Contact Us

Education

Automechanika Frankfurt Collision Repair Training Brings Free AI and EV Skills to Global Auto Professionals
Education

Automechanika Frankfurt Collision Repair Training Brings Free AI and EV Skills to Global Auto Professionals

/

The automotive repair industry is undergoing one of the biggest transformations in its history, and Automechanika Frankfurt Collision Repair Training is positioning itself at the center of that change. With 13 free practical training sessions covering everything from artificial intelligence and robotics to electric vehicle safety and ADAS calibration, the exhibition is sending a clear message that traditional repair skills alone are no longer enough to survive in a rapidly evolving automotive market. While many automotive events focus on showcasing the latest products and technologies, Automechanika Frankfurt is investing directly in workforce development by providing certified, hands-on training that addresses the industry’s widening skills gap. The initiative comes at a time when workshops across Europe and other regions are struggling to recruit technicians capable of handling increasingly sophisticated vehicles. Automechanika Frankfurt Collision Repair Training Responds to Industry Challenges Modern vehicles have become significantly more complex than those produced even five years ago. Artificial intelligence, advanced driver assistance systems, electric drivetrains, high-voltage batteries, connected diagnostics and digital repair management have transformed collision repair into a highly technical profession. Recognizing these challenges, Automechanika Frankfurt has partnered with several leading automotive companies and technical organizations to deliver comprehensive training between 8 and 12 September in Hall 11.0. Participants can attend the sessions free of charge, receive official certificates and gain complimentary admission to the exhibition through advance registration. The programme covers nearly every stage of the collision repair process, beginning with accident damage assessment and extending through body repairs, plastic restoration, glass replacement, paint refinishing, ADAS calibration, electric vehicle safety and AI-powered robotic painting. AI and Digital Technology Are Changing Collision Repair One of the biggest highlights of the Automechanika Frankfurt Collision Repair Training programme is its strong emphasis on artificial intelligence and digital transformation. Several sessions demonstrate how AI can improve repair cost estimation, automate painting processes and reduce human error throughout workshop operations. Digital claims handling for automotive glass repairs will also be showcased, illustrating how insurers and repair centers can speed up quotations, improve invoicing accuracy and reduce administrative delays. These developments reflect a broader trend across the automotive aftermarket, where digital tools are becoming as important as mechanical expertise. Electric Vehicles and ADAS Create New Repair Standards Electric vehicles and semi-autonomous driving technologies are fundamentally changing repair procedures worldwide. Dedicated sessions will focus on high-voltage safety during accident repairs, ensuring technicians understand the precautions required when working with damaged electric vehicles. Experts will also demonstrate the correct calibration of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), which has become mandatory after many collision repairs involving cameras, sensors and radar systems. Improper calibration can compromise vehicle safety, making technician training increasingly critical as more manufacturers introduce Level 2 and Level 3 automated driving capabilities. Practical Workshops Cover Every Stage of Vehicle Restoration Rather than relying on theoretical presentations, the programme emphasizes practical demonstrations. Participants will learn systematic accident damage assessment, electronic body measurement, sustainable bumper repair techniques, dent removal for steel body panels, combined joining technologies including welding, riveting and bonding, professional windscreen replacement and modern automotive paint processes integrated with digital applications. The flexible one-hour and three-hour training formats allow both experienced professionals and newcomers to participate according to their schedules. A dedicated Vocational School Day will also introduce students to modern collision repair technologies, helping prepare the next generation of automotive technicians. Why the Industry Still Faces a Bigger Problem Although the training initiative deserves recognition, it also highlights a larger issue facing the global automotive industry. Vehicle manufacturers continue introducing increasingly sophisticated technologies, yet investment in technician education has often failed to keep pace. Many independent workshops struggle to afford expensive diagnostic equipment or continuous technical training, creating a widening gap between vehicle innovation and repair capability. Free programmes such as the Automechanika Frankfurt Collision Repair Training provide valuable support, but they remain short-term solutions. Long-term success will require stronger collaboration between automakers, vocational institutions, repair organizations and governments to establish continuous professional education as an industry standard rather than an occasional opportunity. Without sustained investment in technician development, consumers could ultimately face longer repair times, higher maintenance costs and increased safety risks due to improperly repaired vehicles. Industry Collaboration Takes Center Stage The programme is supported by major automotive organizations including DEKRA, DAT, Robert Bosch, Toyota Deutschland, Car-O-Liner, BETAG Innovation, Surventis, Farécla Products and several specialist industry associations. Beyond technical education, the event offers professionals, engineers, assessors, service advisers and students valuable networking opportunities, encouraging collaboration across the rapidly evolving automotive aftermarket. As connected vehicles, electric mobility and AI continue reshaping transportation, initiatives like the Automechanika Frankfurt Collision Repair Training demonstrate that investing in people may prove just as important as investing in technology. The future of collision repair is becoming increasingly digital, data-driven and technology intensive. Automechanika Frankfurt’s expanded free training programme reflects the industry’s urgent need for upskilling while highlighting the growing importance of AI, electric vehicles and advanced diagnostics. However, the automotive sector must ensure that workforce development becomes a permanent priority rather than an event-based initiative if it hopes to meet the demands of next-generation mobility.

