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140 Years of Heritage: Panel Talk on the Evolution of Aitchison’s Architecture and the Architecture of British India
On 13th February 2026, as part of the Founders’ Day celebrations, the Old Building, a red brick sentinel of history, served as the perfect venue for a panel talk dedicated to the ‘‘Evolution of Aitchison’s Architecture and the Architecture of British India,’’. Organised by the History and Archives Society, Dr Tarunjit Singh Butalia, Faheem Jamil (Old Boy), and Raza Ali Dada (Old Boy) made up the panel, sharing insights into the College’s history and architecture.
The discussion explored how the genius and dedication of Bhai Ram Singh, Col Samuel Jacob, and John Lockwood Kipling infused Mughal grandeur, Hindu and Muslim motifs, and British Victorian Gothic elements. This aesthetic remains the soul of Aitchison, and the panel explored how this identity has been carried forward. Faheem Jamil spoke intimately about his award-winning restoration of the Old Building and the design process behind the Syed Babar Ali Library and Shirazi House. He explained how his contemporary designs on campus are deliberate echoes of the past, ensuring that while the College grows, its visual language of rich history remains unbroken.
Dr Tarunjit Butalia also brought an inquisitive energy to the stage and acted as a leading voice for the audience. While not an Old Boy himself, he is a scion of an immense Aitchisonian legacy, with his father, grandfather, and great-grandfather all having walked these grounds. Serving as an honorary envoy to mobilize Sikh Old Boys in India, he also pushed the boundaries of the conversation, questioning whether the current woodwork in the Old Building remained the original or a faithful reproduction. He also steered the conversation towards the relationship between the architecture and the ecology of the campus, inquiring about the existence of supposed parrots frequently seen on campus up until a few years ago.
Raza Ali Dada elaborated on this relationship, labelling it a triangular connection between the architecture of space, its inseparable bond with its built environment, and the people who inhabit it. Insinuating that to lose one from this triad is to lose the essence of a place, in this case, the College. As a staunch advocate for eco-conscious heritage, he spoke of the need for public spaces, expressing a visionary wish for Mall Road to be reclaimed as a pedestrian-friendly heart of the city. The engagement from the floor was equally compelling, with both the Principal and the Director Advancements asking valuable questions that further deepened the discourse on preservation of architecture and ecology.
As the talk drew to a close, the Principal presented tokens of appreciation to the honourable speakers. In his concluding remarks, he also praised the efforts of the History and Archives Society for organising such an intellectually stimulating and informative evening. He reflected candidly on his own time as a student, noting that his generation was perhaps not as appreciative of the profound history and environment that Aitchison entails. He expressed immense pride in the fact that the younger generation of Aitchisonians is now so deeply invested in the stewardship of their heritage. The Old Boys can rest assured that the spirit of the College continues to be in very capable hands.
140 Years of Aitchison - Old Boys’ Art Exhibition at Founders’ Day
From 13th to 15th February, the Old Building transformed into a vibrant gallery as the Aitchison College Art & Media Society hosted the Founders’ Day Old Boys’ Art Exhibition. Celebrating the College’s 140th Anniversary, the event was a resounding success, drawing a large number of Old Boys and students who visited with their families. Artworks and models of over 100 Old Boys from different generations were on display.
The exhibition was graced by distinguished chief guests Kamil Khan Mumtaz and Mian Ijaz ul Hassan (Old Boy), two of the most eminent figures of Pakistan’s artistic landscape. Under the leadership of Sara Ahmer (Head of Art & Media Studies), the students from the Art & Media Society put their hearts and souls into curating an exhibition that was diverse, sophisticated, and enlightening.
The exhibition consisted of pieces from different art categories, including 3D Art, Installation Art, Visual Arts, Photography, Digital Media, and Architecture. Each Old Boys' contribution showcased the vast professional horizons Aitchisonians have explored. Highlights included the Mian Salli Mosque, an architectural masterpiece by Kamil Khan Mumtaz. The exhibition also featured the evocative work of Ijaz ul Hassan and the intricate collection of Ruby Jewellers. Other notable featured artists and architects included Dr Afzal Ali Syed, Omar Mukhtar, Faheem Ahsan, and many more. In a particularly moving tribute, the Farhad Humayun Foundation showcased an art piece in memory of the late Farhad Humayun, celebrating his enduring creative legacy.
