The Department of Social Work at the University of Peshawar hosted the public PhD Defence of Mr. Mudassir Shah on Friday, November 14, 2025, marking the culmination of years of rigorous research and academic commitment. The PhD Defence brought together faculty and peers for a thorough evaluation of his dissertation and methodological approach in social work.
A notable feature of the session was the presence of external examiner Dr. Fatima Sajjad, whose work in critical peace studies and decolonial thought provided a nuanced and probing perspective during the defence. Her questions and observations added intellectual depth and helped frame the study within broader debates in decolonial and peace scholarship.
The defence committee included Dr. Shakeel Ahmed as chairperson and supervisor, Dr. Abida Bano as co-supervisor, Dr. Syed Hussain Shaheed Sohervordi as internal examiner, and Dr. Fatima Sajjad as external examiner. Together the panel assessed both the empirical findings and the theoretical contributions of the thesis, ensuring that the PhD Defence met the standards expected at the University of Peshawar.
PhD defences are defining academic moments where scholars defend their findings and reflect on their intellectual journey. Mr. Mudassir Shah demonstrated persistence and scholarly discipline throughout his research, and his work promises to contribute meaningful insights to the field of social work. Warm congratulations are extended to him, and appreciation is due to Dr. Fatima Sajjad for her thoughtful engagement that strengthened the examination process.