AI Driving Increased Use of Real-Time Data by Accountants Enabling Better Business Decisions, but Integrity Concerns Widespread
Education

AI Driving Increased Use of Real-Time Data by Accountants Enabling Better Business Decisions, but Integrity Concerns Widespread

/

Karachi – July 21, 2026 CFOs and finance teams are harnessing an explosion in data and AI technology to drive better business insights. But a new survey shows most have concerns over the integrity of AI-generated analysis A major report, Enabling finance insight, from two of the world’s leading accountancy bodies, reveals a clear trend towards greater use of real-time operational data, with more than 60 per cent of finance teams increasing its use over the past two years to support better business insight and decision-making. This shift from retrospective reporting towards current and forward-looking insights is driven by a greater breadth of data– from real-time operational metrics to unstructured internal text data – and increased use of AI technologies to reshape how data is analysed and interpreted. The global survey of 1,600 finance professionals also reveals a real shift in the way that finance teams are working with data and IT across an organisation. Traditional silos are breaking down, with almost 60 per cent reporting close collaboration with data and IT teams. But the research from ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) and Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ) shows that 93 per cent of finance professionals are concerned by the integrity and verifiability of AI-generated insights. Issues include AI hallucinations, inaccuracies, incomplete data sets, lack of transparency and bias. These findings underline that awareness must be followed by upskilling in this fast-developing area. ACCA Chief Executive Helen Brand OBE said: “This research shows how finance teams are evolving from retrospective reporting engines into strategic enablers of enterprise-wide insight. This is a great opportunity, but upskilling is critical. CFOs and finance teams need to lead in the responsible adoption of AI across organisations, ensuring robust training and governance is in place. Critical thinking, sceptical validation and an ethical approach is vital.” CA ANZ Chief Executive Officer Ainslie van Onselen said: “AI is now a core part of the finance toolkit, but it’s not a shortcut. CFOs and finance teams need to use it to sharpen judgement and generate real value, not just speed up old processes. That means investing in structured learning and working more closely with IT and data teams. Upskilling isn’t optional. It’s how you manage the risk.” Data from the survey shows a growing skills gap, with 72 per cent of respondents reporting only basic or no GenAI skills, however 41 per cent are seeking training and upskilling in their own time. As real-time data becomes central to decision-making, thinking critically about its limits is becoming a core skill. Globally, the survey showed strategic priorities (45 per cent) and regulatory requirements (43 per cent) are the key drivers of the increase in data analysis to produce insights. While progress is significant, the report highlights the key areas finance functions need to address to improve business insights: data quality issues (42 per cent), lack of appropriate skills (42 per cent), and difficulty integrating multiple sources (40 per cent). Realising finance’s potential as a strategic enabler of insight hinges on developing the right skills and strengthening collaboration. The research examined the talent profile of the modern finance function and found that while ambition is high, execution is threatened by a misalignment between skills and capabilities in areas such as generative AI literacy, predictive analytics, collaboration over coding, storytelling and data governance/ethics. The report aims to equip CFOs and finance leaders with actionable recommendations to help their teams provide trusted insight, effectively steward data, govern AI responsibly, and drive measurable value for the entire organisation. Read the report. Key messages from the report:

