Latest news with #UniversityofKarachi
Express Tribune
4 days ago
- Science
- Express Tribune
GenAI in education: between promise and precaution
The writer is a Professor of Physics at the University of Karachi Listen to article Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) is rapidly reshaping the landscape of education and research, demanding a thoughtful and urgent response from educators and policymakers. As a faculty member and a member of the Advanced Studies and Research Board at a public sector university, I have witnessed both the excitement and the uncertainty that AI tools like ChatGPT have generated within academic circles. While the potential of GenAI to enhance learning and scholarly productivity is undeniable, its unregulated and unchecked use poses significant risks to the core principles of academic integrity, critical thinking and equitable access to knowledge. As Pakistan embraces digital transformation and positions itself within the global digital economy, AI literacy has emerged as a foundational competency. In an earlier op-ed published in these columns on October 5, 2024 entitled 'AI Education Revolution', I emphasised that AI literacy is not just a technical skill, but a multidisciplinary competence involving ethical awareness, critical thinking and responsible engagement. That argument is now even more relevant. With tools like ChatGPT and DALL•E becoming commonplace, students must be equipped to not only use them effectively but to understand their societal and epistemological implications. GenAI offers immense opportunities. It enables personalised learning, streamlines research, provides real-time feedback and enhances access to complex knowledge. For students in under-resourced areas, it can bridge educational gaps. For researchers, it reduces the cognitive burden of information overload. But with these capabilities comes the risk of over-reliance. The seamless generation of essays, analyses and even ideas without meaningful engagement undermines the very purpose of education — cultivating independent thought and inquiry. One of the most pressing issues is the shift in how students perceive learning. Many now use AI tools as shortcuts, often without malintent, bypassing critical processes of reasoning and originality. This trend not only threatens academic rigour but fosters a culture of passive dependence — something that was forewarned in the context of AI misuse and unintentional plagiarism in academic settings. As discussed in the earlier op-ed, the absence of AI literacy can blur the lines between learning and copying, between thinking and prompting. To address these risks, UNESCO's recent guidance on AI in education offers a valuable framework. Governments must legislate clear, enforceable policies around age-appropriate use, data protection and algorithmic transparency. Educational institutions must rigorously assess the pedagogical validity and ethical dimensions of AI tools before integrating them. But perhaps the most crucial intervention lies in embedding AI literacy directly into curricula across disciplines but as a horizontal skill akin to critical thinking or digital citizenship. Hands-on engagement with GenAI is essential. Students must not only generate content but also critically evaluate it for bias, coherence and accuracy. To support this, assessments should evolve — emphasising oral presentations, collaborative projects and reflective analysis to promote authentic learning. Educators, too, must adapt through targeted training that enables them to guide students responsibly. Institutions should support this shift with updated pedagogical strategies and professional development programmes that integrate AI while preserving academic integrity. Given AI's borderless nature, international cooperation is vital. UNESCO must continue leading efforts to establish shared ethical frameworks and best practices. Pakistan should actively engage in this global dialogue while strengthening local capacity through curriculum reform, infrastructure investment and academic-policy collaboration to ensure GenAI serves as a responsible and equitable tool for learning. GenAI is not a passing phase, it is a structural shift. Whether it becomes a tool for democratising knowledge or a force that erodes educational values depends on how we act today. The future of education will not be determined by machines alone, but by the wisdom with which we choose to engage with them.
