Mardan: Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan hosted a grand Job Fair Open House 2026, attracting participation from 45 leading national and international companies, while students showcased 223 innovative projects and research-based stalls.
The event’s chief guest was former provincial minister and Member of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly Zahir Shah Toru. The event was organized by Dr Ehtisham, Director IBL, and Dr Bilal, Director CDC.
During the job fair, representatives of various organizations conducted interviews with students and distributed job letters to successful candidates, providing graduates with direct employment opportunities.
Senior PTI leader Ilyas Toru, Haroon Khan, faculty members from different universities and colleges, industry representatives, and business leaders also attended the event. Among the distinguished guests were Mardan Chamber of Commerce President Owais Khan and Ubaidul Haq.
Addressing the ceremony, Zahir Shah Toru announced a grant of Rs10 million from his personal funds to promote research activities at the university. He urged students to embrace innovation, creative thinking, and especially Artificial Intelligence (AI), stating that future success would belong to youth equipped with modern technological skills.
He also called upon industries to provide greater practical opportunities for young graduates to excel professionally.
Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Jameel Ahmad said the university was steadily progressing in academic excellence, research, and professional training. He noted that the university ranks first in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and among the top ten universities nationwide in the Times Higher Education rankings.
He further revealed that several advanced projects were underway at the university, including fisheries research centers, honeybee farms, animal vaccine production, and modern health-related products. Work is also in progress on establishing a business incubation center, business park, and skill development center to enhance entrepreneurial and technical skills among students.