SECP Webinar on Market Integrity Highlights Transparency and AML Compliance for Securities Brokers
Education

SECP Webinar on Market Integrity Highlights Transparency and AML Compliance for Securities Brokers

/

The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening transparency, investor protection, and regulatory compliance by organizing a high-level awareness webinar in collaboration with the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX). The webinar, titled “Promoting Transparency and Market Integrity: Prudential and AML/CFT Compliances,” brought together securities brokers, market professionals, and regulators to discuss evolving compliance requirements and governance standards in Pakistan’s capital market. The initiative forms part of the SECP’s broader strategy to improve regulatory awareness, encourage responsible market practices, and ensure that all market participants comply with the country’s financial and legal framework. SECP Emphasizes Transparency and Investor Protection During the webinar, senior SECP officials outlined the regulatory responsibilities of securities brokers under the Securities Act, 2015 and the Securities Brokers (Licensing and Operations) Regulations, 2016. The officials stressed that maintaining transparency and protecting investors remain fundamental responsibilities for all licensed brokers operating in Pakistan’s capital market. Participants were informed that brokers must maintain valid brokerage licenses and conduct their operations strictly within the regulatory framework approved by the SECP. The regulator also highlighted that compliance is not limited to obtaining a license. Instead, brokers must continuously demonstrate sound governance, financial discipline, and effective internal controls throughout their operations. Regulatory Responsibilities for Securities Brokers The webinar provided a detailed overview of the key prudential obligations that securities brokers are required to fulfill. SECP officials explained that brokers must ensure the proper segregation and safeguarding of clients’ assets to protect investors’ interests. They also emphasized the importance of maintaining sufficient capital and financial resources to support business operations and reduce financial risks. Another major area of discussion focused on maintaining accurate accounting records and comprehensive audit trails. Proper documentation, officials noted, helps improve accountability while enabling regulators to monitor compliance more effectively. Participants were also reminded to establish strong internal compliance systems capable of identifying operational risks and addressing regulatory concerns before they escalate. The SECP further encouraged brokers to implement efficient mechanisms for handling investor complaints in a timely and transparent manner, reinforcing public confidence in Pakistan’s financial markets. Strong Focus on AML and Counter-Terrorism Financing Compliance A significant portion of the webinar focused on Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (CFT) requirements. Officials explained the responsibilities of regulated entities under the Anti-Money Laundering Act, 2010, as well as the AML/CFT/CPF Regulations, 2020. Participants received guidance on conducting comprehensive risk assessments and adopting effective compliance procedures designed to detect and prevent financial crimes. The SECP emphasized that compliance with AML and CFT regulations is essential not only for meeting domestic legal obligations but also for maintaining Pakistan’s credibility within the international financial system. Importance of KYC and Customer Due Diligence The webinar also highlighted the importance of implementing strong Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures and Customer Due Diligence (CDD) measures. SECP officials explained that financial institutions and securities brokers must thoroughly verify customer identities before establishing business relationships. For clients considered high-risk, the regulator advised firms to conduct Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD) to better understand potential risks associated with their transactions and business activities. Participants were also encouraged to identify Ultimate Beneficial Owners (UBOs) to ensure transparency regarding the individuals who ultimately control or benefit from corporate accounts and financial transactions. According to the regulator, these measures significantly reduce the risk of money laundering, fraud, terrorist financing, and other illicit financial activities. Reporting Suspicious Financial Activities The webinar also covered the reporting obligations that regulated entities must fulfill under Pakistan’s AML framework. SECP officials explained that securities brokers are required to submit Currency Transaction Reports (CTR) and Suspicious Transaction Reports (STR) whenever applicable. Timely reporting of unusual or suspicious financial activities helps authorities detect potential financial crimes and strengthens the country’s regulatory oversight. Officials added that compliance with reporting requirements demonstrates a firm’s commitment to ethical business practices while supporting national efforts to combat financial crime. Strengthening Internal Governance and Compliance Culture Beyond regulatory requirements, the SECP urged market participants to strengthen their internal governance frameworks. Officials encouraged securities brokers to invest in regular staff training so employees remain informed about evolving regulatory requirements and international compliance standards. The regulator also recommended adopting risk-based compliance practices that allow firms to identify vulnerabilities and respond proactively to emerging risks. Building strong compliance departments and conducting independent internal audits were identified as essential steps toward improving governance, minimizing regulatory violations, and protecting investors. According to SECP, an effective compliance culture begins with senior management and requires continuous commitment across every level of an organization. Interactive Session Addresses Industry Concerns The webinar concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, during which officials from the Pakistan Stock Exchange highlighted common market-related concerns and misconceptions faced by securities brokers. SECP representatives responded by providing detailed regulatory clarifications, helping participants better understand their obligations and practical compliance requirements. The discussion enabled market participants to address operational challenges while gaining greater clarity on implementing regulatory expectations within their organizations. SECP to Continue Industry Awareness Initiatives The webinar attracted strong participation from securities brokers, reflecting the industry’s growing interest in strengthening governance, transparency, and regulatory compliance. The SECP reaffirmed its commitment to organizing similar awareness programs in the future to help financial market participants stay updated with changing regulations and global best practices. The regulator believes continuous engagement with industry stakeholders will enhance market integrity, strengthen investor confidence, and support the long-term development of Pakistan’s capital market. By promoting transparency, encouraging robust governance, and reinforcing compliance with prudential and AML/CFT regulations, the SECP aims to create a more resilient, accountable, and internationally competitive financial sector.

