SSUET Board reviews CIEC report

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi  
(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The 5th Inspection Report of Charter Inspection and Evaluation (CIEC), Department of Education and Literacy, Sindh, regarding the Sir Syed University of Engineering & Technology (SSUET), Karachi, came under detail analysis at a meeting of the University’s Board of Governors held under the chairmanship of Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr Jawed H. Rizvi, on October 25.

The report related to a visit of the university by members of CIEC, assisted by Experts Sub-committee (ESCs). While expressing satisfaction, the Board went through the observations and recommendations made by CIEC in its report and gave approval to the same.

According to the report, the members of ESCs in their overview expressed general satisfaction on the overall performance of the University and in this regard some positive improvements were mentioned in general in case of all the departments.

As per report, the Chairman CIEC appreciated the elaborate presentation made and information provided by the University. It may be mentioned here that the University, sponsored by Aligarh Mslim University Old Boys Association (AMOBA) was established in October 1993 and the ‘Sir Syed University of Engineering and Technology’ Bill was passed by Provincial Assembly on September 17, 1995.

The University provides 4 year BS under-graduate programs in Computer, Electronic, Biomedical, Civil and Telecommunication Engineering and Computer Science, besides MS postgraduate programmes in Computer, Electronic, Biomedical, Civil Engineering and Mathematics and also offering Ph.D in two subjects.

In its recommendations, the CIEC called for recruiting more highly qualified and senior teachers, revising the curriculum of computer science according to HEC requirements, to encourage faculty to organize and attend more international conferences and publish journals.

In its report the CIEC observed that the SSUET appeared to have fulfilled the minimum requirement as per Cabinet criteria and the EC has placed it in highest category W-4 and also granted 5-star rating by the CIEC.

Rotary observes World Polio Day with unprecedented enthusiasm

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi  
(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Pakistan’s Rotary Polio Plus Committee, headed by Aziz Memon, observed the World Polio Day 2012 on October 24 with unprecedented enthusiasm throughout the country. 

The various Rotary Clubs, with the collaboration of the Polio Plus Committee, organized numerous programmes all over Pakistan while a lot of people around the globe participated in the World’s Biggest Commercial, promoting the international effort to eradicate the devastating disease. 

The innovative, interactive online initiative provided everyone a chance to join Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Bill Gates, Jackie Chan, Angelique Kidjo, and other world figures and celebrities having already joined in Rotary’s This Close campaign in support of polio eradication. 

The participants uploaded photos of themselves to Rotary’s polio eradication website, endpolionow.org, edited into the constantly expanding promotional spot. They were sent an email with a direct link to their image and comment within the commercial. 

Rotary International also released End Polio Now, an eclectic album of songs performed by its celebrity polio eradication ambassadors from the music industry. The album is available for download on iTunes, and soon as a CD from shop.rotary.org, with all proceeds from sales going to PolioPlus. 

The Rotary Club of Karachi Creek and the Rotary Club of Karachi Kolachi joined hands to put up a Polio Awareness Stall on World Polio Day, on the ground floor of the Park Towers Mall, located in main Clifton. 

Visited by hundreds of people on a daily basis, more so these days, due to the forthcoming festival of Eid, the EPN banners on pillars caught many people's attention. 

A volunteer doctor was made available at the stall screened for blood sugar free-of-charge, attracting adults. 

Pakistan’s National Chair, Polio Plus Committee, Aziz Memon, led by example which was followed by District Governor-Elect Dr Pir Ebrahim Shah, Media Coordinator for Karachi, PP Jamsheed Zahidi, PP Tahira Khan, PP Irfan Qureshi, Rotaractors who volunteered to man the stall and distribute IEC and social mobilization material to children and adults. 

Dr Nadia Farhan Essa from RCK Creek was instrumental in organizing the polio camp and stall which became a centre of attraction at Park Towers. Similar stalls were set up in many other bustling shopping malls of Karachi and other cities of Pakistan. 

A three-page newspaper supplement was also brought out by the Polio Plus Committee to mark the occasion. 

“Coinciding with World Polio Day, Rotary is ramping up its advocacy work in the 200 countries and regions where Rotary clubs exist to encourage every national government to commit to help meet a $700 million funding shortfall for the Global Polio Eradication Initiative through 2013,” Pakistan’s National Chair, Polio Plus Committee, Aziz Memon, disclosed. 

“Although new polio cases are at an all-time low, there were fewer than 180 worldwide in 2012 as of October 16 the funding gap has already curtailed scheduled immunization activities in polio-affected countries. If eradication fails and polio rebounds, up to 200,000 children per year could be paralyzed,” he warned. 

‘The governments need to step up and honour their commitments to polio eradication if we are to achieve our goal of a polio-free world. We are at a true tipping point, with success never closer than it is right now. We must seize the advantage by acting immediately, or risk breaking our pledge to the world’s children,” the Chair of the Rotary Foundation, Wilfrid J. Wilkinson, remarked in his message on the World Polio Day 2012.

