KARACHI – A meeting of the Graduate and Research Management Council (GRMC) at the Federal Urdu University, Karachi, was recently held under the chairmanship of Vice Chancellor Dr. Zabta Shinwari. During the meeting, a formal notification was issued to confer a Ph.D. degree upon Saeed Masood Usmani in the Department of Mass Communication.

Dr. Saeed Usmani completed his dissertation titled “An Analytical Study of FM Radio Listeners in Karachi” under the supervision of Professor Dr. Tauseef Ahmed Khan, a veteran researcher, media expert, columnist, and former chairman of the Department of Mass Communication. To ensure the academic rigour of the dissertation, it was reviewed by international examiners from renowned foreign universities, all of whom submitted highly positive evaluations.

Following this, Dr. Usmani successfully defended his research during an oral examination.

To mark this academic milestone, a dignified ceremony was held at the Karachi Press Club. The event aimed to celebrate Dr. Usmani’s scholarly contribution to the understanding of FM radio and its place in modern journalism. The ceremony drew a large audience of academics, journalists, students, researchers, and long-time colleagues from the fields of journalism and media studies.

In his research, Dr. Usmani presented a detailed analysis of the shifting trends in journalism, social impact, and editorial standards as influenced by FM radio. His supervisor, Professor Dr. Tauseef Ahmed Khan, praised his dedication, saying, "The sincerity, hard work, and academic honesty with which Saeed Usmani completed this dissertation is truly admirable. His work is a significant addition to the scholarly literature on FM radio."

Dr. Khan revealed that Dr. Usmani suffered two heart attacks during the course of his research. “At 80 years old,” he added, “Dr. Usmani is one of the oldest research scholars I have had the privilege to supervise. Despite his age and health issues, he showed remarkable perseverance.”

Prominent media figures such as Mazhar Abbas, Ashraf Khan, Suhail Sangi, Dr. Saifullah Khan, Aziz Sanghur, Sarfaraz Ahmed Khan, Dr. Nasir Mehmood, Dr. Irfan Aziz, Asad Butt, Qazi Khizr, Ali Ausat, Comrade Ibrahim Saleh, and others also spoke at the event. They praised Dr. Usmani’s deep insight into journalism and teaching, noting, "His achievement is not just a personal victory but a valuable contribution to the field of communication studies."

The speakers particularly appreciated the dissertation’s analytical approach to highlighting the social role of FM radio listeners, calling it a work worthy of in-depth study.

"We believe this research will serve as a foundational reference for future scholars," they said.

In his address, Professor Saeed Usmani shared insights into the scope of his research, saying, "My work presents a comprehensive analysis of the invention and evolution of radio, from the early days to its development in the subcontinent and Pakistan, and then focuses on the specific role of FM radio."

He emphasised that the achievement was a collective effort, giving credit to all who supported him, especially his mentor Dr. Tauseef Ahmed Khan.

"Without his guidance, this would not have been possible," he said. "I have tried to highlight an aspect of radio journalism that had not previously received academic attention."

Dr. Usmani also made special mention of his close friend Mahmood Laiq, saying, "Mr. Laiq not only offered financial support but also stood by me morally during every difficult time. This journey would not have been possible without his companionship."

He further acknowledged the support of Dr. Saifullah Khan and his daughter Dr. Anam Naz, stating, "The confidence and trust they placed in me served as a great source of motivation. Their scholarly insights and advice significantly helped refine my research."

Professor Usmani concluded his speech by discussing the future of FM radio, emerging challenges, and the need for professional training. He encouraged young researchers to explore new dimensions in journalism to further strengthen the field.

The ceremony ended with the presentation of floral bouquets and commemorative shields to Professor Saeed Usmani by the attendees.

More than just an award ceremony, the event evolved into an academic forum where students and educators of journalism engaged in rich discussions about the future of research, emerging media trends, and the ongoing challenges in the communication landscape.