Coke Studio Season 15’s “Blockbuster” takes center stage on a billboard, lighting up New York’s iconic Times Square

COKE STUDIO SEASON 15 TAKES PAKISTAN TO THE WORLD WITH “BLOCKBUSTER” BILLBOARD ON NEW YORK’S TIMES SQUARE!

New York (Nut Desk)  Coke Studio Season 15’s “Blockbuster” takes center stage on a billboard, lighting up New York’s iconic Times Square, in a vibrant celebration of Pakistani music and culture.

“Blockbuster” is vibrant anthem bursting with Pakistani pride, which has captivated audiences worldwide, garnering 11 million views in just two short weeks. This powerful collaboration features rap sensation Faris Shafi and the dynamic Umair Butt (of Butt Brothers), alongside the captivating vocals of the all-women folk ensemble, Gharwi Group.

Curated and produced by the visionary Xulfi, the song masterfully blends the electrifying energy of Faris Shafi’s rap with Umair Butt’s rich vocals and the soulful tradition of the Gharwi Group. Directed by the acclaimed Zeeshan Parwez, the song’s music video is a cinematic masterpiece, shot in a single take and showcasing the vibrant chaos and infectious spirit of a Pakistani Mohalla (neighborhood).

“Blockbuster” is more than just a song; it’s a celebration of collective identity and individual dreams. It follows Faris Shafi and Umair Butt as they navigate a bustling neighborhood, inspiring listeners of all ages to believe in themselves and chase their dreams.

Coke Studio continues to push boundaries and connect audiences worldwide, bringing the rich tapestry of Pakistani music to the forefront of the global stage.

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.

 

FrieslandCampina Institute Launches as a Trusted Platform for Healthcare Professionals

FrieslandCampina Institute Launches as a Trusted Platform for Healthcare Professionals– Aims to Revolutionize Nutrition and Health Education in Pakistan.

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)  The FrieslandCampina Institute was officially launched in Pakistan by Kashan Hasan, Managing Director of FrieslandCampina Engro Pakistan Limited (FCEPL). The inauguration ceremony, held at the Marriott Hotel in Islamabad, marks a significant milestone in advancing healthcare professionals’ education and nutritional awareness across the region. The Institute in Pakistan aims to equip local healthcare professionals with essential tools and knowledge, particularly about the nutritional value of dairy, enabling them to improve health outcomes across communities.

Having operated successfully in countries such as the Netherlands, Belgium, Nigeria, China, and Vietnam, the FrieslandCampina Institute now brings its expertise to Pakistan to address critical nutritional issues, including widespread malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies.

Kashan Hasan, Managing Director of FrieslandCampina Engro Pakistan, highlighted the Institute’s commitment: “The FrieslandCampina Institute maintains high standards of quality and credibility, ensuring that the information provided is reliable and useful.”
He also emphasized: “While we ensure that the institute is a credible and trusted science-based engagement platform for healthcare professionals, we also ensure that it is 100% independent without being influenced from brands.”

Dr. Muhammad Nasir, the Institute’s lead in Pakistan, emphasized the unique position of the Institute: “Realizing the overwhelming significance of milk, its contribution to nutrition and health, and the versatility, brought us to the conclusion that Pakistan needs a fact-based, formal, non-branded way of training, communication, and collaboration.”

During the launch, the FrieslandCampina Institute formalized its commitment to Pakistan’s healthcare sector through the signing of MoUs with the Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) and the Pakistan Nutrition and Dietetic Society (PNDS). These agreements underscore a shared goal of improving health outcomes and expanding the reach of nutritional education across Pakistan. The collaborations will facilitate a broad range of initiatives aimed at equipping healthcare professionals with the latest in nutritional science and practical health strategies.

Francis Riekhoff, Manager of FrieslandCampina Institute Netherlands, stated: “Our mission at FrieslandCampina Institute is clear and resolute. We believe that by sharing scientific-based knowledge about the role of dairy in a healthy diet, we can significantly contribute to the improvement of the nutritional status and the promotion of safer food consumption throughout Pakistan.”

