SDG 9: Industry Innovation and Infrastructure

Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering Sciences and Technology (GIKI) and Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company (SECMC) signed an MoU to promote industry-academia collaboration, joint training, conferences, publications, material exchange, and industrial visits.

Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering Sciences and Technology (GIKI) and Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company (SECMC) recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote industry-academia collaboration. This partnership focuses on joint training programs, conferences, publications, material exchange, and industrial visits, creating a platform for students, researchers, and professionals to collaborate on innovative projects and practical solutions. Through this MoU, GIKI students and faculty will gain direct exposure to industry practices and cutting-edge technologies, while SECMC will benefit from the academic expertise and research capabilities of GIKI.

This collaboration aligns closely with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, which emphasizes the importance of fostering innovation, building resilient infrastructure, and promoting sustainable industrialization. By facilitating industry-academia partnerships, this initiative supports the development of more robust educational frameworks and practical training programs that equip students with the skills necessary for the evolving demands of the workforce. The joint efforts in research, development, and innovation will contribute to creating a more sustainable and efficient industrial sector, ultimately driving technological advancements and promoting economic growth. Through such initiatives, the MoU helps bridge the gap between academic knowledge and industrial application, aligning with the goals of SDG 9 to build resilient infrastructure, promote sustainable industries, and foster innovation.

Shell Tameer team conducted campus drive at @The Catalyst GIK Incubator

The Shell Tameer team conducted a campus drive at The Catalyst GIK Incubator, engaging with students and aspiring entrepreneurs to explore opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, and industry collaboration. The drive aimed to identify and support talented individuals with entrepreneurial potential, offering them the resources, mentorship, and networks necessary to turn their ideas into impactful businesses. Through this initiative, Shell Tameer seeks to foster a culture of innovation and sustainable business practices, empowering students to create solutions that address real-world challenges and contribute to economic growth.

This initiative is directly aligned with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, which focuses on building resilient infrastructure, promoting sustainable industries, and encouraging innovation. By supporting entrepreneurship and fostering the development of new businesses, the campus drive contributes to creating more inclusive and sustainable industrial practices. It encourages the growth of startups that are not only technologically innovative but also environmentally and socially responsible. The drive enhances the capacity of young entrepreneurs to innovate, thus driving sustainable industrial development and fostering economic growth, in line with the goals of SDG 9.

Ecozindagi a Start-Up from Pak Austria Fachhochschule has Participated in Zindigi Prize Competition & secured 8 Position among 80 plus Start-Ups held on 23rd August to 25th August 2024 at GIK Institute

Ecozindagi ( Start-Up) focuses on sustainable solutions for waste management and renewable energy. They specialize in converting organic waste into valuable resources like compost and biogas through innovative technologies. Their mission is to create environmentally friendly, scalable solutions that promote energy self-sufficiency and contribute to a cleaner, greener future for communities.

Industrial Study Visit of FEE Students to Bestway Cement Limited Taxila

On December 1, 2022, the Faculty of Electrical Engineering (FEE) at GIK Institute organized an industrial visit to Bestway Cement Limited, Taxila for the second-year students of FEE. Faculty members Dr. Waleed Tariq Sethi, Engr. Afaq Hussain, and Mazhar Javed accompanied the students during the visit. The students explored key facilities, including the 132 kV Electrical substation, the 20 MW Solar farm, the cement manufacturing processes, and the waste heat recovery power plant.

This visit directly aligns with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, as it provided students with a firsthand understanding of how electrical engineering is applied in industrial settings, particularly in the cement manufacturing sector. By exploring renewable energy sources like the solar farm and learning about energy efficiency technologies like waste heat recovery, the students were exposed to innovative solutions for sustainable industrial processes. The visit also showcased the integration of clean energy technologies and advanced manufacturing processes, reinforcing the importance of sustainable infrastructure in driving economic growth and industrial innovation.