Every corner of the exhibition offered fresh perspectives, from those blending into the traditional art industry to those seeking to revolutionize modern media. The event concluded as a triumph of collective opinion and individual expression; perhaps the bond between the maker and the viewer is strongest when celebrated within the walls of one's alma mater. The Art & Media Society expressed its immense honour in hosting such a diverse array of talent, ensuring that this "flavour" of Aitchisonian creativity was memorable for all who attended.
A Walk Through History: Campus and Archive Tour
The spirit of Aitchison is not merely etched in its red brick and mortar but in the enduring footsteps of those who return to walk its grounds. As the College celebrates a momentous 140 years since its inception in 1886, the three-day Founders’ Day served as a bridge across time, reuniting generations of Old Boys with their alma mater. Dr Tarunjit Singh Butalia (Honorary Envoy) conducted an enlightening tour for visiting guests, many from outside Lahore. He was joined by Kaivan Mir (Old Boy) on the second and third days, together peeling back the layers of a history that transcends borders. The walk was a physical narrative of growth, commencing at the majestic Old Building and stretching through the Senior School and boarding houses before concluding at the Archive Display Centre and Teachers’ Gallery in the Mandir.
On the walk through the campus, Dr Butalia proudly shared the legacy of his own great-grandfather, grandfather, and father, providing a living link to the College’s early foundations. History felt remarkably intimate when one Old Boy recounted the distinct honour of receiving the Chief Guest during the Centenary Celebrations of 1986. He even brought his grandkids the next day and, with his eyes gleaming with excitement, pointed himself out in the archival displays, momentarily bridging the forty-year gap between the boy who stood at attention in 1986 and the man returning home today.
Another defining moment occurred when Dr Butalia pointed out a 1946 College group photo, noting that it captured all sixteen Sikh Old Boys who are currently across the border in India. This image stood as a silent, powerful witness to a shared past that was soon to be rerouted by history.
For some, the impact of Aitchison was measured not in decades but in the profound intensity of a short stay. One Old Boy shared a stirring account of his three years in Junior School. Despite the brevity of his time, the College’s influence remained a cornerstone of his life. He spoke of how his brother had documented his very last day as a student, and as he walked toward the final stop at the Mandir, he felt he was reliving that final day with a renewed sense of longing.
The guests also appreciated the College’s evolution under the current Principal, Dr Turab Hussain, highlighting new initiatives such as the establishment of the Advancements Office and the Teaching and Learning Centre alongside refurbished boarding facilities. Whether it was the thrill of the Stars and Daggers Souvenir Shop or the simple, timeless joy of Dean's hot dogs, the visit reaffirmed that while the world outside may change, the gates of Aitchison remain a portal to a shared and glorious identity.
Old Boys of 2001-2010 Return Home
On the afternoon of 24th January 2026, the Old Boys from batches 2001 to 2010 made their way back to Aitchison, bringing familiar excitement and energy along with them. Many had only recently left the College, yet their eagerness to walk the familiar corridors was unmistakable.
The Old Boys gathered at the Mandir courtyard, where the walkthrough tour commenced at the Archives Display Centre. One visitor, the wife of an Old Boy, was so delighted exploring every corner of the Archives Display Centre, discovering the alma mater of both her husband and her maiden family, that her contagious curiosity could have kept her there all day. This joy reflects why not just the Old Boys but their families return to Aitchison. These tours serve as a way to reconnect and discover unhidden chapters of their family's history. The College aims to keep creating more opportunities in the future as well.
From there, the group moved to the Langlands Room and the Teacher's Gallery, pausing in front of portraits and sharing stories of teachers who had left a lasting impression on them. Little-known anecdotes surfaced, drawing occasional surprises and much laughter. The Old Boys were impressed by the College's recent developments under Dr Turab Hussain's (Principal) tenure, especially the Faculty Housing Apartments and the establishment of the Teaching and Learning Centre (TLC). Furthermore, the College's efforts to create a modern and supportive environment for its students through refurbished common rooms, upgraded prep areas, and expanded boarding facilities were well received. Conversations also touched on initiatives, including batch-wise endowment funds for the Aitchison College Scholarship Program (ACSP) and the launch of the College's flagship souvenir shop, Stars and Daggers.
