International Symposium on AI and Robotics by IEEE Computer Society and
University of Karachi

on 20/06/2023

The International Symposium on Artificial Intelligence and Robotics was successfully put on by the IEEE Computer Society Karachi Section, the University of Karachi, and eSpark. The two-day symposium, which took place on May 15 and 16, 2023, gathered together eminent specialists, business titans, and academics to talk about the most recent advancements, their implications, and emerging trends in computer science and technology, with a focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics.
The symposium’s opening day was devoted to studying artificial intelligence. Along with the chief guest, Prof. Dr. Atta-ur-Rehman, eminent speakers like Dr. Sadiq Ali Khan, Prof. Dr. Tariq Raheem Soomro, Mr. Huzaifa Ali, Prof. Dr. Samina Bano, and Prof. Dr. Khalid Mahmood Iraqi were invited as guest speakers. Dr. M. Sadiq Ali Khan gave the symposium its official inauguration. Dr. M. Sadiq emphasised the significance of AI and its potential to influence the future while highlighting the University of Karachi and the IEEE Computer Society Karachi Section’s contributions to the advancement of AI and technology.
Throughout the day, a number of eminent speakers shared their knowledge and perspectives. In his discussion on the IEEE Computer Society’s significance in the field of artificial intelligence, Prof. Dr. Tariq Raheem Soomro emphasised the organization’s major contributions to research and publications. The Dean of the Faculty of Sciences, Prof. Dr. Samina Bano, discussed the differences between artificial intelligence and natural intelligence while urging cooperation to improve AI and realise its full potential. Vice Chancellor of the University of Karachi, Prof. Dr. Khalid Mahmood Iraqi, emphasised the significance of the symposium and its function in fostering a technological environment conducive to the growth of AI.
The keynote address by Prof. Dr. Atta-ur-Rehman, a former Federal Minister of Science and Technology and Chairman HEC, was the event’s high point. Dr. Atta-ur-Rehman provided a thorough examination of the distinctions between artificial intelligence and natural intelligence, illuminating the significant economic impact that AI is anticipated to have on the world at large. He also spoke about ChatGPT’s applications and the advancements it has made in AI, particularly in the fields of energy, agriculture, and healthcare.
The symposium resumed on day two with a roster of knowledgeable speakers from Pakistan and overseas. An innovative remote discussion on AI that takes inspiration from biology was delivered by famous roboticist Ronald C. Arkin of the Georgia Institute of Technology. While Faizan-ur-Rehman enthralled the audience with his insights on IoT smart devices for home automation, S.M. Aqil Burney investigated the integration of soft computing and machine learning in robotics. The most recent advances in AI were reviewed by Yasar Ayaz, and the relationship between intelligence levels and the harmony of logic and intuition was covered by Prof. Dr. Shahab Ahmed Siddiqui.
The CASE Institute of Technology’s chancellor, Dr. Shoab Ahmed Khan, gave an enlightening speech on the future effects of AI and the interconnectedness of technology. A Grandmaster on Kaggle and the Chief AI Officer of Proxima AI, Adnan Zaidi shared helpful advice for budding data scientists while highlighting the importance of AI in skill development. R&D Manager Rawidean Kassim at the Malaysian Institute of Microelectronic Systems concentrated on the use of wireless sensor networks and the Internet of Things in smart agriculture.
An awards ceremony honouring exceptional achievements in the fields of artificial intelligence and robotics marked the end of the International Symposium on Artificial Intelligence and Robotics. Without a doubt, the symposium was successful in encouraging cooperation, encouraging the exchange of ideas, and educating attendees about the enormous potential that AI and robotics have for the future.
The dedicated work of the organising committee, the backing of the sponsors, and the excitement and participation of the attendees all contributed to the event’s success. The International Symposium on Artificial Intelligence and Robotics will be remembered for years to come, since it forever changed Pakistan’s technical landscape and paved the way for new developments.

International Industries Ltd. (IIL) Goes Green with Installation of
1 MW Solar Power System

on 20/06/2023

International Industries Limited (IIL), Pakistan’s largest manufacturer & exporter of steel and polymer pipes, proudly announces the successful commissioning of a state-of-the-art 1 MW solar power system at IIL Factory 1 in Karachi.
This initiative marks a significant step towards IIL’s larger commitment to sustainability and reducing its environmental footprint by installing a total of 4MW of renewable energy across all its factory locations.
“We are thrilled to unveil our new solar power system, which represents our strong commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship,” said Mr. Sohail R. Bhojani, CEO of International Industries Limited. “By harnessing renewable energy, we are not only reducing our carbon footprint but also demonstrating our dedication to responsible business practices and to contributing towards a greener future for Pakistan and the world at large”, he further added.
Aside from the significant contribution to carbon footprint reduction, the solar power system is expected to generate substantial cost savings for International Industries Limited over its operational lifespan. By relying on solar energy, the company will significantly reduce its dependence on conventional power, thereby mitigating the impact of rising energy costs and enhancing its long-term financial sustainability.

