IBA-SBS 3rd International Conference 2024

‘Innovation and Disruption: Business Success Through AI’ – IBA-SBS 3rd International Conference 2024

“In today’s rapidly evolving landscape, innovation and disruption are not just buzzwords. They are imperative for survival and growth.”

Dr. Tariq Rafi, Chairman, Higher Education Commission (HEC), Sindh

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir) School of Business Studies (SBS), Institute of Business Administration (IBA) Karachi, organized IBA-SBS 3rd International Conference 2024 on ‘Innovation and Disruption: Business Success Through AI’ at Main Campus, IBA. Esteemed national and international academicians, researchers, practitioners, students and speakers participated in the conference.

Executive Director, IBA Karachi, Dr. S Akbar Zaidi, warmly welcomed the attendees to a dynamic conference featuring presentations and discussions on AI in business, innovation, and entrepreneurship. In his opening remarks, he stated, “The presence of artificial intelligence is causing major interference, disruption in how we think about life and the School of Business Studies is particularly impacted by such interferences and innovations.” This makes it pivotal to hold such conferences addressing the evolving challenges and opportunities presented by AI. Furthermore, Dr. Zaidi recognized the SBS for hosting its 3rd international conference on the pertinent topic of AI, emphasizing that we are behind the curve in Pakistan on this front and therefore need to catch up and adapt as faculty.

Welcome remarks were given by Dean SBS and Conference Chair, Dr. Abdullah Zafar Sheikh, who shed light on the potential of AI to drive business success. Dr. Sheikh stated, “We are living in an era which is nearly impossible without artificial intelligence. Universities are key actors in the development of digital culture and business schools take center stage when it comes to such discussions and dialogues.” He further emphasized that “The goal of business school is to ensure that our curriculum and pedagogy is sufficiently technology infused and how we can leverage from artificial intelligence and digital transformation.”

Associate Professor SBS and Conference Convener, Dr. Irum Saba, delivered the introductory remarks, emphasizing the uniqueness of IBA’s SBS International Conference in bringing together academic scholars from Pakistan and around the world, along with industry practitioners. She added that this third conference received 130 research papers (from around the world), articles, and case studies submissions. More than 15 universities of Pakistan participated in the conference and the IBA is delighted to provide this platform for intellectual discourse on AI and its nuances.

Chairman, Higher Education Commission (HEC), Sindh and Guest of Honor, Dr. Tariq Rafi, commended IBA for organizing the conference on such a relevant topic. He shared his thoughts on how artificial intelligence can be applied in education. He stated, “Through strategic partnership with industry leaders, development agencies, and international organizations, we are working to bridge the gap between the academia and the industry.”

He added that by bringing together leaders, practitioners, policy makers from around the world, we can collectively explore the possibilities, challenges, and ethical complications of AI-driven innovations and disruptions.

Federal Minister, Maritime Affairs, Pakistan and Chief Guest, Mr. Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, highlighted the importance of AI in modernizing industries and improving operational efficiencies. He stated, “Today’s topic of Artificial Intelligence is of great importance. Businesses in Pakistan, many of which are family-run, have not taken advantage of the innovations of AI.” He emphasized the significance of AI, as it offers immense opportunities for our youth and can propel our country towards greater economic achievements.

Keynote speakers at the conference included Professor of Leadership & Management for Healthcare and Director of Global Business School for Health, University College London (UCL), Dr. Nora Colton; Department Chair of DAN Management, Western University, Canada, Dr. Geoffery Wood; and Associate Professor of Finance, Montpellier Business School, France, and Poznam University of Economics and Business, Poland, Dr. Adam Zaremba.

Dr. Colton in her keynote address stated, “Universal healthcare is impossible to achieve in our current model without innovation. And that’s where innovation and AI come in. Health needs cannot be left unaddressed.” She emphasized the critical role of AI and innovation in transforming global healthcare. She also highlighted challenges like workforce shortages, rising costs, and the impacts of pandemics and climate change. Using UCL as a case study, she stressed the importance of systemic technology adoption to improve healthcare efficiency and productivity.

