Annus Azhar, Ph.D
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About Annus
Academic
Dr. Annus Azhar’s research focuses on digital governance, generative AI, and social equity, supported by a Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration specializing in Smart City technologies and equitable governance. His work examines how emerging technologies can foster equity in the public sector and higher education, blending theory with practical application. Dr. Azhar’s research has been published in journals, including Public Administration Quarterly, Economic Development Quarterly, Public Performance and Management Review, and Social Indicators Research. He teaches graduate and undergraduate courses such as Public Service Research Methods, Public Service and Public Policy in the 21st Century, and Information Technology in Emergency Management, integrating AI tools, automation software, and data-driven techniques to prepare students for governance challenges. Dr. Azhar serves on the editorial board of Public Integrity and reviews for journals like Public Administration Review and the Journal of Social Equity and Public Administration, reflecting his dedication to advancing public administration scholarship.
Professional
Dr. Annus Azhar, a Certified AI Expert, combines academic expertise with professional experience gained during his tenure at the Planning and Development Department of the Government of Punjab, where he contributed to policy development and governance initiatives. Now an Assistant Teaching Professor at Arizona State University’s School of Public Affairs, he applies his AI expertise to enhance teaching and research, focusing on AI-driven solutions for public sector and higher education challenges. His philosophy of bridging theory and practice is evident in his development of AI-driven teaching methods and innovative pedagogical tools, empowering students to address real-world governance issues. This dedication earned him the Teaching Innovation Award at Arizona State University for his integration of generative AI tools into public policy curricula. Dr. Azhar also developed the Public Sector Applications of AI course, which equips students with practical skills to tackle governance challenges using cutting-edge technology. His work exemplifies a commitment to advancing equity and innovation in public administration.
Research
Generative AI
Investigating the trans formative potential of generative AI applications in public administration and higher education.
Social Equity
Analysing distributional equity in public service delivery through smart city technologies and generative AI integration in higher education.
Smart Cities Technology
Examining adoption factors and socioeconomic impacts of smart city technologies in local governments and public service delivery.
Teaching
Research Methods
Teaching quantitative and qualitative research methods for public service at graduate and undergraduate levels, including Research Methods I & II.
Public Administration
Public management and public sector administration, organisational theory, and management practices in the public sector.
Public Service & Policy
Contemporary public service and policy issues focus on governance challenges, technological innovations, and public sector transformations in the 21st century.
Certifications
AI Expert
Certified AI practitioner specialising in generative AI applications, no-code AI tools, and AI integration in public-sector teaching and research.
Graph Data Science
Expert in analysing and visualising complex network relationships using advanced statistical methods and specialised tools.
Online Teaching
Certified online educator experienced in developing and delivering synchronous and asynchronous courses using innovative digital pedagogies and AI-enhanced teaching methods.