In a bid to strengthen educational and cultural exchanges, a delegation from İnönü University, Turkey, paid a visit to Government College University (GCU) Lahore. The visit culminated in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two prestigious institutions.

The delegation was warmly received at GCU Lahore’s Centre for Advanced Studies in Physics (CASP), where they engaged with faculty and students, and had the opportunity to explore the university’s cutting-edge research facilities and state-of-the-art machines.

Throughout the visit, the Turkish delegation was briefed on the illustrious history of GCU Lahore, known for producing distinguished alumni such as Allama Iqbal and Nobel laureates Dr. Abdus Salam and Har Gobind Khorana. The delegation also learned about the university’s strong tradition of academic excellence and its existing collaborations with various Turkish universities.

The MoU, signed by Prof. Dr. Shazia Bashir, Vice Chancellor of GCU Lahore, and Dr. Ahmet Kizilay, Rector of İnönü University, aims to facilitate student and faculty exchange programs, joint research initiatives, and the sharing of knowledge and resources between the two institutions. It underscores the shared commitment to bolstering academic ties between Pakistan and Turkey.

Speaking at the MoU signing ceremony, Dr. Ahmet Kizilay emphasized the enduring friendship between Pakistan and Turkey, expressing his fervent desire to see this cooperation further solidified. “Pakistan and Turkey are not just friendly countries; they are brothers with a common goal of revitalizing the stature of Muslim nations through education and collaboration,” remarked Dr. Kizilay.

Echoing these sentiments, GCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Shazia Bashir underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in science and technology. “If Muslim countries work together, we can reclaim our lost dignity and make significant advancements in science and technology,” she stated.

In addition to discussions and formalities, the Turkish delegation had the opportunity to tour GCU Lahore’s prominent facilities, including the Sports Complex and Postgraduate Library. The day concluded with a group photo in front of the university’s iconic tower, symbolizing the burgeoning partnership between the two institutions.

The MoU between İnönü University and Government College University Lahore marks a significant step towards fostering closer educational and cultural ties, and is expected to pave the way for fruitful collaborations and mutual benefits in the years to come.

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The Department of Biological Science at the University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (UVAS) Lahore organized a daylong seminar on the “Future Potential of Floriculture” along with a captivating “Floral Art Competition” at UVAS Ravi Campus Pattoki.

The event showcased a myriad of talent and creativity in the field of floriculture, with participants engaging in various categories such as fresh floral arrangement, dry floral arrangement, and ikebana arrangement. Undergraduate and postgraduate students from diverse departments participated enthusiastically, bringing forth their innovative ideas and skills.

The seminar featured Mr. Mudassar Naseer, the Principal Scientific Officer of the Horticultural Research Station in Sahiwal, as the guest speaker. Mr. Naseer delivered an enlightening lecture to the UVAS students, providing insights into the potential avenues within the floriculture industry. His discourse aimed at inspiring students interested in venturing into floriculture business startups.

The concluding session, presided over by Prof. Dr. Arshad Javid, Principal Officer of Ravi campus, witnessed the distribution of certificates, cash prizes, and shields among the winners of the floral art contest. Prof. Dr. Javid also extended a vote of thanks to all participants and contributors for making the event a success.

The event was graced by the presence of eminent personalities including Chairperson of the Department of Biological Sciences, Dr. Mubashrah Munir, Prof. Dr. Hamda Azmat, Prof. Dr. Khalid Mehmood Anjum, Chief Organizer President Dr. Aamna Ishaq, and event secretary Dr. Beenish Aftab. A large number of students and faculty members also attended the seminar, making it a truly enriching and memorable experience.

The seminar and floral art competition not only provided a platform for showcasing talent but also served as a catalyst for fostering interest and exploration in the burgeoning field of floriculture among the academic community at UVAS. Such initiatives are vital for nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship in the agricultural sector, contributing to the overall development of the industry.

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In a groundbreaking initiative to foster inclusivity and accessibility in the professional realm, the Institute of Business Administration (IBA) Karachi, in collaboration with ConnectHear, orchestrated a pioneering career fair titled ‘ACCESS.ABILITY.CAREERS 2024’. This landmark event, held at the IBA Main Campus, spotlighted the empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and underscored the imperative of creating an inclusive environment on campus.