Dr. Wood focused on several critical aspects of AI and its implications, focusing on five components: significant events, calibrating intelligence, the double-edged sword of technology, AI and its associated hype, and an overview of AI’s workings, including a detailed exploration of how AI works, along with the questions and challenges it raises. He emphasized the challenges of integrating AI with humanity, noting that while technology offers substantial benefits, it can also have unforeseen consequences. Additionally, Dr. Wood addressed the ethical responsibilities involved in the development and application of AI, urging a more profound consideration of these factors.

Multiple panel discussions, keynote addresses, and parallel technical sessions took place on both days of the conference, delving into the intricacies of AI, innovation, and business disruption.

(SPL) signs MoU with Indus Hospital

Security Papers Limited (SPL) signs MoU with Indus Hospital & Health Network (IHHN) to support lifesaving dialysis treatment.

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir)  Security Papers Limited (SPL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Indus Hospital & Health Network (IHHN), a not-for-profit organization providing quality healthcare to those in need.

The MoU was signed by Mr Imran Qureshi, CEO, Security Papers Limited, and Dr Abdul Bari Khan, President, Indus Hospital & Health Network. Under the terms of the MoU, SPL will make a donation of PKR 5,000,000/- towards the purchase of two dialysis machines for IHHN, increasing its capacity to provide lifesaving dialysis treatment to patients suffering from chronic kidney disease.

This partnership reflects SPL’s commitment to its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, aimed at giving back to the community and supporting healthcare initiatives.

Imran Qureshi, CEO at SPL, commenting on the partnership said, “We are proud to partner with IHHN and contribute to their noble mission of providing quality healthcare to those in need. We believe that this partnership will make a positive impact on the lives of many individuals and families.”

Dr. Abdul Bari Khan, President, IHHN, applauded the collaboration saying, “We are grateful to Security Papers Limited for their generous support. This donation will enable us to expand our dialysis services and provide critical care to even more patients. We appreciate SPL’s commitment to giving back to the community and look forward to a successful partnership.”

The MoU signing ceremony was attended by representatives from both organizations, and marks the beginning of a collaborative effort to improve healthcare outcomes in Pakistan.

Pakistan Cables completes the commissioning of 2MW on grid solar power plant at Nooriabad

Pakistan Cables, the nation’s pioneer wires and cables manufacturer, has completed the successful commissioning of its 2MW captive solar power plant located at its new manufacturing facility in Nooriabad, Sindh.

The project was executed by Atlas Energy Limited for Pakistan Cables within stipulated timelines and has commenced operations as of April 23, 2024. The installed capacity of solar power plants is an investment in renewable energy initiatives by the Company. “We are committed to pursuing environmentally friendly initiatives in the future at our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility at Nooriabad, Sindh. We actively advocate use of renewable energy sources that save cost and contribute to the circular economy”, said Fahd K. Chinoy, Chief Executive Officer – Pakistan Cables Ltd.

Pakistan Cables is the first and only building material Company in Pakistan to have science-based emission reduction targets validated by SBTi. The Company’s new state of the art manufacturing facility spread across 42 acres of land in Pakistan, is equipped with cutting edge technology and equipment, set to transform the industry.

 Earlier the Company also announced installation of Pakistan’s first 69kV CCV line also at its manufacturing facility in Nooriabad, Sindh.

The Battle of control layouts “ 3-finger claw vs 4-finger claw ”

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir)

In the mobile gaming era, the choice of control layout can significantly impact the performance of a player, especially in intense fighting games like PUBG Mobile. Among the many control schemes available, the 3-finger claw and 4-finger claw layouts come out as popular choices and both have advantages and disadvantages.

In both layouts, players simultaneously use multiple fingers on their device’s screen to control game actions. In the 3-finger claw, the player uses three fingers for the three crucial actions: movement, aiming, and shooting. The left thumb controls movement, the left index finger handles shooting, and the right thumb is used for aiming. While the 4-finger claw layout involves using both thumbs and both index fingers. Thumbs typically manage movement and aiming, while index fingers control shooting, jumping, and other actions.

The 3-finger claw control technique is excellent for beginners as it is relatively easy to learn and adapt to. It is one of the most popular control techniques. However, the 4-finger claw is mostly used by professional gamers as it provides superior control over multiple actions, allowing for quicker responses and more complex maneuvers.

