University leader to receive one of Pakistan's top honours
Professor Nawaz awarded Medal of Distinction for contributions to education and technology
University of Staffordshire’s Pro Vice-Chancellor will be honoured with one of Pakistan’s highest accolades, the Medal of Distinction, for his ongoing contributions to the country's educational and technological strategies.
The announcement came from President Asif Ali Zardari as part of the Independence Day celebrations on 14th August, with Professor Raheel Nawaz named among other distinguished individuals recognised for their expertise in various fields, such as arts, science, and public service.
Embarking on his career at the young age of 14 with IBM Pakistan, Professor Nawaz later served in the Pakistan Army. Following an injury, he transitioned to the United Kingdom, where he reinvented himself in the education sector.
With a global reputation as an educator and thought leader, Professor Nawaz has provided counsel to governments worldwide, including directly advising heads of state. His scholarly work spans Applied AI, Digital Education, Educational Data Science, Tertiary Education, and the Future of Education. He has published over 300 research articles and books, and supervised more than 40 PhD students.
Professor Nawaz’s innovative pedagogical design has notably improved student outcomes, enabling first-generation university students with low prior qualifications to surpass graduates from elite institutions in both average earnings and job stability. This successful framework has been adopted across three continents, earning him a National Teaching Fellowship.
In 2025, Professor Nawaz was recognised at The Muslim News Awards with the Award for Excellence in Education and holds the title of Principal Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. Additionally, he serves as a Director and Trustee for JISC and UVAC.
An advocate for compassionate leadership, Professor Nawaz promotes kindness as a vital trait, a philosophy he shared in a TEDx talk that has influenced policymakers.
Professor Nawaz expressed his gratitude, saying: “Receiving the Medal of Distinction is a tremendous honour and one that I accept with a deep sense of humility. Pakistan has played an important part in shaping who I am, so to receive this recognition from the Government of Pakistan is particularly special. Education has been at the heart of my career, and I have always believed in its ability to open doors, challenge expectations and transform lives. Technology provides us with an extraordinary opportunity to extend that impact and create new possibilities for learners around the world."
The Medal of Distinction will be formally awarded to Professor Nawaz during a ceremony on Pakistan Day, 23rd March 2027.