The Institute of Education & Research (IER) at Gomal University, Dera Ismail Khan, is one of Pakistan’s pioneering teacher education and educational research institutions. Originally established in 1974 as the Department of Education, it was upgraded to an Institute in 1976. Since its inception, the Institute has been dedicated to producing professionally competent, ethically grounded, and research-oriented educators and educational leaders.

IER offers a dynamic learning environment that combines academic rigor, innovation, and professional development. Its academic programs span from undergraduate to doctoral levels, including B.Ed. (Hons) 4-Year, B.Ed. (2.5-Year), B.Ed. (1.5-Year), M.Phil. (Education), and Ph.D. (Education). These programs are offered in both Morning and Weekend formats, ensuring flexible access for diverse student populations. The institute phased out the older B.Ed. (1-Year) and M.Ed. (1-Year) programs in accordance with HEC directives.

IER emphasizes curriculum revision and upgradation as a core strategy to maintain relevance and academic excellence. With regular meetings of the Board of Studies, the Institute ensures that all programs reflect emerging trends, best pedagogical practices, and national educational priorities.

The Institute has made remarkable contributions to educational research. Since launching its M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs in 2001–2002, IER has produced over 70 Ph.D. and 190 M.Phil. graduates who are serving across leading academic, governmental, and professional institutions in Pakistan.

Furthermore, IER actively engages in community collaboration, school partnerships, and national development. By nurturing critical thinking, ethical practice, and leadership in education, the Institute continues to shape the future of teacher education and educational policy in Pakistan. Its alumni are influencing educational discourse at local, national, and international levels.

Mission

The mission of the Institute of Education & Research is to:

1. Provide a supportive, learner-centered environment that empowers future educators with advanced pedagogical and research skills.
2. Foster professional excellence, critical thinking, and leadership among graduates to meet local and global educational challenges.
3. Promote innovative curricula grounded in research and best practice, aligned with national educational needs.
4. Develop a strong research culture that supports educational innovation and policy formulation.
5. Encourage ethical and professional conduct in teaching, leadership, and academic inquiry.
6. Build strategic linkages with educational institutions, communities, and policy bodies to enhance educational outcomes.

Objective:

The key objectives of the Institute of Education & Research include:

1. Teacher Preparation
   • Prepare well-trained, ethically grounded educators for schools, colleges, and community-based education.
   • Emphasize real-world pedagogical training, contemporary teaching methods, and the integration of theory with practice.
2. Research & Innovation
   • Encourage faculty and students to engage in meaningful research addressing national and global educational issues.
   • Develop new models in curriculum design, assessment, and instructional strategies.
3. Community & Institutional Leadership
   • Strengthen partnerships with schools, educational authorities, and community stakeholders.
   • Promote programs in educational leadership, planning, and policy development.
4. Quality & Ethics
   • Uphold high standards of accountability, professionalism, and collaboration across all academic programs.
   • Ensure adherence to research ethics, institutional governance, and educational integrity.
5. Global & Local Relevance
   • Align degree programs with national development goals and international education benchmarks.
   • Prepare graduates capable of addressing educational needs from rural Pakistan to global platforms.