Compared to the 4-finger claw, the 3-finger setup offers less control over complex maneuvers and quick actions. Moreover, the 3-finger technique is more comfortable in reducing strain during long gaming sessions. In terms of aiming, the 4-finger claw has the upper hand due to the additional finger dedicated solely to aiming. While In the 3-finger claw technique, aiming while shooting can be slightly challenging as one finger handles both tasks. When it comes to movement, both layouts offer fairly good control, but with a little difference in flexibility.

Ultimately, it comes down to your comfort level.  Many players utilize both of these control layouts. However, if you’re new to the game it’s advisable to use 3-finger claw technique before venturing into the 4-finger claw setup. Whether you choose the 3-finger or 4-finger claw, you should practice regularly as it will help you adapt to the control layout and improve your muscle memory.

To improve the performance, adjust the in-game control settings to suit your hand size and preferences. This can enhance your comfort and efficiency. Also, to excel in games and get insights on claw techniques you can learn from experienced players through tutorials and gameplay videos.

However, the claw technique can only yield favorable outcomes when using a high-powered gaming phone. Notably, these advanced controls are not universally compatible with all devices. The Infinix GT 20 Pro stands out as the sole phone offering a 120 fps PUBG gaming experience, ensuring rapid frame changes that facilitate quick enemy detection and response. Furthermore, the device boasts a dual chipset comprising the Dimensity 8200 Ultimate 4nm 5G processor and a dedicated gaming display chip. The Dimensity 8200 chip, operating at high speed and utilizing cutting-edge 4nm technology, delivers optimal performance without excessive battery consumption. This results in seamless, high-quality graphics and rapid response times.

Infinix GT 20 Pro can amplify your gaming experience with its top-tier performance and features. With Infinix you can adjust sensitivity settings to match your preferred control layout and playstyle. With its powerful hardware and software enhancements, Infinix GT 20 Pro ensures smooth gameplay and minimal input lag. Efficient battery management of GT 20 Pro ensures long gaming sessions without interruptions with any claw technique that you like.

 

Visa Reinvents the Card, Unveils New Products for the Digital Age

Visa Reinvents the Card, Unveils New Products for the Digital Age at Visa Payments Forum CEMEA 2024.

  • New payment innovations introduced at annual Visa Payments Forum for Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Africa.
  • Products will advance digital identity, seamless checkout, flexible payments, nano-merchant acceptance, and faster, smarter account-to-account payments.
  • Launches Visa Pay, a payments-as-a-service platform, providing world-class, mobile-first experiences for digital payments and interoperable send-and-receive money movement.

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)  Today at the annual Visa Payments Forum for Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa, Visa unveiled a suite of new products and services that will ­revolutionize the card and address the future needs of consumers, merchants and the financial institutions that serve them across the region.  The way people pay and get paid has changed more in the past five years than in the last 50, and the latest innovations will bring new payment experiences to transform commerce and money movement spanning eCommerce, face-to-face in-store shopping, and seamless money transfers.

“With rapidly accelerating digital payments growth across Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa, we have seen a transformation in how consumers and merchants want to pay and be paid both online and in-store,” said Andrew Torre, Regional President, Visa CEMEA.  “As we continue to shape the future of commerce, we are excited to announce a next generation of truly digital-first payment experiences to support consumers, merchants and our clients and partners.  Today we are unveiling new card features and digital innovations that will bring consumers and merchants into a more customized, convenient, secure and inclusive future.”

Visa is introducing a portfolio of innovative new solutions that support digital identity, seamless checkout experiences, flexible payments, nano-merchant acceptance and protecting the security of account-to-account payments.  In addition, Visa is announcing Visa Pay, a new payments-as-a-service platform that provides world-class mobile-first experiences for digital payments and interoperable send-and-receive that has been developed for the Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa region.  The Visa Pay platform brings together extensive payment capabilities and provides a range of services for banks to quickly deploy new innovative solutions including digital issuance, payment initiation, tap-to-pay, fraud and risk management, wallet platforms, and more.

