realme Unveils Shaheen Afridi as Brand Ambassador

realme Unveils Shaheen Afridi as Brand Ambassador, Teases Major Announcement on June 26.

In an exciting move, realme has announced the appointment of Shaheen Afridi, Pakistan’s star fast bowler, as its new brand ambassador. Known for his outstanding performances on the cricket field, Afridi’s dynamic and energetic persona aligns perfectly with realme’s brand ethos of innovation and youthful spirit.

Adding to the excitement, realme has teased a major announcement scheduled for June 26, 2024. While details remain under wraps, speculation is rife that it could be related to the highly anticipated realme GT 6 Pro or possibly a new addition to the 12 series, such as the realme 12 or the realme 12 Pro+. This announcement follows the recent unveiling of the realme GT 6 Pro in Italy, showcasing realme’s commitment to innovation and its quest to revolutionize the smartphone industry.

realme is on a roll, having recently launched the realme C63 in Pakistan. The successful launch of the C63 indicates that realme is increasing the frequency of its device launches, cementing Pakistan as a primary market for the company. This strategy underscores realme’s dedication to bringing advanced technology to Pakistani consumers, reinforcing its position as a leading smartphone brand in the region.

Stay tuned for further details as realme continues to push the boundaries of technology and innovation, bringing cutting-edge devices to the global market. However, whatever the news is, this collaboration with Shaheen Afridi is expected to bring a fresh wave of excitement among realme fans and cricket enthusiasts alike.

Keytaab and Health Services Academy Host Seminar

Keytaab and Health Services Academy Host Groundbreaking Digital Healthcare Seminar.

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir) Keytaab, a digital learning platform dedicated to making knowledge and skills accessible to all, in collaboration with Health Services Academy (HSA), Islamabad, hosted a transformative Digital Healthcare Seminar at Serena Hotel. The event attracted a diverse audience including doctors, healthcare professionals, trainers, policy makers, government officials, technology leaders, CEOs of pharma companies, medical faculty, and high-profile figures from the healthcare sector.

The seminar featured keynote addresses by distinguished speakers, including Chief Guest Lieutenant General (R) Nigar Johar Khan HI (M), TI (M), Guest of Honor Mr Shahzad Ali Khan, Dean & Vice Chancellor of HSA, and Key Note Speaker, Mr Zamurrad khan (Hila-i-Imtiaz) Founder & CEO Pakistan Sweet Home, Guest of Honor, Mr Saeed Ahmed Sheikh Director General Pakistan Broadcasting Corporation (PBC) and Honorable Mr Nasir Mehmood Elia, Director BIC Health Services Academy.

The speakers lauded Keytaab for its timely initiative to promote online learning, especially for healthcare professionals. They praised Keytaab’s vision to reshape Pakistan’s healthcare landscape through technology-based online courses.

Lt. General (R) Nigar Johar emphasized that digitization, particularly in training and career advancement, can address many healthcare challenges. Prof. Shahzad Ali Khan expressed gratitude to Keytaab for providing a seamless e-learning platform and announced the launch of a one-year diploma in digital health via Keytaab, aiming to train around 100,000 graduates in various digital healthcare aspects.

“This diploma program will be a game-changer for Pakistan’s healthcare sector,” said Prof. Shahzad Ali Khan. “It will not only enhance expertise in digital health but also equip graduates with the necessary technology tools and connections to make a significant impact.”

Mr. Ghazanfar Ali Khan, CEO of Keytaab, expressed his excitement about the seminar’s success, which brought together industry leaders to share knowledge, ideas, and best practices. “Our goal is to accelerate the adoption of digital health solutions and improve patient outcomes through the power of knowledge and skill,” he added.

The seminar also featured panel discussions and networking opportunities, covering topics such as telemedicine, healthcare analytics, digital therapeutics, online consultancy, and patient engagement.

S&P Global Pakistan Celebrates 19 Years of Excellence and Innovation

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir)

S&P Global, a provider of credit ratings, benchmarks, analytics and workflow solutions in the global capital, commodity and automotive markets is proud to celebrate its 19th anniversary of operations in Pakistan this month. Since its establishment in 2005, S&P Global Pakistan has been at the forefront of providing essential intelligence that enables governments, businesses, and individuals to unlock new opportunities, solve challenges and accelerate progress for the world.

Over the past 19 years, S&P Global Pakistan has built a strong reputation in “Powering Global Markets” and delivering impact for its people, customers, and communities. On this momentous occasion, Mujeeb Zahur, Managing Director of S&P Global Pakistan, said, “S&P Global Pakistan’s continuous growth is a testament to our shared commitment to Accelerate Progress and live by our values of Discovery, Partnership and Integrity. On this special day, we celebrate every team member in Pakistan who strives to bring our purpose and values to life and helps us build a more diverse, equitable and inclusive organization.”