Google and Tech Valley Partner to Lead Sindh’s First-Ever AI Training for CM Cabinet to Streamline Governance
Education

Google and Tech Valley Partner to Lead Sindh’s First-Ever AI Training for CM Cabinet to Streamline Governance

/

KARACHI, July 1st, 2026 — In a historic first for the Government of Sindh, the cabinet completed a comprehensive hands-on Artificial Intelligence training session delivered by Google for Education global experts in partnership with Tech Valley, at the Chief Minister’s House, Karachi. Over 40 cabinet members, advisors, and special assistants participated in the nearly two-hour session, which was held as part of a landmark visit by Google for Education Global Delegation to Sindh. The training was delivered by Mazen Abdullah, Head of Google for Education MENA, and Alex Galland, APAC Digital Transformation Advisor at Google for Education; two of Google’s most senior education leaders. It introduced Sindh’s policymakers to Google’s Gemini AI platform, NotebookLM, and Gemini Live, equipping them with direct, practical experience of the technologies shaping the future of governance, public service delivery, and economic development. Mr. Muhammad Ali Rashid, Special Assistant to the Chief Minister for Science, Information & Technology, who spearheaded the initiative, said: “I pushed for this training because I believe that a minister who does not understand AI cannot govern effectively in 2026. For 85 intense minutes, the entire Sindh Cabinet sat with Google Master Trainers and used Gemini AI to tackle real-world governance, simulating data-driven policy scenarios, analyzing budgets, and mapping out public service delivery tailored to their specific portfolios. This hands-on adoption is the definitive blueprint for a truly smart government and exactly the kind of proactive leadership Sindh will be known for.” Chief Minister Sindh, Mr. Syed Murad Ali Shah addressed participants during the Keynote Address, stating: “Digital transformation cannot be restricted to a single department; it is a collective ministerial responsibility to drive our province forward. What we achieved today at the CM House is proof that Sindh is executing its digital vision at an unprecedented scale and speed. “ Mazen Abdullah, Head of Google for Education, MENA, said: “What happened today at CM House is genuinely amazing. Governments around the world talk about AI adoption, the Sindh Cabinet did it. Having over 40 senior leaders engage directly with Gemini AI is a signal to Pakistan and the region that Sindh is not waiting for the future. It is building it.” The session was structured as a hands-on interactive workshop, not a lecture. Mr. Umar Farooq, Founder & CEO of Tech Valley, added during his Welcome Address: “Our mission has always been to build a real, working digital ecosystem that leaves no student or policymaker behind. By training the full provincial cabinet on Gemini AI tools, we are proving that digital transformation in Sindh is happening not only at educational level but at governance level as well. Tech Valley is incredibly proud to be the trusted partner bridging global innovation with local governance to deliver a truly future-ready Pakistan.” The Google Master Trainers, Alex Galland and Mazen Abdallah then led 60 minutes of live content delivery and demonstrations, followed by 20 minutes of open Q&A and discussion. The core training covered foundational AI concepts, Google’s approach to responsible AI development, and live demonstrations of three platforms: Initiatives like these represent the deepest, most comprehensive government-level technology partnership in Sindh’s history and one of the most significant EdTech commitments in Pakistan to date. Media Contact: Name Role Contact Sheikh Subhan Tech Valley Regional Manager, Karachi — On-ground coordinator & CM protocol liaison muhammad.subhan@techvalley.pk Saba Kalsoom AI Strategist, Tech Valley saba.kalsoom@techvalley.pk Mah Noor Digital Media and Comms Specialist mahnoor@techvalley.pk

