As the Founding Vice Chancellor (October 2019 – June 2026), Prof. Dr. Muhammad Mukhtar transformed an undeveloped, desolate landscape into a vibrant, internationally recognized institution dedicated to skills, innovation, and national development.

Entrusted with the challenging responsibility of building the University from the ground up, Prof. Dr. Mukhtar laid every cornerstone of the institution. He spearheaded the recruitment of highly qualified faculty and professional staff, established a robust governance and administrative framework, developed academic regulations and quality assurance systems, secured all statutory approvals to launch academic and professional programs, and fostered an environment of excellence, accountability, and innovation.

Under his visionary leadership, NSU rapidly evolved from a development project into a fully operational, dynamic university offering market-driven education and skills development. His strategic direction positioned the University as Pakistan's premier institution for skills-based higher education, bridging academia and industry and preparing graduates for the demands of the modern workforce.

A landmark achievement of his tenure was the establishment of the National Skills University Sarmad Tanveer Campus in Muridke, Sheikhupura. This strategic expansion significantly expanded access to world-class skills education and technology-driven learning opportunities for students across Central Punjab and beyond. The campus broadened the University's national footprint, strengthened regional outreach, and enabled thousands of young people to benefit from industry-aligned education, advanced technical training, and internationally benchmarked skills programs.

One of the defining milestones of his tenure was securing prestigious international recognition for the University. NSU earned recognition as a UNESCO-UNEVOC Centre, joining the global network of institutions promoting excellence in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). The University also received recognition from the European Training Foundation (ETF) as a Centre of Vocational Excellence, placing Pakistan on the international map of skills development and vocational innovation. These achievements were complemented by numerous national and international partnerships, quality accreditations, research initiatives, and institutional recognitions that significantly enhanced the University's global standing.

Beyond infrastructure and academic programs, Prof. Dr. Mukhtar cultivated a culture of innovation, digital transformation, sustainability, international collaboration, and industry engagement. His leadership forged a strong institutional identity that continues to inspire excellence across teaching, research, entrepreneurship, and workforce development.

Today, the National Skills University Islamabad stands as a testament to his foresight, determination, and unwavering commitment to nation-building. The remarkable transformation of an empty tract of land with deserted buildings into a thriving, internationally acclaimed university reflects a legacy of visionary leadership that will continue to shape Pakistan's skills ecosystem for generations.