The first Women University of Pakistan is named in the tribute, for contribution and sacrifices, of MADR-E-MILLAT Fatima Jinnah to the cause of women emancipation. Fatima Jinnah Women University (FJWU) was established in 1998 at old presidency, located at the Mall, in Rawalpindi Cantonment. It is the first women university in Pakistan.
University building was originally built as a residence by two Sikh brothers, Mohan Singh and Sohan Singh. The main building is Victorian as reflected in its architectural splendor. After thirteen years of independence, in 1960’s, it became the presidency of Pakistan. The corridors of building have the memories of famous personalities like Benazir Bhutto, Mr. Ch. Fazal Elahi and President Zia ul Haq. Former Prime Minister, Mian Nawaz Sharif, dedicated and gifted this building for education of nation’s daughters on August 6, 1998. This decision of government proved as a symbol of commitment to the education and empowerment of women.
Prof. Dr Najma Najam was the first women Vice Chancellor of Fatima Jinnah Women University. First formal session was initiated on December 28, 1998 and the first graduated batch of students passed out in 2001. Irrespective of the region and province, either it is Southern Punjab, Baluchistan, Kheber Pakhtoon khawa or Sindh, students from all over the country come here to make their future bright. The university aims to promote the highest standard of academic excellence in teaching and research. FJWU stands among the good universities of the country and is ranked well in the ranking of Higher Education Commission.
FJWU is offering undergraduate and master degrees in sixteen different academic disciplines. The departments include Behavioral Sciences, Business Administration, Computer Arts, Computer Sciences, Communication Sciences, Defense and Diplomatic Studies, Economics, Education, English, Environmental Sciences, Fine Arts, Gender Studies, Islamic Studies, Public Administration, Mathematics and Software Engineering. Six Research Degrees are also offered by FJWU in the programs of Behavioral Sciences, Economics, Education, English language and Literature, environmental Sciences and Gender Studies.
University staff and students are availing many facilities including hostel, counseling, library, computer center, research center, campus branch of First Women Bank, sports, medical center, day care center, cafeteria, photography, mosque, book shops, photocopy and postal services. FJWU has launched its own FM Radio Station named VOW Voice of Women (96.68), run by its staff and students jointly, and its signals/transmissions can be received in nearby area.