High-Level Consultation in Karachi, Advances Coordinated Action to Prevent Femicide and Gender-Related Killings of Women and Girls Karachi, Pakistan
Education

High-Level Consultation in Karachi, Advances Coordinated Action to Prevent Femicide and Gender-Related Killings of Women and Girls

/

Karachi, Pakistan — 15 June 2026: Ministry of Human Rights and UN Women organised a high level consultative session to discuss the issue of femicide and killing of women in pretext of so called honour in Karachi partnership with Sindh Human Rights Department and Sindh Commission on Status of women . The initiative has been taken in context of recent surge in cases of honour killings, and Government’s zero tolerance policy on violence Against Women . The consultation brought together representatives from federal and provincial government departments, justice sector institutions, medico-legal services, human rights bodies, civil society organizations, development partners, UN agencies, and women’s rights advocates to discuss priority actions for preventing femicide and other gender-related killings of women and girls, strengthening accountability, and improving protection and access to justice. In his remarks, Mr. Rajvir Singh Sodha, Special Assistant to the Chief Minister Sindh on Human Rights, reaffirmed the Government of Sindh’s commitment to ending violence against women and girls and advancing human rights across the province. He stated: “The Government of Sindh has consistently demonstrated its commitment to protecting the rights of women and girls through progressive legislation, institutional reforms, and partnerships with civil society and development partners. However, laws alone are not enough. We must strengthen implementation, ensure accountability for perpetrators, and foster a culture where violence against women and girls is not tolerated and never justified.” Speaking at the event, Ms. Rubina Brohi, Chairperson, Sindh Commission on the Status of Women (SCSW), emphasized the importance of collective action and stated: “There is no justification for violence committed in the name of so-called honour. We must strengthen implementation of existing laws, ensure accountability for perpetrators, and work together to challenge the harmful norms that continue to put women and girls at risk. Every woman and girl has the right to live with dignity, safety, and equal protection under the law.” Mr. Abdul Khaliq Sheikh, Secretary, Ministry of Human Rights, reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting coordinated national and provincial efforts to prevent gender-related killings of women and girls and strengthen accountability for such crimes. He stated: “Through this consultation and the commitments adopted today, we are reaffirming our resolve to strengthen prevention, improve accountability, and ensure that every woman and girl in Pakistan can live free from violence, fear, and discrimination.” Speaking at the consultation, Ms. Fahmida Iqbal Khan, Deputy Country Representative, UN Women Pakistan, said: “Every femicide is preventable. Ending these killings requires more than criminal justice responses—it requires changing the social norms that enable violence, strengthening institutions, and ensuring that evidence informs policy. Through our support to the National EVAWG Policy and Pakistan’s first National Study on Femicide, UN Women remains committed to working with government and civil society partners to prevent these crimes and advance the rights, safety, and dignity of women and girls across Pakistan.” Presentations by Mr. Jameel Junejo, Secretary, Human Rights Department, Government of Sindh, and Dr. Sumaiyya Tariq, Chief Police Surgeon and Head of Medico-Legal Services, Sindh, highlighted trends in reported cases and institutional responses. Data presented during the consultation showed that 554 honour killing cases were processed and referred to relevant authorities between January 2024 and April 2026. Based on reported cases alone, these figures likely understate the true scale of the problem while highlighting persistent gaps in prevention, reporting, and accountability. The consultation concluded with the adoption of the “No Honour in Killing” Joint Communiqué, committing stakeholders to strengthen accountability, improve protection and support services, enhance data and evidence systems, reject parallel justice mechanisms that sanction violence, and invest in prevention through community engagement and social norms change.Participants reaffirmed their shared commitment to ensuring that gender-related killings of women and girls are prevented, prosecuted, and never justified under the guise of so-called honour, and that every woman and girl in Pakistan can live free from violence and discrimination. About UN Women UN Women is the United Nations entity dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women. It works globally to eliminate discrimination against women and girls, empower women, and achieve equality between women and men.

