Beaconhouse National University - Center for Policy Research

Mr. Mansoor Ahmad Khan

Mr. Mansoor Ahmad Khan currently serves as the Director of the Beaconhouse Center for Policy Research (BCPR) and Head of the Initiative on Pakistan’s Place in the World. This initiative, housed within BCPR, is dedicated to analyzing and shaping Pakistan's role and image on the global stage

Before joining BCPR, Ambassador Khan concluded a distinguished career in the Foreign Service of Pakistan spanning over 32 years. Throughout his diplomatic journey, Mr. Khan undertook pivotal roles in various capacities within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and across Pakistan’s diplomatic missions worldwide. Notably, he served as Ambassador of Pakistan to Afghanistan, Austria, and the Slovak Republic, as well as Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN in Vienna. Previously, he held diplomatic postings in significant locations such as Kabul, New Delhi, Harare, and Pakistan's Mission to the UN in Geneva.

An area of expertise for Mr. Khan lies in regional diplomacy and economic integration, reflecting his substantial contributions in these domains over the years. Notably, he served as Pakistan’s Ambassador to Afghanistan from 2020 to 2022, during which he navigated the transitional period and the Taliban's assumption of power in 2021. In recognition of his valorous service in challenging circumstances, Ambassador Khan was honored with the Sitara-e-Shujaat award in March 2023.

For any inquiries or correspondence, Mr. Mansoor Khan can be reached through the following contact details:
Email: mansoor.ahmad@bnu.edu.pk
Phone: 04238100156

Dr. Zainab Ahmed

Dr. Zainab Ahmed is the Deputy Director of the BNU Center of Policy Research, and an Assistant Professor of Political Science at Beaconhouse National University, Lahore. She is an interdisciplinary researcher focusing on water security, water governance and international relations, specifically the intersection of water and climate with national and regional security. She is a PhD holder in International Relations at the University of the Punjab where she did her dissertation on The Securitization of Water: Redefining the National Security of Pakistan. She is also a graduate of the same institution with a MPhil in International relations and MA in Diplomacy and Strategic Studies (Gold Medalist).

Dr. Zainab has been an academic leader and researcher, holding positions as Chairperson of the Department of International Relations at Lahore Garrison University and Associate Editor of the Academic Journal of Social Sciences. She has worked in the most prestigious universities like Forman Christian College University, University of the Punjab, and Lahore Garrison University, and at Beaconhouse National University.

She can be reached at:
Email: zainab.ahmed@bnu.edu.pk

Urooj Sumbal

Urooj Sumbal holds a Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts from Beaconhouse National University (BNU). As Research Associate and Outreach Coordinator at the BNU Centre for Policy Research (BCPR), she organizes and manages high-profile seminars, policy roundtables, and workshops, ensuring seamless execution. Urooj oversees communications, coordinates with speakers and stakeholders, and drafts concept papers and analytical reports on topics such as unity in diversity and global policy challenges.

Previously, Urooj also interned at the Planning & Development Board, Punjab (June–August 2022), contributing to the World Bank’s PTEGP Project by researching and drafting proposals for sustainable tourism and cultural heritage preservation.

Ms. Mahreen Zaib Mughal

Ms. Mahreen Zaib serves as a Research Associate and Project Coordinator at BNU's Centre for Policy Research. With an MPhil in Art and Design from the Pakistan Institute of Fashion and Design, she brings a dynamic blend of research, visual communication, and project management expertise to her role. Her academic journey began at the University of the Punjab, where she pursued a multidisciplinary undergraduate degree in Arts, Psychology, and Journalism. She has previously worked as a Creative Research Manager in Dubai and as a Creative Designer at Systems Limited, where she led design initiatives that merged functionality with storytelling. At BNU, Ms. Zaib holds a multidisciplinary role that combines her expertise in creative design, research, and strategic communication. As the Editor of Policy Beacon, she is responsible for managing research papers and shaping editorial frameworks. She plays a key role in coordinating events and overseeing visual design, content creation, and social media management to enhance outreach and engagement.