Students of Dawood University Visit Industries

on 20/06/2023

Under the Leadership of Chairman of the Department of Metallurgy and Materials Engineering, Dawood University of Engineering and Technology Karachi Dr. Sajid Hussain Siyal arranged batch wise one day Industrial Visits for different 1st Year, 2nd Year, 3rd Year and Final Students.
These visits are very important, especially for engineering students. These programs can be a powerful tool to constitute a positive industrial climate and can range from basic manufacturing system programs for students. Overall, the aim of all these visits is to train the students to adapt to the changing scenario of technology.
After these visits, students can identify their own efficiency and performance, which are important for their career, improving work efficiency and confidence. Industrial visits are an integral part of engineering studies and acknowledgment of technological up­gradation. The purpose of an industrial visit for students is to provide technical knowledge and awareness of the technological developments in the industry and to understand the gap between theoretical and practical knowledge.
This experience can help students to get information regarding the functioning of various industries and associated problems and limitations.
Students benefited from these visits as they got the chance to discuss with in­charge officers and other engineers working in the industry. Students appreciated these visits. They said they got practical exposure and knowledge.

Open House at PNEC

on 20/06/2023

Pakistan Navy Engineering College (PNEC) successfully conducted Open-House and on-spot interviews on May 17, 2023. There were 32 projects on display, covering the disciplines of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering. Senior officials of HR/ technical representatives from 44 renowned industries visited PNEC to witness the projects.
Moreover, NUST Formula Student Team (NFST) and Team Shell-Eco Marathon displayed their vehicles at the venue. A general overview of the Naval Architecture Department and courses being offered at the Professional Development Centre (PDC) was also part of the event.
In addition, 06 companies conducted on-spot interviews at the Open-House, providing students with an opportunity to apply for jobs directly with industry. The technical acumen and professional conduct of the students was appreciated by the interviewers.

Building a Robust Engineering Career

on 20/06/2023

IEEE PES Chapter Karachi organized a technical Seminar, the third activity of the year 2023.
Following the recitation of the Holy Quran, the chairman, IEEE PES Ishtiaq ul Haq welcomed the participants and shared that IEEE PES is regularly conducting its activities intending to disseminate technical, relevant, and advanced knowledge on products and matters concerned with the engineering community.
Engr Asim Rasheed, the presenter of the moot carries more than 30 years of professional experience in various engineering and Management positions with world reputable Engineering companies in Pakistan and abroad. He is a well-established corporate trainer and management consultant.
The event was attended by more than 27 participants, mostly final-year students, young engineers, faculty members of universities, and senior engineers.
The topic was specially related to students and young engineers who took a keen interest in the topic. Senior engineers also shared their experiences and highlighted the skills to excel in today’s job market which is summarized below:
Analytical thinking, Creative thinking Curiosity & lifelong learning, Technological literacy, Quality control, leadership & social influence, etc
Engr. Asim Rashid mentioned in his presentation that we need to do a lot of work in the above areas in particular as Pakistan is ranked 146 of 158 countries, Pakistan’s score in the skill component of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development ( UNCTAD’s ) Frontier Technology Readiness Index 2019 is 0.09 out of 1, significantly lower than Indonesia’s score of 0.28, India’s 0.31, etc.
We have to focus on the Technical skill as well as the Soft skills of our young engineers.
In the end, he summarized the key points as a way forward for those who like to build robust engineering careers:
Have strong ethics and integrity, 2. Learn to lead; learn to follow, 3. Respect seniors and juniors, 4. Be a lifelong learner, 5. Develop communication skills, 6. Demonstrate a ‘can-do’ attitude, 7. Have a growth mindset, 8. Take charge of your career, 9. Business is a team sport and 10. Listen to learn
Engr. Ishtiaque ul Haque Chairman PES thanked Engr. Asim Rashid for his time & effort and for encouraging students and young professionals to join IEEE & PES society to get the maximum benefit of the enormous knowledge available on the platform.