Close up view of a woman using blank screen smartphone in bokeh background

 

Amar Khan Joins the Star-Studded Cast of Mega-Drama “Sun Mere Dil”

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

The much-anticipated drama serial “Sun Mere Dil” just got even more exciting with the announcement that Amar Khan has joined its stellar cast. This mega-budget drama, set to air soon on TV Screen, promises to be a groundbreaking addition to Pakistani television, thanks to its powerhouse cast and creative team.

“Sun Mere Dil” boasts a star-studded lineup, including Maya Ali, Wahaj Ali, Hira Mani, and Usama Khan in lead roles. Written by the acclaimed Khalil ur Rehman Qamar and directed by the visionary Haseeb Hassan, the drama is poised to captivate audiences with its compelling narrative and stellar performances. The addition of Amar Khan, a versatile and talented actress, further elevates the excitement surrounding this production.

Amar Khan’s inclusion in the cast of “Sun Mere Dil” is a significant development, as she brings a wealth of experience and a unique presence to the screen. Known for her dynamic performances and ability to portray complex characters, Khan’s role in this drama is highly anticipated by her fans and critics alike.

The buzz around “Sun Mere Dil” is building, with promos set to be released soon on Geo TV. Fans eagerly await a glimpse of the drama that promises to redefine the standards of Pakistani television with its exceptional storytelling and star power.

 

Greenstar Social Marketing Pakistan (G) Limited celebrates 32 years of Sitara Bajis

4,503 maternal deaths averted in a decade through Sitara Baji initiative.

Islamabad (Muhammad Yasir) Greenstar Social Marketing Pakistan (G) Limited, a leading private not for profit organisation dedicated to improving public health in Pakistan hosted an event in Islamabad to celebrate 32 years of Sitara Bajis – The Change Agents, an initiative designed to allow women to not just embrace financial freedom but spread health awareness in their respective communities at the same time. This milestone event highlighted the impact made across Pakistan through the program over the past three decades.

Greenstar Social Marketing, through an extensive network of 2,500 Sitara Bajis and 500 Sattar Bhais has helped avert 4,503 maternal deaths, and 46,032 child deaths during the last decade, showcasing the profound impact of community health and wellbeing, on the masses. Greenstar’s community health workers have been instrumental in driving behavioral change communication (BCC) to improve knowledge on women’s health through counseling and referrals, offering women in various under developed areas to obtain better maternal and child health.

The event was graced by Dr. Shabana Saleem, Director General – Population Planning Wing, MONHSRC, as the chief guest, Dr. Zaeem Zia, District Health Officer, Islamabad, and Dr. Syed Azizur Rab, CEO of Greenstar Social Marketing. These distinguished officials shared their insights and remarks with the audience, enriching the discussion with their valuable perspectives.

Reflecting on Greenstar’s legacy, Dr. Syed Azizur Rab, CEO, Greenstar Social Marketing, stated, “Over the past 32 years, Greenstar has continuously evolved to meet the dynamic health needs of our communities. Our vision has always been to empower individuals with knowledge and access to quality health services, and our journey has been marked by innovative approaches in behavioral change and demand creation. The dedication of our Sitara Bajis and Sattar Bhais is a testament to our mission of transforming lives through sustainable health solutions.”

Since its establishment in 1991, Greenstar Social Marketing has been a pivotal player in Pakistan’s health sector. Over the past 32 years, Greenstar has met women’s and couples’ family planning (FP) needs and expanded its services to include maternal and child health, reproductive health, women’s nutritional needs, self-care initiatives for women and young girls, and various awareness and screening programmes related to breast cancer and diabetes in pregnancy.

CBD PUNJAB PARTNERS WITH ODOO MIDDLE EAST TO PROPEL INNOVATION IN CBD NSIT CITY

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir)