Ms. Zaib is available at the following contact details.
Email: mahreen.zaib@bnu.edu.pk
Ext Number: 426

Mr. Sarmad Wali Khan

Mr. Sarmad Wali Khan serves as a Research Associate and Project Coordinator at the Centre for Policy Research, BNU. He is a development professional whose work sits at the intersection of research, policy, and implementation. Currently with BCPR as a Research Associate and Program Coordinator, he designs and executes strategic initiatives that translate complex ideas into tangible impact.

Sarmad's career reflects a commitment to spanning sectors and disciplines. He has shaped young minds as a lecturer and debate coach, led an education program at the National History Museum, and contributed to global policy conversations through work with international organizations like The Human Survival Project on UN reforms and The Borgen Project on reforming US foreign policy. His writings on governance and global affairs reveal a thinker who values both depth and accessibility—qualities that make him equally effective in the seminar room, the policy workshop, or the field.

Mr. Sarmad is available at the following contact details.
Email: sarmad.wali@bnu.edu.pk
Ext Number: 426

Mr. Arsam Tufail Butt

Mr. Arsam Tufail Butt is a student and practitioner of governance and public policy with over four years of experience in legislative development, democratic governance, and civic engagement in Pakistan. Currently serving as a Research Associate and Outreach Coordinator at the Beaconhouse National University (BNU) Centre for Policy Research (BCPR), he has previously worked with leading institutions including the Pakistan Institute of Legislative Development and Transparency (PILDAT), GIZ Pakistan, and the National Assembly of Pakistan under European Union and USAID funded initiatives.

His work spans parliamentary strengthening, electoral reforms, civil rights, local governance, and citizen engagement, combining research with policy advocacy and stakeholder coordination. A graduate in Political Science, with Economics and Law, from Government College University Lahore, and a certified Parliamentary Development and Governance professional of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association’s Parliamentary Academy in the UK, Arsam has co-authored several district governance profiles, contributed to legislative research, and organized numerous policy dialogues and conferences. His professional and academic journey reflects a consistent commitment to inclusive governance, institutional reform, and civic empowerment in Pakistan.

Mr. Arsam is available at the following contact details.
Email: arsam.tufail@bnu.edu.pk
Ext Number: 426

Rizwan Zeb

Dr. Rizwan Zeb is a distinguished scholar of international relations and strategic studies, currently serving as Professor and Directing Staff (Research) at the Air War College Institute, Karachi. His research spans South Asian security, nuclear deterrence, ethnopolitical conflict, and Pakistan’s foreign policy. He is the author of several influential books, including: Strategic Stability in South Asia (Routledge, forthcoming 2026), National Security: A Primer (PAF Air War College Institute, 2021), Ethno-political Conflict in Pakistan (Routledge, 2020), and Indo-Pak Conflicts: Ripe to Resolve? (Manohar, 2005).

Dr. Zeb has held key academic and policy positions, including Head of Social Sciences at Iqra University Islamabad, Visiting Scholar at the Brookings Institution, and Benjamin Meaker Visiting Professor at the University of Bristol. His contributions advance critical thinking on nuclear strategy, regional security, and conflict resolution. As a Visiting Research Fellow at BCPR, he brings extensive expertise to strengthen scholarly and policy debates on Pakistan’s evolving security challenges.

He can be reached at:
Email: srizwanzeb@gmail.com

Dr. Zeeshan Zaighum

Dr. Zeeshan Zaighum is an educator, researcher, and communication strategist passionate about exploring the evolving dynamics of media and warfare in today's interconnected world. With a PhD in Mass Communication from Beaconhouse National University, he combines academic depth with real-world relevance, focusing on Strategic Communication (StratCom) and Fifth-Generation Hybrid Warfare (5GHW). His work addresses critical issues affecting national security, policy-making, and media landscapes.

As an Assistant Professor, Dr. Zaighum is dedicated to inspiring students to think critically and innovatively about the role of communication in modern challenges. His groundbreaking research, including his PhD dissertation on 5GHW, has opened new pathways for understanding the intersection of security and media. From examining the weaponization of digital platforms to studying how media shapes public policy, his contributions offer fresh perspectives to both academic and policy communities.