ConnectHear, a trailblazing social enterprise dedicated to enhancing sign language accessibility and deaf inclusion in Pakistan, joined forces with IBA’s Office of Diversity, Accessibility, and Inclusion (ODAI) under the auspices of the Office of Student Affairs (OSA) to orchestrate this transformative initiative. The event served as a platform for thirty-three organizations and seven hundred PWDs to connect with potential employers and explore career opportunities in an environment conducive to their needs.

Distinguished guests, including Co-Founder & CEO of ConnectHear, Azima Dhanjee, and Co-Founder & CTO, Arhum Ishtiaq, lauded the event’s success, underscoring the significance of inclusive hiring practices and the removal of barriers for individuals with diverse abilities. Former First Lady of Pakistan, Samina Alvi, commended the efforts of ConnectHear and emphasized the pivotal role of initiatives like ‘ACCESS.ABILITY.CAREERS 2024’ in fostering empowerment and inclusion among PWDs.

Muhammad Umar, Country Head of Human Resources at Standard Chartered Bank Pakistan, delivered a compelling keynote address, urging society to shift its perspective towards celebrating abilities rather than disabilities. He stressed the importance of equal opportunities for all individuals and advocated for the active involvement of organizations in building an infrastructure that prioritizes inclusivity.

Maheen Ghauri, Dean Student Affairs at IBA, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to facilitating students and staff with diverse abilities. She emphasized the collective responsibility of society in creating awareness and providing opportunities for individuals with unique talents and capabilities.

The event culminated in a panel discussion titled ‘Jobs for People with Disabilities in Pakistan: What’s Happening Now’, providing participants with valuable insights and networking opportunities. The resounding success of ‘ACCESS.ABILITY.CAREERS 2024’ epitomizes the unwavering dedication of ConnectHear and IBA Karachi towards promoting accessibility and inclusivity, setting a precedent for transformative change in Pakistan’s professional landscape.

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The National Academy of Higher Education (NAHE) of Higher Education Commission (HEC), has launched the Cohort-I, Batch-V of the Pre-Service National Faculty Development Programme (NFDP-2023-24) at the HEC Regional Centre, Peshawar. The IPFP (Interim Placement of Fresh PhDs) Fellows are taking part in the programme.

The pre-service NFDP, a pioneering initiative by NAHE, has been designed to prepare and certify recently graduated PhD holders for their teaching roles within higher education institutions. This pre-service training imparts critical techniques and skill sets that will enhance their teaching practices in the future. The programme ensures a seamless transition from theoretical knowledge to practical implementation.

Addressing the opening ceremony, Mr. Muhammad Faisal Butt, Director General of NAHE, extended a warm welcome to the newly selected Batch V Cohort I IPFP Fellows on behalf of Managing Director NAHE Ms. Noor Amna Malik. He expressed immense pleasure in leading the start of this new batch and encouraged the IPFP Fellows to derive maximum benefit from the programme to prepare for their upcoming roles in the professional world.

Mr. Butt also highlighted the immense importance of this programme for the progress and development of higher education in Pakistan. NAHE has successfully extended its reach throughout Pakistan. In the previous batch (Batch-IV), 271 IPFP fellows were successfully certified via this programme, and many of them have been provided with placement opportunities.

He further emphasised that with this frequency, NAHE would contribute significantly to the advancement of the Higher Education Sector in advanced educational technology and methods. NAHE looks forward to enhancing the educational sector through capacity building and educational initiatives, he concluded.

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Punjab University’s orators shone brightly at the prestigious (KHATEEB 2.0) All Pakistan Bilingual Declamation Contest and Punjabi Natara 2024, hosted by the University of Management and Technology (UMT) Lahore. The team comprising Tayyab Sultan, Abdul Muneeb, and Muhammad Aftab Arshad emerged triumphant, securing the coveted team trophy in a display of eloquence and linguistic prowess.

Tayyab Sultan and Muhammad Aftab Arshad stood out individually, clinching the titles of the best speakers in the Urdu and Punjabi categories respectively. Their remarkable performances earned them a cash prize of 10,000/- each, adding to the laurels of Punjab University’s debating fraternity.