The event was honored by the presence of distinguished guests, including Rana Mashhood Ahmad, Senior Parliamentarian and Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Program, who expressed his support: “This Institute promises to be a credible source of knowledge and support, very important for nurturing a healthier, more informed generation.” Rana Mashhood also expressed that “In Pakistan, the dairy landscape faces significant challenges, particularly with widespread myths and misconceptions about dairy products and dietary practice . The FrieslandCampina Institute can play a crucial role in debunking these myths by providing accurate, science-based information about the food safety and dietary preferences.”

Khawaja Imran Nazir, Minister of Primary & Secondary Healthcare Punjab, also supported the initiative: “In Pakistan, we face the dual challenge of undernutrition and rising non-communicable diseases. Initiatives like this are crucial for our health and nutrition goals.” He emphasized: “As Punjab’s Minister of Health, I am devoted to enhancing the health and nutrition of not only the residents of Punjab but also our entire nation. This initiative aligns perfectly with our goals.”

Romina Khurshid Alam, Coodirdinator to PM on Climate Change and Environmental Coordination remarked on the occassion “Platforms like the FC-Institute enables the use of awareness and education as a tool, vital to the social and intellectual development of the country with practical benefits in healthcare.”

The launch event highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts to enhance the healthcare and nutritional awareness in Pakistan. The FrieslandCampina Institute is poised to become a cornerstone for healthcare professionals seeking to expand their knowledge and improve health outcomes across communities.

BankIslami Launches Exclusive Priority Banking Lounge

BankIslami Launches Exclusive Priority Banking Lounge for Freelancers and IT Exporters as Free Workspace to Enhance Collaboration & Networking.”

BankIslami, a leading financial institution, is proud to announce the opening of its exclusive Priority Banking lounge for Freelancers and IT Exporters cost-free workspace. This initiative aims to provide a pleasant environment for freelancers to work, collaborate, and network.

The BankIslami Priority Lounges are equipped with modern facilities, ensuring a productive and comfortable experience for freelancers, absolutely free of cost. With features like free access to hi-speed internet, free refreshments including coffee/tea, and convenient access to banking services, freelancers can now enjoy a seamless and efficient workspace.

On June 07, 2024 at Lahore BankIslami Raya Branch, the event was attended by esteemed guests & individuals from Bankislami, PAFLA & SBP along with top freelancers from Pakistan. From the State Bank of Pakistan, Senior Joint Director – Foreign Exchange Operation Department Mr. Javed H Nayar, graced the event as the guest of honor.

Highlights of the Event:

BankIslami’s representative voiced his thoughts, highlighting, “We understand how essential freelancers & IT Exporters are for Pakistan’s economy. Our Priority Banking lounges are designed to empower freelancers & IT Exporters by providing them with a conducive workspace and access to banking services.”

The representatives from PAFLA and the State Bank of Pakistan expressed their appreciation for BankIslami’s efforts and also assured the fullest support in such useful initiatives in future. During the event, BankIslami also presented shields to the guests and distributed exciting giveaways to the freelancers.

 

Yango Partners with Myco for exclusive ICC T20 World Cup 2024 live-streaming

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

Yango, an international tech company, is excited to announce a strategic partnership with Myco, the innovative web3 streaming platform. This collaboration will bring a thrilling new feature to Yango users: the ability to live stream ICC T20 World Cup 2024 matches directly from the Yango app at no additional cost.

From the beginning of the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, Yango users will notice the Myco banner within the app. By clicking on the banner, users can access live streams of all the World Cup matches, ensuring they don’t miss a moment of the action and excitement. This “Ride, Watch and Earn” initiative enhances the user experience by combining the convenience of Yango’s services with the thrill of live cricket streaming.

