Research Grants

Project Title: Enabling National and Provincial Statistical Agencies in Pakistan to Improve Existing Instruments of Data Collection

In collaboration with UNESCO, Beaconhouse National University (BNU) is leading a strategic initiative to advance the systematic understanding and quantification of culture and its economic significance in Pakistan. The project’s initial phase focused on the formulation of inclusive, context-specific definitions for “Culture,” “Creative Trades,” and “Cultural Goods,” aligned with global frameworks yet tailored to the Pakistani landscape. A robust data collection instrument was subsequently developed to capture critical insights into the country’s creative economy. Fieldwork in selected urban centers is mapping the socio-economic impact of cultural and creative industries, generating valuable empirical data to inform evidence-based policymaking. The initiative also produced a technical report with verified recommendations for national statistical and data-collection agencies, aimed at strengthening institutional capacity in cultural metrics and classification systems. A high-level conference convened expert stakeholders, who shared research findings and best practices. Through this project, BNU reinforces its leadership in cultural policy research, fostering innovation, sectoral growth, and informed governance within Pakistan’s creative economy.

Projects:

1. Human Security Index

Supported by the United States Institute of Peace (USIP), this strategic research initiative was led by Dr. Hafiz Pasha and the Department of Economics, School of Management Sciences at Beaconhouse National University (BNU). The project involved the development, submission, and public dissemination of the Human Security Index (HSI) Report 2023, providing a comprehensive, multidimensional assessment of human security in Pakistan. Utilizing 110 indicators across 23 key components, the index measured critical domains including economic vulnerability, environmental degradation, social protection, public health, education access, and human rights performance.

The subsequent preparation and submission of the HSI Report 2024 built on this data infrastructure, ensuring continuity in evidence-based policy research and advancing a standardized mechanism for national-level human security monitoring. This initiative positioned BNU as a leading institution in policy-driven research, contributing to Pakistan’s capacity for socio-economic resilience, institutional accountability, and sustainable development. Through the dissemination of actionable intelligence, the HSI project significantly enhanced public policy discourse and empowered stakeholders to design targeted, equitable, and impact-oriented interventions.

2. Chair in Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability

Established with the support of the United States Institute of Peace (USIP), the Chair in Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability at Beaconhouse National University (BNU) advanced climate adaptation, resilience, and environmental governance through a multidisciplinary and action-oriented approach. Spearheaded by Ms. Imrana Tiwana and her team, the initiative developed university-wide programs, including a foundational climate change course, certification modules for professionals, and youth-led advocacy platforms. The Chair also produced evidence-based policy recommendations, stakeholder engagement frameworks, and a comprehensive Environmental Management Plan, while fostering collaboration with industry leaders and climate experts. This initiative positioned BNU as a frontrunner in sustainability, aligning with its aspiration to become Pakistan’s first WWF Green Certified Campus and a national hub of excellence for climate research, education, and advocacy.

The project has since evolved into the Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability (CCES) Initiative, Beaconhouse National University’s flagship platform for integrated climate action and environmental stewardship. CCES actively advances policy reform, interdisciplinary research, and the on-ground implementation of sustainability best practices, reinforcing BNU’s leadership in climate resilience and sustainable development.

Project Title: Enriching American Studies for Improved Pakistan-US Relations Track II

Supported by the Royal Norwegian Embassy, this project explored the complex and evolving dynamics of Pakistan–U.S. relations, with a focus on historical context, diplomatic milestones, and the strategic, economic, and security dimensions of bilateral engagement. The initiative critically examined key areas such as trade, defense cooperation, counterterrorism, and regional stability, identifying both challenges and opportunities for enhanced collaboration. By analyzing past and present trajectories, the study proposed actionable policy recommendations aimed at fostering a more resilient and mutually beneficial partnership between the two nations. The project contributed to Track II diplomacy and academic discourse on international relations, positioning Beaconhouse National University (BNU) as a platform for constructive dialogue and research-led diplomacy.

Project Title: JS Chair on Sustainability and Fintech

The JS Bank Chair at Beaconhouse National University (BNU) represented a pioneering collaboration between JS Bank and BNU, aimed at promoting sustainable finance, fintech innovation, and climate action. Led by the School of Management Sciences at Beaconhouse National University, the initiative focused on the development of a comprehensive course on Sustainable Finance, which launched in Spring 2025, along with the production of policy briefs on key topics such as Green Bonds, Sustainability-Linked Bonds, and Greenwashing. The Chair also facilitated seminars, expert-led conferences, and student mentoring programs to support research and internships in the fields of sustainability and financial technology. Plans were also initiated for the establishment of a Centre of Excellence for Climate Finance and Sustainability at BNU, positioning the university as a regional thought leader in climate finance education, policy innovation, and interdisciplinary research. This collaboration underscored BNU’s commitment to addressing global climate challenges through academic excellence and strategic partnerships.