Workshop on ” Art of Pitching by Miss Najam us Sahar by GIK Catalyst Incubator

Workshop on ” Business Model Canvas” by Mr. Waqas Ali

A delegation from the University of West Scotland visited GIK Institute, interacted with students, and discussed academic collaborations, including scholarships, joint research, student & faculty exchange

Workshop on “Branding Science From Basics to Brilliance” by Engr Shahab Hadi

A workshop titled “Branding Science: From Basics to Brilliance” was conducted by Engr. Shahab Hadi, the Founding CEO of BeOner Group of Companies and General Secretary of Digital Transformation Movement Pakistan (DTMP). A serial entrepreneur, Amazon seller, and digital marketing expert, Engr. Shahab shared his extensive knowledge and experience in building strong, impactful brands in the digital age. Through his insights on the fundamentals of branding, strategic marketing, and leveraging digital platforms, he provided attendees with practical tools to elevate their business identities and create lasting connections with their target audience. His expertise in digital transformation and e-commerce, combined with his leadership in driving innovation, helped guide aspiring entrepreneurs toward achieving business excellence.

This workshop is closely aligned with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, which aims to promote sustainable industrialization, foster innovation, and build resilient infrastructure. By empowering entrepreneurs with the skills to create strong, innovative brands, the workshop contributes to the growth of new industries and the digital economy. Engr. Shahab’s focus on branding and digital marketing also supports the growth of startups and small businesses, enabling them to scale effectively and compete in the global market. Through these efforts, the workshop plays a role in driving innovation, enhancing the capacity of businesses to adapt to changing market conditions, and promoting sustainable industrial development, all of which are key aspects of SDG 9.

Rector, Prof. Dr. Fazal A. Khalid, participated in the VCs – CEOs Panel Discussion on “Ways and Means to Strengthen Industry Academia Linkage”, Pakistan Chemical Expo 2023

Rector, Prof. Dr. Fazal A. Khalid, participated in the VCs – CEOs Panel Discussion on “Ways and Means to Strengthen Industry-Academia Linkage” at the Pakistan Chemical Expo 2023. The discussion focused on bridging the gap between industry and academia, fostering closer collaboration to enhance innovation, research, and development in the chemical and industrial sectors.

This participation aligns with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, as it emphasizes the importance of strengthening industry-academia partnerships to promote innovation and the development of sustainable industries. By discussing strategies to enhance collaboration, the event underscored the role of educational institutions in driving industrial growth through research and technological advancements, ultimately contributing to the growth of a more resilient and sustainable infrastructure. Strengthening these linkages also supports the creation of more innovative solutions and job opportunities, fostering the overall development of inclusive industries that drive economic growth.

Workshop on “Conflict Management and Resolution at Workplace” by Dr. Muhammad Aleem

A workshop on “Conflict Management and Resolution at the Workplace” was conducted by Dr. Muhammad Aleem, a distinguished academic and the Head of the Department of Management Sciences at CECOS University of IT and Emerging Sciences in Peshawar. With a PhD in Management Sciences and a wealth of experience in academia, Dr. Aleem shared valuable strategies for effectively managing and resolving conflicts in professional settings. His insights into conflict resolution not only equipped participants with practical tools to handle workplace challenges but also emphasized the importance of fostering collaborative, productive work environments. By focusing on building strong communication skills, promoting teamwork, and resolving disputes efficiently, the workshop aimed to create harmonious workplaces where employees can thrive and contribute to organizational success.

This workshop is directly linked to SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, which promotes the development of resilient industries and encourages innovation in organizational practices. Effective conflict management plays a critical role in maintaining a productive and innovative workplace environment, ensuring that teams can collaborate effectively and drive progress. By enhancing workplace dynamics and fostering positive, collaborative cultures, the workshop contributes to the growth of sustainable and resilient industries. Conflict-free, well-managed work environments are essential for driving innovation, building strong infrastructure, and supporting the long-term success of industries, aligning with the objectives of SDG 9.

Session: “Team Building and Team Work , Essentials of Management ” by Ms. Saniya Mazher.

A session on “Team Building and Teamwork: Essentials of Management” was conducted by Ms. Saniya Mazher, a seasoned professional with over 16 years of experience in the telecommunications industry. With expertise spanning Design Thinking, Customer Experience, Service Design, Product Innovation, and Digital Strategy Transformation, Ms. Mazher shared valuable insights on fostering effective teamwork and leadership within organizations. She emphasized the importance of collaboration, creativity, and strategic communication in building high-performing teams. As a Design Thinking evangelist, she inspired participants to embrace innovative methodologies to solve complex business challenges, highlighting how these principles can be applied to create user-centric solutions and drive organizational success.

