Dr. Asghar Zaidi is a distinguished academic, thought leader, and policy expert with extensive global experience spanning academia, government, and international organizations. With a robust educational background, including a PhD in Economics from the University of Oxford, Dr. Zaidi's career is marked by his commitment to addressing pressing societal challenges, particularly in the realms of population aging, social policy, and higher education reform.
As a visionary leader, Dr. Zaidi has held prominent positions such as Vice Chancellor of Government College University Lahore, where he led transformative initiatives to elevate academic standards, foster innovation, and enhance research output. His additional tenure as Vice Chancellor (Additional Charge) of the University of the Punjab further underscores his capacity to drive impactful changes within complex academic institutions.
Dr. Zaidi's international influence is evident in his prior appointments, including as Professor of Social Gerontology at Seoul National University and as a Visiting Professor at the London School of Economics. His research contributions, particularly on aging and social policy, have informed international frameworks, including the development of the Active Aging Index under the auspices of the European Commission and the UN Economic Commission for Europe. A prolific researcher, his work is extensively published in top-tier journals, books, and policy briefs.
Beyond academia, Dr. Zaidi has served as a Senior Economist at the OECD, where his insights shaped labor and social policy recommendations. His role as Director of Research at the European Centre for Social Welfare Policy and Research demonstrates his ability to integrate rigorous research with practical policy applications.
Dr. Zaidi's commitment to improving societal well-being extends to his consulting work with organizations like the United Nations, World Bank, and HelpAge International. He has led impactful projects, including the Global AgeWatch Index and studies on dementia awareness in Pakistan. His leadership in these domains has been recognized with accolades such as Pakistan’s Tamgha-i-Imtiaz for his contributions to higher education and aging research.
Currently, Dr. Zaidi holds honorary roles with esteemed organizations, including the World Health Organization and the University of Oxford, further amplifying his thought leadership on global stages. As an influential voice in public discourse, he has authored insightful articles and policy recommendations featured in leading international and local media outlets.
Dr. Asghar Zaidi's illustrious career reflects a relentless pursuit of excellence and a deep-seated passion for societal betterment. His contributions continue to inspire progress in academia, policymaking, and international development, making him a global leader in his field.