Empowering Education: BARD Foundation’s enduring legacy at LUMS

LUMS and the Bilquis and Abdul Razak Dawood (BARD) Foundation proudly announce the naming of the Descon Auditorium, a 100-seat facility in the upcoming Yusuf H. Shirazi Complex at LUMS. Made possible through the Foundation’s generous support, the auditorium will serve as a dynamic venue for lectures, discussions, and student activities, fostering intellectual exchange and collaboration.

The BARD Foundation, established by Abdul Razak Dawood and Bilquis Dawood, has a longstanding association with LUMS, shaping its growth as a premier institution of higher learning. Since its inception, the Dawood family has played a pivotal role in advancing education and supporting academic excellence at the University, including contributing to the establishment of the Suleman Dawood School of Business (SDSB), the creation of two endowed chairs and the naming of student housing facilities among other philanthropy initiatives. The Descon Auditorium represents the family’s continued investment in education, creating a space that inspires learning, dialogue, and innovation for future generations.
Abdul Razak Dawood said at the MoU signing ceremony, “I want to thank our [Descon] executives—your efforts have made so much possible for LUMS. InshaAllah, we will continue to support LUMS for generations to come. As Syed Babar Ali always says, by giving, we never become poor. I also want to thank my family for their support in making this auditorium a reality—it will truly be a beautiful space.”
The event was attended by the founders of the BARD Foundation and members of its Board of Governors, including Faisal Dawood and Mehreen Dawood. Representing LUMS were Syed Babar Ali, Founding Pro-Chancellor; Dr Ali Cheema, Vice Chancellor; and Shahid Hussain, Rector, who acknowledged the Dawood family’s exceptional contributions to the university’s growth and impact.
Expressing his gratitude for the Dawood family’s enduring support, Syed Babar Ali remarked, “I would like to thank everyone and express my deep appreciation for the generosity of Mr. Razak and his family. The amount of time he has dedicated to LUMS is truly remarkable. I am pleased to see the next generation of the Dawood family here today. This institution will always need your contributions.”
The Descon Auditorium’s name highlights the power of strategic partnerships and the importance of philanthropy in higher education.
Acknowledging the Dawood family’s continuous generosity, Dr. Ali Cheema noted, “Dawood family’s support has been fundamental to the development of education in our country. With the university’s expanding focus on academics, film, and theatre, our events and convocations can now carry even more significance. I want to thank Descon, the Dawood family, and the BARD Foundation for their generous support and for making this naming possible.”