Air University Vice Chancellor Air Marshal (Retd.) Abdul Moeed Khan HI (M), emphasised the need for effective utilisation of data to promote innovation, generate new knowledge and support evidence-based decision-making in Pakistan.
Air University VC calls for data-driven policy making, innovation
ISLAMABAD, Oct 19 (APP):Air University Vice Chancellor Air Marshal (Retd.) Abdul Moeed Khan HI (M), emphasised the need for effective utilisation of data to promote innovation, generate new knowledge and support evidence-based decision-making in Pakistan.
Addressing the 3rd International Conference on Recent Trends in Statistics, Data Analytical Sciences and AI Tech Expo on Monday, he said data was a vital resource for national development and growth, but its potential remained underutilised in Pakistan.
Highlighting the conference theme, “Data, Innovation and Impact,” he said data provided the foundation for creating new knowledge, exploring innovative ideas and developing solutions to complex problems.
He stressed that universities and researchers should focus not merely on acquiring existing knowledge but also on generating new ideas and concepts through research, analytical thinking and interdisciplinary collaboration.
VC said the growing influence of artificial intelligence was transforming human life, making it essential for Pakistan to embrace technological advancements and play a leading role in the ongoing knowledge revolution rather than simply responding to changes.
He emphasised the need to improve the collection, integration and analysis of available information and apply mathematical and analytical methods to generate meaningful insights for policymakers and decision-makers.
He said data-driven decisions, when based on accurate analysis and sound interpretation, could help authorities make informed choices and address challenges more effectively.
Air Marshal (Retd.) Abdul Moeed Khan HI (M), said Air University had introduced an interdisciplinary undergraduate programme in Statistics and Data Analytical Sciences, incorporating artificial intelligence and creative technologies, to promote emerging fields of knowledge.
He expressed satisfaction over the department’s progress during its first year, noting that students had enrolled in undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, including master’s and PhD studies.
He termed the students torchbearers of the initiative and urged them to pursue research, develop innovative concepts and contribute to the creation of new knowledge.
The vice chancellor appreciated the department’s efforts in organising the international conference and bringing together experts to discuss developments in statistics, data analytical sciences and artificial intelligence.
Distinguished speakers, including Dr Ammara Nawaz Cheema, Head of the Department of Statistics and Data Analytical Sciences(SDAS) at Air University, Prof. Dr. Tasawar Hayat, Vice Chancellor of the University of Sargodha, Dr. Shahjahan Khan OAM, Emeritus Professor at the University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Australia, among others, also spoke on the occasion.
The two-day conference, organised by Air University’s Department of Statistics and Data Analytical Sciences, provides a platform for researchers, students, industry professionals and public-sector representatives to share knowledge and explore developments in statistics, data analytics and artificial intelligence.
The event will conclude on Tuesday, with further sessions expected to advance discussions on recent developments in statistics, data analytical sciences and artificial intelligence.
