ISLAMABAD: Professor Emeritus Dr Ahmad Iqbal, a distinguished dental academic, the first principal of Khyber College of Dentistry (KCD), Peshawar, and founding editor-in-chief of the Pakistan Oral and Dental Journal (PODJ), has passed away, prompting condolences across Pakistan’s dental community.
Remembered as a teacher, mentor and pioneer of dental education, Dr Iqbal devoted his professional life to advancing dental academia and creating opportunities for the next generation of dentists, researchers and specialists. His contributions extended beyond institutional leadership to scientific publishing, where his role in establishing PODJ helped strengthen the platform available to Pakistani dental professionals for sharing their research.
According to the Pakistan Dental Association (PDA), Dr Iqbal held the distinction of being the first principal of KCD and served as the founding editor-in-chief of PODJ, a dental research journal established in 1981. His work helped create a lasting avenue for the dissemination of scientific articles by Pakistani dental professionals at national and international levels.
Through PODJ, Dr Iqbal contributed to the development of a professional platform where dentists, researchers and specialists could present their findings, exchange scientific knowledge and participate in the wider academic community. The journal’s establishment represented an important contribution to dental literature in Pakistan, supporting the visibility of local research and the professional development of generations of dental practitioners.
His legacy also rests in the students and colleagues who knew him as an educator and mentor. As the first principal of KCD, he helped shape the institution’s early academic direction, contributing to the development of dental education in Peshawar and the wider region.
In its condolence message, the PDA expressed profound sadness over his death, remembering him as a great teacher and mentor whose services to the dental profession would continue to be remembered by his students and colleagues in Pakistan and abroad. The association also prayed for Allah Almighty to grant him the highest place in Jannat-ul-Firdous and give patience to his bereaved family.
Dr Iqbal’s passing marks the loss of a respected figure whose influence reached beyond the classroom and dental institution. Through academic leadership, teaching and scientific publishing, he helped build avenues for professional learning and research that continue to serve the dental community.
The funeral prayer is scheduled for 3pm on Friday, after Jumma prayers, at Islamabad Graveyard, according to the condolence announcement circulated by the dental community.
For condolences and further information, the family has provided the contact details of Dr Rashid Iqbal, son of the late Professor Emeritus Dr Ahmad Iqbal, at 0333 5100790. The family’s address is House No. 19, Street 63, Sector F-7/3, Islamabad.
The team and higher management of Dental News Pakistan extends its heartfelt condolences to Dr Iqbal’s familay, colleagues, former students and the wider dental fraternity. His contributions to dental education, academic leadership and scientific publishing will remain an enduring part of Pakistan’s dental history. May Allah Almighty grant him forgiveness, elevate his ranks in Jannat-ul-Firdous and give strength and patience to his loved ones. Ameen.
Inna Lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un.
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