GIK Institute, CSC sign MoU to boost innovation

SWABI: The Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering Sciences and Technology (GIK Institute) and Capital Smart City (CSC) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at fostering innovation and strengthening ties between academia and industry.

The agreement, signed during a ceremony held at the GIK Institute, marks a significant step toward collaborative research and development in emerging technologies. A press release issued on Saturday said the event was attended by Shakil Durrani, executive director of the Society for the Promotion of Engineering Sciences and Technology in Pakistan (SOPREST, Prof Dr S M Hasan Zaidi, rector of GIK Institute and senior faculty members and officials from both institutions.

A central feature of the MoU is the creation of a centre of excellence in Artificial Intelligence and Data Sciences at Capital Smart City. Under the partnership, CSC would provide the necessary smart infrastructure, while GIK Institute will contribute academic expertise, including curriculum design, faculty, and support staff.

The centre is expected to serve as a hub for cutting-edge research, innovation, and the development of skilled professionals in AI and data science.

Officials from both organisations expressed confidence that the collaboration would not only advance technological capabilities but also contribute to the country’s economic growth through talent development and applied research.

Speaking on the occasion, Shakil Durrani said, “Smart people came together for provisioning a smart environment to the country”

He emphasized the need for collaborative innovation to meet future challenges and technological needs of the country in the present rapidly changing world.

Prof Zaidi, outlined the broader objectives of the partnership, highlighting that this collaboration would integrate several GIKI’s projects in various domains of smart cities, creating a unified framework for innovation and societal impact.

“This partnership reflects our shared vision to move beyond theory into real world impact where ideas are tested, solutions are scaled and students graduate with the tools to lead,” he added.