Prof. Dr. Rehana Shahnawaz stands as a powerful symbol of academic excellence, perseverance, and women’s leadership in Pakistan’s veterinary education sector. Her professional journey — from a small village in interior Sindh to senior academic and administrative responsibilities — reflects dedication, scholarship, and service to the nation.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Belonging to Ghathar Sharif, District Kamber–Shahdadkot, Prof. Dr. Rehana Shahnawaz is recognized as the first female veterinarian from Sindh to earn a PhD in Veterinary Sciences and among the youngest professors in the field in Pakistan. Her academic foundation was laid at Sindh Agriculture University, where she obtained her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree and later completed MSc (Hons.) in Veterinary Microbiology (First Class). As a position holder, she was awarded the prestigious Chancellor’s Silver Medal in recognition of her outstanding academic performance.
After qualifying for GAT (GRE – General), she was awarded a HEC-supported PhD scholarship under the project “Strengthening and Development of Faculty of Sindh Agriculture University.” She proceeded to China Nanjing Agricultural University, where she completed her PhD in 2012. During her doctoral studies, she gained international recognition, serving as President of the International Student Association and receiving the Best International Student Award from the host university.
Since 2002, Prof. Dr. Rehana Shahnawaz has been associated with the Department of Veterinary Pharmacology, contributing more than two decades of teaching, research, and academic mentorship. Her core areas of specialization include Veterinary Pharmacology, Veterinary Pathology, and Veterinary Microbiology. She is a PhD supervisor, has supervised and co-supervised MPhil and PhD scholars, and has authored a substantial number of national and international research publications. She has also represented Pakistan at various international conferences and scientific congresses, presenting her research work at global forums.
Her contributions to veterinary education and scientific advancement have been acknowledged through several honors and professional recognitions. Notably, she was awarded the Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah Medal for Education by the Ministry of Women’s Affairs, Government of Pakistan. She is a registered member of the Pakistan Veterinary Medical Council (PVMC) and has served as a Member Board of Studies, Faculty of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences.
Alongside her academic achievements, Prof. Dr. Rehana Shahnawaz has demonstrated strong administrative and leadership capabilities. She has served as Deputy Hostel Provost (Girls) from 2005 to 2009, remained actively involved in organizing curricular and co-curricular activities, and served as a member of the Teachers Students Organizing Committee (TSOC).
As part of her professional journey, Prof. Dr. Rehana Shahnawaz was specially notified and entrusted with an additional charge as In-Charge, Faculty of Bio Sciences at Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Sakrand, where she responsibly carried out key academic and administrative duties. After completing this assignment, she returned to her parent institution, Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam, and continues to contribute her experience, leadership, and academic expertise to veterinary education and research.
Prof. Dr. Rehana Shahnawaz’s journey represents more than personal success. She stands as a trailblazer for women in higher education leadership, a role model for students from rural and underrepresented backgrounds, and a source of inspiration for young professionals across Pakistan’s veterinary and life sciences sectors. Her career reinforces the message that talent, integrity, and perseverance can overcome structural barriers and redefine leadership in academia.