The Punjab Central Business District Development Authority (PCBDDA), also known as Central Business District Punjab (CBD Punjab), has solidified a pivotal partnership with Odoo Middle East DMCC. Odoo is an integrated software, which offers a full suite of business applications including CRM, accounting, inventory, and other software for more efficient work, will provide digital transformation services and support small and large companies’ growth. This Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) marks a significant milestone in fostering innovation within Pakistan’s premier IT hub, the CBD NSIT City. Under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister Punjab, Maryam Nawaz, the Government of Punjab has entrusted CBD Punjab with the prestigious NSIT City project. NSIT City is envisioned to provide essential knowledge infrastructure and foster an enabling ecosystem for driving innovation and technology advancement in the region. Through this MoU, CBD Punjab will facilitate Odoo’s advancement into the local market leveraging the NSIT platform. The collaboration between CBD Punjab and Odoo will mutually support the identification and realization of business opportunities in Punjab. The MoU was officially signed by CEO of CBD Punjab, Imran Amin, and Khalid Khan, Country Manager of Odoo, Pakistan, underscoring the commitment of both entities towards advancing technological capabilities in Punjab. The signing ceremony was attended by Director Business Development CBD Punjab, Ali Waqar Shah, Director Marketing CBD Punjab, Waseem Siddiq; Director Project Management CBD Punjab, Asif Iqbal, Director Architecture and Planning, Sameer Aftab Sial, along with other senior officials from CBD Punjab and Odoo Pakistan. As Pakistan embarks on its digitalization journey with the launch of NSIT City as a regional hub of IT and education, Odoo extends its support as a transformation partner through strategic public-private partnerships. While expressing his views on the signing ceremony CEO of CBD Punjab, Imran Amin, said, “This partnership marks a significant milestone in our efforts to drive technological innovation and economic growth in Punjab. By leveraging Odoo’s expertise and our robust infrastructure at NSIT City , we aim to create a thriving ecosystem for businesses to flourish.” Khalid Khan, Country Manager of Odoo, Pakistan, shared his optimism, saying, “We are excited about the opportunities this collaboration presents for Odoo to expand its footprint in Pakistan and especially in Punjab. Together with CBD Punjab, we look forward to empowering businesses and driving digital transformation across various sectors.” This strategic collaboration between PCBDDA and Odoo Middle East DMCC underscores their shared commitment to fostering innovation, technology, and economic development in Pakistan, paving the way for a brighter and digitally empowered future.

Your Guide to Saudi’s Travel Attractions this Summer

Saudi offers a tapestry of diversity and contrast, spanning from its arid deserts and picturesque coastlines to its majestic mountainous regions. Alongside the varied landscapes, each region boasts its own unique weather patterns, meaning there is no wrong time to visit. For this summer holiday, why don’t you visit Saudi for a surprising array of cool spots, making way for a refreshing and unforgettable vacation.

Saudi’s Hidden Gems for an Unforgettable Summer Escape

Adrenaline lovers can discover the mountainous city of Taif – a true hidden gem in Saudi. Immerse yourself in the wonders of Aseer’s cool, lush landscapes, offering 12 hiking trails, mountain biking, horse riding, ziplines, paragliding, as well as exhilarating activities like boat racing, diving, surfing, and kayaking. Don’t miss the opportunity to tour the picturesque city of Abha and the historic village of Rijal Alma, with its unique stone castle.

Adrenaline-Pumping Adventures: Get ready for an adrenaline rush, thrill seekers! Saudi offers an array of heart-pounding adventures amidst breathtaking landscapes. Embark on rock climbing expeditions in the granite cliffs of the Al-Hada mountain range near Taif, pushing your limits and conquering new heights. Experience the thrill of paragliding over the stunning Red Sea coastline, providing an unparalleled sightseeing adventure.

A Family-Friendly Recreational Haven: City Walk is a vibrant recreational zone that caters to the entire family, offering a variety of activities that include some unique experiences found for the first time in Jeddah and even the whole world. With its diverse range of shops and restaurants, City Walk ensures there is something to satisfy every taste. Immerse yourself in the extraordinary as you explore the nine captivating sub-zones of City Walk, including the Entry Village, Food Hall, Fashion Village, Splash, Horror Village, Jeddah Live, Adventure, X-reality, and Anime Village. Prepare for an immersive and unforgettable experience that seamlessly integrates different elements to delight every visitor.

