Tag Archives: Sindh

Product improvements, upcoming projects IIL invites key professionals, stake holders from construction sector

on 02/11/2023

International Industries Limited, a leading player in the construction industry, hosted a highly successful event at a Local Hotel on October 12th, bringing together key professionals and stakeholders from the construction and building sector.
The event was aimed to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange within the construction segment. IIL’s institutional sales team extended invitations to over 30 industry professionals, including consultants and prominent builders.
The event featured distinguished speakers who shared valuable insights into the industry. Additionally, the QA Technical team provided in-depth knowledge during their respective presentations.
One of the highlights of the event was an engaging Q&A session, where participants had the opportunity to discuss product improvements, and upcoming projects, and engage in a general discourse about the construction industry. This interactive session provided a platform for fruitful insights and constructive discussions.
About IIL International Industries Limited (IIL) is a world-class manufacturer of steel & polymer pipes, tubes and fittings. IIL has a strong focus on innovation, quality, and sustainability. With exports to more than 60+ countries, IIL is proud to be the market leader in Pakistan and a notable player in the global market.

MUET, IEEE SIGHT, IEEE Asia Pacific Region 10 collaboration Building sustainable communities and empowering action against climate change

on 02/11/2023

Introduction: MUET, in conjunction with IEEE SIGHT (Special Interest Group on Humanitarian Technology) Karachi Section and with the backing of IEEE Asia Pacific Region 10, orchestrated an event titled “Building Sustainable Communities and Empowering Action against Climate Change.”
This collaborative initiative involved EU Erasmus Plus ACTIVE program, QSIMPACT Pakistan, and IEEE MUET Chapter, coinciding with the celebration of EU Erasmus Day.
The event featured distinguished guests, including Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Tauha Hussain Ali as the Chief Guest for the “Building Sustainable Communities and Empowering Action against Climate Change” segment and Prof. Dr. Muhammad Aslam Uqaili, former VC MUET, as the Chief Guest for the Erasmus Day celebration event.
The Vice Chancellor Professor DR. Tauha Hussain, applauded the collective efforts and honored the participants with tokens of appreciation. A panel of esteemed speakers addressed pertinent topics during the gathering. Prof. Prakash Lohana shed light on “Empowering Women for Sustainable Climate Resilience,” while Ms. Bathe Eden emphasized the role of QS ImpACT Pakistan in empowering youth to contribute positively to their communities, aligned with the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Furthermore, Prof. Dr. Bhawani Shankar Chowdhry delved into the “ICT-Based Application for Sustainable Environmental Protection,” and Prof. Dr. Tanveer Hussain focused on “Climate Crises in Pakistan.” The discussions also encompassed Prof. Dr. Sheeraz Ahmed Memon’s insights on “AI and ICT Game Changers for Environmental Challenges,” Engr Zakir Sheikh and Ms. Aisha’s discourse on sustainable Development goals and Engr. Najeeb’s presentation on “Climate Change and Sustainable Processes for Carbon Reduction” from an Italian university perspective. The overarching objectives of the event were to foster a unified approach towards environmental consciousness and its intersection with community welfare, aiming to: Enhance awareness regarding the impact of climate change on both the environment and communities. Provide comprehensive educational and training opportunities for volunteers, enabling them to actively participate in sustainable initiatives.
Prof. Dr. Tauha Hussain Ali acknowledged collective efforts of all participants in contributing to the discourse on building sustainable communities and combating climate change. His speech highlighted the significance of such initiatives in fostering a culture of environmental consciousness and sustainable development within the academic community and beyond. Furthermore, in recognition of the participants’ dedicated contributions and valuable insights shared during the event, the Vice Chancellor personally honored each participant with tokens of appreciation. These tokens symbolized the university’s gratitude for the commitment and active engagement demonstrated by the attendees in addressing pressing environmental challenges. The act of honoring the participants not only underscored the importance of their involvement but also served as an encouragement for continued dedication to sustainable initiatives and advocacy for climate resilience.
rof. Dr. Muhammad Aslam Uqaili (Former Vice Chancellor MUET): Professor Aslam Uqaili’s speech centered on carbon reduction strategies and climate change initiatives, drawing from an Italian university’s perspective. He emphasized the implementation of effective carbon emission reduction methods and sustainable practices within the university context. The significance of educational institutions in leading environmental stewardship through research, education, and practical application of sustainable technologies was a key highlight. Additionally, the Vice Chancellor expressed gratitude to the participants for their valuable contributions and dedication, presenting them with tokens of appreciation, symbolizing the university’s acknowledgment of their commitment to addressing pressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainability. This gesture served as both recognition for their involvement and encouragement for continued efforts in fostering climate resilience.
Every speaker collectively provided a comprehensive understanding of various perspectives and approaches to address climate change challenges, emphasizing the critical role of empowerment, technology, and collaborative efforts in building sustainable communities.
Prof. Prakash Lohana (Chair IEEE SIGHT Karachi) emphasized the need to empower women in the context of climate change resilience. His speech focused on the pivotal role women play in building sustainable communities and the importance of their active participation in climate adaptation and mitigation efforts. He highlighted successful case studies where women-led initiatives had a profound impact on local environmental sustainability.