Education

/

LAHORE: The Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS) and the Aga Khan University (AKU), two of Pakistan’s leading universities, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on joint research, innovation, and education initiatives focused on key development challenges. The interdisciplinary partnership brings together the complementary strengths of the two institutions to co-develop solutions that improve the lives and welfare of communities in Pakistan and beyond. The collaboration will directly address critical issues related to health and public health, climate change and environment, education, sustainability, and inclusive development. The MoU reflects a shared recognition that addressing complex national and global challenges requires interdisciplinary approaches that combine expertise across fields. Through this partnership, AKU’s leadership in health sciences, medicine, public health, and implementation research will be combined with LUMS’ strengths in innovation and technology, data science, social and behavioural sciences, humanities, public policy, economics, and governance. Together, the two universities aim to generate evidence-based solutions that are not only academically rigorous, but also scalable, policy-relevant, and grounded in real-world needs. “By combining the complementary strengths of two of Pakistan’s leading universities across health, technology, social sciences, and public policy, this partnership will address critical challenges affecting citizens’ welfare and wellbeing,” said LUMS Vice Chancellor, Dr. Ali Cheema. “Partnerships like this matter because no institution alone can solve Pakistan’s — and the region’s — most complex challenges,” said AKU Provost, Dr Tania Bubela. “Together, AKU and LUMS can combine deep research, human insight, and AI-enabled innovation to turn knowledge into impact.” The collaboration will prioritise joint research initiatives addressing national-scale challenges, including climate resilience, environmental health, antimicrobial resistance, mental health, maternal and child health, AI and data-driven approaches for public good, and sustainable development. The universities will also work closely with policymakers, practitioners, civil society organisations, and industry partners to ensure that research findings translate into practical impact. In addition to research, the partnership will support pedagogical innovation and experiential learning opportunities for students and faculty across both institutions. Planned initiatives include collaborative academic programmes, joint seminars and workshops, interdisciplinary teaching modules, internships, research placements, faculty exchanges, and executive education initiatives. The MoU also emphasises strengthening Pakistan’s broader research and innovation ecosystem through collaboration in research administration, grant development, ethics and governance, and institutional capacity building. It will enable both institutions to jointly identify strategic themes and develop specific programmes and initiatives over time. The MoU was signed by AKU Provost, Dr Tania Bubela, and LUMS Vice Chancellor, Dr Ali Cheema. LUMS Rector, Mr Shahid Hussain, AKU Vice Provost Research, Dr Salim Virani and Dr. Farid Panjwani, Dean of AKU’s Institute for Educational Development, PK, were also present at the signing. The agreement will remain in effect for an initial period of five years.

LUMS Honoured at THE Awards Asia 2026 for Outstanding Support for Students
Education