The victory was celebrated by Punjab University’s Director of Students Affairs, Dr. Muhammad Ali Klasra, who extended his heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and the Pioneers Debating Society. Dr. Klasra emphasized the significance of such achievements in fostering a culture of intellectual engagement and expression among the student community.

The competition, which brought together debaters from across the country, showcased not only the linguistic diversity but also the depth of talent prevalent in Pakistan’s academic circles. Participants engaged in impassioned debates, addressing a wide array of contemporary issues with eloquence and conviction.

The triumph of Punjab University’s representatives reaffirms the institution’s commitment to nurturing excellence in communication and critical thinking skills among its students. It also underscores the invaluable role of platforms like (KHATEEB 2.0) in promoting linguistic and cultural exchange, ultimately contributing to the intellectual enrichment of the nation’s youth.

As Punjab University (PU) basks in the glory of this latest victory, the spotlight remains firmly on the remarkable achievements of Tayyab Sultan, Abdul Muneeb, and Muhammad Aftab Arshad, who have brought honor not only to their alma mater but also to themselves as exemplary ambassadors of eloquence and debate.

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The University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (UAJK) in partnership with the Teachers’ Resource Centre (TRC) convened the inaugural Cluster Conference titled, “The Urgency for Climate Change Education – Engaging Youth Leaders for Indigenous and Sustainable Climate Action.” Held at the Botany Department, University of AJ&K, Muzaffarabad, the event aimed to galvanize youth leaders towards proactive engagement in climate action.

Distinguished speakers graced the occasion, including Dr. Humayun Shaheen, Focal Person for Climate Change at AJK; Dr. Sardar Muhammad Rafique Khan, Chairman of the Botany Department at UAJK; Dr. Sardar Muhammad Rafique Khan, Deputy Director of the Climate Change Center, Environmental Protection Agency, AJK; Syeda Tahira Kazimi, Head of the Youth and Volunteers Department at the Pakistan Red Crescent AJK State Branch; and Dr. Mumtaz Hussain, Senior Project Officer at Water and Livelihood Inclusive Initiatives, Islamic Relief Pakistan.

The highlight of the conference was an interactive panel discussion shedding light on the indispensable role of youth-led initiatives in combatting climate challenges. Following the panel, workshops were conducted where students actively developed social action projects tailored to mitigate and adapt to climate issues within their communities.

These initiatives are poised to be showcased both nationally and internationally, serving as a testament to the efficacy of indigenous solutions in addressing local climate adversities.

Dr. Shaheen emphasized the imperative of involving young minds in climate discourse, advocating for their active participation in shaping sustainable futures. Dr. Rafique Khan stressed the significance of grassroots solutions, highlighting the potency of locally-driven efforts in effecting tangible change. Syeda Tahira Kazmi underscored the importance of youth empowerment as a catalyst for transformative action, while Dr. Mumtaz Hussain urged for the translation of ideas into actionable projects for maximum impact.

UAJK and TRC reaffirmed their commitment to amplifying outreach endeavors and embedding climate education within educational frameworks to spur enduring and sustainable transformations.

The 1st Cluster Conference marks a pivotal milestone in the journey towards fostering a generation of informed and empowered youth leaders poised to address the pressing challenges of climate change with resilience and innovation.

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An exhibition featuring the remarkable artworks of artist and social advocate, Jimmy Engineer, hailing from Balochistan, was held at the prestigious Zahoor-ul-Akhlaq Gallery, National College of Arts (NCA) Lahore. The inauguration of the exhibition was graced by the Vice-Chancellor of NCA, Professor Dr. Murtaza Jafri, who expressed admiration for Engineer’s ability to captivate art enthusiasts both locally and internationally.

Jimmy Engineer, recognized not only for his artistic prowess but also for his philanthropic endeavors, has dedicated his life to assisting the underprivileged and collaborating with various social work organizations. Over his extensive career spanning since 1976, Engineer has garnered numerous accolades and honors for his contributions to both art and society.

His works have been showcased in over 120 countries, including his homeland, Pakistan. Notably, his paintings have found homes in private collections across the globe, spanning from the Philippines, Thailand, and Indonesia to Canada, the United States, and Australia, among others.

The exhibition, which commenced with its inauguration, will be open to the public until May 15th, providing art enthusiasts ample opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Jimmy Engineer’s artistic legacy.

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