Express Tribune
20-05-2025
- Science
- Express Tribune
Lighting the path to energy equity
Listen to article Every semester, I return to a familiar question while addressing my students: What will power the world when fossil fuels are no longer available? It is a question that moves beyond classroom curiosity. For students in physics, it represents a challenge they will be called upon to answer in real life. From our laboratories to the underserved communities on the fringes of our cities, the urgency for clean and dependable energy is not abstract. It is immediate and deeply felt. In Pakistan, we are caught between rising demand for electricity and increasing instability in supply. The limitations of conventional fuel sources and the environmental damage they cause are now impossible to ignore. The time to act has already arrived. The global energy scenario is transforming. Clean energy is no longer an experimental field. In fact it is central to sustainable development. The pressure to shift away from fossil fuels is driven by rising fuel costs, the threats of climate change, and the desperate need to bring electricity to billions who still live without it. For developing countries like ours, the situation is even more critical. We must innovate or remain locked in cycles of shortage and pollution. In both my teaching and my research at the University of Karachi, I see the transition to renewables not as a distant policy matter but as a deeply practical and scientific challenge. Students are no longer simply learning the basic laws of thermodynamics or electromagnetism, they are applying these principles to design the next generation of energy solutions. One of the most promising developments in recent years is the rise of what are called Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems. These systems combine more than one energy source (such as solar, wind and biomass) along with energy storage methods like batteries. The goal is to provide a stable and uninterrupted power supply, even when the weather or environmental conditions fluctuate. These systems are ideal for areas where the power grid does not reach or is unreliable. In such settings, a hybrid system can act as a standalone solution, with solar panels providing energy during the day, wind turbines contributing during breezy hours, and batteries storing excess energy for use at night or during cloudy days. The results can be transformative. Homes lit, clinics powered, crops irrigated, and schools enabled to function with basic electronic tools. However, building such systems is not simple. They must be carefully designed to match the local energy needs and environmental conditions. A system that is too large can waste resources, while one that is too small will fail to deliver adequate energy. Optimisation is the key. In our department, students and researchers are using computer models, artificial intelligence and advanced control methods to finetune these systems for real world use. Technology alone is not enough. Public policy, investment and education all play crucial roles. Countries that have succeeded in clean energy adoption did so not just by building turbines and panels but by fostering a culture of research, removing administrative barriers, and supporting early stage projects. Pakistan needs a strong roadmap for renewable energy that encourages local innovation and international cooperation. The road ahead is long, but there is cause for hope. In the enthusiasm of students, in the quiet determination of researchers, and in the small but growing examples of clean energy projects in our country, we can see the beginnings of change. Every time a student in my class asks how energy from the sun becomes electricity, I am reminded that knowledge is the seed of transformation. The journey to a sustainable energy future will require many steps. It demands engineers, scientists, educators, policymakers and citizens to work together with resolve. It begins not with massive installations or sweeping declarations, but with thoughtful questions, careful experiments and a commitment to building a better tomorrow — one clean watt at a time.
Time Business News
19-05-2025
- Business
- Time Business News
BBA in Karachi – Choose the Best University for Your Business Career
Are you planning to pursue a BBA in Karachi and build a strong foundation in the world of business? With a growing demand for skilled business graduates in Pakistan, choosing the right BBA university in Karachi is crucial for your academic and professional success. In this guide, we explore everything you need to know about BBA programs, admissions, and the best BBA universities in Karachi. Karachi, being the commercial hub of Pakistan, offers numerous opportunities for business students. A Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) is a comprehensive degree that covers various aspects of management, marketing, finance, HR, and entrepreneurship. Studying in Karachi means access to top-notch business universities, internships, and career networks. The University of Karachi is one of the oldest and most well-known institutions offering a BBA degree. Many students prefer BBA in Karachi University due to its government affiliation, experienced faculty, and affordable fee structure. However, high competition and limited seats can be a challenge. While several institutions offer business degrees, the Millennium Institute of Technology and Entrepreneurship (MITE) is emerging as one of the best universities for BBA in Karachi. MITE offers a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA Hons) program that is modern, practical, and industry-relevant. Website: Industry-Driven Curriculum : MITE's BBA program is designed with input from business leaders to ensure real-world relevance. : MITE's BBA program is designed with input from business leaders to ensure real-world relevance. Specialization Tracks : Choose from marketing, finance, HRM, or entrepreneurship. : Choose from marketing, finance, HRM, or entrepreneurship. Internship & Career Support : MITE offers internship placements, business networking, and career counseling. : MITE offers internship placements, business networking, and career counseling. Modern Learning Environment : State-of-the-art campus, experienced faculty, and digital learning tools. : State-of-the-art campus, experienced faculty, and digital learning tools. Entrepreneurial Focus: Encouraging innovation and startup development among students. If you're looking for a bachelor's in business that combines academic excellence with practical exposure, MITE is the ideal choice. When selecting among the various BBA universities in Karachi, consider the following: Accreditation and university reputation and university reputation Faculty qualifications