LUMS Honoured at THE Awards Asia 2026 for Outstanding Support for Students

/

The Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS) has won the Times Higher Education (THE) Awards Asia 2026 in the category of Outstanding Support for Students, recognising the University’s long-standing commitment to expanding access to higher education for talented students across Pakistan. The award acknowledges LUMS’ mission to address structural inequalities in access to opportunity and education that continue to shape lives across Pakistani society. This work is anchored in two interconnected initiatives: the National Outreach Programme and the Student Success Initiative. Together, these initiatives reflect a sustained institutional commitment to not only expanding access, but also enabling students to thrive academically, socially, and professionally during their time at the University. The National Outreach Programme serves as LUMS’ flagship access initiative. Through the programme, outreach teams at LUMS engage students, teachers, and families in geographically remote and economically under-resourced communities across Pakistan, encouraging high-potential students to pursue higher education opportunities that may otherwise seem beyond reach. In 2024 alone, the teams visited 276 schools across 90 cities and towns nationwide. Students selected through this process participate in a summer preparatory programme on campus, designed to prepare them for university life. Once admitted to LUMS, which requires them to succeed on merit, students receive full financial awards for their studies and living expenses as well as support through the Student Success Initiative, which provides structured academic, mentoring, wellness, and career support throughout their time at the University. This includes peer and faculty mentoring, academic advising, tutoring, counselling, wellbeing support, career readiness programmes, alumni mentorship, and community-building initiatives designed to help students thrive both inside and outside the classroom. The long-term impact of these efforts is reflected in the journeys of NOP scholars and alumni, many of whom have gone on to pursue leadership roles and careers across technology, finance, entrepreneurship, education, academia, development, and public service. Their achievements reflect LUMS’ broader mission of creating pathways for talented students to transform not only their own lives, but also the communities they go on to serve.

Education

/

LAHORE: Experts at a Gender & Economy Conference warned that emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) could either significantly expand economic opportunities for women or further deepen existing inequalities, depending on access to education and digital skills. The panel discussion on “Health & Gender” was moderated by LUMS faculty member Warda Riaz and featured contributions from experts including Fyeza Jehan, Usman Ali, Adnan Khan, and M. Farhan Majid. Speaking during the session, a panelist emphasized that women’s economic empowerment is closely linked with their capabilities and bargaining power, arguing that low-cost learning opportunities and digital skill-building initiatives could help women overcome structural and non-economic barriers. The discussion highlighted how faster access to information and digital tools is reshaping small business operations globally. Referring to survey findings conducted in collaboration with the Asher Blair Foundation, the panelist noted that women entrepreneurs from around 80 countries showed strong interest in integrating generative AI into their businesses, particularly for functions such as accounting, payroll management, and other routine administrative tasks. LUMS Conference According to the discussion, AI has the potential to significantly transform how women-led enterprises operate, especially by reducing time-consuming manual processes and improving efficiency. The panel also referenced estimates suggesting that Pakistan’s women-centric digital economy could represent a potential market worth approximately $500 million, based on an estimated 73 million women population, underscoring the scale of untapped economic opportunity. However, the panelist cautioned that Pakistan’s ability to benefit from AI-driven transformation remains constrained by low levels of education, literacy, and human capital. Without targeted intervention, they warned, technological advancement could reinforce existing inequalities rather than reduce them. “There is a risk that communities with lower skills will be unable to benefit from new technologies,” the discussion noted, adding that countries failing to invest in digital capacity-building may fall further behind globally in productivity and competitiveness. The panel further stressed that unequal access to technology could have broader macroeconomic implications, potentially pushing economies toward lower productivity and higher reliance on imports, while more digitally advanced countries continue to scale efficiently.Concluding the discussion, speakers called for urgent investment in women’s digital education, arguing that inclusive access to AI and technology-driven skills development is essential to ensuring equitable economic growth.

'Educational institutes must digitise on war footing'
Education

‘Educational institutes must digitise on war footing’

/

KARACHI: Pakistan’s educational institutes must digitise on immediate basis to stand at par with other institutes around the globe. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistans-first-pkr-3-billion-aaa-rated-green-sukuk-for-telecom-sector-launched/ This was the gist of a meeting at the Education Department, University of Karachi, held to digitise its entire library. Following the meeting, an MoU was signed between Dr. Aziz-un-Nisa, Chairperson of the Department of Education and Mr. Muzzamil Safdar, Head of GSPL Academy in the presence of senior academic and corporate representatives. The initiative is aimed at enhancing students’ academic and research capabilities, and improve the department’s access to academic resources. As part of the agreement, Grow Safe — a Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) organisation — donated laptops to the department, and will lead training and awareness programs at the campus to spread awareness on occupational safety and health among the students. The two sides agreed on the role of public-private collaboration in advancing educational outcomes and fostering innovation in higher education.

