BNU : Beaconhouse National University : INTRODUCTION TO BNU

Global public perception and media reports suggest that in the wake of recent world wide tensions, education itself may have become the great divider fomenting political pressures at home, and distrust among nations. While there is no single panacea for such complex issues, one of the factors which can and does make a quantifiable difference is an accessible, meaningful education process with its overt and significant impact on a people in general and the individual in particular. In this context, therefore, it is critical that new centres of excellence be established in regions other than the West, to facilitate students within the developing world.

Chartered by the Government of Punjab, the Beaconhouse National University (BNU), was established in 2003 for the purpose of imparting education with a modern, rational, course content while ensuring that the history, culture and the demands of Pakistani society are respected.

BNU is planned as a non-profit, world class private university disseminating learning and encouraging research in diverse areas where the essential focus of the programs offered has been determined by the type of the work force identified for the future economic, business, academic, cultural and technological advancement of the country. As such, BNU offers students a range of subject areas which are of immense relevance to the country’s economy.

In a global context, the rationale for setting up such an institute of higher learning is based on the perception that in order for Muslim nations to compete successfully in world markets, their citizens need to develop a global vision, sophisticated intercultural skills and knowledge of languages. Additionally, the acquisition of political literacy and economic awareness were felt to be critical in laying the foundation for dignified, self reliant and just systems of governance which encourage the participation of citizens.

At its City Campus sited at 3-C Zafar Ali Road, Lahore; the Beaconhouse National University endeavours to do just that; by ensuring that its students receive an education which seeks to broaden their intellectual horizons as it instills in them the spirit of inquiry, encouraging students to see themselves not only as citizens of their own regions and countries, but also citizens of a wider world.

In as brief a time as three years, BNU has already made its mark in the region with the presence of students form SAARC countries among its student body, thereby extending its role as a platform for providing quality education, not only to Pakistani students but by offering its expertise to neighbouring countries. Both sets of students benefit from BNU’s unique non-profit charter which ensures that quality education is well within the reach of students aspiring for higher qualifications through the award of generous scholarships.

With the development of its permanent Campus sited on 35 acres on Raiwind Road, planned by Pakistan’s leading architect Mr. Nayyar Ali Dada; Beaconhouse National University plans to provide one of the finest teaching and learning environments additionally show casing a strong sensitivity to environmental issues. The formal foundation stone laying ceremony was performed by Mr. Shaukat Aziz, Prime Minister of Pakistan on 27th August 2005. Construction work started in February 2006 .

Education at BNU is based on the belief that an ideal academic environment should address each student’s interests and needs. A range of courses in liberal arts, social sciences, media and mass communications, fine arts and design, theatre/TV and film, music, literatures and languages and education challenge students to take intellectual risks. The development of this individualized approach to education is achieved through an academic format which is distinguished by the promotion of a dialogue between teacher and student.

A number of unique, innovative practices forward this goal at BNU :

•	An academic format which encourages the student to read across the curriculum allowing for cross registration in courses offered at Schools other than the one the student is registered in. These courses may be taken as minors or electives.
•	The University underscores the importance of the creative and performing arts which form an integral part of any liberal arts education. Open workshops and seminars are offered where students interact with scholars and practitioners of international repute.
•	Each student works with an academic advisor who helps design a program of study most suited to the individual student’s talent and is also available for personal guidance throughout the student’s stay at the University.
•	A system of education in which students learn in small, interactive class sessions.
•	A system of student evaluation based on frequent written assignments and research projects rather than a traditional method of examination.

At Beaconhouse National University, education is enlivened through a free exchange of ideas and debate which is expertly guided by qualified faculty. Most courses are intensive and year long in which students are encouraged to question assumptions, listen to diverse opinions and challenge convention. This strategy is further developed through disciplined and motivated work on the student’s part and the evaluation of individual progress through written reports and ongoing dialogues between students and teachers.