At the University of Karachi, faculty members established the Research and Teaching Society (RTS) to enhance academic activities. Recently, RTS organised a session on research supervision. While syllabi and examinations usually dominate discussions, it is supervision that shapes the quality of postgraduate research, the growth of young scholars and the reputation of institutions. The dialogue highlighted that supervision is both a privilege and a profound responsibility, with the power to inspire or derail future researchers.

Research supervision is the art of mentorship i.e. helping students navigate conceptual confusion, ethical dilemmas, and the self-doubt that arises in the process of independent inquiry. Effective supervision requires patience, empathy and accessibility, qualities that ensure students feel supported while still being challenged. The most impactful supervisors are those who balance critique with encouragement, structure with independence, and discipline with respect for individuality.

The discussion highlighted that the supervisor-student........

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