In addition to live streaming, Myco will provide Yango users with exclusive promo codes. These promo codes will offer amazing discounts on rides with Yango, making travel more affordable while enjoying world-class cricket entertainment. Users can look forward to these promo codes being available throughout the World Cup, ensuring continuous benefits both on and off the field.

“We are excited to partner with Myco to offer users a unique experience during the ICC T20 World Cup 2024” said Miral Sharif, Country Manager at Yango Pakistan. “This partnership not only provides live cricket streaming but also rewards users with valuable discounts on their rides.”

Commenting on the occasion, Somair Rizvi, Chief Operation Officer at Myco said: “You all have seen the Yango brand on the road, and now we are thrilled to incorporate our streaming service within the multi-functional app through this exciting new partnership. You can now enjoy your Yango services while seamlessly watching the World Cup on Myco. So get ready to “Ride, Watch, and Earn” with Yango.”

(AKU-HDP) signs MoU with UNICEF

Aga Khan University’s Human Development Programme signs MoU with UNICEF on Early Childhood Development in Pakistan.

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

The Aga Khan University – Human Development Programme (AKU-HDP) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to collaborate on the project ‘Reducing Inequalities by Enhancing Early Childhood Development for Vulnerable Population in Pakistan’. The two-year contract was signed by Dr Salim Virani, AKU Vice Provost, Research and UNICEF Country Representative Mr Abdullah Abdulaziz Fadil.

Early Childhood Development (ECD) is an important area of focus in developing countries, the wider Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), as well as around the world. This project will develop a comprehensive ECD manual that will provide guidance on all elements of the nurturing care framework as well as other cross-cutting themes for promoting the optimal development of children from birth to eight years. The project will establish a sustainable network of ECD master trainers for ongoing knowledge dissemination.

Dr Salman Kirmani, Interim- Director at AKU-HDP said: “The Human Development Programme at Aga Khan University has always stood up for the most vulnerable amongst us, and I am thrilled to partner with UNICEF on this vital project.’Reducing Inequalities by Enhancing Early Childhood Development for Vulnerable Populations in Pakistan’ is a significant step towards ensuring that every child, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential. Together, we are committed to creating a brighter future for the children of Pakistan.”

 

In addition, Dr Salim Virani remarked, “Early Child Development (ECD) is an important area of focus in the world, especially in the developing countries. Healthy development in early years provides a strong foundation for lifelong health, educational achievement, economic productivity, responsible citizenship, and successful parenting of the next generation. That is why investing in the development of young children maximizes their future well-being.”

 

In this project, AKU-HDP will develop ECD educational materials, including modules. The project will also include the creation of a guidebook on ECD in emergency situations. ECD workers across Pakistan will be trained on these modules to help institutional and local authorities plan, coordinate, monitor, and evaluate ECD programmes. AKU-HDP will use existing data for decision-making to improve the outcomes of young children, as well as conduct operational research, generate evidence and knowledge management for decision-making to improve child development outcomes.

UNICEF Regional Head, Mr Abdullah Abdulaziz Fadil said, “We need to make ECD an indigenous concept. The most basic caring practices are missing in our routine. We need to demystify ECD and bring ideas from the Globe into it and work on them from within the community.”

Collaborations, such as the current partnership between UNICEF-Pakistan and AKU’s Human Development Programme, which has resulted in projects such as ‘Reducing Inequalities by Enhancing Early Childhood Development for Vulnerable Population in Pakistan’ are key to realizing full human potential. Such programmes benefit not only ordinary Pakistani children, but also those who are often denied the opportunity that every child deserves.

Seamless Switch: The Infinix GT 20 Pro Transforms Your Work and Gaming Experience

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir)

The life of a modern workaholic is a constant ballet of multitasking, shifting seamlessly between various roles and responsibilities. Whether you’re juggling spreadsheets while en route to a meeting, negotiating high-stakes deals in a bustling café, or managing remote teams from a home office, the demands of professional life require agility and resilience.