Diplomatic Consultant Jibran, Sindh Governor discuss Green Revolution

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi
(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The Governor of Sindh, Dr Ishrat-ul-Ebad Khan, has stated that the issue of pirates could only be resolved by combined efforts of the international community. He added that the Government of Pakistan, on its part, was trying its level best but greater efforts were needed to create awareness about it.  

He made these observations during his meeting Diplomatic Consultant Jibran Ahmed Khan, who called on him at the Governor House, Karachi, on October 24.

The Green Revolution, a universal movement which aims to bring about a collective spiritual revival in the world through love, was also discussed during their meeting.

Jibran Khan briefed the Governor of Sindh about the efforts being made at the international level to combat the critical issue of pirates and for the promotion of the Green Revolution.

Dr Ishrat-ul-Ebad Khan was appreciative of the role being played by Jibran Khan in this direction, emphasizing that the Green Revolution can be immensely useful in food security besides enhancing economic cooperation between countries.  

SSUET Board approve HEC recommendations

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi  
(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The Board of Governors of the Sir Syed University of Engineering & Technology (SSUET), Karachi, in its meeting on October 21, under the chairmanship of Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Syed Jawaid Hassan Rizvi reviewed and approved various proposals and suggestions aimed at further betterment of the institution. 

The Board approved the recommendations of the inspection team of Higher Education Commission (HEC) regarding establishment of a faculty of postgraduate studies and research. 

It also gave go ahead for the implementation of a unified pay scale for all faculties. 

The Board discussed options to recruit highly qualified faculty while the members emphasized upon putting in more efforts for research activities by the faculty members and to develop research culture in the university. 

The development of postgraduate programme on modern lines was also reviewed and a proposal was put forward to provide scholarships for students of foreign countries, particularly the advance ones, doing Ph.D. 

The Board reviewed the 5th Inspection report of the Charter Inspection & Evaluation Committee (CIEC) and expressed deep satisfaction over the achievements of the SSUET. 

It pledged to continue efforts for development in light of the CIEC recommendations in future. 

It discussed to offer competitive and attractive salaries to bring in highly qualified and experienced faculty members and provide incentives to faculty members for their research work. 

The meeting was attended, among others, by Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan, Prof Dr M D Shami, Justice (R) Fazl-e-Ghani, Engr Muhammad Adil Usman, Cdre (R) Salim A Siddiqui and Registrar Shah Mahmood Hussain Syed.

Pakistan Railways to operate Eid Special Trains despite lack of resources

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi  
(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Despite the acute resource problems, the Pakistan Railways will be operating two Eid Special Trains from Karachi to Peshawar and Rawalpindi on October 24 and 25. 

A Pakistan Railways spokesman has announced that the first Eid Special Train will leave the Karachi Cantonment Station for Peshawar at 11 am on October 24 while the second one will operate also from the Cantonment Station for Rawalpindi at the same time on October 25. 

The Peshawar-bound train will be running via Lahore while Rawalpindi-bound special will run through Faisalabad. 

The Divisional Superintendent, Anzer Ismail Rizvi, informed PNFS that strict measures have been taken to control black marketing of tickets in view of great rush of people intending to go to upcountry destinations to celebrate Eid-ulAzha with their families. 

He said that the vigilance teams are in place who are keeping eye on elements habitual to coming out on such occasions to mint money through black marketing. 

Anzar Rizvi warned that anyone nabbed trying to sell tickets in black market will be dealt with strictly. 

He stated that the two Eid Special Trains are being run to clear the surging rush of the upcountry bound passengers. 

Meanwhile the Divisional Commercial Officer, Shoaib Adil, has advised the travelling people to ensure to take up their journey on a ticket issued in their own name and also keep their NC with them. 

He made it clear that if any one found travelling on a ticket issued in the name of some other person would be considered as being ‘without ticket’ and will be penalized accordingly.

AMUOBA observe Sir Syed Day with traditional enthusiasm

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi  
(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Distinguished speakers paid rich homage to the great reformer and educationist, Sir Syed Ahmed Khan, on the occasion of his 195th birth anniversary observed under the auspices of Aligarh Muslim University Old Boys Association (AMUOBA) with a call by President AMUOBA and Chancellor, Sir Syed University of Engineering & Technology (SSUET), Engr Z A Nizami, for acquisition of the latest knowledge in the field of science and technology. 

“Acquiring scientific and technological knowledge is the only solution for the problems being faced by the Muslims,” he observed in his Presidential address, declaring that the arduous task which was undertaken by Sir Syed Ahmed Khan for emancipation of Muslims of South Asia must continue with the same missionary zeal. 

Engr Nizami described the establishment of Sir Syed University of Engineering and Technology as a big step towards the desired direction. 

He said that today SSUET was regarded as the top engineering university of Pakistan having collaboration with top 11 universities of USA. He reminded that Sir Syed’s aim was not just to establish a college at Aligarh but pursue the Muslims to acquire modern education to lift them up from a precarious position, having devoted whole of his life for this purpose. 

Speaking on the occasion, Azad Bin Haider, a renowned politician of his prime days and a writer and researcher of eminence now, stated that it was the great reformer Sir Syed who gave a new direction to the Muslims of South Asia and it was mainly due to his movement that many more new movements for Muslim’s renaissance started in South Asia. 