Projects:

1. Inclusive Entrepreneurship Program

Through a strategic partnership with DigitalOcean, Beaconhouse National University (BNU) is implementing the Inclusive Entrepreneurship Program, a high-impact initiative designed to catalyze women-led economic growth and foster gender-inclusive innovation ecosystems in Pakistan. The program delivers targeted financial assistance, capacity-building, and mentorship to emerging women entrepreneurs, with a strong emphasis on sustainable enterprise development and market integration. Grant awards are determined through a rigorous, merit-based proposal evaluation process co-managed by BNU and DigitalOcean. In its initial phases, funding was allocated to Behbud and Wecommerce by Tossdown Inc., followed by additional awards to the Center for Public Policy Research (CPPR), IMSciences, and BNU’s School of Computer and IT (SCIT) for a comprehensive Women Entrepreneurship Training initiative. Leveraging digital storytelling, strategic communications, and technical assistance, the program is projected to impact approximately 3,000 women nationwide, equipping them with the tools, networks, and knowledge required to scale their ventures. This initiative underscores BNU’s institutional commitment to inclusive development, women’s economic participation, and sustainable entrepreneurship through academia-industry collaboration.

2. BootCamp

Facilitated through DigitalOcean’s support, the Center for Innovation and Incubation at Beaconhouse National University (BNU) conducted a five-month DigitalOcean BootCamp, designed to build institutional capacity in cloud computing and DevOps. This intensive, industry-aligned training program equipped students with practical, in-demand skills to meet the evolving needs of the global technology sector. The initiative emphasized experiential learning, technical proficiency, and professional readiness, enabling participants to pursue impactful careers in leading technology firms across Pakistan and internationally. This project reflects BNU’s strategic commitment to fostering digital innovation, workforce development, and academic-industry collaboration in emerging technology domains.

Project Title: Finding Fresh Opportunities in the India-Pakistan Relationship

This project, made possible through a strategic partnership with Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES), examines how Pakistan’s rich religious, ethnic, and cultural diversity can be harnessed as a source of strength and cohesion rather than division. The initiative explores pathways to foster unity through inclusive dialogue, cultural integration, and the promotion of shared values, with the aim of building a resilient and inclusive national identity. By focusing on the positive potential of diversity, the project underscores its role in advancing social harmony, economic development, and long-term national stability. Through rigorous research and thought leadership, Beaconhouse National University (BNU) is contributing to global conversations on pluralism, peacebuilding, and inclusive governance. This initiative exemplifies BNU’s commitment to addressing complex societal challenges and helping shape a more tolerant and interconnected world.

Project Title: Google Cybersecurity Clinic

In partnership with The Asia Foundation, the Center for Innovation and Incubation at Beaconhouse National University (BNU), is implementing the Google Cybersecurity Clinic, a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing cybersecurity capacity in higher education. The project focuses on curriculum alignment with international industry standards, faculty development, and experiential learning through student-led cybersecurity clinics.Spanning four academic semesters, the program integrates hands-on training, threat simulation, and community-focused outreach to equip students with practical skills in digital risk mitigation, cyber hygiene, and network security. By fostering institutional capacity, advancing technical proficiency, and promoting digital literacy, this initiative underscores BNU’s commitment to innovation, academic excellence, and strengthening Pakistan’s cybersecurity ecosystem.

Project Title: China Studies Chair

Implemented through the BNU Center for Policy Research (BCPR) through the support of the Consulate General of China, the China Studies Chair is a flagship initiative aimed at advancing academic and policy research on the multifaceted relationship between Pakistan and China. The Chair focuses on key areas such as diplomacy, education, technological innovation, economic investment, cultural exchange, and regional connectivity.

By fostering interdisciplinary research, thought leadership, and dialogue, the initiative seeks to enhance mutual understanding, support evidence-based policymaking, and inform future cooperation under frameworks such as the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The China Studies Chair also serves as a platform for faculty, students, and policy experts to engage in critical analysis, build research capacity, and contribute to the broader discourse on strategic regional partnerships. Through this initiative, BNU reinforces its commitment to global engagement, knowledge diplomacy, and the development of robust international academic networks that contribute to long-term peace, development, and shared prosperity.

