Karachi (HRNW)- The Vice Chancellor of the University of Karachi Professor Dr Muhammad Tufail Jokhio inaugurated the digital lab at the KU’s Department of Mass Communication on Tuesday. The Orange Tree Foundation has provided financial and technical support in establishing the digital lab for the final-year students of the department.
Addressing the ceremony, the KU VC Professor Dr Muhammad Tufail has stated that alumni of the University of Karachi are rendering distinguished services in diverse fields across the globe, which is a matter of pride for their alma mater.
He emphasized that the University of Karachi possesses 75 years of academic, research, and educational experience, and during this period its graduates have proven their abilities both nationally and internationally.
Professor Dr Muhammad Tufail recalled that until 1977, the University of Karachi was the only university in the city, from where engineers, doctors, lawyers, business leaders, and experts in various disciplines received their education. In this regard, the University of Karachi has played a fundamental role in the academic, professional, and economic development of Karachi.
He observed that alumni residing abroad are keen to contribute positively to the development of their alma mater and to strengthen the alumni community of the university. However, he stressed that it is essential to clearly inform them about the specific sectors and purposes for which their assistance will be utilized. He observed that equally important is to assure them that their contributions will be employed transparently, effectively, and in the right direction. He expressed these views while addressing the inaugural ceremony of the digital lab.
The KU VC Professor Dr Muhammad Tufail added that if alumni are provided with adequate information, transparency, and confidence, a large number of individuals will come forward to give back to their alma mater and play their part in its advancement.
According to him, supporting universities is, in fact, an investment in the education and training of future generations of the country. Therefore, clear planning and the provision of effective platforms are necessary for this purpose.
He expressed his gratitude to the Global Chief Executive Officer of the Orange Tree Foundation Omer Mateen Allahwala for providing direct financial assistance to students. He described such initiatives as highly commendable in fulfilling the educational needs of students and emphasized that maintaining transparency and effectiveness in this process is a significant responsibility.
He remarked that merely presenting good proposals is not sufficient; true success is achieved when students and researchers meet the expectations attached to them through their performance. He highlighted that the newly established digital lab will play an important role in the practical training, research, and professional skill development of students.
He urged students to uphold moral values alongside academic, research, and professional growth. He emphasized that family values, cultural traditions, and ethical principles form the foundation of an individual’s personality and professional character, and these must never be compromised.
Speaking on the subject of Artificial Intelligence, the KU VC Professor Dr Muhammad Tufail noted that benefiting from modern technology is an essential requirement of the present era. However, he cautioned that its use must remain within the framework of ethical principles, human values, and responsible conduct. He advised students to always prioritize honesty, responsibility, and ethical standards in their academic and research activities.
Earlier, the Global CEO of the OTF Omer Mateen Allahwala stated that students should prove themselves by utilizing their creative thinking, abilities, and innovative ideas. He affirmed that opportunities and platforms are available to them, while it is the responsibility of institutions, public and private sectors to provide necessary support and resources.
Addressing the students, he encouraged them to present their ideas and strive to demonstrate their capabilities in practical terms. He assured that if students prove themselves through hard work, competence, and creativity, they will be provided with further scholarships and assistance in the future.
He emphasized that the scholarships awarded to students of the KU’s MCD are merely the beginning. He urged students to continue showcasing their talents, assuring them that the Foundation stands firmly by their side and will continue to provide them with ample opportunities and maximum support to move forward.
On this occasion, the KU’s Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences Professor Dr Samina Saeed remarked that digital media has become an essential requirement of the modern age. Therefore, adapting to the demands of contemporary times is unavoidable. She stressed that educational institutions and departments must take effective measures to acquaint students with modern technology and digital resources.
Another speaker, the Chairperson of the KU’s MCD Dr Sadia Mahmood informed the audience that the Orange Tree Foundation has provided 25 modern laptops for the establishment of the digital lab, which will particularly benefit final-year students.
She further shared that over the past two years, more than 70 students of the department have been awarded scholarships by the OTF. Additionally, students suffering from serious illnesses such as cancer are not only being provided financial assistance but also support for their medical treatment, travel facilities, and other related expenses, all of which are being borne by the OTF.
She praised the initiatives of the Orange Tree Foundation in offering educational support, providing modern facilities, and sponsoring deserving students of the University of Karachi. She described these efforts as highly commendable, reflecting the OTF’s deep association, sincerity, and philanthropic spirit towards the University of Karachi and its students.
Dr Sadia Mahmood shared that the inauguration of the digital lab marks a significant milestone in equipping students with modern technological tools and enhancing their research and professional skills.
She observed that the collaboration between the University of Karachi and the Orange Tree Foundation demonstrates a shared commitment to advancing education, supporting students, and preparing future generations to meet the challenges of the digital age.
According to her, the event underscored the importance of alumni engagement, transparency in support initiatives, and the integration of ethical values with technological progress, thereby setting a strong foundation for the continued growth and excellence of the University of Karachi.