Ms. Beth Eden (CEO QS ImpACT) highlighted the critical role of QS IMPACT, emphasizing how this platform serves as a catalyst for empowering youth to contribute positively to their communities. Her speech delved into the practical applications of the platform in fostering community engagement and aligning youth initiatives with the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals. She provided insights into how young people can become agents of change and contribute to sustainable development on a global scale.
Prof. Dr. Bhawani Shankar Chowdhry (Chair IEEE Karachi section) focused on the integration of ICT-based applications for environmental protection. Prof. Chowdhry shed light on how technological advancements could be harnessed to address pressing environmental challenges. He discussed the implementation of innovative digital solutions, emphasizing the role of technology in monitoring, managing, and mitigating environmental degradation and promoting sustainability at various levels
Prof. Dr. Tanveer Hussain centered his discussion on the specific challenges and implications of climate change within the context of Pakistan. He highlighted the urgent need for tailored strategies and policies to address the unique environmental issues faced by the country. His speech covered the impact of climate change on Pakistan’s ecosystems, communities, and economy, offering insights into potential solutions and adaptive measures to ensure sustainable development despite these challenges.
Engr. Najeebullah Channa (PHD Scholar PoLiTO Italy) focused on climate change and sustainable processes for carbon reduction from an Italian university perspective. He discussed the innovative approaches and best practices implemented in the university setting to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable practices. His speech highlighted the importance of educational institutions in leading by example and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility through research, education, and practical applications of sustainable technologies.
Moreover, Prof. Dr. Sheeraz Ahmed Memon explored the transformative potential of AI and ICT in addressing pressing environmental challenges. And Engr.Aisha Research Assistant NCRA_CMS_LAB who was an Event Co-Organizer delivered a captivating talk QS ImpACT Achievement and Future Work Related to SDG’S achievements and future initiatives related to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Muhammad Aslam Uqaili and Muhammad Zakir Sheikh (President QS ImpACT Pakistan) revolved around the accomplishments of QS ImpACT in Pakistan and its future endeavors related to the Sustainable Development Goals. They discussed the specific initiatives undertaken by QS ImpACT Pakistan to promote sustainable development and community engagement. Additionally, they highlighted the collaborative efforts and partnerships aimed at fostering a culture of sustainability and responsible citizenship among diverse stakeholders, including the youth, local communities, and educational institutions.
Targeted audience reached: As the targeted audience was around 150, comprehensively the volunteers managed to gain an overwhelming response from the audience there were around 160 participants who attended the event.
Reviews of the participants: Following the conclusion of the event, an overwhelming wave of positive reviews emerged from the participants. Enthusiastic commendations underscored the event’s comprehensive and insightful discussions, which provided a holistic understanding of the interconnectedness between sustainable development and climate resilience. Participants lauded the diverse array of keynote speakers, highlighting their thought-provoking presentations that offered innovative solutions and practical approaches to address pressing environmental challenges. Moreover, the event was hailed for its engaging and interactive format, fostering meaningful networking opportunities and knowledge sharing among attendees from various sectors and backgrounds. The overall sentiment conveyed a collective appreciation for the event’s role in inspiring action and fostering a renewed commitment to driving positive change within communities, reinforcing the participants’ shared dedication to combating climate change and promoting sustainable practices.
Conclusion: The event has successfully underscored the urgent need for collective and decisive action to combat the multifaceted challenges posed by climate change. The discussions and initiatives undertaken during this event have illuminated the critical role of local communities in fostering sustainable practices and fostering resilience in the face of environmental upheavals. By emphasizing the significance of collaborative efforts among various stakeholders, including policymakers, businesses, NGOs, and grassroots organizations, the event has reinforced the idea that addressing climate change necessitates a holistic and inclusive approach. From promoting renewable energy adoption to advocating for sustainable urban planning, the event has effectively highlighted the interconnectedness between environmental preservation, social equity, and economic development.
Moreover, the event’s emphasis on education and awareness-raising campaigns has illuminated the path towards fostering a more environmentally conscious global citizenry. By empowering individuals with knowledge and tools to make informed decisions, the event has sowed the seeds for a sustainable mindset that can drive long-term behavioral change and inspire innovative solutions to climate-related challenges. As the event concludes, it is evident that building sustainable communities and combating climate change are not isolated endeavors but integral components of a shared global responsibility. The commitment and enthusiasm exhibited by participants reflect a collective determination to create a more resilient, equitable, and environmentally conscious world for present and future generations. While significant challenges lie ahead, the event has laid a solid foundation for continued collaboration and action, underscoring the imperative to sustain the momentum and translate discussions into tangible, measurable results.