The tour concluded at the Old Building, a place dear to their hearts and alive with memories of their student years. A final stop at the Dean's allowed the Old Boys to relive old memories over the classic hot dogs with their signature red sauce. We were delighted to see them leave with their hearts full and bonds renewed, not just with the College but also with each other.
AlBaraka Bank x Aitchison College Scholarship Program - Celebrating the first Corporate Partner of ACSP
Aitchison College is honoured to share a milestone moment for the Aitchison College Scholarship Program (ACSP) as we bring onboard AlBaraka Bank as its first corporate donor. Through the ACSP initiative, the College aims to increase inclusivity and open the doors of Aitchison College for talented, underprivileged students from all across Pakistan. Thus, AlBaraka Bank has generously sponsored the education of one student for the full eight-year duration of his schooling and we hope it shall be the first of many. The student shall be selected and inducted as part of the second cohort of the ACSP, due to be admitted in the 2026 academic year.
This commitment was formalised on 17th January 2026, with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Aitchison College and AlBaraka Bank. Aitchison College was represented at the ceremony by Dr Turab Hussain (Principal), Khalid Noon (Bursar), Faaria R Salahuddin (Director Advancements), with the AlBaraka Bank delegation led by Mr Atif Hanif (President & CEO) and Azhar Aziz Dogar (Chairman and Old Boy 1985). The signing marked the beginning of a meaningful partnership, rooted in the shared spirit of ensuring equity in access to education par excellence.
The visiting delegation was warmly received at the Principal’s Office where valuable discussions took place regarding ways to expand the reach and fundraising potential of the ACSP. Following this, the Al-Baraka Bank delegation was shown around the Advancements Office, including stops at the Advancements Lounge, Teachers’ Gallery, G.D. Langlands Room, Archives Display Centre, and the flagship souvenir shop, Stars and Daggers. This was concluded by a walking tour from the Mandir to the Administration Block, where the MoU signing and souvenir exchange took place in the Main Boardroom.
AlBaraka Bank’s support sets a powerful example of how institutions and individuals can come together to transform lives through education. This partnership stands as an open invitation to other corporates, Old Boys, and well-wishers to join the ACSP mission, helping ensure that financial circumstances never stand in the way of exceptional potential.
Class of 1986 - The 40 Year Reunion at Aitchison College
On 18 January 2026, led by Masood Tyabji (Old Boy), the Advancements Office hosted the Old Boys from the Class of 1986 at Aitchison College. Many came from across the world to reconnect with their classmates and revisit the place that had shaped so much of their lives. The Old Boys were in awe to see the changes that these walls have seen during their years of absence.
The day was alive with warm hugs and many reintroductions; many of them reunited for the first time since they left the College. The mandir echoed with laughter as they shared stories from their student days. One Old Boy fondly and continuously shared his memory of being taught the Ayat-ul-Kursi for the first time by another student, a simple yet powerful reminder of the care and bonds that formed within these College walls.
Dr Turab Hussain (Principal) and Khalid Noon (Bursar) warmly welcomed the Old Boys, making them feel truly at home. The guests were shown treasured College spaces, including the Archives, G.D. Langlands Room and the Teachers’ Gallery, where they lingered the longest. Perusing around the room, softly laughing at the nicknames they once gave their teachers, and recalling all of their fond memories.
A highlight of the reunion was the visit to Stars and Daggers, which was met with tremendous excitement. Old Boys eagerly placed orders for sweatshirts, candles, tea, and exclusive memorabilia commemorating the College’s 140th anniversary. Each item was admired for its artful inclusion of elements of Aitchison, be it architectural or conceptual. This was followed by tea at the Dean’s, where laughter and conversation flowed freely along with the familiar flavours of the infamous “hot dog”. The gathering concluded with a visit to the Old Building, perhaps the most anticipated stop of the Aitchison College tour for Old Boys.
The reunion was more than a get together; it was a revival of connection, not just with their alma mater but with all who had lost touch with each other.
