The Third World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) initiated the proposal for the formation of Commission on Science and Technology for Sustainable Development in South (COMSATS). The (TWAS) at that time was headed by the Noble Laureate from Pakistan, Prof. Dr. Abd-ul-Salam. On his suggestion, the Foundation Conference was held in October 1994 in Islamabad. The Conference featured representatives of 36 countries and of various international organizations. The Conference unanimously adopted the resolution for the establishment of COMSATS.
COMSATS is an international organization, with its headquarter in Islamabad. The main objective of COMSATS is to sensitize developing countries to the centrality of science and technology in the process of development. COMSATS, right from its inception, has been supporting programs for the development of science and technology in developing countries. It has undertaken a number of programs in different areas to the benefit of the member countries.
COMSATS University Islamabad, Abbottabad Campus
Spanning an area of 308 Kanals, stands the grand structure of Abbottabad Campus of CUI. Imparting quality education, contributing effectively to the research base of Pakistan, providing state-of-the-art facilities to students, helping in social uplift of the community it is located in, the campus symbolizes a modern and progressive seat of learning. Abbottabad Campus became functional in July 2001, and the first academic session started in September 2001.
From a modest beginning with three departments and 121 student strength, three undergraduate programs and a physical structure comprising old World-War II barracks, emerged the leading institute of the region which has now twelve departments, student strength of 5672 (47 fold increase), 15 undergraduate programs, 24 graduate programs, and a qualified faculty strength of 386 including more than 212 PhDs and 90 modern laboratories. Our physical infrastructure emulates the best educational institutions in the country.
To meet the challenges of the National commitment to education, CUI Abbottabad plans, in the coming years, to launch 17 new departments with a focus on science led engineering, social, medical and agriculture sciences. Future of CUI Abbottabad campus is as challenging and exciting as the offerings of a wide array of contemporary disciplines offered to the coming generation of leaders and scientists. We do not distribute degrees; we breed a generation of leaders and live true to our Motto ‘We Aim to Inspire’
Dhamtour Campus
To meet the challenges of the national commitment for the education, CUI Abbottabad plans, in the coming years, to launch 17 new departments with a focus on science led engineering, social, medical and agriculture sciences. In order to cope up with the pressing need of expansion and accommodating the students and faculty in up to the mark and modern physical infrastructure, CUI Abbottabad Campus remained blessed to have 486 kanals of land allotted by the Government of Pakistan at Dhamtour. The village Dhamtour is situated at the east of Abbottabad City of Hazara Division, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Village Dhamtour is the gate way to the tourists places like Bara Gali, Nathiagali, Dunga Gali, Ayubia National Park, Miranjani Peak, Mushkpuri Peak and Murree.
The master plan of the CUI, Abbottabad Permanent campus Dhamtour is already approved. One state-of-the-art building covering an area of around 50,000 sq. feet has been constructed. Having 4 stories, this building includes conference rooms, 9 no. of classrooms, 10 large lecture halls, 4 Laboratories and 54 offices for the faculty and administration. On the similar pattern in accordance with the approved master plan another building of the same capacity is also being constructed under the visionary supervision of the Project/Campus Director Professor Dr. Muhammad Maroof Shah. The master plan of the CUI Abbottabad Permanent Campus Dhamtour entails 5 academic blocks, one Grand Mosque, Girls and Boys Hostel facility, Library spanning on an area of 20000 sft, Main Auditorium (app. 15000 sft), sports gymnasium and student service center. CUI, Abbottabad aims to provide the best modern and well-equipped facilitation for the students and staff. Providing such a magnificent campus in the vicinity of the beautiful land of Dhamtour will not only uplift the living standards of the locals in specific but the overall nation in general.
Pictures & Videos of Dhamtour Campus are available here
Degree Awarding Status
CUI attained the status of degree awarding institute vide the Presidential Ordinance No. XXXVIII issued on 12th August, 2000.