IBA Karachi: A Success Story of Excellence and Innovation Under Dr. S. Akbar Zaidi

The Institute of Business Administration (IBA) Karachi has been making waves in the academic world, and for good reason. Under the visionary leadership of Dr. S. Akbar Zaidi, the institution has achieved unprecedented success, solidifying its position as one of Pakistan’s premier business schools.

A Global Milestone: AACSB Accreditation

In February 2025, IBA Karachi achieved a major milestone by securing the prestigious Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) Accreditation, placing it among the top 6% of business schools worldwide. This esteemed recognition is a testament to IBA’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence and its dedication to providing world-class education.¹ ² ³

Transformational Leadership

Dr. Zaidi’s leadership has been instrumental in transforming IBA into a multidisciplinary institution, comprising three distinct schools: the School of Business Studies (SBS), the School of Economics and Social Sciences (SESS), and the School of Mathematics and Computer Science (SMCS). This strategic expansion has enabled IBA to offer a diverse range of programs, catering to the evolving needs of the global marketplace.

Awards and Recognition

Dr. Zaidi’s tireless efforts have not gone unnoticed. In September 2025, he was honored with the CEO Award at the CEO Summit in Islamabad, recognizing his transformative contributions to higher education in Pakistan.

A Legacy of Excellence

With over 35 years of experience in academia, Dr. Zaidi brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role. His academic credentials include PhD and MPhil degrees in History and Economics from the University of Cambridge, an MSc from the London School of Economics (LSE), and a BSc from University College London (UCL).

Looking Ahead

As IBA Karachi continues to soar, Dr. Zaidi’s focus remains on fostering global collaborations, promoting inclusivity and diversity, and driving digital transformation. Under his stewardship, IBA is poised to remain a beacon of academic excellence, producing leaders who will shape the future of Pakistan and beyond.