This lifestyle often involves navigating different devices for various tasks, from laptops for detailed work to smartphones for quick communication. The constant need to stay connected means dealing with multiple chargers and battery packs while ensuring you have reliable access to high-speed internet. The modern workaholic is also adept at using various apps to streamline workflow, from project management tools to virtual meeting platforms, all while maintaining high productivity and efficiency. Consequently, the limitations of conventional smartphones in handling this demanding multitasking environment can lead to frequent device overheating issues. Therefore, balancing professional duties with personal time is a continuous challenge, often requiring sophisticated time management skills and the ability to switch gears immediately.

Dealing with these challenges was cumbersome in the past, but the introduction of the Infinix GT 20 Pro has significantly improved the situation, a revolutionary smartphone that addresses the myriad challenges faced by the modern workaholic. Consolidating all the functions into one sleek, powerful unit eliminates the need for multiple gadgets. With a battery that lasts all day, the constant search for chargers becomes a thing of the past, allowing uninterrupted productivity.
Its high-performance Dimensity 8200 Ultimate 4nm 5G processor effortlessly handles demanding applications, enabling seamless multitasking without any lag.

The phone’s stunning 144Hz AMOLED display and crisp dual speaker system by JBL make virtual meetings and presentations as effective as in-person sessions, enhancing clarity and engagement. By integrating advanced project management tools and communication apps like Zoom Meetings and Microsoft Office. The Infinix GT 20 Pro streamlines workflow, ensuring you remain efficient and organized. Whether you’re managing emails, conducting video conferences, or working on complex projects, this smartphone is the all-in-one solution that empowers you to conquer every aspect of your professional life with ease and confidence.

When the demands of the day finally subside and it’s time to unwind, the Infinix GT 20 Pro seamlessly transitions from a productivity tool to a high-performance gaming device. Its advanced technology supports a 120-fps gaming experience, delivering smooth, responsive gameplay that rivals dedicated gaming consoles. This high refresh rate ensures that every action, from fast-paced racing games to intricate strategy challenges, is rendered with precision and clarity. With the Infinix GT 20 Pro, you can effortlessly shift from conquering your professional tasks to dominating virtual worlds, all within the same versatile device.

The Only 45W Charging Smartphone Under PKR 35K: realme C63

realme, the fastest-growing smartphone brand globally, is set to introduce the realme C63 in Pakistan on June 12, 2024. Priced at PKR 34,999, the realme C63 offers premium features including a vegan leather back cover, 45W fast charging, and advanced AI experiences. The device will be available in Leather Blue and Jade Green.

Apart from the being the first midrange device to offer the impressive vegan leather back cover, another standout feature of the realme C63 is its 45W fast charging capability, setting a new benchmark in its price range. This allows for 1 hour of talk time with just 1 minute of charging. Coupled with a 5000mAh massive battery, the phone ensures extended usage without frequent recharging.

Safety and Reliability at Its Core

The realme C63’s charging system has achieved the prestigious TÜV Rheinland Safe Fast-Charge System Certification, which means it has undergone rigorous testing and meets the highest safety standards. This certification covers not only the battery but also the charger, cable, and IC, ensuring comprehensive safety across all components. The comprehensive safety certification covers: overheating protection, short circuit protection, voltage surge protection, fire protection, EMI/EMC protection, and drop and impact protection. These safety measures provide peace of mind, ensuring the device charges safely and efficiently.

realme has incorporated 38 safety measures to guarantee the safety of high-power charging. These protections extend from the charger and data cable to the phone’s charging interface, circuit, and battery, ensuring comprehensive safety and reliability.

Innovative Three-in-One Charging System

The realme C63 features a three-in-one charging system, offering smooth and stable switching between fast and universal charging modes. This intelligent system eliminates intermittent charging issues, providing a seamless charging experience. Additionally, the intelligent charging protection mode learns user habits, slowing down charging during sleep to protect the battery and delay aging.

