Coming from KSA, a very conservative country, life in BNU was initially a big shock for me with respect to culture, creed and rationality. But it didn’t take too long for me to realize that it was a place with not only exceptionally brilliant tutors, but a place that enabled students to explore their talent and uniqueness, which very much played an essential part in the student’s performance, especially in the field of architecture which I was enrolled in. From first year, our tutors taught us the importance of discussing our work with one another, instead of concealing it. They would advise students to help out other students who had trouble getting a grasp over different subjects, especially in our studio classes, which would take place twice a week and which we would always look forward to attending. The buildings of BNU itself had a lot to teach us of architecture subconsciously. Different studio classes surrounded a central courtyard, where students from all the years would display their work by the end of their semesters for everyone to learn from.
Moreover, we were provided with a variety of elective courses to choose from, which included courses offered by different departments. This helped us broaden our views on various subjects and helped us socialize and make friends in different departments. In short, our interaction was not just limited to the students from architecture. Furthermore, the trips to different cities of Pakistan enabled us to experience and explore our country’s architecture and culture, which has become even more important today since we are gradually losing their value.
BNU is a place that believes in teaching students not only through books and lectures, but beyond that. Although tolerance, acceptance and liberalism were not literally included in the list of offered courses, our mentors made sure to provide their guidance in these subjects. They believed grooming to be an equally essential part in the student’s learning.
Being an alumni, I realized that the education provided to us in BNU has been internationally competitive and up-to date, which unfortunately only a few universities in Lahore provide currently. To sum up, it was one of my life’s best decisions to enroll myself in BNU.
Photo Credit: Shahzaib Chaudary
