‘AI Seekho' takes Karachi by storm: Students engage in Google's AI initiative
Google and GDG Kolachi arranged an inspiring session to learn about AI, machine learning, data science and related disciplines.
The event took place at the National Incubation Center (NIC) Karachi – Google, in collaboration with GDG Kolachi, hosted AI Seekho, a groundbreaking initiative designed to equip aspiring professionals with expertise in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Data, and Infrastructure. The event witnessed an overwhelming response, with 100+ attendees actively participating in the sessions.
The theme of the event was 'Karachi Walo AI Seekho,' highlighting the importance of AI education for Karachi's tech community.
AI Seekho is a Google Cloud initiative, offering a structured curriculum and hands-on training to empower individuals with the skills necessary to excel in the ever-evolving AI landscape. This in-person training program in Karachi brought together industry experts, seasoned mentors, and an expert-led community to provide participants with an immersive learning experience. Through AI Seekho, learners gain practical insights into AI, ML, and cloud-based technologies, helping them build proficiency in leveraging Google Cloud's powerful tools and frameworks.
Under the guidance of Arhum Ishtiaq, CTO and Co-founder of ConnectHear, and the GDG Kolachi team—Danella Patrick, Hassam Jawed, Hassan Mujtaba, Aashir Ahmed, Muhammad Ateeb, Hafiz Munim, Fizza Khan, and Huzaifa Habib—participants gained practical knowledge and hands-on experience with AI and ML tools.
The program was structured to help individuals build their technical capabilities, enhance problem-solving skills, and engage with a dynamic network of AI practitioners.
The Karachi edition of AI Seekho was organized by GDG Kolachi, a leading tech community dedicated to fostering knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and innovation in the region. Through workshops, discussions, and interactive sessions, AI Seekho aimed to bridge the gap between academia and industry by providing real-world applications of AI/ML technologies.
'AI is shaping the future of technology, and with AI Seekho, we want to ensure that Pakistani professionals have access to world-class learning resources and mentorship. This initiative is a step towards creating an AI-driven workforce that can contribute to the global tech ecosystem,' said the GDG Kolachi team.
The event featured insightful discussions, live demos, and networking opportunities, making it an unmissable occasion for AI enthusiasts, students, and professionals looking to advance their careers in data science, AI development, and cloud infrastructure.
AI Seekho – Google Cloud self-study program
In addition to the in-person training, AI Seekho also offers an online Google Cloud self-study program designed for developers in Pakistan. This program provides access to hands-on Google Cloud labs and fosters learning through a supportive community of peers. Participants can explore cutting-edge technologies like Gemini and Vertex AI, develop AI/ML, Data, and Infrastructure skills, and engage with industry experts.
To encourage continuous learning, participants can complete the learning challenges between January 23 - February 20, 2025, to qualify for a Google Cloud swag pack.
GDG Kolachi remains committed to supporting more developers in joining this initiative and advancing their AI skills. For more details on AI Seekho and how to participate in future events, visit https://gdgkolachi.com/home.
About AI Seekho
AI Seekho is a Google Cloud Skills Boost initiative designed to provide hands-on training in AI, ML, and data technologies. The program is tailored for aspiring professionals and students seeking industry-relevant skills to excel in the tech sector. Participants gain access to Google Cloud's AI/ML learning pathways, enabling them to develop expertise in cutting-edge cloud solutions.
About GDG Kolachi
GDG Kolachi is a vibrant developer community in Pakistan that brings together tech enthusiasts, developers, and industry experts to collaborate, learn, and innovate through meetups, workshops, and large-scale events.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Business Recorder
an hour ago
- Business Recorder
Pakistani energy consortium signs key agreement with ADNOC
In a key development for Pakistan's energy sector, a consortium of leading Pakistani oil and gas exploration companies has formally entered into an international partnership for hydrocarbon exploration and production in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). 'We are pleased to announce the signing and execution of a Production Concession Agreement (PCA), for the development of Offshore Block 5, Abu Dhabi,' Mari Energies Limited (MARI) disclosed in a notice to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX). The listed energy company informed that the PCA has been signed between the Supreme Council for Financial and Economic Affairs (SCFEA) on behalf of the Government of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) P.J.S.C, and Pakistan International Oil Limited (PIOL). PIOL is a special-purpose vehicle incorporated by a consortium comprising Pakistan Petroleum Limited, Oil and Gas Development Company Limited, Mari Energies Limited, and Government Holdings (Private) Limited, with each partner holding a 25% share. 'Upon execution of the PCA, the partnership will be between ADNOC and PIOL with PIOL holding 40% participating interest,' read the notice. Experts say this agreement represents a milestone for Pakistani energy companies operating abroad. In 2021, PIOL was awarded offshore Block 5 in Abu Dhabi's second competitive exploration block bid round. The offshore Block 5 covers an area of 6,223 square kilometres and is located 100 kilometres northeast of Abu Dhabi city. At the time, the consortium noted that the development provides an opportunity to join the world-renowned Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) and unlock untapped resources in one of the world's largest hydrocarbon super-basins by investing in a trusted and reliable business environment.