NED set to address local challenges for technology-driven climate actions

on 02/11/2023

NED University of Engineering and Technology, Pakistan and University of West of Scotland, UK announced working jointly to develop technological solutions for monitoring and predictions related to climate change in Pakistan.
The project emerged from “Going Global Partnership PAK-UK Education Gateway Mobility Partnership for Faculty” supported by the British Council and Higher Education Commission, Pakistan. The mobility partnership enabled the researchers from both participating universities to visit each other to strengthen their research collaboration in the area of climate change.
The researchers from NED University and the University of West of Scotland (UWS) informed the participants that they are working on developing specialized Internet of Things (IoT) based sensors for monitoring climate changes and collecting the data for forecasting and predictions of potential anomalies. They have already launched a joint dashboard to collectively monitor the climate data coming through the sensor nodes placed at NED University and UWS. The focal person from NED University said that climate monitoring through digital sensors is a relatively cost-effective solution and scalable to micro and macro levels. Moreover, it enables us to develop specialized sensors to meet the requirements of any application. Currently, the research team from NED and UWS is working on expanding their sensor network to collect data from different locations. The focal person from UWS mentioned the importance of availability of accurate data to properly address the challenges associated with climate change. As Pakistan has been severely affected by climate change, data-driven policies and practices need to be adopted to minimize the impact.
In addition to the research and development activities, the team is thriving for active stakeholder engagement to address this important issue. The focal person from NED University says that strong collaborations are essential to properly address this important issue. All stakeholders from industry, academia, research organizations, professional bodies, and policymakers should join hands to identify and actively tackle the local challenges in this area. We have initiated several activities to increase stakeholder involvement and to create public awareness of the issue. These activities include arranging an international conference on Technology Driven Climate Actions at NED University, arranging a symposium on Digital Connectivity & Innovation for Sustainable Futures at UWS, arranging several technical talks, workshops, and trainings both in UK and Pakistan, arranging focus group meetings with academic fraternity, industry professionals, government, and professional bodies.
One such meeting was arranged in collaboration with the Institute of Engineers Pakistan (IEP) in its Karachi office on 23rd October 2023. The meeting was attended by the executive committee of IEP, the research team from NED University, researchers from UWS, industrial collaborators from the UK, and representatives from local industry including the representatives from Pakistan petroleum Limited (PPL), Engro, K-Electric, Ashrae, Pakistan Plumbing Association etc. The focus of the meeting was to discuss strategies for effective collaboration and bridging the gap between industry and academia to foster the research culture for societal impact. Trust-building between different stakeholders is essential to combining expertise from different areas to identify the challenges faced by the local industry. Implementation of policies related to data security and privacy will be essential to sustain such collaborations. During the meeting it was decided to start with micro-level solutions and gradually scale up to macro level. — PR

