KARACHI: The Institute of Business Management (IoBM), New Horizon, and Huawei Technologies hosted an event to showcase how their newly deployed IT infrastructure is transforming the work environment.

This initiative aims to streamline day-to-day and strategic objectives, make IoBM a paperless institution, enhance its LMS software, improve data security, facilitate remote learning, enable efficient resource management, and support innovative teaching methodologies.

Speaking on the occasion, Sindh Higher Education Commission (SHEC) Chairman Prof DrTariq Rafi noted that only a select few universities have undertaken such significant IT initiatives.

He emphasised the importance of collaboration among universities, stating that working in isolation will not yield meaningful results. “Even with technological advancements, human interaction remains essential,” he added.

IoBM showcases new IT infrastructure transformation

Talib Karim, President of IoBM, emphasised the necessity of a robust IT infrastructure for researchers, students, and faculty to remain competitive on a global scale. He stated that, with Dr. Imran Batada’s proposal and the support of IoBM’s Board, the digital infrastructure has been successfully implemented. He added that technology will increasingly dominate processes, and it is crucial to be prepared for this transformation.

M Bashir Janmohammad, Chairman of the Board at IoBM, underscored that IT development is essential to Pakistan’s future. He emphasised IoBM’s commitment to driving the nation’s technological advancement and innovation through strategic initiatives.

Dr Imran Batada, Chief Digital Officer and Director of CIT at IoBM, emphasised that digital disruption and transformation will profoundly reshape the academic industry in the twenty-first century. He highlighted the critical importance of integrating advanced technologies to enhance educational methodologies.

A key feature of the event was a panel discussion on “Redefining Higher Education in a Digitally Disrupted World.” Moderated by Dr Batada, the panellists included Muhammad Zohaib Khan, Chairman of Pasha; Jibran Jamshad, CPO and Education Lead at Microsoft; Asif Jafri, CEO of Kistpay and Director of E-Ocean Pvt. Ltd.; and Azhar Nawaz, Chief Information Officer at Engro Corp.

The speakers shared a common consensus that technology and digital transformation will provide the acumen and direction needed to revolutionise educational methodologies, enhance learning experiences, and prepare students for future challenges.

They also emphasised that embracing digital innovation is crucial for modernising offices and organisations, enabling them to operate more efficiently and effectively in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Published in Dawn, August 1st, 2024