Advanced Performance and AI Features

Beyond its impressive battery and charging capabilities, the realme C63 boasts an octa-core architecture chip, ensuring exceptional performance and efficiency. The phone includes Dynamic RAM Expansion (DRE) Technology, simulating a 12GB RAM experience by expanding its 6GB RAM by up to 6GB, allowing up to 18 apps to run simultaneously in the background.

AI features such as Air Gestures and AI Noise Reduction enhance user experience, offering touch-free call management and clearer phone calls by reducing background noise. The device also offers impressive durability with dustproof and waterproof levels, ensuring reliability in various conditions.

The realme C63 is poised to deliver a premium experience with its rapid and safe charging capabilities, massive battery, and advanced features. Stay tuned for more updates on availability and grab the realme C63 to enjoy these cutting-edge features at an unbeatable price.

Cheezious Launched Special Kitchen Tour Series to Commemorate World Food Safety Day 2024

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

On World Food Safety Day Cheezious announced the launch of “Special Kitchen Tour Series.” This initiative is designed to provide an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at our kitchen facilities, showcase the stringent Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) we follow, and highlight the extensive measures we take to maintain and elevate food safety standards.

As part of this, Cheezious planned a series of visits with various esteemed institutions to demonstrate our commitment to food safety and share best practices with the community. The teams of Punjab Government Technical Training Institute for Women, School of Public Health, Food Authorities & College of Tourism & Hotel Management (COTHM) visited our Islamabad & Lahore Cheezious Branches.

Head of Marketing Cheezious Zohaib Hassan said that “As a brand deeply committed to food safety and quality, we announced our ‘Special Kitchen Tour Series’ in honor of World Food Safety Day. This initiative allows us to transparently share our rigorous standards and practices with our community and stakeholders. We believe that by opening our doors and showcasing our dedication to excellence, we can inspire confidence and trust in our brand”. He further stated that, At Cheezious, we understand the importance of food safety and the vital role it plays in ensuring the well-being of our customers. Our “Special Kitchen Tour Series” is a testament to our ongoing efforts to uphold the highest standards in food safety and hygiene.

(HBL MfB) inaugurated today its new Regional Headquarters for Gilgit Baltistan

Prince Rahim Aga Khan Inaugurates HBL MfB’s RHQ Gilgit-Baltistan:

A Commitment to Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship

 

Gilgit – Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir) HBL Microfinance Bank (HBL MfB) inaugurated today its new Regional Headquarters for Gilgit Baltistan. The ceremony was attended by Prince Rahim Aga Khan, Chair of the Executive Committee of the Aga Khan Fund for Economic Development (AKFED); Mr. Sultan Ali Allana, Chairman, HBL; Mr. Muhammad Nassir Salim, President & CEO, HBL; Mr. Rayomond Kotwal, Chairman, HBL MfB; and Mr. Amir Khan, President & CEO, HBL MfB.

The building underlines the Bank’s commitment to sustainability, innovation, and local community development. A blend of modern architecture and local cultural elements, the building meets some of the highest international standards of green construction. It has earned the LEED Gold certificationand EDGE Advanced certification, one of the first buildings in the country to achieve this. The LEED Gold certification from the U.S. Green Building Council highlights the building’s superior performance in energy and water efficiency, sustainable site development, and indoor environmental quality. The EDGE Advanced certification, granted by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), underscores the building’s commitment to resource efficiency, achieving significant energy and water savings. The building is well equipped to produce 40 percent of the overall electricity required for its day-to-day functions.

“The inauguration of HBL Microfinance Bank’s Regional Headquarters Gilgit-Baltistan is a remarkable milestone for both the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) and the Bank,” said Prince Rahim Aga Khan. “It is a major step towards AKDN’s goal of achieving Net-Zero by 2030. As we continue our journey to a better and more sustainable future, this building serves as a symbol of continued progress, sustainability, and prosperity for the people of Gilgit-Baltistan.”