Honour Your Friend: Arif Saeed’s Dedication to Mohammad Raza Farooq
On 3rd January 2026, the Raza Farooq Classroom was named (for a period of 20 years) and inaugurated at the Senior School in Barry Block. Made possible through the generous donation of Raza Farooq’s (Old Boy 1985) classmate and close friend, Arif Saeed, the dedication honoured his enduring legacy and the impact he had on those around him. Visibly moved, Arif Saeed announced the naming with heartfelt emotion at the beginning of the ceremony.
The plaque was unveiled by Chief Justice Ramday, yet another friend of Raza Farooq, in the presence of Raza Farooq’s friends and family, including his son, Ibrahim Raza (Old Boy). Ibrahim’s friends and batchmates also attended in support and to honour his father’s memory. Both Ibrahim and Hamza Arif, Arif Saeed’s son, spoke at the ceremony, sharing cherished memories and honouring the life of Raza Farooq.
The event was marked by quiet reflection and a sense of loss, yet also by the warmth of enduring friendship and the desire to honour a life that touched so many. The newly dedicated classroom stands as a lasting tribute to Raza Farooq, a place where his memory will continue to inspire future generations of Aitchisonians.
Honouring the Legacy of Syeda Mubarak Begum: Persian Classroom Inaugurated at Prep School
The Prep School marked a memorable occasion on January 3rd 2026 with the inauguration of the new Persian classroom. Dedicated to and named after Syeda Mubarak Begum, the classroom was unveiled by her son Syed Babar Ali to celebrate her lifelong dedication to preserving the Persian language, culture and heritage.
A truly touching moment at the ceremony was with Syeda Mubarak Begum’s great-grandchildren: the children of Mubarik Imam, Zehra Ali and Gauhar Afroze Ali who stepped forward to do the plaque unveiling. Senior leadership from Aitchison College, including Dr Turab Hussain (Principal), Faaria R Salahuddin (Director Advancements), Ms Amina Kamran (Headmistress Senior School), Raja Ashfaq Ahmad (Headmaster Prep School), and Ms Fatima Mubeen (Headmistress Junior School) were also among the attendees. Babar Ali addressed the attendees, reflecting on the enduring importance of classical languages and the vital role cultural traditions play in shaping our future.
We are indebted to Babar Ali and his efforts; we hope this initiative inspires young learners to appreciate the beauty of Persian. The new classroom aims to enrich interest and love for Persian literature, calligraphy, literary treasures, and reviving Persian culture among the new generation of students. The Aitchison community shall continue to uphold and celebrate Syeda Mubarak Begum’s legacy.
Old Boys Return Home: Justice Mansoor Ali Shah’s Get Together at the Mandir
On 29th December 2025, the Mandir Courtyard came alive with laughter and conversations as two cohorts of Old Boys returned to campus. Organized by the Advancements Office, Justice Mansoor Ali Shah hosted a get together for his friends and classmates from Aitchison. He was also joined by his son and his batchmates, a lovely display of how Aitchisonian bonds extend beyond generations. This get together followed closely on the heels of an exclusive podcast of Jst Mansoor Ali Shah, recorded on campus, making it his third visit to his alma mater within just a month.
The gathering was joined by Dr Turab Hussain (Principal), Khalid Noon (Bursar), and Ms Amina Kamran (Senior School Headmistress).The group visited the Archives, where they were briefed on the ongoing work of the Archives Department. Old photographs and historical records are being carefully scanned and preserved as part of a structured digitisation effort. The initiative was received with keen interest, particularly for its role in safeguarding the school’s visual and documentary history. During the visit, the Principal also spoke about the Aitchison College Scholarship Programme (ACSP) and its Endowment Fund, outlining its purpose, long-term vision, as well as the progress achieved so far. The Old Boys then headed over to the Teachers’ Gallery and the Langlands’ Room, where the senior group not only relived their cherished memories but shared stories of Langlands that the younger lot of Old Boys had not heard before.
This visit was made even more special as it marked the very first sale of memorabilia at Stars and Daggers; the honour went to Masroor Khan, who purchased the exclusive espresso cup set. The rest of the memorabilia collection was received with great enthusiasm, with Old Boys sharing appreciation, well-wishes and valuable feedback for future concepts.
As the winter sun softened over the Mandir Courtyard, Justice Mansoor Ali Shah’s visit was a reaffirmation that the campus remains, always, a place to come home to for its Old Boys.