As S&P Global Pakistan enters its 20th year, the company will continue to focus on its five strategic pillars: Customer at the Core; Grow and Innovate; Expand the potential of Data & technology; Lead and Inspire and Execute and Deliver. These pillars will continue to guide the company in helping the world’s leading organizations plan for tomorrow, today.

Tech Experts Show how to Elevate your Game with the Infinix GT 20 Pro

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir)

In the realm of mobile gaming, optimal performance is paramount. For professional gamers, the quality of their gaming phone plays a pivotal role in shaping their performance and overall gaming experience. A premium gaming phone is distinguished by its robust processor, generous RAM, high refresh rate displays, advanced features, and long-lasting battery life.

Infinix has introduced the GT 20 Pro, a gaming smartphone tailored to provide mobile gamers with a superior gaming experience parallel to E-sports standards. Boasting cutting-edge technology and gamer-centric attributes, the GT 20 Pro establishes itself as a dominant force in the realm of gaming-oriented mobile devices. Featuring the Dimensity 8200 Ultimate 4nm 5G Processor, a dedicated gaming display chip, and innovative functionalities, this device aspires to redefine the landscape of mobile gaming. To comprehend the full potential of this robust device, it is imperative to seek guidance from gaming experts.

Star Anonymous, a renowned figure in the mobile gaming community, guides users through optimizing graphics settings to ensure smooth and visually stunning gameplay. By adjusting the device’s high refresh rate and utilizing its superior GPU, gamers can achieve the perfect balance between performance and visual quality. One of the standout features of the Infinix GT 20 Pro is its advanced graphics capabilities. Its clear and efficient bezel-less 144Hz FHD+ AMOLED Display offers stunning visuals with fluid motion and vibrant colors, perfect for immersive gaming experiences. The device supports an up to 120fps gaming experience, delivering ultra-smooth gameplay crucial for fast-paced games like PUBG Mobile.
Additionally, he also demonstrates how to activate and customize the gaming mode, which prioritizes system resources for gaming, and provide an advanced cooling system for an uninterrupted gaming experience.

MK Gaming also provides helpful insights on controller compatibility and customizing in-game controls. The Infinix GT 20 Pro supports a wide range of controllers allowing the gamer to customize it according to their choice significantly enhancing the gameplay experience. Mk Gaming also shares tips on customizing in-game controls for games like PUBG Mobile emphasizing to customize it according to suit individual play styles, making it easier to perform complex maneuvers and improve reaction times. Influencer Y offers strategic gameplay tips, helping gamers refine their tactics and excel in mobile gaming.

Live streaming is an integral part of modern gaming culture, and the Infinix GT 20 Pro is well-equipped to handle this demanding task. SP Joker, an expert in gaming content creation, teaches gamers how to set up and optimize their live streams. SP Joker’s videos cover everything you need to know to broadcast your gameplay like a pro. With the Infinix GT 20 Pro’s powerful processor and enhanced connectivity options, streaming is seamless and lag-free, allowing gamers to share their experiences in real time.

The aforementioned gamers have produced gaming videos aimed at enhancing the gaming experience with the Infinix GT 20 Pro. They offer comprehensive insights into every aspect of the Infinix GT 20 Pro, ensuring that gamers can fully explore the capabilities of the device. Whether the objective is to enhance graphics, optimize controls, or establish a successful streaming presence, the Infinix GT 20 Pro is suitably equipped to support and elevate gaming endeavors

With expert advice from top gamers, users can unlock the full potential of this device and take their gaming performance to new heights. 

Engro Fertilizers completes largest-ever EnVen Plant turnaround with investment of approx. USD 50 million

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir)
Engro Fertilizers has completed the largest-ever (55 days) scheduled maintenance activity of the EnVen Plant as planned on June 18, 2024.

Established in 2011 with an investment of USD 1.1 billion, the EnVen Plant has an annual production capacity of 1.3 million tons and is the most energy efficient fertilizer plant in Pakistan, with the lowest consumption of gas per ton of urea.

The project scope of the turnaround included over 5,000 technical activities, including the first-ever replacement of the waste heat boiler, overhaul of the furnace convection section, ammonia storage tank inspection and a comprehensive overhaul of six major turbo trains and gas turbines.

