IEEE Communication Society organizes “Chapter Management and Succession Preparation” training
Dr. Umair Ahmed Korai, Assistant Professor at the Department of Telecommunication Engineering, Mehran University of Engineering & Technology, Jamshoro Pakistan, was invited by IEEE Communication Society (ComSoc) to deliver a training on “Chapter Management and Succession Preparation” at IEEE International Conference on Communication 2023 (ICC’23).
This conference took place at La Nuvola Convention Center, Rome, Italy. Since he has recruited more than 220 members in IEEE ComSoc Karachi Chapter, therefore, the ComSoc officials asked him to share what activities he has performed in the chapter for boosting the membership development.
He also attended different technical sessions of the IEEE ICC’23 conference. During the conference, he networked with top class researchers and exchanged visiting cards for possible future collaborations. He also met and congratulated Prof. Robert Schober, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Germany, for being elected as IEEE ComSoc President for the year 2024.
Dr. Umair made a presentation on the year 2022-23 IEEE activities took place in different universities of Pakistan. He especially mentioned International Multi-Topic ICT Conference 2023 (IMTIC’23), IEEE Day 2021, IEEE Day 2022, Social events, membership drives, Industrial Visits, hands-on workshop on internet of things, visit to SoS village Jamshoro and many others.
IEEE International Conference on
Provision of “free electricity” is not possible: KE
In response to reports about power situation in Karachi and adjoining areas, KE maintains that there the loadshed plan is the same as announced and implemented in March 2023.
The company conducts periodic assessments of its feeders for losses and recoveries which becomes the basis of the loadshed plan. As of now, over 70% of KE’s network receives constant power supply. The remainders are areas where electricity is stolen and bills against actual consumption remain unpaid, yet the company continues to supply power to these regions for 14 hours a day. Of course, the company does not operate in a vacuum and amid the current macroeconomic conditions and expensive fuel, provision of “free electricity” is not possible where recoveries are low, and losses remain on the higher side. KE also regularly organizes customer facilitation and recovery camps in Karachi to facilitate customers. When the recovery profile of an area improves, power supply gets better in parallel. It is also pertinent to mention that cost of electricity for consumers is set by the Government of Pakistan under the uniform tariff policy which is applicable across the country.
The loadshed and maintenance shutdowns were suspended during the Eid days and consistent supply was ensured. The claim made through the public statement is factually incorrect and does not represent the truth. Engaging in a sensationalized debate to score points by creating a brouhaha based on improper facts and blurring on-ground realities is counterproductive and serves no one.
Jhal Magsi Gas project revived
The Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL), the leading exploration and production state-owned company, has revived the Jhal Magsi Gas project. The state-of-the-art gas processing plant, with a daily capacity to produce 13.7 MMSCF process gas and 45 BBL/day condensate, will mitigate escalating energy needs of Pakistan. Besides the commercial operations, the company has underscored its dedication to transforming the lives of the local community in Jhal Magsi through a series of social welfare initiatives in the areas of education, health, water, and infrastructure. As part of its efforts to enhance healthcare facilities, the OGDCL has provided ambulances to the District Headquarters Hospital (DHQ) in Jhal Magsi. Additionally, the OGDCL has installed a Reverse Osmosis (RO) plant, recognising the importance of clean drinking water. The company is actively contributing to the socioeconomic development of Jhal Magsi district by combining its commitment to meeting the country’s energy requirements with community-focused initiatives.
NIMIR Energy, LONGi to explore opportunities, synergies in solar energy projects
NIMIR Energy, a leading renewable energy company, has taken a significant step towards resolving Pakistan’s ongoing energy crisis by signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with LONGi, a renowned global manufacturer of solar products.
This strategic partnership aims to revolutionize Pakistan’s energy landscape and provide sustainable solutions to address the pressing energy needs of nation, says a press statement.
With Pakistan facing a severe energy crisis, characterized by frequent power outages and an overreliance on traditional fossil fuels, the collaboration between NIMIR Energy and LONGi is a promising development in the pursuit of clean and affordable energy alternatives. The MoU signifies a mutual commitment to harnessing renewable energy sources, particularly solar power, to meet Pakistan’s growing electricity demand.
