Haider