At peak, more than 6,000 people were engaged round-the-clock at the Plant site for these turnaround activities. Engro Fertilizers has invested approx. USD 50 million in the Plant turnaround to improve its reliability and operational efficiency.  

According to Ali Rathore – CEO of Engro Fertilizers, “The safe and successful completion of this major turnaround, despite extreme weather conditions, showcases the engineering excellence of the Engro Fertilizers team in executing large-scale projects within planned schedules and budgets, while prioritizing the safety of everyone involved in the activity. These critical projects were executed in-house by our talented engineers using innovative techniques and global best practices of safety and quality.”

He added that, “The meticulous planning and execution ensured that the availability of urea to our hardworking farmers was not impacted, demonstrating the entire Engro Fertilizers team’s firm commitment to our purpose of enabling the food security of Pakistan. We would like to thank our employees, contractors, global technical partners, local administration, and all other key stakeholders for their seamless support and guidance that contributed to the success of this major turnaround.”

Nawan Sij (New Sun) Rock Opera for Children in Seraiki Launched at 58th THAAP Talk

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir)

THAAP’s 58th talk was on the book: Nawan Sij (New Sun) A Rock Opera for Children, in Seraiki, presented by Mr Sarmad Khawaja of Zoya Science Schools. Mr. Khawaja explained that Nawan Sij combines several ideas: it is a story of a girl, in eleven songs, who wishes to know how big is the Earth and finds out in Zoya School. The lyrics are by Nawab Muztar, a teacher at Zoya school. Mr. Khawaja said above all, the book is about making the children aware of the socio-cultural realities that shape their lives, and about their capacity to transform these realities. Three video songs on this theme packed with local singing and music talent were presented to the audience who watched with rapt attention. The opera features music from around the world, including Beethoven’s Ode to Joy in the finale. Mr. Khawaja explained how Zoya Schools use posters, videos, and poems to teach abstract math concepts. They take children into the realm of abstraction step by step, starting from the concrete reality where it arose, which is the proper way to teach math. He illustrated this by taking the audience 1,500 years in the past of the northern areas of our country, where modern numbers were invented and commonly used several hundred years before they appeared in the West and showed how concepts such as heliocentrism are best explained by linking them with the everyday lives of the children. In this case with local festivals, such as Poh, which coincide with the solstices.This teaching, he said, produced Pakistan’s Pi champion Hafsa Khan of Zoya Science School Nala Khudaadad. Mr Khawaja said the example set by the eight Zoya schools, which serve over 3,000 underprivileged children, should be a model for addressing the education crisis in the country. He suggested building schools 2 kilometers apart on either side of the Indus river to reach the most neglected children. And giving them hot meals in school and potable water in their homes, as Zoya schools do. Because chronic hunger and diseases severely impact the lives of our children, often with fatal consequences. Therefore, improving the nutrition and health of children must be an integral part of any educational initiative. The talk concluded with a lively question-and-answer session. The audience, including academicians, archaeologists, linguists, and other experts, posed various questions about the Zoya Schools’ work model and their achievements. The host of the evening Professor Pervaiz Vandal thanked Mr. Khawaja for his talk, urging everyone to support Zoya Science Schools’ mission to educate underprivileged children in far and neglected corners of the country.

CBD Punjab Conducts Bid Opening for Celestia IT Tower*

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir)

Punjab Central Business District Development Authority (PCBDDA) also known as Central Business District Punjab (CBD Punjab) has successfully received and opened the financial and technical bids for the Celestia Tower which will be constructed in Pakistan’s premier and largest IT hub, CBD NSIT IT City. The NSIT Celestia Tower project attracted bids from several prominent construction companies, including Habib Construction, Maksons, EDCO King Concrete and Hasnat Builders. These companies submitted their sealed bids comprising both financial and technical components ensuring a comprehensive evaluation process. The bid opening ceremony was conducted transparently with all participating bidders present to witness the proceedings. Key officials from CBD Punjab attended the bid opening, including Executive Director Technical Director, Construction Director Procurement and Director Finance. Their presence underscored the project’s importance and CBD Punjab’s commitment to maintaining transparency and integrity throughout the bidding process. The bid opening marks the first step in a thorough evaluation process. Each bid will undergo a detailed examination, assessing technical qualifications and financial viability meticulously. The receipt of bid securities a critical component of the bidding process, will also be verified. Following this detailed review the contract for the Celestia Tower will be formally awarded to the most qualified bidder. An official announcement regarding the contract award will be made in due course ensuring all stakeholders are informed. Executive Director Technical CBD Punjab expressed confidence in the abilities of all participating companies. He reiterated that the contract award process will adhere strictly to all applicable rules and regulations emphasizing the commitment to transparency and fairness. We trust the capabilities of all the companies that have submitted bids. The selection process will be conducted with the utmost transparency, following all established guidelines and standards he stated. The Celestia Tower is envisioned as a 19-story state-of-the-art building, poised to become a landmark in the region. The project is expected to be completed within 14 months and will involve an estimated investment of 7 billion PKR. Once completed, the Celestia Tower will not only enhance the architectural landscape of the area but also contribute significantly to the local economy by creating jobs and attracting business investments. CBD Punjab’s commitment to this project reflects its broader mission to drive economic growth and urban development in Punjab. The Celestia Tower is part of the NSIT City project which aims to establish a hub for technology and innovation. By fostering such developments, CBD Punjab aims to position the region as a competitive player in the global market, attracting both national and international businesses.

