KARACHI, August 8: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah praised GU Tech and Al Ghazali University for promoting innovation-driven education and urged students to use emerging technologies to solve real-world problems and support Pakistan’s economic development.
Addressing students, faculty members and university leaders during his visit, Shah said education remained central to nation-building. He called on universities to move beyond traditional teaching and prepare innovators, entrepreneurs and problem-solvers for a rapidly changing global economy.
“Pakistan’s future depends on a generation that combines knowledge with character, innovation with responsibility and ambition with public service,” he said.
Shah praised the university’s emphasis on creativity, research, entrepreneurship and practical learning. He said such an academic environment could help young Pakistanis compete more effectively in the global economy.
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The chief minister said artificial intelligence, automation, robotics, data science and digital connectivity were transforming economies worldwide. However, he stressed that students should use technology to improve lives and address social challenges.
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“The true value of technology lies in its ability to address human needs, solve societal problems and contribute to sustainable development,” Shah said.
He also welcomed the university’s academic programmes in computer science, data science and artificial intelligence, engineering, law, education, business, Islamic banking and finance, and Islamic studies.
According to Shah, these disciplines can help Pakistan develop professionals capable of contributing to different sectors of the economy.
Sindh seeks university expertise on AI
Shah said the Sindh cabinet had established four task forces covering the environment, water and the Indus Waters Treaty, the economy, and artificial intelligence and data sciences.
He invited Al Ghazali University to nominate one or two qualified professionals for the Artificial Intelligence and Data Sciences Task Force. The chief minister said universities should contribute directly to policymaking and technological development.
He also highlighted the provincial government’s plan to establish an information technology company to accelerate digital transformation.
Shah encouraged GU Tech to work with the company and strengthen links between academia and industry.
GU Tech presents academic achievements
Earlier, Pro-Chancellor Dr Zeeshan Ahmed briefed Shah on the history, vision and achievements of Jamia Tur Rasheed, Al Ghazali University and GU Tech.
He said the institution focuses on industry-oriented education, artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, research, entrepreneurship and innovation.
The university offers programmes including BS Computer Science, MS Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, and MS Islamic Banking and Finance. Students can pursue specialised pathways in areas such as AI, fintech, healthcare technology and cybersecurity.
Dr Zeeshan also highlighted the Innovation and Incubation Centre, Ghazali Family Business Centre and Directorate of Learning and Development.
The university said these initiatives aim to encourage entrepreneurship, innovation and professional growth among students.
Students encouraged to build practical solutions
During his visit, Shah toured innovation and learning facilities and reviewed projects developed by students.
He praised their creativity, technical skills and entrepreneurial approach. He also encouraged them to continue developing solutions with practical benefits for society.
The chief minister welcomed GU Tech’s competency-based education model. The framework focuses on leadership, communication, ethical practice, strategic thinking, innovation, entrepreneurship, empathy and personal effectiveness.
Shah said these qualities would help graduates succeed in an increasingly competitive world.
University highlights alumni success
The university also briefed the chief minister on graduates working in academia, banking, technology, government institutions and international organisations.
Among the alumni highlighted was Dr Qazi Saqib-ul-Islam, who completed advanced studies in South Korea and earned a PhD in Material and Electronic System Engineering. He has also published research in international journals and received several research awards.
Dr Javed Abdul Ghani and Dr Rauf Shams Malik also discussed the academic and professional achievements of GU Tech students and graduates.
Shah reaffirmed the Sindh government’s support for higher education, digital transformation, innovation and entrepreneurship.
“Investments in education and technology are investments in the future of Sindh and Pakistan,” he said.
Chancellor praises government support
Chancellor Mufti Abdul Raheem said the emerging strategic cooperation between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye reflected what he described as Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s vision for greater unity among Muslim countries.
He also credited Bhutto with laying the foundation of Pakistan’s nuclear programme.
The chancellor thanked Shah for supporting higher education and public welfare initiatives. He noted that the chief minister had allocated 25 acres near Ibrahim Hyderi for the university’s development and helped facilitate its charter.
Former Karachi Corps Commander Lieutenant General (Retd.) Humayun Aziz, who serves on Al Ghazali University’s Board of Governors, praised the institution for combining religious education with modern science and technology.
He said the approach could equip students with knowledge, professional skills and values suited to the demands of the modern world.
Shah said his interaction with students and faculty had strengthened his confidence in Pakistan’s young generation. He expressed hope that their talent and determination would contribute to a more innovative and prosperous future for the country.