Old Boys of 1971-1980 Return Home
To mark the close of the year, on 13th December 2025, the Advancements Office hosted a heartwarming Reunion Tea and Old Boys’ Gathering at the Mandir Courtyard for one of our seniormost Old Boys groups. Classes of 1971-1980 were in attendance, with many traveling for the occasion all the way across from the outskirts of Punjab and Sindh. An atmosphere of camaraderie and nostalgia reigned on the crisp winter evening.
The event began with Dr Turab Hussain (Principal) warmly welcoming the guests and with a briefing of recent institutional developments, including the Aitchison College Scholarship Programme (ACSP), and ongoing construction of Faculty Housing Apartments to the guests. The introduction of the College’s Flagship Souvenir Shop, Stars and Daggers, was very well received. The Boys were very pleased to see their wish for new memorabilia was finally being fulfilled.
During the tour, the Old Boys visited the Archives and the Teacher’s Gallery, where photographs, displays, and the presence of former teachers evoked fond memories. Many recalled how the rules were quite strict during their times, while others reflected on the simple joys of their student days, from classroom antics to sports. Some fondly reminisced about the days when the College had only a single school bus, marveling at the exponential growth the College has seen over the years.
In a generous gesture of giving back to his alma mater, Gul Abbas Mela (Old Boy) pledged support towards the construction of the Faculty Housing Apartments, describing the College as his “home.” We appreciate his graciousness in facilitating the College’s efforts towards the well-being of its faculty. The Old Boys collectively expressed their desire for such reunions to become a cherished tradition.
Justice Mansoor Ali Shah’s Visit - Old Boys Return Home
Justice Mansoor Ali Shah was elevated to the bench at the Lahore High Court in 2009 and after serving as the Chief Justice of the Lahore High Court for almost two years was elevated to the Supreme Court of Pakistan in early 2018. He resigned from the Supreme Court in November 2025 in protest over the passage of the 27th constitutional amendment. He did his schooling at Aitchison College, Lahore and got his law degree from the University of Cambridge, UK. He also has a Masters in Economics from the University of the Punjab. As a corporate litigator, he was a partner at Afridi, Shah & Minallah and took keen interest in public interest litigation with special focus on environmental issues and sustainable development. On 4th December 2025, he returned after many long years to visit his alma mater. In his own words, we share his experience:
“Thank you for the warm welcome today. Returning to Aitchison after so many decades was refreshing and reassuring. I was genuinely impressed by the College’s forward-looking vision and the initiatives underway.
It is equally vital for Aitchisonians to engage more closely with the world beyond the campus. A stronger clinical approach to education—where students meaningfully interact with contemporary social issues—can help them emerge as role models in society, making an Aitchison education visible and relevant beyond its walls.
Given the pressing realities of climate change and Lahore’s growing smog burden, Aitchison can lead by example. Transitioning students to electric buses—or imposing a high fee on private car use ( which you have already imposed in some measure) —would send a powerful signal of civic responsibility and environmental stewardship.
I was delighted to see the dynamic revenue-generating initiatives, including the new souvenir shop with its high-quality items. I also thoroughly enjoyed the archives and the Old Boys Common Room—both remarkable spaces that preserve the College’s heritage with care. I can already imagine returning for a bun kebab and tea with old friends in that wonderfully familiar space.”
Old Boys of 1991-2000 Return Home
On the evening of November 15, 2025, Old Boys from the 1990s till 2000s returned to Aitchison College, their visit marked by a quiet sense of homecoming. The evening commenced at the mandir, after which the group proceeded on a reflective walk through the Archives, the G.D Langlands Room, where memory and history converge. Stories were traded about their school years, with some learning about the iconic Langlands’ trekking trips for the first time.
The tour then extended to the Babar Ali Library, the newly constructed Faculty Residences, and Shirazi House, highlighting the new developments on campus after the graduation of the Old Boys. As they walked through the corridors of Barry Block, conversations unfolded naturally, as memories resurfaced and long-held friendships found their familiar rhythm once again. The Old Boys expressed sincere appreciation for the College’s recent initiatives, notably the Aitchison College Scholarship Programme (ACSP) and the Faculty Housing Apartments established under Dr Turab Hussain’s (Principal) tenure. They also welcomed the launch of Aitchison Connect by the Advancements Office, acknowledging it as a meaningful initiative that deepens the connection of Aitchisonians with their alma mater. The visit drew to a close at the Old Building, a setting that remains deeply intertwined with memories of their formative years at Aitchison.