COKE STUDIO SEASON 15 RELEASES “JHOL”

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

Coke Studio Season 15 releases its eighth song, “Jhol”, taking a captivating dive into the depths of love and loss, featuring Maanu and Annural Khalid. “Jhol” re-tells the classic subcontinental tales of tragically bent love stories, like Heer Ranjha, through a captivating retro imagining.

Shot through a vintage lens in smoky undertones and directed by Jamal Rahman [who also directed Kana Yaari in Season 14], “Jhol” unfolds against the backdrop of a parallel Pakistan, where bygone train stations and metropolitan club culture collide. Curator and Producer Xulfi (Zulfiqar Jabbar Khan), and co-producers Abdullah Siddiqui, Abdullah Kasumbi, and Talal Qureshi, bring the spotlight on Maanu and Annural Khalid. Having composed “Jhol” as a monologue originally, Maanu transformed it into a duet on Xulfi’s recommendation and both take on dual roles, captivating viewers as both singers and actors in a silver screen musical depicting the agony of unfulfilled love.

Director Jamal masterfully orchestrates a series of flashbacks, beginning with Maanu’s arrival on a reimagined Orient Express-inspired railway platform. His heart-wrenching vocals immediately capture the essence of the lovelorn poet as he sings of his yearning and despair.

Production Designer Hashim Ali and Art Director Sara Vohra paints a picture of a bygone jazz era as the scene shifts to Annural. Like Maanu, the more she pines for affirmation, the more she is met with smoke and mirrors.

Despite their anguish, their voices intertwine beautifully, creating a tapestry of emotions that transcends language. The narrative progresses to backstage at a club, where fate continues to conspire against them. A chance encounter is thwarted by a meddling club manager, played by the real-life talent manager Sikander Ali (Sikki). Their paths come agonizingly close, only to be separated by unfounded suspicion. Indeed, Maanu and Annural’s raw emotions translate effortlessly to the screen.

Annural Khalid is an Islamabad-based singer with a powerful voice, who’s musical journey began with cover songs, each showcasing her uniquely evocative and powerful voice. She is driven equally by art and music. Rehman Asfar, known professionally as Maanu, is a versatile hip-hop artist hailing from Lahore, recognized for his original music across rap, EDM, hip-hop and R&B influences and style.

 Produced and Arranged by Xulfi, Abdullah Siddiqui, Talal Qureshi and Abdullah Kasumbi, “Jhol” can be heard here: https://www.youtube.com/@cokestudio

In the meantime, be sure to listen to your favorite songs from Coke Studio on Spotify https://open.spotify.com and keep yourself logged on to https://www.tiktok.com/@cokestudiopakistan, https://www.youtube.com/@cokestudio  and https://www.instagram.com/coke_studio to follow the Coke Studio journey.

First Cohort Of SparkTank Graduates In Lahore.

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir)

SparkTank by Beaconhouse, Pakistan’s first business incubator for 10-19 year-olds, celebrated the graduation of its inaugural cohort at an event titled ‘The SparkTank. Showcase’ held at the Ramada Hotel Gulberg, Lahore.

The SparkTank Showcase featured five promising startups developed by eight students over a five-month incubation period from September 2023 to February 2024. The graduating startups include Go Clean, Pak Maweshi, Bitty Bop’s Perfumery, Takhti.pk, and BreatheEasy.

The event featured an exhibition and presentations by the graduating students where they introduced their idea and the startups to an audience including investors, experts from the startup industry, as well as students, parents, and educationists. A keynote speech by Chief Sustainability Officer at Al Futtaim Group, Ellora-Julie Parekh, highlighted the importance of promoting entrepreneurship from an early age to equip the youth with the skills and mindset necessary to tackle challenges. Education technology entrepreneur and CEO of Build Something Different, Chris Geary, spoke on ‘Tech Education: Cultivating Tomorrow’s Innovators’ .

