Welcome to the Department of Social Anthropology, a premier center for learning and research dedicated to understanding the rich tapestry of human societies, cultures, and social dynamics. Since our inception in 1981, we have been committed to exploring the complexities of human experience, with a special focus on the unique cultural landscapes of the country specially khyber Pakjtunkhwa region. Our journey was pioneered by visionary scholars, most notably the renowned Professor Dr. Karam Elahi, whose foundational work established a legacy of academic excellence and deep ethnographic inquiry that continues to inspire us today. Building on this strong heritage, our department has evolved into a vibrant community of faculty and students dedicated to critical thinking and cultural understanding.

Academic Programs

We offer a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills to thrive in a globalized world. Currently, we proudly offer the following programs.

BS (4-Year Program): A robust undergraduate program laying the foundation for anthropological thought and research.

MPhil (2-Year Program): A rigorous research degree designed to cultivate the next generation of scholars and expert analysts.

PhD (4-Year Program): Our doctoral program was first established in 2012, and since then, the department has successfully produced a number of PhD scholars who are now contributing to the field in various academic and research capacities. While admissions to the PhD program are currently not being offered as we undertake a process of revitalization, we are pleased to announce that admissions will very soon be reopened. This renewed phase will build upon our established strengths in ethnographic research while incorporating contemporary anthropological approaches.

Our Pedagogical Strengths

The hallmark of a social anthropologist is the ability to understand the world from other's perspective. Our teaching and research are deeply rooted in qualitative research and ethnographic methods. We emphasize immersive, long-term fieldwork, enabling our students to produce nuanced, grounded insights into social structures, cultural practices, and contemporary issues.

Unique Opportunities & Future Directions

In recognition of the shifting global landscape, our department is proactive in offering cutting-edge skills and knowledge. In this regard, the department is offering

Certificate in Chinese Culture and Language: Recognizing the growing importance of Pakistan-China relations, this program provides students with a crucial linguistic and cultural competency, opening doors to diverse career paths.

Upcoming Certificate in Cross-Cultural Communication: To be launched very soon, this program will address the growing need for professionals who can navigate and mediate diverse cultural settings in business, diplomacy, and development.

Looking ahead, we are developing exciting new initiatives, including specialized programs in Digital Ethnography for exploring online communities and digital cultures and Community Health for applying anthropological perspectives to public health challenges.

We invite parents to visit our department and meet the faculty and students for your satisfaction about our running programs and certificate courses at different levels before making decision about their child's academic journey.

Department of Social Anthropology

Teaching Faculty of Department of Social Anthropology

Head of Department

Mr. Shabir Ahmad

Faculty Members

Dr. Muhammad Taieb

Ms. Shadab Rana

Dr. Sadaf Arbab