Mr. Rayomond Kotwal, Chairman HBL MfB, remarked, “The inauguration of our Regional Headquarters, Gilgit Baltistan is a testament to our commitment to sustainable development and the well-being of the communities we serve. Gilgit holds a special place in the journey of HBL Microfinance Bank, as we started here more than two decades ago. This building is a symbol of our dedication to fostering economic growth while preserving the region’s environment. By integrating sustainable practices with local culture, HBL Microfinance Bank has set a new benchmark in environmental stewardship and corporate responsibility. We take pride in contributing to the development of the Gilgit Baltistan region and look forward to continuing our support for all Pakistanis.”

Mr. Amir Khan, President & CEO HBL MfB, added, “The flagship Regional Headquarters Gilgit Baltistan exemplifies the strength, stability, and resilience of Pakistan’s best microfinance bank. The Regional Headquarters not only boosts our operational capabilities but also represents progress and hope for the Gilgit Baltistan region. Throughout the project, particular attention was paid towards the area, which is why 27 percent of the total project cost was allocated to boost the local economy, through the onboarding of regional suppliers and the creation of employment opportunities.”

Tech Meets Trend: Infinix GT 20 Pro, the Gamer’s Fashion Statement

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir)

In a world where technology influences every aspect of our lives, it’s no surprise that our smartphones are becoming expressions of our style. The functionality of mobile devices has expanded beyond simple communication, evolving into valued extensions that reflect our unique personalities.

Going back to the early 2000s, that was the time of the iconic Nokia 3310, with its indestructible build, spoke volumes about the user’s practicality and resilience. It was the go-to phone for those who valued reliability above all else, a phone that could endure the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Conversely, the sleek and stylish Motorola RAZR V3 spoke to a more fashion-conscious crowd. Its ultra-thin design and satisfying snap closure made a bold statement, reflecting the user’s desire to stand out. Then the rise of music-focused phones like the Sony Ericsson Walkman series catered to the music enthusiast, while the Blackberry Curve, with its sleek design and physical keyboard, radiated an air of sophistication. After that, the emergence of iPhones signaled a shift towards a more tech-savvy and brand-conscious personality. Each phone became a badge of identity, reflecting not just utility but also the owner’s social standing and aspirations.                                                                                                                                                                                                          Now, fast-forwarding to the present, many smartphones are striving to make their mark, and one of the most prominent among them is the Infinix GT 20 Pro which is the result of Pakistan’s ever-changing mobile landscape, showcasing advancements in technology and style. Its design embodies a future-forward aesthetic, with clean lines and a minimalist profile that whispers of cutting-edge innovation. The phone’s premium materials, including a glass panel, exude an air of sophistication, perfectly complementing the modern and fashion-conscious user. Unlike its predecessors that might have boasted loud colors or flashy features, the GT 20 Pro’s understated elegance speaks volumes about the owner’s discriminating taste and appreciation for quality. This phone transcends mere function; it’s a statement piece, a reflection of the user’s desire to be at the forefront of technology while maintaining a distinct and individual style.

The Infinix GT 20 Pro features a striking Cyber Mecha Design that embodies the Infinix GT ethos of metal, power, and speed. The Mecha Loop LED Interface offers extensive personalization with eight color combinations and four lighting effects, allowing users to customize their devices to their liking.

That is not it; other than all the personalization it offers, there is no comparison in performance with the Infinix GT 20 Pro. It offers superior gameplay, boasting up to 120 fps gaming experience. Equipped with the powerful Dimensity 8200 Ultimate 4nm 5G Processor, this device ensures smooth gaming performance, allowing enthusiasts to dive into their favorite games without facing any lag.

As the official gaming phone of the PUBG Mobile Super League, the Infinix GT 20 Pro stands out in the crowded market of gaming phones. It’s built for those who want a device that’s as stylish as it is powerful. Therefore, it is time to consider an upgrade, not only for your phone but also for your personal style.