The SBTi approves Pakistan Cables science-based emissions reduction target

on 02/11/2023

Pakistan Cables, the pioneer wire and cable manufacturer in Pakistan, has become the country’s first building material company to have its science-based emission reduction targets validated and approved by SBTi. The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) drives ambitious climate action in the private sector by enabling organizations to set science-based emissions reduction targets.
“We plan to drive sustainability by investing in continuous process improvement and cleaner energy to reach our targets by 2030,” said Fahd K. Chinoy, CEO at Pakistan Cables. “By setting science-based targets, Pakistan Cables is accelerating its efforts to align with ongoing global efforts to reduce global warming”.
The Company’s science-based emission reduction targets are part of its long-term vision to develop its net zero strategy and is actively working to establish long-term science-based net zero targets that are aligned with SBTi’s net zero criterion.
Earlier in 2021, Pakistan Cables became one of the 26 Pakistani companies and the only building materials company that signed the pledge for Business Ambition 1.5oC ahead of COP26. To date, the Company has planted approximately 50,000 trees at the Pakistan Cables Urban Forest location in Nooriabad factory, which is the country’s first and largest Miyawaki based Urban Forest on an industrial estate.
Furthermore, Pakistan Cables has the 14001:2015 certification, which reinforces the Company’s commitment to ensure its products meet the highest environmental standards and mitigate environmental impacts.
Founded in 1953, Pakistan Cables is the premier and most reputable cable manufacturer in Pakistan. Being the only wire and cable manufacturer listed on the PSX since 1955, it is also a member company of the Amir S. Chinoy group. The Company has the largest geographical footprint in Pakistan with a presence in over 200 cities. It is ISO 9001:2015, ISO 45001:2018, ISO 14001: 2015 certified and various types of cables are tested by KEMA, Netherlands.
The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) drives ambitious climate action in the private sector by enabling organizations to set science-based emissions reduction targets. The SBTi is a partnership between CDP, the United Nations Global Compact, World Resources Institute (WRI) and the World-Wide Fund for Nature (WWF).

PEC Elections 2024 Emerging alignments, fault lines

on 02/11/2023

Each and every sitting be it a formal or informal, engineers across Pakistan has one topic in common.
Who will be the next chairman of Pakistan Engineering Council? Why should not this query be at the epicentre of engineers communication when the PEC Elections 2024 is just at the corner and all engineers’ groups have kicked off internal discussions focusing the elections.
Initial information gathered by ER suggests incumbent chairman, Engr. Najeeb Haroon supported by National Engineers—an alliance of National Engineers Welfare Organization, a section of contractors and a section of PEG, the organization Engr. Haroon once led—has decided to contest for the second term. ‘He would love to be nominated and supported by his allies, engineers close to him say. But would he be able to retain that support is not clear. Because, a section of engineers from his allies and close to NEWA chief wishes Engr. Abdul Qadir Shah to be the next chairman. Wishes apart, the interesting part is that not everyone in Engr. Shah’s group wants him to contest the office of the chairman.
Shah’s own group has another name too—Engr. Zahid Arif—which is in circulation for the office of chairman. Engr. Arif, a senior engineer hailing from KP and the one who merged his organization with Shah’s is now a divulged-candidate for the top post.
But Engr. Arif is not the last name on the list. Yet another senior engineer from Punjab, and running the office in the province, Engr. Niaz Akhtar is said be set at mind to contest for the post of the chairman. In sum, there are four candidates for the post from the alliance ruling at the moment.
Apart from National Engineers and the allies, engineers from Engr. Jawed Salim Qureshi’s camp has only one name in the sight—Engr. Qureshi. He has been active in recent months as the polls are drawing closer and thus has reorganized his camp—the Engineers Pakistan. Though his candidate in PEC Election 2021 did not fare well but he is said to have retained the amount of support mostly surrounded to him. Some engineers still mark him as a potential candidate for the forthcoming elections.
Besides National Engineers and the Engineers Pakistan, Engr. Waseem Nazir’s PEG is the third significant camp in the engineering community in Pakistan. Engr. Nazir attracted majority votes in Pakistan’s largest province of Pakistan but failed to win the majority for the office of the chairman. Engr. Nazir’s companions say he has also kicked off his group’s preparations for the campaign. Although, he has not announced for his candidature as yet but he is conceived to be the candidate for the top slot.
Among all three, PEG and the Engineers Pakistan have a kind of central command in terms of taking swift decisions for their candidates whereas the National Engineers is likely to undergo tougher bargains for picking up a consensus candidate. ‘In the process the alliance may go for another alignment too’, some engineers say.
Engr. Haroon’s aides argue he has run the council with a level of success and has taken care of his allies and engineers as a whole and thus he deserves to be picked up for the second term. But how Engr. Shah who had decided to contest for the top post much earlier and communicated to Engr. Najeeb Haroon would be convinced to be step back is something to be seen in the coming months.
Yet another interesting development to be seen would be the move of Engr. Zahid Arif’s supporters of whom some are as close to Shah as they are to Engr. Arif.
Not only that, but Engr. Niaz Akhtar’s candidature, if he is adamant to go along is the decision that he has not announced formally would be affecting alignments especially in Punajb which is the real battle group in the next elections. Engr. Akhtar had advantage of his deep relations in academia in Puniab, quite connected with engineering academicians in all four provinces in Pakistan.