The Mushtaq Ahmad Gurmani School of Humanities and Social Sciences (MGSHSS) congratulates Dr. Tania Saeed and Dr. Umair Javed, Associate Professors at the School, on receiving the prestigious LUMS Award for Teaching Excellence. This recognition celebrates their outstanding contributions to teaching, commitment to student development, and dedication to fostering critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and meaningful engagement with social and political issues.

Dr. Umair Javed’s teaching encourages students to critically examine the structures and relationships that shape society. By connecting political and social theory with contemporary issues, including urban change, labour, and inequality in Pakistan, he creates an engaging learning environment grounded in curiosity, rigour, and compassion. His approach incorporates evolving scholarship, student interests, writing, and field research to help students develop independent arguments and analytical skills. His commitment to mentorship also extends beyond the classroom, with former students becoming research collaborators and co-authors.

Dr. Tania Saeed’s teaching is driven by a commitment to making learning creative, reflective, and relevant to students’ lives. Through innovative assignments, discussion, and critical engagement, she encourages students to connect theories of education and society with their own experiences. Her teaching activities invite students to explore the personal and social histories of everyday objects and engage creatively with theoretical ideas, including reflecting on the possibilities and limitations of artificial intelligence. Beyond the classroom, her mentorship supports students in bringing underrepresented stories from their communities to wider audiences.

The recognition of Dr. Saeed and Dr. Javed highlights their shared commitment to academic excellence, thoughtful pedagogy, and student-centred learning. Their work exemplifies the vital role of inspiring teaching and dedicated mentorship in nurturing independent thinkers and engaged scholars.

MGSHSS extends its warmest congratulations to Dr. Tania Saeed and Dr. Umair Javed on this well-deserved recognition and celebrates their continued contributions to teaching excellence at LUMS.