Under the terms of the MoU, NIMIR Energy and LONGi will work together to explore opportunities and synergies in solar energy projects and capacity building initiatives. The collaboration will leverage NIMIR Energy’s expertise in project development and LONGi’s cutting-edge solar technology to drive the adoption of renewable energy pan-Pakistan, pushing the government’s intent to promote solar. NIMIR Energy is part of NIMIR Group, providing services in renewable energy with primary focus on solar EPC for industrial, commercial and residential users. NIMIR Group has been serving Pakistan and its business community since 1964 with a diversified range of products. With climate action in full swing, NIMIR would like to play its positive role in bringing in the right resources to ensure Pakistan’s transition to clean and sustainable energy. The company’s commitment to sustainable development aligns perfectly with LONGi’s vision to enable the world to transition to a low-carbon future through its industry-leading solar products and solutions. LONGi, renowned for its high-efficiency solar modules and advanced photovoltaic technology, has emerged as a global leader in the solar industry. By joining forces with NIMIR Energy, the company aims to expand its reach and accelerate the development of solar energy projects in key markets around the world.
“We are delighted to enter into this strategic partnership with LONGi, a company that shares our commitment to advancing renewable energy solutions,” said Waqas Ahmed Rana, COO of NIMIR Energy. “Through this collaboration, we will combine our strengths and resources to drive innovation and promote the widespread adoption of solar energy, contributing to a more sustainable future.” “LONGi is excited to join forces with NIMIR Energy, a respected player in the renewable energy sector,” stated Melvin Hu, Country Head, Sales of LONGi. “Together, we can unlock new opportunities and create lasting impact by accelerating the deployment of solar energy projects worldwide. This collaboration exemplifies our dedication to addressing the challenges of climate change through technology innovation and sustainable business practices. With 100 terawatthours of total energy need, Pakistan ranks among top countries with huge potential of solar energy. Rising electricity prices and unstability in the grid have added further to the woes of the average Pakistani consumer. Nimir envisions solving this problem by providing a cost effective and high quality solution to public at large. For that reason, partnering with the biggest panel manufacturer in the world LONGi to bring in the best quality solar panels at most competitive price is the best way forward. With LONGi, Nimir plans to cater to all kinds of consumers with focus on industrial users to provide services unparalleled in the market.
MUET students’ startup wins National Innovation Award
The students of Mehran UET, Jamshoro, led by the remarkable Ms. Nayab Raza, founder of Bhaan—a green tech startup dedicated to producing sustainable and eco-friendly bio-fertilizers—emerged as champions in the esteemed Prime Minister National Innovation Award. In a fierce competition featuring 250 participants from all corners of Pakistan across 17 different domains, they claimed the prestigious title, along with a grand cash prize of 1 million rupees.
This remarkable journey was nurtured by the National Expansion Plan of NICs in Cohort 2, taking root within the Science and Technology Park at Mehran University of Engineering and Technology, Jamshoro, Sindh. It is within this supportive ecosystem that Ms. Nayab Raza’s vision flourished and grew, allowing her to sow the seeds of success.
Bhaan’s outstanding accomplishments propelled them into the elite ranks of the top 10 winners nationwide. Their exceptional achievements did not go unnoticed, as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif himself extended his heartfelt appreciation to the visionary startup founder, Nayab Raza, during the prestigious award ceremony. This recognition serves as a testament to the innovative solutions and unwavering determination demonstrated by Bhaan.
The Vice Chancellor of Mehran University of Engineering and Technology, Jamshoro, Prof. Dr. Tauha Hussain Ali, and Pro-Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Aneel Kumar, joined in the celebration, extending their warm congratulations to the victors. They also expressed deep admiration for the efforts of Prof. Dr. Qasim Arain, the esteemed Focal Person of the University at NEP–NICs Mehran University, Jamshoro Center, and his dedicated team, whose support and guidance were instrumental in this momentous achievement.
It is worth noting that four startups from Mehran University of Engineering and Technology were shortlisted to present their groundbreaking ideas in the Final Round. The grand event took place at NUST Islamabad on the 17th and 18th of June 2023, a gathering that epitomized innovation and ingenuity. Finally, the crowning moment arrived as the prestigious Award Distribution ceremony unfolded at the esteemed Prime Minister’s Secretariat on the 19th of June 2023, filling the atmosphere with pride, honor, and the sweet taste of victory.