Dr. Zaighum is also deeply committed to knowledge-sharing beyond the classroom. He has conducted workshops and training sessions for government departments, think tanks, and policy institutes, empowering professionals to navigate the complexities of strategic communication. His certifications in digital journalism and crisis communication further reflect his hands-on approach to addressing real-world issues.

He can be reached at:
Email: zeeshan.zaighum@bnu.edu.pk

Rehman Kabir Khar

Rehman Kabir Khar is a third year student of Liberal Arts and social sciences with specialization in Political Science at Beaconhouse National University (BNU). He is currently serving as a Research Assistant at the BNU Center for Policy Research (BCPR). Alongside this, he works as a Research Assistant at the Center for Counter Terrorism and Violent Extremism Studies at the Institute of Regional Studies (IRS).
His prior experience includes a Research Assistant internship at the Institute of Regional Studies (IRS), where he supported research on regional conflict and human security.

Shahryar Shabir

Shahryar Shabir is a Research Assistant at BNU Center for Policy Research. He is a former Intern at Inter-Services Public Relations, where he gained valuable insights into national and international challenges. In his academic year's he has authored a research paper on rise of right-wing populism in U.S. and it's contemporary politics. Shahryar consistently delivered high-quality work by managing events like Tedx Lahore.
He has strong research skills and interest in policy analysis, complemented by exceptional event management skills.

Usama Ali Khan

Usama Ali Khan is a Research Assistant at the Centre for Policy Research (BCPR) and a second-year immersive media student at the School of Media and Mass Communication, Department of Journalism, BNU. He previously interned at DW Germany.

He can be reached at:
Email: bcpr@bnu.edu.pk

Dr. Syed Mohammad Ali

Dr. Syed Mohammad Ali holds a PhD in Development Anthropology and brings extensive experience addressing complex international development challenges. Over the years, he has worked with multilateral, bilateral, government, and non-government organizations. In addition to his affiliation with BNU, Dr. Ali is a lecturer at the Advanced Academic Programs at Johns Hopkins University, where he received the 2024 Excellence in Teaching Award. He also serves as a Non-Resident Scholar at the Middle East Institute in Washington, D.C., and provides expert testimony for South Asian asylum seekers (Bangladeshi, Pakistani, and Indian) in U.S. and U.K. immigration courts.Dr. Ali is the author of numerous peer- reviewed articles, several book chapters, and the book Development, Poverty and Power in Pakistan: The Impact of State and Donor Interventions on Farmers, published by Routledge in 2015. He has also contributed policy papers for leading think tanks, including the United States Institute of Peace and the Stimson Center.Since 2011, Dr. Ali has written a weekly op- ed for The Express Tribune and is a regular participant in panel discussions on both Pakistani news channels and international media outlets such as Al Jazeera, China Global Television Network, Channel NewsAsia, and Voice of America’s Urdu Service.

Ms. Imrana Tiwana

Ms. Imrana Tiwana is a distinguished architect, environmentalist, and sustainable development specialist who leads the Climate Change, Environment & Sustainability Initiative at Beaconhouse National University (BNU). With an impressive global portfolio that includes projects in New York and Kuala Lumpur, she brings a wealth of experience and vision to her work.

A passionate advocate for sustainable urban regeneration, Ms. Tiwana has been at the forefront of efforts to promote environmentally responsible development and resilient urban planning. Her expertise and dedication have also led her to make significant contributions to UNESCO initiatives, where her work has focused on preserving cultural heritage and advancing sustainability on an international scale.

