ISLAMABAD: On Pakistan's Independence Day, the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) announced a notable achievement in research through its Research Excellence Incentive Framework. According to International Islamic University Islamabad, one year after the framework's introduction, 105 faculty members generated 331 high-quality research publications for 2025, enhancing the university's research stature both nationally and globally.

The framework, initiated in August 2025 by IIUI President Prof. Dr. Ahmed Saad Alahmed, was part of the Initiative for Scholarly Recognition, emphasizing research excellence as a key institutional goal. Prof. Dr. Alahmed secured Rs. 4.83 million, with financial backing from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to reward eligible publications.

Under the leadership of Prof. Dr. Ahmad Shuja Syed, Vice President (Research and Enterprise), the framework was aligned with national research standards and international ranking metrics. Dr. Rashid Farooq, Director of the Office of Research, Innovation, and Commercialization (ORIC), managed the submission and review process, ensuring the initiative's transparent and effective operation.

Publications were classified into W- and X-categories, with W-category papers earning USD 100 and X-category papers USD 80, converted to Pakistani rupees at the current exchange rate. The framework also recognized five researchers whose work had the highest impact, awarding each Rs. 150,000.

Of the 501 PhD faculty members at IIUI, 105 contributed to the university's international ranking through their research. The Faculty of Sciences led with 221 publications, with significant contributions from the Faculties of Engineering and Technology and Social Sciences. The Centre of Excellence in Advanced Electronics and Photovoltaic Engineering (CAEPE) also ranked highly in output.

Eight faculty members reached the Rs. 150,000 cap for W-category publications, including Dr. Ahmed Zeeshan and Dr. Tahir Mahmood from the Faculty of Sciences. The university's leadership emphasized that this milestone highlights IIUI's expanding role in research and sets a baseline for future achievements. President Prof. Dr. Ahmed Saad Alahmed is expected to distribute prizes to the high-achieving faculty members.