Project Title: Rethinking Urbanization Along the Ravi

Beaconhouse National University (BNU), through its Razia Hassan School of Architecture and in partnership with the American Institute of Pakistan Studies, hosted the BNU Policy Dialogues: Rethinking Urbanization Along the Ravi. The seminar examined the Ravi Riverfront Urban Development Project (RRUDP), a large-scale initiative aimed at river revitalization, economic growth, and housing expansion. Experts from academia, government, and civil society explored its socio-economic, cultural, and environmental impacts, with particular focus on sustainability, equitable urban planning, and green transitions. Distinguished speakers included Dr. Saleem H. Ali, James L. Wescoat Jr., and faculty from BNU, reinforcing the university’s role in shaping informed urban policy and sustainable development discourse in Pakistan.

Project Title: In-Premises Power BI Data Visualization for HBL Bank

This project focuses on the design and development of a series of dashboards to analyze and visualize various financial trends and patterns. The key objectives include identifying trends in fund transfers across a branch network and with external institutions, understanding cash deposit and withdrawal behaviors, visualizing customer and product distribution across branches, and tracking changes in advances and deposits over time. These analyses aim to support strategic business insights, enhance decision-making, and optimize operational efficiency.

Project Title: Green Experience Center

With generous support from the Oil & Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL), Beaconhouse National University (BNU) is developing the Green Experience Center (GEC), a pioneering initiative focused on sustainable design, green architecture, and environmental awareness. Led by Dean Omar Hassan and his team at the Razia Hassan School of Architecture, the GEC is currently under construction and will offer an immersive, interactive environment that promotes ecological literacy and climate-conscious practices. The center highlights the shared commitment of BNU and OGDCL to environmental responsibility and innovation. By advancing sustainable solutions and fostering community engagement, the GEC will elevate BNU’s role in environmental leadership and contribute to a global movement toward responsible development and impactful change.

Project Title: Research for Social Transformation & Advancement (RASTA)

Project Title: Executive Trainings - Education & Psychology

Leveraging its academic expertise, Beaconhouse National University (BNU) partnered with the Beaconhouse School System (BSS) to deliver high-impact executive trainings in education and psychology. Led by distinguished faculty from the Institute of Psychology and the School of Education, the program provided targeted professional development for BSS faculty and students. These sessions were designed to enhance pedagogical skills, deepen psychological insight, and promote evidence-based practices across educational settings.

Project Title: Unity in Diversity

This project, made possible through a strategic partnership with Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES), examines how Pakistan’s rich religious, ethnic, and cultural diversity can be harnessed as a source of strength and cohesion rather than division. The initiative explores pathways to foster unity through inclusive dialogue, cultural integration, and the promotion of shared values, with the aim of building a resilient and inclusive national identity. By focusing on the positive potential of diversity, the project underscores its role in advancing social harmony, economic development, and long-term national stability. Through rigorous research and thought leadership, Beaconhouse National University (BNU) is contributing to global conversations on pluralism, peacebuilding, and inclusive governance. This initiative exemplifies BNU’s commitment to addressing complex societal challenges and helping shape a more tolerant and interconnected world.

Project Title: CEO Summit

In collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Punjab, Beaconhouse National University’s School of Education (SE) organized a five-day CEO Training Summit aimed at fostering collaboration, enabling knowledge exchange, and driving systemic improvement in Punjab’s education sector. The training featured expert-led sessions on human resource management, stakeholder engagement, team building, school governance, financial planning, wellbeing initiatives, enrollment strategies, change management, regulatory frameworks, and digital innovation. Topics also included artificial intelligence in education, robotics, leadership development, project and strategic planning, emotional intelligence, and space management. The program was enriched by immersive field visits to educational institutions and cultural landmarks, reinforcing the application of learning in real-world contexts.This initiative reflects BNU’s continued commitment to capacity building and sustainable educational reform through cross-sector partnerships.

Project Title: Landscaping of income generation opportunities for low-income women

Beaconhouse National University (BNU) secured a competitive grant from Sohail Inc. to launch the Landscaping Income Generation Opportunities for Low-Income Women project. This research-led initiative seeks to identify, analyze, and map sustainable economic pathways for women in underserved communities, reinforcing BNU’s commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable development. The project is led by Dr. Moeed Yusuf and is being implemented by the Department of Economics, School of Management Sciences. Employing a mixed-methods research approach, the team aims to generate evidence-based, actionable strategies to enhance women’s economic participation and financial independence.Through this initiative, BNU harnesses its academic and research capacity to deliver transformative social impact and advance community-driven development.