He said that the observance of Sir Syed Day by the AMUOBA every year is a highly fruitful act and Pakistan can be led to the path of progress if the motives behind Pakistan Movement are remembered. 

He thought of Sir Syed a real motivator who launched a movement for Muslims to acquire modern education and created a wave of awakening in them. He urged the youth to focus on their education which is the only solution to every problem. 

Prof Dr Waqar Rizvi, a religious scholar and writer, presented a paper on Pakistan Movement and Sir Syed Ahmed Khan and said that it was the national spirit behind the mission undertaken by him which can truly be regarded as the foundation for the creation of Pakistan. 

Renowned scholar, columnist and Pakistan Movement Gold medalist, Saeed Siddiqui, remarked that the past of nation is the pride of nation. 

He said those nations who forget their history or heroes are bound to be eliminated. Sir Syed Ahmed Khan, he said, was a great visionary, statesman and Muslim reformer of the 19th century who worked tooth and nail to make the community progressive and lead them to the cherished objective. He said that Sir Syed was the first Indian Muslim to contribute to the intellectual and institutional foundation of Muslim’s modernization in South Asia. 

He recalled that in 1862 he formed a scientific society, and 13 years later he assisted in establishing the Mohammadan Anglo-Oriental College, which prospered and became the key intellectual centre for Indian Muslims-The Aligarh Muslim University. 

The success of the college was largely due to his leadership and a curriculum embodying both Western and Oriental studies. 

Ali Zafar Qadri, a senior Aligarhian presented a detail chronology of the life and accomplishments of Sir Syed Ahmed Khan while Khumar Farooqi, a renowned poet and writer, paid poetic homage to the great reformer and educationist and drew a big applause. 

A significant feature of the function was highly impressive speeches on the life and achievements of Sir Syed Ahmed Khan by SSUET students Umer Khan in Urdu and Umer Ali Kazmi in English. The audience highly appreciated their knowledge about the great reformer. Another highlight of the well-attended function was singing of Tarana-e-Aligarh” sung by boys and girl students of the SSUET.

Pakistan-India Trade and Economic Relations improving: High Commissioner Sabharwal

Pakistan News & Features Services

India’s High Commissioner to Pakistan, Sharat Sabharwal, has expressed the hope that the trade and economic relations between the two neighbouring countries will continue to improve and the ties will be further strengthened in the coming years. 

The Indian envoy delivered an address on the subject of Pakistan-India Trade and Economic Relations in a gathering of the English Speaking Union of Pakistan (ESUP), which was also attended by a large number of diplomats, at Hotel Beach Luxury, Karachi, on October 16. 

Sabharwal updated the audience, predominantly from the business community, about the measures taken to boost the bilateral trade. 

He pointed out that his country has allowed foreign direct investment from Pakistan, while a new gate has been opened at Wagah border crossing point to facilitate movement of goods. 

He observed that both two countries have already taken a number of measures in liberalising visa issuance, adding that the businessmen were being issued multiple visas for a number of cities. 

“Besides working on enhancing the bilateral trade both Pakistan and India have taken a number of steps to improve people to people relations,” the Indian High Commissioner noted. 

Sabharwal revealed that the visit of Makhdoom Amin Fahim in 2011 to India was the first by Pakistan’s Commerce Minister in 35 years while Anand Sharma, earlier this year, became the first-ever Indian Commerce Minister to visit Pakistan. 

“Both of these, therefore, were landmark visits because the Commerce Ministers were accompanied by large delegations comprising of key businessmen who showed keen interest in expanding trade across the border,” the Indian High Commissioner added. 

In his welcome address, Aziz Memon, President, ESUP, stressed the need for greater trade with neighbouring India. 

“Fostering the process of regional trade and economic cooperation between Pakistan and India will bring peace and prosperity in the region. It will be a mutually beneficial deal and people of both countries will benefit from it immensely,” he reckoned. 

Aziz Memon did not mince words in stating that many European countries had fought wars with each other in the past but they realized the importance of doing trade with the neighbours and they continued business activities despite difference of opinion on political matters. 

The ESUP President lauded the recent initiatives of the Indo-Pak governments, hoping that these decisions will open the floodgates in both the countries. 

The question-answer session turned out to be a lively one as the Indian High Commissioner, with a smile on his face, came up with befitting replies to some testing queries. 

Although the audience was being urged to restrict their questions to the topic of the day, a few unrelated queries were still made but they were taken care of in a very calm and composed manner. 

India’s High Commissioner to Pakistan, Sharat Sabharwal, was presented a plaque on behalf by the ESUP by Michael Dodman, Consul General, United States of America (USA) in Karachi.

It turned out be an enlightening and informative session in line with the tradition of the ESUP of holding such special programmes for the benefit of its members in particular.

IT expert regrets reluctance to adapt to new trends

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi  
(Pakistan News & Features Services)

With fast changes taking place in the era of globalization as compared to a decade back, new technologies are coming up every now and then with newest applications and tools. 