Escape the Heat with a Spectacular Underwater World

The coastal city of Jeddah is renowned for its breathtaking diving and snorkelling opportunities, offering numerous unique areas to explore the mesmerizing marine life in the depths of the Red Sea. Saudi boasts world-class scuba diving sites where you can immerse yourself in the wonders of the underwater world or indulge in sailing and snorkelling. For a refreshing escape from the heat, the mountainous city of Taif beckons, while the Gulf waters of Dammam provide a cool respite. These areas offer pristine and untouched surroundings, allowing you to interact with the beauty of pure nature and discover rare and exquisite marine creatures. The Red Sea is home to around 20% of unique and rare fish species, including the world’s fastest fish, the Black Marlin, reaching speeds of 109 km/h, and the endangered Napoleon fish, also known as the “Queen of the Coral Reef” due to its distinctive crown-like appearance. With over 1,200 species, the Red Sea boasts a spectacularly diverse marine ecosystem. Heading towards Jeddah and its neighbouring diving sites means venturing into seas with minimal currents, highest salinity at 35%, and water that promotes blood circulation. Moreover, Jeddah benefits from a sunny climate year-round, with temperatures averaging at least 21°C.

Swim with Sharks in Sharm Obhur: Situated in the middle north part of Jeddah near the luxurious Bhadur resort, Sharm Obhur is a top diving destination. Alongside cute-looking turtles, you’ll encounter lionfish, eels, and a variety of fish species as you explore deeper waters. Don’t miss the opportunity to book a thrilling swimming trip with sharks at a depth of 1.7 meters. This safe and exhilarating activity offers an exclusive adventure in Jeddah. Accompanied by professional experts and divers, you’ll enter a cage where sharks swim, providing an up-close encounter with these fascinating creatures.

Red Sea Diving: Diving is a popular sport globally, with its origins dating back to ancient Greece. However, what sets scuba diving in Saudi’s Red Sea apart? It is home to over 1,200 fish species, with nearly 20% exclusive to the Red Sea. The solitary sailfish, the world’s fastest fish, can reach speeds of over 109 kilometres per hour. With year-round sunshine, divers need not worry about chilly waters.

Immerse Yourself in a Cultural Summer Retreat

Experience the Beauty and Culture of the Desert on an Overnight Desert Safari: Embark on a captivating journey by spending a night in the desert, where you can delve into the natural splendour, landscapes, and rich cultural heritage of Saudi. This nighttime tour allows you to escape the daytime heat and witness the enchanting beauty of the desert landscape under the starry sky. The highlight of the Riyadh overnight desert safari is an exhilarating dune bashing session, where you’ll ride to the summit of towering sand dunes, creating a thrilling spectacle as sand flies in all directions.

Saudi Tourism Authority has recently launched the country’s spectacular summer program for 2024, “Saudi Summer is Next Door”. The summer program will run for four months until the end of September, across seven destinations – Aseer, Al Baha, Taif, the Red Sea – a new destination, Jeddah, Riyadh and AlUla. Offering over 550 exceptional tourism products and more than 150 special offers and packages curated for families and children, it caters to diverse segments including adventure lovers, those looking for luxury retreats and activities, and culture and heritage enthusiasts.

Visit the ‘VisitSaudi’ website for more information about destinations, products, and offers. You can also contact the Tourist Care Center at 930 or reach out to the @AskVisitSaudi Twitter account, which receives inquiries and feedback in eight languages, around the clock. To learn more and plan your trip, visit https://www.visitsaudi.com/en.

34th LADIESFUND Power Lunch

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir)

Chief Guest Mr. Cemal Sangu, Turkish Consul General to Karachi headlined the highly anticipated 34th LADIESFUND Power Lunch. This dynamic must-attend networking session featured 50 incredible women leaders – including Yasmeen Lari (Heritage Foundation), Masarrat Misbah (Depilex Smileagain Foundation), Niilofur Farrukh (CEO, Karachi Biennale), Nargis Rehman (Founder, Women’s Foundation Pakistan), Jamila Habib, Frieha Altaf (CEO, Catwalk), Nadene Hafeez Shaikh, Saira Awan (President, TCS), Ameena Saiyid (MD of Lightstone Publishers), Patrice Khan (Energy Therapist & HeartMath Coach), Moneeza Usman Butt (Partner, KPMG), Shehla Rashid Hashmi (Owner, Hashmi Group) and Khursheed Hyder (PR, HUM), et al., and some dynamic men including Amin Gulgee, Rashid Hashmi, Deepak Perwani, Faisal Kachelo, and Shahzad Sabir.