The National College of Arts, since its establishment, has maintained a visionary approach to the arts. From an industrial polytechnic in 1875, to a contemporary arts college starting with three major departments in 1958, the college now boasts of an impressive number of undergraduate, graduate, M Phil and PhD programmes. There are nine undergraduate, four graduate level and two post-graduate level programmes currently offered by the college. The NCA alumni form the pool of Pakistan’s best artists, architects, designers, film makers, cultural researchers and musicologists.

The college has evolved at par with international standards and is keeping up well with pedagogical requirements of the current times. As we step into this new academic year, filled with hopes and dreams of scaling new heights, I proudly affirm that with our experienced and dedicated teachers and excellent infrastructure, National College of Arts serves as a conduit to equip students with the ability to learn at an accelerated pace within a given timeframe, simultaneously instilling the capacity to balance creativity and criticism.

Students should know the importance of planning and prioritizing their time and the effective use of it. They must be aware of the importance of and ways to protect their heritage and environment, not only for their own age but for generations to come. They should always act as progressive agents to defend and preserve their traditions and culture.

The National College of Arts in both of its campuses, Lahore and Rawalpindi, encourages the ethos of creative enrichment and critical thinking. It has also effectively maintained its inclusive approach, imparting progressive ideals and disseminating awareness of art to the public at large by participating in and initiating multiple community outreach programmes under the umbrella of skill development for the underprivileged.

It is with great delight that I welcome you all to be part of this one-of-a kind institution, the only public art college of the country. I wish you all the success in your future endeavours.

Prof. Dr. Murtaza Jafri
Principal
National College of Arts