“But the old-timers working with old technologies are reluctant to adopt the new trends”, Farrukh Nizami, an IT expert, regretted while addressing a seminar on Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) held at the Sir Syed University of Engineering & Technology, (SSUET), Karachi. 

Farrukh pointed out that Internetworking has grown fast during the last few decades to maintain the basic user requirements with major purpose being to connect several related networks jointly so that each user could share the information same moment. 

He said that Internetworking involves connecting networks which use different protocols and how different nodes in a network are connected to each other and how they communicate. 

“There is no scarcity of jobs in the market for networking/IT professionals,” he stated adding that still the capable candidates were not available in the field. 

He explained that Cisco Networking Academy is a global education programme which teaches students how to design, build, troubleshoot, and secure computer networks for increased access to career and economic opportunities in communities around the world. 

The Networking Academy, Farrukh added, provides online courses, interactive tools, and hands-on learning activities to help individuals prepare for ICT while and networking career is a requirement now-a-days virtually in every type of industry.

Sindh Government’s Youth Affairs Department recognizes significance of media

Pakistan News & Features Services

The Youth Affairs Department of the Government of Sindh recognized the significance of media by joining hands with the Institute of Journalism, in holding a discussion on Media Patronage for Youth Development’ at the Arts Council of Pakistan on October 13. 

Syed Faisal Ali Subzwari, Sindh Minister for Youth Affairs, was the chief guest in the forum which was presided over by Shoaib Ahmad Siddiqui, Secretary Youth Affairs to the Government of Sindh. 

The Sindh Youth Minister candidly expressed his views about the current media practices and concluded that the youth development issues needs to be highlighted and should be patronized by media. 

“Media being the fourth pillar of Pakistan must patronize youth development issues and should raise the voice of youth. The young journalists should be trained in a way that they can easily become the voice of youth and play their role effectively,” he stated. 

Shoaib Siddiqui reckoned that the youth of the country was capable enough to make its presence felt in the field of media. 

“Our youngsters do have the capacity to meet the challenge. Many of them have become successful media professionals. They have the talents to do the job. They, however, could fine tune their skills after completing their education,” he advised. 

“Besides the young professionals the media in general should take the responsibility of playing its due role in patronizing the youth development,” Shoaib Siddiqui added. 

Amin Yousuf, Secretary, Pakistan Federal Union of Journalist (PFUJ), and Ahmed Shah President, Arts Council of Pakistan, also shared their views and experiences on the occasion. 

The event, attended by a large number of media professionals and aspiring young journalists, concluded with vote of thanks presented by Nauman Adil, Executive Director, Institute of Journalism.

Admission process at SSUET going on swiftly

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi  
(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The admission process at the Sir Syed University of Engineering & Technology (SSUET), Karachi, is going on apace and with November 10 as last date for submission of forms, some 2961 prospectus have been sold so far as against 2533 sold during the corresponding period last year. 

This was informed in a meeting held under the chairmanship of Chancellor Engr Z A Nizami to review the progress of the ongoing admission process. 

It was communicated that so far 1051 admission seekers had submitted their forms which included 414 seeking admission in Civil Engineering, 307 in Electronic Engineering, 129 in Computer, 122 in Computer Science, 45 in Telecommunication and 34 in Bio-Medical disciplines. 

Vice-Chancellor, Prof Dr Jawed H Rizvi, told the meeting that the number of admission forms submitted this year was higher by 25 percent which was a testimonial to the credibility of this university established by the Aligarh Muslim University Old Boys Association (AMUOBA) in 1993 under an Act passed by the Sindh Assembly. 

It has been decided that entry test will be conducted on November 18 at the Expo Centre which was selected for the purpose last year in view of very high number of applicants.

The Chancellor expressed satisfaction over the admission process and directed that total transparency should be maintained throughout. 

While reviewing recovery of dues, the meeting was informed that no examination form was being accepted nor any document like admit card being issued without payment of dues by the students. 

Chancellor Nizami directed the concerned officials that no one should be allowed to appear in the examination unless total outstanding dues were cleared by the concerned student. 

He also reviewed the performance of the department of Career Planning and called for a detail report thereof within a week, along with another report from the department concerning student affairs. The security arrangements at the campus were also discussed during the meeting, in light of the law and order situation in the city.

Prevention is the best way to combat brain-eating amoeba

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi 
(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Prevention is considered the best way to avoid the rare ‘brain eating’ disease Naegleria Fowleri, which has already claimed as many as 10 lives in a matter of just a few months in Pakistan’s most populous city of Karachi.  

Prevention is the key in this case because the mortality rate of the disease is extremely high. It has to be ensured that the water supply is chlorinated and the citizens are aware about the precautionary measures.

Abstaining from all water-related activities can prevent Naegleria infections, but for many people, this simply is not an option.

There are other things people can do. It’s strongly recommended to avoid swimming in still, warm, brackish water that has loose bottom sediment.

Jumping or diving into the same type of water is also to be avoided. The brain-eating amoeba is often caught through swimming in infected water.

Wearing a nose clip or holding your nose if you jump or dive into relatively warm water lakes, rivers, pools or other similar bodies of water is advised since Naegleria Fowleri is transmitted by contaminated water entering the nose. It cannot be passed from person to person, however.