Aitchison College in Conversation with Govt of Balochistan
Aitchison College, represented by Dr Turab Hussain (Principal), Faaria Salahuddin (Director Advancements), Javed Hassan (President ACOBA South Chapter), Haroon Zehri (Vice President ACOBA South Chapter), Qaisar Jamali (Special Envoy - Outreach and Alumni) and other Old Boys, was welcomed by Governor Balochistan Jaffar Khan Mandokhail in Quetta on 7th November 2025. Governor Mandokhail described Aitchison College Lahore as a symbol of national unity, attracting students from all parts of Pakistan who come together to pursue their educational aspirations. He said the College’s diversity is a testament to its success in fostering a strong sense of unity among the nation’s youth.
He noted that many prominent political leaders from Balochistan have studied at Aitchison College, reflecting the institution’s long-standing contribution to national integration and leadership development.
During the meeting, both sides discussed the promotion of higher education in Balochistan, the creation of new learning opportunities for Baloch students, and other matters of mutual interest.
Governor Mandokhail highlighted that since assuming office, the provincial government’s focus has been on improving the ranking and performance of public sector universities. He said these efforts, driven by dedication and persistence, have begun to yield positive results, and the government remains committed to maintaining this momentum.
Recalling his political journey, Governor Mandokhail said his public service career began with the Ministry of Education and that now, as the Governor of Balochistan, he oversees all public universities in the province. Through his leadership, he has worked to strengthen academic institutions, promote stability, and ensure continuity in higher education, paving the way for a brighter future for students and faculty alike.
Dr Turab Hussain (Principal) extended a special invitation to Governor Mandokhail to visit Aitchison College and witness its rich heritage and contribution to the country’s educational landscape.
<b>Source: <a href="https://bexpress.com.pk/blog/690e4146c93f9ab3be86f841" target="_blank">Daily Balochistan Express</a>, with edits and additions by Aitchison College</b>
Old Boys of 1981-1990 Return Home
To kick off the Old Boys’ College Tour season, the graduating batches of 1981-1990 were invited back to campus on 25th October 2025. 12 Old Boys returned to their alma mater, each carrying stories of their time at the College.
Introductions and greetings were exchanged with their host Faaria Salahuddin (Director Advancements), who many of them were meeting for the first time, followed by an overview of Advancements Office initiatives by her. Coincidentally, Dr Turab Hussain (the Principal) and Khalid Noon (the Bursar) who came to welcome the boys, had also graduated within the same batch period of 1981-1990.
Their first stop was at the photograph display from the 1980s till 1990s; it captured sporting triumphs, school functions, and everyday moments frozen in time. The Old Boys leaned in close to study each picture, trying to spot themselves and recognizing old faces. Many were visibly moved as they recalled their school days, proudly pointing out these memories to their children. The group then made their way to the Archives where the Old Boys found themselves surrounded by fragments of their own history through old Aitchisonian publications, School Prefect registers, photographs, and letters. Some Old Boys reminisced about days ruling as Prefects, while others lamented being disciplined by the likes of the former. The archives and history section of the tour concluded at Langlands’ Room, where many recalled his firm yet kind manner and his dedication to discipline.
The Old Boys were also given a preview of the upcoming 140 years celebrations memorabilia, leaving them anticipating the official launch later this year. Malik Muhammad Ali, accompanied by his son, Malik Haider Ali, a recent graduate of 2025 who had only just left the College, showed particular interest in the espresso cups in the collection, locking in his preorders on the spot.
Their tour continued through the new faculty residences and Shirazi House, one of Aitchison’s two new boarding houses. The visitors admired its thoughtful design and modern facilities, appreciating how the College has continued to evolve while preserving its traditions. They later walked through the corridors of Barry Block, regaining and exhibiting the same energy they had as students. The familiar classrooms, grounds, and buildings were a reminder that though time has moved forward, the College was as much a home today to its inhabitants as it was in their youth.