Mr. Hassan Zuberi

Mr. Hasan Zuberi has been an integral part of Beaconhouse National University (BNU) for the past six years, serving as an Adjunct Faculty member. He specializes in teaching Public Relations, Communications, Crisis Communication, and Management to both graduate and undergraduate students. Beyond teaching, he has actively contributed to shaping the academic landscape as a member of the Board of Faculty and Board of Study at the School of Media & Communication (SMC). Currently pursuing an MPhil in Intelligence and Security Studies at the University of Lahore's School of Integrated Social Sciences, Mr. Zuberi's research interests span Global Security, Intelligence, OSINT, Counter-Terrorism, and Fifth- Generation Hybrid Warfare. With over 25 years of diverse professional experience across Pakistan, Indonesia, Singapore, and the UAE, Mr. Zuberi is a seasoned Communications Strategist. He holds an MBA and brings deep expertise in Public Relations and Media Management. As the CEO and Country Consultant at Momentum, a leading Public Relations consultancy, he advises multinational corporations, local enterprises, and national institutions on strategic communication, crisis management, and media relations.

Mr. Zuberi's contributions extend beyond the corporate world. He is the Founder and President of the Council of PR Pakistan, Chairman of Mensa Pakistan, and an active member of numerous esteemed organizations, including the International PR Association (IPRA), the Middle East PR Association (MEPRA), and the Global Alliance for PR & Communications Management. A member of the prestigious Karachi Press Club, Mr. Zuberi continues to influence both the academic and professional realms with his expertise and leadership.

He can be reached at hasan.zuberi@bnu.edu.pk

Mr. Aizaz Hussain

Mr. Aizaz Hussain is a PhD candidate in Political Science at Sciences Po, where his research focuses on the impact of Chinese geoeconomic policies on ethnic communities, analyzing how global economic strategies shape local dynamics.Mr. Hussain brings extensive experience in policymaking, research, and academia. As a Policy Consultant at the Office of the National Security Adviser to the Prime Minister of Pakistan, he played a pivotal role in formulating strategic initiatives and participating in high-level policy discussions on national security issues. Currently, he leads the Office of Special Initiatives at Beaconhouse National University (BNU).In academia, Mr. Hussain has taught undergraduate courses on Global Politics, International Security, Conflict Resolution, Foreign Policy, and Public Policy. As a Research Associate at the University of Lahore, he co-authored a comprehensive report titled “Pakistan’s Geoeconomic Pivot: Strategies, Challenges, and Opportunities.” He has also contributed to independent research projects at the Islamabad Policy Research Institute (IPRI) and Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS).Mr. Hussain holds a Master’s degree in Political Science from the Central European University, where he conducted a scoping study examining the relationship between academic studies on “terrorism in Pakistan” and real-world instances of violence. He earned a BSc (Honors) in Political Science from LUMS, completing a thesis on Sindhi nationalism and its interplay with the broader narrative of Pakistani nationalism.His research interests span geoeconomics, terrorism, nationalism, hybrid regimes, populism, and non-violence, reflecting his commitment to addressing critical global and local challenges.

Dr. Simbal Khan

Dr. Simbal Khan is a Conflict Prevention and Peace-building specialist focused on South-Central Asia. Currently a UNDP consultant on Countering Violent Extremism (CVE) and Local Governance, she has extensive experience in conflict prevention, de-radicalization, and security analysis in the Afghanistan-Pakistan region.

A former Pakistan Scholar at the Woodrow Wilson Center and Carnegie Fellow at New America Foundation, she has also worked with leading think tanks like ISSI, IPRI, and CSIS. Dr. Khan specializes in Afghanistan’s security and trans-border militancy, contributing to peace-building initiatives and Track 1/1.5 dialogues. She is a published author and regular media contributor on regional security.

Mr. Abrahim Shah

Abrahim Shah is a governance and public policy expert and civil servant in the Pakistan Administrative Service. He holds diverse field experience in Balochistan and Gilgit Baltistan, leading important assignments including monitoring law and order in violence-stricken regions, overseeing and coordinating government departments, supervising service delivery, leading polio vaccine campaigns in Afghan refugee communities and working with local communities to trigger sustainable development.

An alumnus of Cornell University and the University of Oxford, Abrahim is trained in economics, political theory, civil and criminal law and public policy, and writes frequently on political economy and international affairs for Dawn. While abroad, he worked at the UNHCR and at the British Parliament as a governance expert.