Establishment of New Universities Halted as HEC Enforces Nationwide Ban
Education

Establishment of New Universities Halted as HEC Enforces Nationwide Ban

/

The establishment of new universities in Pakistan has come to a sudden halt after the Higher Education Commission (HEC) imposed a nationwide ban on setting up new institutions and sub-campuses at the tehsil level. The move marks a major policy shift aimed at improving the quality of higher education across the country. HEC Issues Immediate Directives The decision followed formal instructions from the HEC chairman to vice chancellors and university heads. Authorities ordered them to stop all ongoing and planned initiatives related to the establishment of new universities. The directive took immediate effect and left no room for exceptions. Officials stressed that institutions must not proceed with any expansion plans without prior approval. They also made it clear that strict monitoring will follow. Universities must now comply fully with the new regulatory framework. Strict Approval Process Introduced The HEC introduced a stricter approval system to control the establishment of new universities. Authorities stated that no new institution can operate without a comprehensive review process. This process includes the issuance of a No Objection Certificate (NOC). Officials warned that any institution operating without approval will face serious consequences. Degrees issued by such institutions will not receive recognition. Students enrolling in unapproved campuses risk invalid qualifications, which could affect their academic and professional future. Concerns Over Declining Academic Standards The HEC based its decision on growing concerns about declining academic standards. Officials observed that rapid expansion at the tehsil level has weakened the quality of education. Many campuses failed to meet basic academic requirements. Authorities identified several critical issues. These include a shortage of qualified faculty, poor infrastructure, and low student enrolment. Many institutions struggled to maintain proper teaching standards. The lack of PhD-qualified faculty emerged as a major concern. Experts believe that without highly trained educators, universities cannot deliver quality education. The HEC emphasized that improving faculty standards remains essential before allowing further expansion. Tehsil-Level Campuses Under Scrutiny Tehsil-level campuses faced particular scrutiny under the new policy. The HEC noted that many of these campuses operate with limited resources. They often lack proper classrooms, laboratories, and research facilities. Officials argued that unchecked growth in smaller regions has created more problems than solutions. Instead of improving access to education, it has led to compromised quality. The decision to halt the establishment of new universities aims to address these structural weaknesses. All Ongoing Projects Suspended The directive also ordered a complete suspension of all ongoing projects linked to new campuses. Authorities halted admissions, faculty recruitment, construction work, and land acquisition activities. This decision affects both public and private sector institutions. Universities that had already started development work must now pause their operations. The HEC stated that it will review each case individually before allowing any future progress. Officials emphasized that compliance is mandatory. Any institution found violating the directive may face penalties. These include the suspension of academic programme approvals and other regulatory actions. Impact on Students and Education Sector The sudden halt in the establishment of new universities could have mixed implications for students. On one hand, it may limit access to higher education in remote areas. On the other hand, it aims to ensure that existing institutions improve their standards. Education experts believe the move could strengthen Pakistan’s higher education system in the long run. By focusing on quality over quantity, authorities hope to produce better academic outcomes. However, some stakeholders have raised concerns. They argue that restricting expansion may reduce opportunities for students in underserved regions. The HEC has not yet announced alternative measures to address access issues. A Shift Toward Quality Assurance The HEC’s decision signals a clear shift in policy direction. Authorities now prioritize quality assurance over rapid expansion. The focus remains on strengthening existing institutions rather than creating new ones. Officials plan to enhance monitoring mechanisms and enforce stricter standards across universities. They aim to ensure that institutions meet academic, infrastructural, and faculty requirements before receiving approval. The coming months will prove critical for Pakistan’s education sector. Universities must adapt to the new rules and improve their performance. The success of this policy will depend on effective implementation and consistent oversight.

The Boardroom PK delivers trusted business news, analysis, and insights from Pakistan and beyond, keeping readers informed, inspired, and ahead in the evolving world of business and leadership.

Facebook Instagram X-twitter Linkedin Youtube
News
Categories
Company
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Services
  • Sitemap
  • Contact Us

© 2025 theboardroom. All rights reserved.

Scroll to Top