Visiting scholar Dr. Bakht Munir returns to KU Law from Lahore, Pakistan, for the fall 2024 semester through the end of January 2025.
Munir is a faculty member at the University of the Punjab. He teaches courses in Constitutional Law, Legal Constitutional History, Legal Research Methodology, and Islamic Law of Finance at various public and private universities. He previously visited KU Law during the fall 2017 semester and returned to conduct postdoctoral research on “Judicial Autonomy with the Glimpses of Self-Realization of Judicial Restraint: A Critical Analysis in Context of Pakistan.”
Why did you choose to return to KU Law?
I chose to return to KU Law because of the unparalleled academic experience I had during my previous time here. Studying under the supervision of Professor Richard E. Levy, who is an authority in constitutional law, provided me with a solid foundation for my Ph.D. research. The supportive and collaborative environment at KU Law, as well as the excellence of the faculty and staff, made my decision to return an easy one. I am confident that being back at KU Law will further enhance my academic and professional growth.
The Wheat Law Library, coupled with the free online databases, is rich with resources relevant to the area of my interest. I can utilize these resources without adapting to a new work environment. Strong support from the local community is also a significant factor in choosing KU Law again.
Professor Levy was very supportive during my last visit as a research exchange scholar, so I have requested him again for the Postdoc Research Project. He has shown willingness for potential collaborative research projects which speaks volumes about his unconditional support. Positive working relationships with him, Dean Stephen Mazza, Professor Raj Bhala, Crystal Mai, and other professors and staff alike have enabled me to work in a conducive environment. Moreover, KU offers specific career development resources for postdocs such as workshops, networking events, and opportunities for teaching and mentoring that would help advance my academic and professional profile.
What are your goals for your time at KU Law? What do you plan to do after your time here?
My primary goal is to deepen my research in constitutional law and build on the work I have already accomplished. After my time at KU, I plan to continue my academic career with aspirations to teach and contribute to legal scholarship at an international level.
I am committed to completing the postdoc research project and availing myself of further research opportunities. I came to KU Law to explore U.S. constitutional governance and establish ties with the legal fraternity. I look forward to a long-term working relationship and wish to bridge the U.S. scholars with the Asian legal regime. I want to focus my research on the comparative legal developments between the U.S. and Pakistan. Collaborative work could help produce quality scholarships which could be interesting for both countries.
Further, I am focusing on integrating law with technology through artificial intelligence for which I have started collaborating with a physicist here in Lawrence and have authored a research paper that is expected to be published soon.
How has our academic and research environment at KU Law changed since your last time here? Have there been any changes compared to your home institution?
The environment at KU Law has evolved positively since my last visit. There have been significant advancements in research support and a greater emphasis on interdisciplinary studies, which align perfectly with my research interests.
Compared to my home institution, KU Law offers a more collaborative atmosphere, which is conducive to innovative legal research. The access to the resources and encouragement of academic exploration is something I greatly appreciate.
What are you excited to return to in Lawrence? Have you discovered anything new in our community?
I am excited about reconnecting with the vibrant academic community and the cultural richness that the city offers. The welcoming nature of the community residents and the diverse experiences available here make it a special place.
I have also discovered new developments in the city as well as on campus, including extended cultural venues and community initiatives that reflect the city’s growth and dynamism. I love the vibrant atmosphere. The town offers a dynamic cultural scene supplemented by events, lectures, workshops, and community activities. Community centers like the Islamic Centre are a perfect place for socialization and networking. I can easily meet and have productive discussions with the local community and have their support and assistance in different matters.
The community system of Lawrence is fascinating. Lawrence offers several outdoor activities such as hiking and driving to nearby lakes and parks. I love the Kansas River and Clinton Lake, which are both good places for boating and fishing. In addition to cultural and artistic scenes, Lawrence offers an affordable living standard compared to other big cities and towns. Being a university town, Lawrence has a highly educated population. Living in a diverse educated society can help broaden my thinking and may open new avenues for my professional pursuits.
What advice would you offer to scholars who want to return to an institution they’ve previously studied at?
My advice would be to approach the opportunity and a willingness to engage with both the familiar and the new. Reconnecting with mentors and peers can provide invaluable insights and opportunities for growth. Additionally, returning with a fresh perspective can allow you to appreciate the advancements and changes within the institution, making your experience richer and more fulfilling.
The University of Kansas is home to a very divergent culture because it has students, faculty, and staff from different communities which makes it easier to develop connections, explore opportunities, and advocate for your values. One should leave an impact when returning to the same institution. I would encourage the scholars who intend to return to mingle with the local community, engage in fruitful discussions with other faculty members, learn new skills, be actively involved in local events, and be positive ambassadors of their own culture without deviating from their academic pursuits.