A panel discussion titled ‘Navigating Early Stage Funding’ explored the various opportunities for obtaining initial financing for startups. It provided practical advice on overcoming funding challenges and planning for long-term financial sustainability. Panellists included CEO & Founder, CIRCLE, Sadaffe Abid; Founder & General Partner, Zayn Venture Capital, Faisal Aftab; Co-Founder & CEO, Smartlane and Co-Founder, Rent It, Fatin Tariq Gondal; and Managing Director, Endeavor Pakistan, Shehryar Hydri. The discussion was moderated by Co-Founder of Out-Class & Taraki, Ali Nomani. Speaking at the event, CEO Beaconhouse School System and SparkTank, Kasim Kasuri said, “We are incredibly proud of our first cohort of young entrepreneurs. Their dedication and innovation have been truly inspiring, and we are excited to see the impact they will go on to make. SparkTank is committed to supporting innovation among the youth, nurturing their talent while promoting creative thinking and business acumen.”

Launched in 2023, SparkTank provides aspiring student entrepreneurs with the resources and support they need to turn their ideas into successful businesses. The first initiative of its kind in Pakistan, SparkTank offers an extensive range of services to support students at every stage of the business development process – from conducting market research to developing a prototype, and ultimately to launching and scaling their businesses – all at zero cost. Students are guided by a dedicated team of experienced mentors, educators, and professionals throughout the incubation process.

China’s Footwear Association pledges Rs 20 billion investment in Pakistan

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir)

In a significant development for Pakistan’s footwear industry, The Association of Guangdong Shoes Manufacturers, TAGSM of China has expressed its intention to invest billions of rupees in Pakistan’s shoe industry.   Mr Suilong Liu, Chairman AGSM visited Lahore alongwith 10 Chinese Delegates from 3 – 8 June 2024 . PFMA host the Chinese delegation, arranged their B2B meetings with Pakistani footwear industry and government officials.

The Chinese delegation visited Pakistan from June 3 to June 8, 2024 and witnessed various shoe-making factories where they have had B2B meetings with the Pakistani counterparts. In April this year, a Pakistan delegation headwd by Mansoor Ehsan Sheikh, Chairman PFMA also visited China and met with the leading shoe-makers there.

Mr. Suilong Liu, marking a new chapter in bilateral trade relations and potential economic growth. During his visit, Mr. Liu had various meetings with Mr Mansoor Ehsan Sheikh and finally signed a MOU at the Punjab Board of Investment and Trade (PBIT) jn the presence of Chaudhry Shafay Hussain, Minister of Trade & Investment Punjab, the both Chairmen highlighted the shared enthusiasm for strengthening ties between the two countries’ footwear sectors.

Minister for Trade & Investment, Mr. Shafay Hussain, praised PFMA for their pivotal role in attracting investment in Pakistan. “The success of this visit exemplifies our commitment to fostering international trade relations and attracting foreign investment,” said Mr. Hussain. He further acknowledged the role of PFMA and those of Mr. Ahmed Fawad Farooq, whose dedicated efforts have been instrumental in attracting investors to Pakistan’s shoe industry.

Mr. Liu’s visit underscored the immense potential of Pakistan’s shoe market. “Pakistan represents a burgeoning market for footwear with vast opportunities for growth and development,” stated Mr. Liu. He expressed confidence in the country’s economic prospects and reiterated his commitment to investing substantially in Pakistan’s shoe manufacturing sector. The Chinese delegates plan to invest in 1st phase Rs. 2 bilion, and will increase their investment quantum to Rs. 20 billion in the 2nd phase, reflecting the long-term vision and belief in the Pakistani market,” he added. The collaboration between TAGSM and PFMA is expected to bring state-of-the-art technology, modern manufacturing techniques, innovative designs to Pakistan’s footwear industry and development of supply chain materials market. This partnership aims not only to boost local production capabilities but also to enhance the quality and competitiveness of Pakistani footwear in global markets.

Chairman of PFMA Mr. Mansoor Ehsan, welcomed the investment and highlighted its potential impact on the local economy. “This investment will create numerous job opportunities and contribute to the overall economic development of Pakistan. We look forward to a mutually beneficial partnership with TAGSM,” he remarked.

This landmark investment signals a promising future for Pakistan’s footwear industry, paving the way for increased exports and solidifying the country’s position in the international market. The collaborative efforts of PBIT, PFMA and key figures like Mr. Ahmed Fawad Farooq and Minister Shafay Hussain have been crucial in making this vision a reality.