People are warned to avoid getting water too deep into their nostrils and make sure their water supply is properly treated. Those with symptoms are urged to seek help immediately without wasting any time.

The highest incidence of this disease occurs in the hot summer months in children and young adults, with males having the highest incidence of disease.

Naegleria fowleri, which has a fatality rate of more than 98%, infects people when contaminated water enters the body through the nasal membranes and destroys brain tissues. Symptoms are initially very mild, including a headache, stiff neck, fever and stomachache. Death usually occurs five to seven days after infection.  

Naegleria Fowleri is an amoeba that lives in fresh water and soil. The organism goes through three stages in its life cycle: cysts, flagellates, and trophozoites.

It is the trophozoite form that causes human disease. Naegleria are ‘thermophilic’ meaning that they prefer warmer water. However, the cysts are able to survive for months in very cold water.

Thus, Naegleria infection is found both in tropical and temperate climates. Although there are many species of Naegleria, including Naegleria gruberi, only Naegleria Fowleri causes human infection. There are other free-living amoebas that cause human disease, including Acanthamoeba.  

The organism was officially discovered in Australia in 1965 by Dr M Fowler and Dr R Carter although it’s believed to have occasionally infected humans for centuries. Fortunately, humans are rarely infected with Naegleria Fowleri.  

The disease was first reported to have surfaced in Karachi, the commercial hub of the country, in 2006 but this year's outbreak has been deadlier making the citizens more concerned. The awareness campaigns by the concerned authorities can help immensely in combating the deadly disease. The NGOs as well as the government sector should mobilize all their resources in spreading the precautionary measures that could save precious lives. 

Arif Ali Shah Bukhari meets Bosnian President

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi 
(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Arif Ali Shah Bukhari, Regional Board Member of Young Presidents Organization (YPO), a chapter of World Presidents Organization (WPO), held a meeting with the visiting Bosnian President, Bakir Izetbegovic, in Islamabad.  

During exchange of views, the Bosnian President invited Arif Bukhari, to bring YPO delegation to Bosnia in order to explore business opportunities over there.

They also discussed other matters of mutual interests and Arif Bukhari, founder of YPO capital, expressed his gratitude and informed the President of his best feelings for Bosnia and his plans to arrange meaningful dialogues between the top businessmen of both countries.

Arif Bukhari, a Member Board of YPO MENA (Middle East & North African Region), is currently the Chapter Chair of Pakistan. He is also the Founder of YPO Indus chapter and Mentor of WPO Pakistan Chapter. 

YPO/WPO could help Pakistan’s cause immensely: Arif Ali Shah Bukhari

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi  
(Pakistan News & Features Services)

“The Pakistani members of the Young Presidents Organization (YPO), a chapter of World Presidents Organization (WPO), together with their international counterparts, would take a leading role through which international events could be held in Pakistan and ideas shared between our government as well as private organizations to create opportunities for further development of our natural resources, energy sector, industries, agriculture and most importantly education.” 

This was stated by Arif Ali Shah Bukhari, Regional Member YPO while speaking at the launch of YPO Capital Pakistan at a ceremony held in Islamabad. 

The YPO, he pointed out, as an organization created opportunities for them and in turn allowed them to grow personally and professionally. 

"The YPO goal is to ensure that every member’s experience is a unique and personal journey filled with many opportunities for growth,” he said adding that as a peer organization, we expect a lot from one another. 

This peer connection, he said, makes us, to our core, the world’s leading network of chief executives. 

Arif Bukhari revealed that the YPO-WPO is a global network of 20,000 top executives based in 100 countries out of which 150 Pakistanis have the distinction of being members of the prestigious organization. 

“The YPO’s mission is to create better leaders through education and idea exchange", he emphasized. 

He said that the organization promotes the holding of high-level meetings through which global business opportunities are enhanced. 

"The YPO/WPO is an excellent platform through which we can very constructively help change the perception of Pakistan for the better,” he reckoned. “Together with our international counterparts, we can bring investments in Pakistan. We seek the support of President Asif Ali Zardari to build feasible strategies with which we would be able to make Pakistan a truly progressive industrial and agricultural nation,” Arif Bukhari observed. 

He called for making the gathering of YPO members a take-off point from where we may learn about the vision of our President for our country.  He spoke and threw light on the working and contribution of the organizations for uplift of the economy in particular.

Arif Bukhari is a Member Board of YPO MENA (Middle East & North African Region) and has the honuor of being amongst the founder members of YPO Pakistan Chapter of which he is the Chapter Chair. He is also the Founder of YPO Indus chapter and Mentor of WPO Pakistan Chapter.

SSUET, University of Karachi host National Conference on Space Sciences

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi  
(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The first-ever National Conference on Space Sciences, spread over a couple of days, concluded in Karachi on October 9 with the Chancellor of the Sir Syed University of Engineering & Technology (SSUET), Engr Z A Nizami, calling upon the engineers to keep pace with the fast changing technologies. 

