CM Murad lauds GU Tech’s innovation-driven education, urges youth to lead Pakistan’s technological future

KARACHI, Aug 08 (APP): Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah on Saturday evening praised GU Tech and Al Ghazali University for promoting innovation, applied learning and technological advancement, urging students to harness emerging technologies to address real-world challenges and contribute to Pakistan’s socio-economic development.

Addressing students, faculty members and the university leadership during a visit to GU Tech, the chief minister described education as the cornerstone of nation-building and said institutions of higher learning must move beyond conventional teaching to produce innovators, entrepreneurs and problem-solvers capable of meeting the needs of a rapidly changing world.

“Pakistan’s future depends on a generation that combines knowledge with character, innovation with responsibility and ambition with public service,” he said.

Murad Ali Shah commended the university’s focus on creativity, research, entrepreneurship and practical learning, saying such an environment was essential for preparing young people to compete in the global economy. He added that the modern campus, student-led projects and innovation-oriented academic culture reflected Al Ghazali University’s commitment to quality education and community development.

Highlighting the transformative role of technology, the chief minister said artificial intelligence, automation, robotics, data science and digital connectivity were reshaping economies and societies across the world. However, he stressed that technology should be used to improve lives, strengthen communities and promote inclusive growth.

“The true value of technology lies in its ability to address human needs, solve societal problems and contribute to sustainable development,” he said, encouraging students to develop solutions that benefit society and create opportunities for future generations.

Shah also appreciated the university’s diverse academic offerings, including programmes in computer science, data science and artificial intelligence, engineering and technology, law, education, business and management, Islamic banking and finance, and Islamic studies. Such disciplines, he said, were vital for producing well-rounded professionals capable of contributing to national development in multiple sectors.

Referring to recent policy initiatives of the provincial government, the chief minister said the Sindh cabinet had constituted four task forces focusing on environment, water and issues related to the Indus Waters Treaty, economy, and artificial intelligence and data sciences.

He invited Al Ghazali University to nominate one or two qualified professionals for inclusion in the Artificial Intelligence and Data Sciences Task Force, saying academia must play a leading role in shaping public policy and technological innovation.

The chief minister also highlighted the establishment of a provincial information technology company aimed at accelerating digital transformation and creating opportunities in the technology sector. He urged the university to collaborate with the company to strengthen industry-academia linkages and promote innovation-driven growth.

Speaking about public service, CM said he considered the opportunity to serve the people of Sindh both an honour and a responsibility.

“I believe I will be accountable before God for the trust placed in me. Therefore, I am striving to serve the people of the province by improving healthcare, education, employment opportunities, prosperity, and public safety and security,” he said.

Earlier, Pro-Chancellor Dr Zeeshan Ahmed gave a detailed presentation on the journey, vision and achievements of Jamia Tur Rasheed, Al Ghazali University and GU Tech. He highlighted the institution’s mission of developing highly capable professionals guided by the principles of truth, justice and service to humanity.

The presentation outlined GU Tech’s emphasis on industry-oriented education, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, research and development, entrepreneurship, innovation and incubation, and the preparation of future-ready graduates. The university’s academic ecosystem integrates industry partnerships, AI-powered learning, startup support, real-world problem-solving and research-driven education.

Dr Zeeshan informed the chief minister that GU Tech offers industry-aligned programmes, including BS Computer Science, MS Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, and MS Islamic Banking and Finance, with specialisation pathways in artificial intelligence, fintech, healthcare technology and cybersecurity.

He also highlighted the university’s Innovation and Incubation Centre, Ghazali Family Business Centre and Directorate of Learning and Development, which are aimed at promoting entrepreneurship, innovation and professional development among students.

The chief minister was informed about the achievements of graduates and alumni serving in academia, banking, technology, government institutions and international organisations. The presentation also highlighted the accomplishments of distinguished alumni, including researchers, university faculty members, banking professionals and diplomats serving in Pakistan and abroad.

Among the notable success stories shared was that of Dr Qazi Saqib-ul-Islam, who pursued advanced studies in South Korea, earned a PhD in Material and Electronic System Engineering, published extensively in international journals and received multiple research awards.

Dr Javed Abdul Ghani and Dr Rauf Shams Malik also highlighted the academic achievements and professional success of GU Tech students and alumni, underscoring the institution’s contribution to producing skilled human resources for national development.

CM reaffirmed the Sindh government’s commitment to supporting higher education, digital transformation, innovation and entrepreneurship, saying that investments in education and technology were investments in the future of Sindh and Pakistan.

During the visit, he toured various sections of the campus, including innovation and learning facilities, and reviewed student projects demonstrating practical applications of technology and innovation. He appreciated the creativity, technical expertise and entrepreneurial spirit displayed by students and encouraged them to continue striving for excellence.

The chief minister also appreciated the university’s competency-based educational framework, which emphasises leadership, communication, ethical practice, strategic thinking, innovation, entrepreneurship, empathy and personal effectiveness – qualities he described as essential for success in the modern world.

Chancellor Mufti Abdul Raheem, in his remarks, said the emerging strategic cooperation and defence partnership among Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye reflected the vision and long-standing efforts of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto for greater unity and strength in the Muslim world.

He said Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto had laid the foundation of Pakistan’s nuclear programme, which enabled the country to become a nuclear power and strengthened its position among Muslim nations.

The chancellor also appreciated the chief minister’s support for higher education and public welfare initiatives. He noted that Mr Shah had allotted 25 acres of land near Ibrahim Hyderi for the university’s development and played a key role in granting the university charter. He further lauded the chief minister’s contributions to the health and education sectors, describing them as important steps towards the province’s progress and human development.

Former Corps Commander Karachi, Lieutenant General (Retd.) Humayun Aziz, who serves as Director of the Board of Governors of Al Ghazali University, praised the institution for integrating religious education with modern science and technology.

He described the model as a progressive approach that equips students with the knowledge, skills and values needed to excel in diverse fields while meeting the challenges of the contemporary world.

Expressing satisfaction over his interaction with students and faculty members, CM Shah said the enthusiasm, talent and dedication he witnessed at GU Tech strengthened his confidence in Pakistan’s youth and their ability to build a brighter, more innovative and prosperous future for the country.

The visit concluded with a vote of thanks by the chancellor.