Business Recorder
5 hours ago
- Business Recorder
Naqvi directs all subsidiary institutions to enhance mutual cooperation
ISLAMABAD: Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Wednesday directed all departments under the Ministry of Interior to ensure effective coordination and timely sharing of data to improve governance and service delivery. Chairing a meeting, the minister said that seamless exchange of information among institutions is vital for efficient operations. He noted that officers stationed at Pakistani embassies abroad under various departmental portfolios could also assist other wings, institutions of the ministry. The meeting, which was also attended by the heads of all attached departments, decided to enhance mutual cooperation among all subsidiary institutions of the Ministry of Interior. Naqvi said that mutual cooperation among all departments is extremely important. He said that all institutions should make full use of each other's capabilities and bring ease to the lives of citizens. He stressed the importance of making full use of the human resources of all institutions, saying that improved coordination among departments would benefit both the government and the public. Naqvi instructed that nominations for professional training courses should be strictly merit-based. He asked all departments to submit recommendations, based on which the federal secretary interior will formulate a comprehensive capacity-building plan for presentation to the ministry. State Minister for Interior Talal Chaudhry, secretary Ministry of Interior, and heads of departments including National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA), Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), Frontier Corps, Frontier Constabulary (FC), Rangers, National Police Academy, National Police Bureau, Immigration and Passport (I&P) Directorate, National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), and Islamabad police as well as officials of Narcotics Division. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
6 hours ago
- Business Recorder
Budget steps may hinder cashless economy drive: TOAP
ISLAMABAD: As the government unveils a raft of new taxes on digital transactions and e-commerce in the federal budget, Aamir Ibrahim, chairman Telecom Operators Association of Pakistan voiced both hope and concern, warning that the measures could slow Pakistan's journey toward a cashless economy. Industry leaders, trade bodies, and associations also expressed concerns that the budget missed an important opportunity to mandate digital payment options across retail. They pointed out that many major retailers still refuse to accept digital payments in order to hide real income and evade taxes, indicating that enforcement against such practices remains insufficient. This gap, they argued, allows tax evasion to persist and undermines efforts to bring more transactions into the formal, documented economy. The Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI) also criticised the government for missing a crucial opportunity to broaden the tax base and document the country's vast Rs9 trillion cash-based informal economy. In a statement, the OICCI noted that while measures like the nationwide rollout of e-invoicing and expansion of POS systems are positive steps; the absence of a concrete strategy to address the informal sector and rationalise tax structures undermines efforts to create a more investment-friendly environment and advance economic formalisation. 'The budget aims to formalise online trade through digital integration and tax measures, which is a plus,' said Aamir. 'However, complexity in tax collection, the 5% levy on digital transactions with foreign vendors, and additional taxes charged by payment intermediaries risk increasing costs and discouraging digital adoption. Making digital payments more prevalent, easier, and affordable is essential for Pakistan's growth and for documenting the economy. Let's ensure policies support a truly digital Pakistan, driving transparency and compliance without undue burdens.' The new Finance Bill introduces taxes on both local and foreign e-commerce marketplaces, making online shopping costlier for Pakistani consumers. Notably, a five per cent tax will be imposed on goods purchased from foreign online marketplaces such as AliExpress and Amazon, collected by banks and payment gateways at the point of transaction. Meanwhile, local digital payments will face a tiered tax structure, ranging from one per cent to two per cent depending on the transaction amount, and courier companies will collect taxes on cash-on-delivery payments. Banks and courier services have been designated as withholding agents, required to collect and remit these taxes, and file detailed statements on all digital transactions. Online marketplaces must also ensure that all vendors are registered for sales tax, tightening compliance across the sector. Aamir acknowledged the government's intent to bring more online activity into the formal economy but cautioned that the added complexity and cost could push some businesses and consumers back toward cash and informal channels. 'We need to strike a balance between expanding the tax net and fostering digital inclusion. If digital transactions become more expensive or cumbersome, we risk undermining the very progress we've made in financial inclusion and digital transformation.' He urged policymakers to revisit the proposed levies and streamline tax collection, so that Pakistan's vision of a cashless, digitally empowered society remains within reach. 'There is still time to fix anomalies in the new budget. Let's make sure that our policies truly support a digital Pakistan, rather than create new barriers to adoption.' Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