Internship and placement programs Curriculum quality Learning facilities and campus life Here are some of the best BBA universities in Karachi based on student reviews and academic quality: MITE (Millennium Institute of Technology and Entrepreneurship) Institute of Business Administration (IBA) Karachi School for Business & Leadership (KSBL) SZABIST Bahria University Among these, MITE stands out for offering a modern BBA program focused on entrepreneurship and innovation, making it a strong contender for the best university for BBA in Karachi. BBA admission in Karachi typically opens in July-August, but MITE offers flexible admission schedules and online application support. To apply at MITE: Visit Fill out the online application form. Submit required documents and await confirmation. Choosing the right university for your BBA in Karachi can define your future career. Whether you're exploring BBA in Karachi University or looking for the best BBA universities in Karachi, make sure to assess quality, relevance, and opportunities. If you're serious about building a future in business, consider applying to MITE – an institution that blends academic rigor with entrepreneurial innovation. Visit today to start your journey in the world of business. There are several reputable universities for BBA in Karachi, including MITE, IBA, SZABIST, and KSBL. MITE is a top choice for students looking for an industry-driven curriculum with a focus on innovation and entrepreneurship. Most BBA programs in Karachi, including the one at MITE, span four years (8 semesters) and lead to a BBA (Hons) degree. BBA admissions in most universities of Karachi typically open between June and August. However, institutes like MITE may offer rolling admissions or early intake options. Check their official website for updates. Generally, students must have completed Intermediate (FSc/FA/ICOM) or A-levels with a minimum passing grade. Some universities may conduct entry tests or interviews. Yes, a BBA degree is highly valuable in Pakistan. It opens up career opportunities in finance, marketing, HR, management, and entrepreneurship. Graduates from universities like MITE are well-prepared for both local and international job markets. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Express Tribune
03-05-2025
- General
- Express Tribune
'Ageing pipes caused KU deluge'
The Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the Karachi Water & Sewerage Corporation (KWSC) Engineer Asadullah Khan released a detailed video statement addressing the causes and repair measures related to the burst water lines at Siphon 19 near the University of Karachi. He explained that the water lines in the area are several decades old, with one installed in 1956 and the other in 1971 - making them 69 and 54 years old, respectively. Their designated lifespans have long since expired. He stated that Siphon 19, located near Karachi University, has two 84-inch diameter PRCC (Pre-stressed Reinforced Concrete Cylinder) pipelines, one of which is 16,000 feet (approximately five kilometres) long. Siphon 19 begins at Saadi Town and extends to University Road. The COO noted that the U-shaped pipelines at the siphon increase water pressure significantly. Water flowing through these U-shaped sections generates much more pressure compared to straight conduit lines. As a result, the old and weakened pipes are unable to withstand the added pressure, causing them to burst. He clarified that the pipelines running from Dhabeji to Karachi are straight conduits and do not experience this increased pressure, which is why they remain intact. He further shared that the damaged PRCC line at Siphon 19 is being replaced with a mild steel (MS) pipe. To ensure durability, four tons of molten lead, heated to 300°C, will be poured on both ends of the pipe. The process is called lead pouring. He expressed hope that the repair work would be completed by Saturday evening, after which the water supply was expected to return to normal. He apologised to citizens for the inconvenience. Left parched Meanwhile, experts claimed that repairs of the seven-foot wide pipeline, initially expected by Saturday, were now likely to continue until Sunday. They said that even if, by any chance, KWSC manages to complete the repair work by Sunday an additional three-day period would be required for normalization of the water supply to the city.
Express Tribune
28-04-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Varsities lead rallies against India's threats
Students and participants of a rally held at Karachi University express solidarity, marching with banners and making their voices heard against Indian aggression and threats to the Indus Waters Treaty. PHOTO: EXPRESs Braving the scorching heat, the University of Karachi (KU) and the Aligarh Institute of Technology (AIT) organised powerful protest rallies on Monday to denounce Indian aggression, irresponsible actions, and threats to unilaterally suspend the Indus Waters Treaty. With passionate chants, waving flags, and determined faces, students, faculty, and staff came out in large numbers to express unwavering support for Pakistan's sovereignty and armed forces, sending a clear message of unity and resistance in the face of external threats. Led by the University of Karachi's Vice Chancellor, Professor Dr Khalid Mahmood Iraqi, the rally witnessed strong participation from faculty members, students, and non-teaching staff, all voicing their opposition to India's aggressive stance. The demonstration began at the university's administrative building and concluded at Azadi Chowk. Participants carried banners and placards condemning India's threats and expressing solidarity with Pakistan. Slogans such as "Pakistan Zindabad," "India, Back Off," and "Long Live the Pakistan Army" echoed throughout the event. Addressing the media, Dr Iraqi stressed that India's actions pose a serious threat not only to Pakistan but to regional peace and stability. He reaffirmed that the Indus Waters Treaty is an internationally recognised agreement that cannot be suspended unilaterally. "Suspending the Indus Waters Treaty is a calculated attempt to endanger Pakistan's agriculture, economy, and livelihoods," he warned." He also encouraged students to channel their knowledge, unity, and patriotism toward national development and solidarity. The Aligarh Institute of Technology (AIT) also organised a rally to protest against Indian aggression and to demonstrate unwavering patriotism. The atmosphere was electric with the waving of national flags, impassioned patriotic chants, and a profound display of love for the homeland. Participants carried placards and banners bearing slogans. The rally commenced with the national anthem, followed by a spirited march led by the students.