The conference was organized by the SSUET with the collaboration of the University of Karachi, the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) as a part of World Space Week-2012. 

The opening session was inaugurated by the Sindh Education Minister, Pir Mazhar-ul-Haq at the University of Karachi while the concluding session was held at SSUET on the second day with Chancellor Z A Nizami being the chief guest on the occasion.

Engr Nizami remarked that the technologies are witnessing rapid changes every moment and one can take advantages of the latest development only by keeping pace with the same. 

He referred to his visit to the Harvard University some time back and said the chief speaker on the occasion, a Nobel Prize winner, while giving his remarks had stated that he is making speech exact at 4.30 but cannot say what will be a change in the very next moment. 

At SSUET, the Chancellor said, a system has been worked out to introduce all important aspects of the engineering disciplines being taught here keeping the technological changes taking place so rapidly in view and it is here for the engineers to keep pace with the same if they want to progress. 

He informed that in India engineering subjects are taught in consonance with the employment related survey which is carried out every year and released only two months before the start of admissions. He desired similar practice in Pakistan. “We are faced with lot of challenges in space technology and we have to address them efficiently and promptly,” he asserted. 

He pointed out that over a hundred projects in various engineering disciplines are developed here at this university every year and he is introducing a system to make these projects self-financing. 

In this regard he assured all out support, whatever required from the university, to project developers. 

He considered the conference very fruitful and a laudable effort and said that new upcoming technologies will have to be pursued to achieve success in various engineering fields. 

Earlier Dr M. Jawed Qamar, Founder Director, Institute of Space and Astrophysics, University of Karachi, presented some of the recommendations formulated at the conference asking for introduction of astronomy at school level, introduction of astronomy and space science at degree level in simple term and labs, observatory etc at science level; focusing importance on basic sciences mainly Astrophysics in developing countries, specially Pakistan. 

Another recommendation called for maintaining peaceful conditions, necessary for continuous research, particularly in space sciences. 

The Vice-Chancellor SSUET, Prof Dr Jawed H. Rizvi, said the conference brought new problems and issues to lime light, which needs to be considered by international bodies like the UN. 

The conference, he said, has also helped in promoting personal contacts between scientists and engineers, attending the 2-day moot. 

Dr Jawed Iqbal, In charge Institute of Space, University of Karachi, spoke highly about the outcome of the conference and thanked KU, SUPARCO and HEC for their valuable coordination. 

Dr Syed Faisal Ahmed Bukhari, Chairman, Department of Computer Engineering and Convener, Organizing Committee, SSUET, presented the vote of thanks and said this conference was a contribution towards World Space Week 2012 on the theme of ‘Space for Human Safety and Security’ and it produced valuable results. 

At the conference space engineers and scientists made over a dozen technical presentations. The session concluded with distribution of certificates among chairmen of various sessions of the conference and shields to session secretaries.

Chancellor Nizami inaugurates Durrani Institute of Computer Technology

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi 
(Pakistan News & Features Services) 

“Sir Syed University of Engineering & Technology (SSUET) has achieved remarkable success in developing information and communication technology, having emerged as a modern educational technology hub contributing significantly to both knowledge acquisition and knowledge creation.”

This was stated by the SSUET Chancellor, Engr Z A Nizami, while inaugurating Durrani Institute of Computer Technology established under the auspices of Nashrah Foundation.

Engr Nizami pointed out that despite the difficulties of various magnitudes, new initiatives have to be taken up in order to ignite and accelerate the creative and research potential of students and offered his full support for the divine cause.

Junaid Ahmed Mukhtar, President, Nashrah Foundation, observed that little drops of water make mighty ocean.

“The Nashrah Foundation, which started with a little space, is now progressing in leaps and bounds to accomplish its cherished goal of becoming a great institution of international repute,” he stated.

Badaruddin Fakhri, another speaker, pointed out that any act of kindness is an eternal deed and the establishment of welfare organizations like Nashrah will prove a great legacy for future generations.

Earlier in his welcome address Syed-un-Nabi stated that the opening of the Durrani Institute is a befitting tribute to late Engineer Durani and has been founded to promote the thought and philosophy of Baba Obaidulla Durrani.  

SSUET to organize National Conference on Space Sciences

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi  
(Pakistan News & Features Services)

A week-long international celebration of space and atmospheric sciences has begun with hundreds of events in dozens of countries around the world to highlight the ways and means by which humanity’s space activities make daily life better for on the planet of earth. 

To mark the occasion, the Sir Syed University of Engineering & Technology (SSUET), Karachi, in collaboration with the University of Karachi, will be organizing a day long National Conference on Space Sciences at its campus on October 9 at the campus. 

The objective of the World Space Week is to educate people around the globe about the benefits of space flight and exploration and encourage greater use of space for sustainable economic development. 

The theme for the Space Week is ‘Space for Human Safety and Security’ and the United Nations (UN) had instituted the World Space Week in 1999 and the event was first held a year later. 

The initiative of the SSUET will be greatly helpful in spreading awareness about the subject among the educated youth of the country.