This session aligns closely with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, which focuses on promoting innovation, building resilient infrastructure, and fostering sustainable industrial growth. By emphasizing teamwork, leadership, and innovation, the session directly contributes to developing the human capital needed to drive forward-looking, resilient industries. Effective team building and collaboration are key drivers of innovation and sustainable business practices, which are integral to the growth of industries and the advancement of digital and technological transformations. Ms. Mazher’s focus on Design Thinking also aligns with SDG 9’s goals to encourage creative problem-solving and product innovation, thereby contributing to building industries that are both resilient and adaptive in the face of rapid technological change.

Workshop on “Product Market Fit The Key to Success” by Pir Amad Ali Shah.

A workshop on “Product Market Fit: The Key to Success” was conducted by Pir Amad Ali Shah, an experienced mentor with over six years of experience guiding more than 400 startups. With a strong commitment to fostering innovation and supporting the entrepreneurial ecosystem, Pir Amad Ali Shah shared valuable insights on how startups can align their products with market demands to achieve sustainable growth. His extensive background in business development, team building, marketing strategies, fundraising, and startup investment made the workshop a rich resource for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to scale their businesses effectively. Additionally, his experience as an Assistant Professor and his time in the software development industry enabled him to connect with and inspire the next generation of innovators.

This workshop directly aligns with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, which emphasizes the importance of fostering innovation and building resilient industries. By equipping startups with the tools to achieve product-market fit, the session supports the growth of new businesses and promotes sustainable industrial development. The focus on product-market fit is critical for ensuring that startups can adapt to market needs and scale successfully, which in turn drives innovation and strengthens industry infrastructure. Pir Amad Ali Shah’s work in mentoring and nurturing entrepreneurial talent is a vital contribution to creating sustainable, innovative industries, furthering the goals of SDG 9.

Workshop on “Developing a Content Marketing Strategy” by Ms. Khadija Khan

A workshop on “Developing a Content Marketing Strategy” was conducted by Ms. Khadija Khan, the CEO of Pink Star Academy, trainer, and freelance writer. The session provided valuable insights into creating effective content marketing strategies, including identifying target audiences, choosing appropriate marketing channels, and aligning content with business objectives. Through interactive activities and discussions, participants were able to deepen their understanding of strategic marketing concepts and how to apply them in real-world business scenarios. Ms. Khadija’s expertise in content creation and digital marketing empowered attendees with the skills needed to build robust marketing plans that can drive business growth and engagement.

This workshop aligns with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, which focuses on promoting innovation, building resilient industries, and fostering sustainable business practices. By equipping participants with the tools to develop content marketing strategies, the session contributed to strengthening the digital marketing infrastructure essential for modern businesses. Effective content marketing is a critical component of business innovation, allowing companies to adapt to market changes and reach new audiences through creative and impactful storytelling. As businesses increasingly rely on digital platforms to engage with consumers, the skills imparted in this workshop support the growth of innovative industries and the development of sustainable business models, directly contributing to the objectives of SDG 9.

The Catalyst GIK Incubator has hosted Three Days Entrepreneurship ( B.E.S.T Bootcamp) organized by RED International.

The Bootcamp kicked off with an epic ice-breaking session, sparking connections and setting the stage for collaboration and creativity! 🤝✨ From fun games to engaging activities, our participants are already forming bonds that will drive innovation and success. 🚀 From inspiring sessions to hands-on learning, our participants showed incredible enthusiasm and dedication. Here’s to empowering more minds and making a lasting impact.

This Bootcamp aligns with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, which emphasizes fostering innovation, building resilient industries, and promoting sustainable development. By creating a space for collaboration, creativity, and practical learning, the Bootcamp nurtured the entrepreneurial mindset and problem-solving skills necessary to drive innovation. The connections made during the ice-breaking activities, as well as the hands-on experience gained throughout the program, will equip participants with the tools to contribute to the growth of innovative industries and strengthen the infrastructure of the future. This initiative plays a key role in empowering the next generation of leaders to innovate and shape industries that are resilient, sustainable, and adaptable to future challenges.

