Swabi - Ghulam Ishaq Khan (GIK) Institute of Engineering Sciences and Technology and Capital Smart City (CSC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to drive innovation and strengthen academic-industry linkages, according to a press release issued on Saturday.
The signing ceremony was attended by Shakil Durrani, Executive Director of the Society for the Promotion of Engineering Sciences and Technology in Pakistan (SOPREST); Prof S M Hasan Zaidi, Rector of GIK Institute; along with senior faculty members.
A key component of the MoU is the establishment of a Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence and Data Sciences at CSC. Capital Smart City will provide the necessary smart infrastructure, while GIK Institute will deliver high-quality academic services, including curriculum development, faculty, and allied academic staff. The partnership aims to create a comprehensive platform for cutting-edge research, innovation, and talent development.
Speaking at the event, Shakil Durrani remarked, “Smart people have come together to provide a smart environment for the country,” emphasizing the importance of collaborative innovation in addressing the technological and developmental challenges of today’s rapidly evolving world.
Prof Zaidi outlined the broader goals of the partnership, noting that the collaboration will integrate several of GIK Institute’s ongoing projects across various smart city domains, creating a unified framework for innovation and societal benefit.
“This partnership reflects our shared vision to move beyond theory into real-world impact — where ideas are tested, solutions are scaled, and students graduate with the tools to lead,” he added.
The partnership also envisions joint ventures with global tech and industry leaders such as Alibaba Cloud, Sky47, Geely, CATL, and several top Chinese universities. Areas of collaboration include cloud computing, artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, environmental safety, battery management systems, and new energy vehicles.
These collaborations are expected to bring international expertise, state-of-the-art technologies, and advanced research opportunities to Pakistan.
Both institutions reaffirmed their strong commitment to transforming education and urban development through strategic alliances, with the aim of creating a smarter, more connected future for the country.