Service structure for engineers soon: Chairman PEC

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi
(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The Chairman, Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC), Syed Abdul Qadir Shah, has assured the engineers to receive good news about their service structure with time scale promotions very soon.  

Addressing a big gathering of engineers from across Pakistan at a dinner hosted by the PEC at Hotel Beach Luxury on October, he recalled PEC’s suggestion in this regard was agreed to by the then Prime Minister, Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, and now it has to go through lengthy bureaucratic process for implementation and the Council was on it.

He pointed out that there are about 20,000 engineers in federal/provincial departments and autonomous bodies but they did not possess any service structure nor were given automatic time scale promotions.

Referring to PEC’s achievements, Qadir Shah informed the audience that the Council has been awarded provisional membership of Washington Accord, Engineering Mobility Forum (EMF) and is also collaborators of Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) and Singapore (IES), Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM), Jaban Accreditation Board of Engineering Education (JA BEE) and other such prestigious Forums.  

He disclosed that, in recognition of its efforts, the mega event of 5th World Engineering Congress (KIEC) will be held in Islamabad in March 2013 with an expected participation of over 500 eminent engineers and scientists from all over the world.

Pointing out that over the years there has been a communication gap between the PEC and the engineering community of the country he assured that the present Governing Body can dispel this impression through concerted actions.

“We will try that the actions and initiatives taken by the PEC are shared regularly and effectively with the engineer’s community while a system was also in place to get their feedback,” he stated.

He said one of the reason for the pitiful conditions of engineers’ community in Pakistan was lack of opportunities and to overcome this shortcoming, the PEC has decided to promote culture of socialization and at least one social gathering will take place in each major city in a year.  

Khurshid Shah urges engineers to make optimum use of nuclear technology

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi
(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The Federal Minister for Religious Affairs, Syed Khurshid Ahmed Shah, has called upon the engineers to use their vision and expertise for further development of Pakistan to bring it at par with the developed nations of the world and for this purpose the government’s political support will be available to them.  

He was speaking as the chief guest at a dinner hosted by the Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC) at Hotel Beach Luxury, Karachi, on October 5.

Over a thousand engineers belonging to various disciplines from all over the country attended the dinner along with PEC’s Vice Chairmen from Sindh, Punjab, Baluchistan and Khyber Pakhtoonkhawa.

The Federal Minister credited the engineers and scientists for having made Pakistan a nuclear power.

“People are the fountain head of real power but the engineers are the real backbone of the country," Khurshid Shah remarked while making a special mention of Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan for his contribution in transforming Pakistan into a nuclear state.  

“Our engineers have the vision and the capability to take the country to another level. We will continue to march forward if they utilize their energies in a more productive manner,” he emphasized.

He pointed out that currently Pakistan was facing many pressing issues with the energy being on top of the list.

“If our engineers can construct Chashma Nuclear and Taunsa Barrage projects with better planning, they can surmount this issue as well. I am confident that the engineering community can lead the turnaround. You have been blessed with enormous skills and your proven track record makes us proud,” Khurshid Shah noted.

He said that Pakistan cannot afford to spend 60 billion rupees every month just to import furnace oil for producing 6-7 thousand MW of electricity.

He recalled that the country started establishing furnace oil based power units in 1978 only because of its being the cheapest fuel at that time, without planning for the future prospects and the result was that as against a 60 paisa per unit production cost at that time, electricity was being generated today at Rs 21 per unit.

The Federal Minister observed that if the country does not buy furnace oil, it plunges into darkness and of makes such a massive spending, the national kitty goes empty.

He advised the engineers to work on wind, solar and other modes of power generation with emphasis on effective utilization of Thar Coal which is bound to bring a revolution in the economy as the government has decided to have all power generation projects in future to be coal based.  

“It would cost Rs 200 billion if coal is imported to produce 20,000 MW of electricity but if indigenous coal is used and power generation costs Rs 8 per unit, this tariff will remain the same even after 10 yeas. The present government’s strategy is to use our own coal reserves which are one of the largest in the world and this would provide such a big boost to our economy that by 2015, the dollar can come to the Rs 60 level,” he thought.

Stressing upon the engineers to work on solar energy, he pointed out that if the foreign engineers can manufacture cheaper solar panels then why not ours could do the same by mobilizing their talents and energies.

“If there is a will, there is a way. We have to build the future of Pakistan with your vision and our political will. Together we will make a stronger and more resourceful Pakistan,” he hoped. Khurshid Shah said that despite various ups and downs and the heavy odds being faced by the present government, it was meeting the challenge with all patience and tolerance as it believes that the country cannot sustain conflicts between institutions.  

“Instead of indulging in conflicts, the country should have gone towards a direction where Pakistan would have been a power nation and it believes that instead of political in fight, the country should move towards socio-economic programmes with emphasis on health and education,” he stated.

He paid tributes to President Asif Ali Zardari who, he said, did not maintain his “qibla” on one direction but if he went to US and UK, he also went to China and Russia and is the first leader to promote economic ties with India.

He reckoned that the government could be criticized unjustly but the fact is that revenue collection during its rule jumped from Rs 900 billion to Rs 1900 billion and it is the first government to return 1.2 billion dollars against the loan obtained from World Bank.

