Pakistan gets first industrial AI hub

Centre will integrate manufacturing tech, applied research to improve product quality

ISLAMABAD:

A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed to establish Pakistan's first-ever Center for Industrial Innovation and AI (CIINAI) at the National University of Technology (NUTECH), Islamabad, according to a statement on Thursday.

The MoU was signed between the Pakistan Industrial Development Corporation (PIDC), NUTECH and NED University of Engineering and Technology, Karachi.

Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Haroon Akhtar Khan said the centre marks a historic milestone in Pakistan's industrial development. He said strengthening collaboration between industry, academia and research institutions remains a government priority.

The centre will integrate advanced manufacturing technologies, artificial intelligence and applied research under one platform to enhance industrial productivity, improve product quality and strengthen competitiveness in international markets.

The centre will be established by PIDC at its Korangi Creek Industrial Park, Karachi, where it will function as a common facility and training centre. It will provide industrial AI solutions, advanced manufacturing support, research and development, and technical training programmes.

The MoU was signed by PIDC CEO Rizwan Ahmed Bhatti, NUTECH Registrar Brig Salman Zafar (retd) and NED UET Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Muhammad Tufail.