With over 32 years of rich experience and an M.Phil. degree in Development Studies, Mr. Ehtisham Ahmad has developed exceptional skills in civil-military coordination, humanitarian and socio-economic issues, and youth development. His extensive experience, particularly in Pakistan and within the UN work environment, has enabled him to mentor and empower young minds across Pakistan. Known for his exceptional interpersonal and teaching skills, Mr. Ahmad is passionate about grooming the youth, addressing mindset and motivation challenges, and enhancing their understanding of security institutions. His training sessions have had a significant impact on students and faculty in various colleges and universities in KPK, helping to shape future leaders and encourage continuous improvement.

This work is closely aligned with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, which aims to foster innovation, promote sustainable industrialization, and build resilient infrastructure. By empowering young people with the knowledge, skills, and mindset to drive positive change, Mr. Ahmad’s efforts contribute to creating a more skilled and innovative workforce. His focus on personal development, mindset transformation, and addressing misconceptions helps prepare the youth to contribute to the growth of industries, the development of sustainable infrastructure, and the advancement of innovative solutions for socio-economic challenges. By nurturing the next generation of leaders, he plays a key role in building the human capital essential for the sustainable growth of industries and the realization of SDG 9.

Workshop on “How to Start a Start-Up” by Mr. Mehtab Anwar

A workshop on **”How to Start a Start-Up”** was conducted by Mr. Mehtab Anwar, an accomplished entrepreneur with a Bachelor’s degree in Mechatronics Engineering and a Master’s in Computer Science. Mr. Anwar is the Founder of STEAM Minds, an EdTech startup focused on personalized, gamified, and immersive STEM education, as well as the CEO of Robotics-World, a technology-based organization providing robotics lab design and industrial automation solutions. With his extensive expertise in mechatronics, robotics, automation, AI, and machine learning, Mr. Anwar shared invaluable insights on starting and scaling a successful startup. His experience in developing innovative learning platforms using game-based VR, AR, and other technologies, along with his leadership at Startup Grind, makes him a pivotal figure in empowering young entrepreneurs and innovators.

This workshop directly aligns with **SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure**, which seeks to promote sustainable industrialization, foster innovation, and build resilient infrastructure. Mr. Anwar’s focus on STEAM education, robotics, and industrial automation plays a crucial role in driving innovation within technology-driven industries. By mentoring the next generation of entrepreneurs and equipping them with the knowledge to create innovative products and solutions, he is contributing to the growth of resilient and sustainable industries. His work supports SDG 9 by encouraging the development of cutting-edge technologies and fostering the creation of new startups that are adaptable, innovative, and capable of driving economic growth and technological advancement.

Session: “Personal and Professional Development, Negotiation Skills, and Conflict Resolution” by Mr. Salman Ahmad

A session on **”Personal and Professional Development, Negotiation Skills, and Conflict Resolution”** was conducted by Mr. Salman Ahmad, a seasoned leader and entrepreneur who has significantly contributed to Peshawar’s startup ecosystem. Co-founder of a social enterprise that used technology, design, and art to revitalize the city’s business landscape, Salman has over 15 years of experience as an Assistant Professor at Edwardes College. With a background in management sciences and business incubation, honed through the Australia Awards program at the University of Queensland, he actively mentors young entrepreneurs and facilitates events like TechStars Startups Weekends. His expertise in management, leadership, and negotiation has empowered many individuals to develop their skills and transform their ideas into viable businesses. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in management, Salman’s work in fostering entrepreneurship and innovation is central to building a more robust and sustainable business environment.

This session strongly aligns with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, which focuses on fostering innovation, building resilient industries, and promoting sustainable economic growth. By providing mentorship and facilitating key skills such as negotiation, conflict resolution, and leadership development, Salman is directly contributing to the growth of Peshawar’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and helping create a more dynamic and innovative business landscape. His efforts to establish the city as a hub for technological and entrepreneurial growth are essential for building sustainable infrastructure and encouraging industry innovation. By empowering young entrepreneurs and providing the tools they need to succeed, Mr. Salman is actively supporting SDG 9 and contributing to the development of resilient and innovative industries in Pakistan.