Similarly, he said, the foreign remittances increased from 5.2 billion to 13 billion dollars because of their efforts which resulted in the increase of work force abroad from 2.5 lacs to 4 lacs. The Federal Minister said that despite the resource constrains, the present government spent billions on Swat migration, 2010 floods and 2011 rains having distributed the amount to the people in a transparent way.  

Sir Syed University participates in RCTD video conference

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi
(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Various universities and institutions of Pakistan participated in an international workshop, organized by the Research Center for Training & Development (RCTD), Lahore, through a video link.  

From Karachi, the Sir Syed University of Engineering & Technology (SSUET) participated in the international research workshop on ‘Mastering Qualitative Research Methodology and Analyzing Qualitative Data using advanced Research Computer Software and Applications’ through the video conferencing link.

In this regard the SSUET’s Network Team provided complete technical assistance for the two-day workshop which was attended by its 40 faculty members who presented case studies on qualitative research in Engineering Sciences.

The international workshop was conducted by a renowned professor from Cambridge University, UK, and it registered participation from different universities and research institutions linked together by HD Video.

They discussed the integration of qualitative methods in addressing research questions/objectives, the theoretical foundations and their practical applications.

The workshop helped the researchers to efficiently design their path to produce high quality thesis and papers.

Case-study based methodology was adopted by the researchers and resource persons with various cases and examples from their own disciplines.

The workshop methodology included lectures, presentations, case studies, use of software and robust training techniques.

At the SSUET, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr Jawaid H Rizvi was the Chief Organizer of the workshop, while Dr Naila Rozi and Abdul Moid Khan worked as workshop coordinators. 

Liaquat Ali Khan Day observed at Sir Syed University

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi  
(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Glowing tributes were paid to Pakistan’s first Prime Minister Quaid-e-Millat Liaquat Ali Khan at a seminar held under the auspices of Sir Syed University of Engineering & Technology (SSUET, Karachi, on the occasion of his 117th birth anniversary. 

The speakers on the occasion shed light on the life of the great Liaquat Ali Khan, one of the founding fathers of the country, and recounted his accomplishments during the Pakistan Movement and after the creation of Pakistan in 1947. 

Liaquat Ali Khan, born on October 1, 1895, was educated at the Aligarh Muslim University and the Oxford University. He rose to prominence quite early in his career and was also the influential member of the Muslim League, advocating and determining to eradicate the injustices and ill treatment meted out to the Indian Muslims by the foreign rulers. 

Addressing the seminar as chief guest, Engr Adil Usman, Vice-President, Aligarh Muslim University Old Boys Association (AMUOBA), observed that today we are living in an independent state with complete respect and dignity and which came into being as a result of historic struggle waged by leaders like Nawabzada Liaquat Ali Khan under the dynamic leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Mohammed Ali Jinnah. 

“He fully supported the Quaid in his long and arduous journey which finally stood rewarded on August 14, 1947 when Pakstan appeared on the world map as a homeland for the Muslims of South Asia. 

In his speech, Saeed Ahmed Siddiqi, a senior Aligarian now in his 90s, described Liaquat Ali Khan as a courageous leader and said that despite immense odds he refused to devalue Pakistan’s currency and presented three surplus budgets in a row. 

Another speaker, Mehfooz-un-Nabi Khan, reckoned that the youth can bring about a revolutionary change in the society with commitment to the principles laid down by Liaquat Ali Khan and the ideology he pursued. 

Other speakers on the occasion included Umar Khan, Sana Haider and Nazeer Channa while renowned poet Khumar Farooqui presented poetic homage to the legendary leader.

SSUET, KCCI reiterate close coordination

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi  
(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI) has reiterated its close coordination with the Sir Syed University of Engineering and Technology (SSUET), Karachi, for research and development in the industrial field. 

An assurance in this regard came from the newly elected KCCI President, Mohammed Haroon Agar, in a meeting with the SSIET Registrar, Shah Mahmood Hussain Syed, who called on him at KCCI Head Office on October 2. 

 Haroon Agar said that the Chamber was already coordinating with the SSUET and working in close proximity with the University to promote research and development (R&D) for the benefit of the industrial sector.

He said that he along with the members of the Managing Committee will soon visit the SSUET to further strengthen the already existing working relationship between the two institutions. 

On the occasion Registrar Shah Mahmood informed that upon the advice of KCCI's proposal the SSUET carried out a survey of industrial sector to determine the various industries keeping their immediate requirement.

He pointed out that the SSUET was producing over a hundred projects, mostly relating to industrial sector and if put to application, these could provide beneficial for the industrial sector. In this regard the role of KCCI will prove highly beneficial. 

The newly elected Senior Vice-President, Shamim A. Firpo, and Member Managing Committee, Asif Bega, were also present in the meeting. 

Asif Bega stressed the need for innovative projects for textile sector believing that the University can help this sector in a big way. 

The KICCI President, Haroon Agar, described the SSUET as a valuable asset in the field of engineering and he along with his Managing Committee looked forward to visiting the University in order to discuss further proposals for enhanced coordination.