With warm farewells, the visit concluded at the Old Building - where many attended the last classes of their school days. After all, for the Old Boys, this was more than a nostalgic visit; it was a return to a chapter of their lives that continues to shape them today.
Strengthening Spanish Ties with Aitchison College
Aitchison College had the pleasure of welcoming Mr Jose Antonio de Ory (Ambassador of Spain to Pakistan) and Mr Jalal Salahuddin (Honorary Consul of Spain) on 21st October 2025. The visit, hosted by Dr Turab Hussain (Principal) and Faaria R Salahuddin (Director Advancements), was marked by engaging discussions and reflection on shared educational values and opportunities.
The Ambassador, who had long harboured a wish to visit Aitchison - the home of many of his peers - began his tour with Godley House, the Principal’s boarding house during his time at Aitchison. The group then walked over to the Old Building, taking in the blend of architectural styles and the rich history that continues to define the College’s character.
A key point of discussion was visa facilitations for students of Aitchison, particularly those aspiring to pursue higher education in Europe. Dr Naila Burney (Head of All International and National Admissions - Except US) highlighted the growing interest of Aitchisonians in European universities and the deterrence posed by visa delays. Mr Jose Antonio de Ory addressed the concerns, remarking that visa hindrances stem from false applications and ensuring comprehensive applicant screenings and background checks. This often results in extended visa delays for genuine applicants. Nonetheless, he expressed optimism about enhancing access through smoother visa processes.
The conversation further extended to IE University, one of Spain’s prestigious higher education institutions, known for its innovative academic model: blending humanities, technology and entrepreneurship for its diverse student body. Discussions explored exchange programmes, undergraduate admissions pathways, and future partnerships designed to broaden educational opportunities. Mr Jose de Ory mentioned he would speak with representatives of IE to conduct a student information and engagement session at Aitchison in the near future.
An introduction was made with the Games Master, Umer Zaman Khan at the Jaffar Pavilion. Conversation ensued, touching upon the College’s sports teams, which have occasionally faced visa-related challenges when invited to European tournaments and training, particularly for football. The Ambassador assured his support in exploring ways to ease such obstacles for student athletes. He was also delighted to see familiar photographs of sportsmen he had interacted with over the years.
The spot he was most keen to visit was the stables, home to the horses of Aitchison and a symbol of the riding champions of the College. His expectations were exceeded; he was in awe of the beauty of the horses and impressed by the upkeep of the Riding Department.
As the sun set and the visit came to a close, the Principal thanked Mr Jose Antonio de Ory for his visit and reaffirmed the College’s commitment to fostering global partnerships to enrich students’ experience at Aitchison. Mr Jose Antonio de Ory expressed eagerness in visiting Aitchison again and getting a chance to explore the corners of campus he missed this time around.
Legacy Walks at Aitchison College
While Aitchison College is renowned as a hub of educational excellence, it is simultaneously a site of visual and historical significance. It comes as no surprise then that the College is often a priority stop in the itinerary of international guests, whether diplomats, entrepreneurs or otherwise.
It was this sentiment manifested when on 15th October 2025, a diverse group of French and British professionals visited the College for the first time. The group featured Pakistani French entrepreneur, Amjad Aziz Malvy, Sara Zri (CEO Wasssl Center Pakistan), Marie-Celie Guillaume (CEO Roc Development France, ex-Minister for Urban Development), Farzana Arshad (CFO Sterling Pharmaceutical England) and Faryaal Aziz, a corporate lawyer working in England. Led by Faaria Salahuddin (Director Advancements) and Hubba Shahzad (Advancements Associate), the tour went beyond the conventional campus walk as the College was full of hustle and bustle with preparations for ArtFest. The guests were in awe of the students’ work, spending quite some time poring over the paintings and sculptures in the art rooms.
The group’s diverse backgrounds also made for engaging, curious conversation. Their personal interests in topics varied, ranging from the colonial history of the College and whether there had been any efforts to move away from it to the present-day facilities and resources offered on campus, specifically for faculty. The visit concluded at the Syed Babar Ali Library, where we could see students clustered about, noses crammed in their books. On this note, we were asked a rather pertinent question (which at the time we did not know the answer to): how many books does the Library hold? Answer: it’s more than 44,000!