Minister for Industries and Production visits KE’s Bin Qasim Power Station 3

Karachi: Minister for Industries and Production Makhdum Khusro Bakhtyar today met with KE’s Senior Management at the company’s Bin Qasim Power Complex to review the progress on K-Electric’s mega-project Bin Qasim Power Station 3 (BQPS-III), which will add 900 MW to K-Electric’s generation capacity and bolster the future of Karachi’s growth.

Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, 900 MW plant is being built at an estimated cost of around USD 650 million to generate clean and reliable energy for Karachi.

Upon completion, the power plant will be among the top 5 most efficient plants in the country. Work on the first unit of 450 MW is 90 percent complete while the second phase of 450 MW is also proceeding swiftly.

Minister appreciated K-Electric’s efforts to make sustained investments for Karachi’s betterment. He said, “Karachi is an industrial hub for the country and the focus of my visit was to see the progress across sectors.

It is encouraging to see the progressive vision that is driving KE’s efforts. Industries are the engine of our economy and the Government is committed to supporting their growth through enabling policies.

There is tremendous potential for investment in Pakistan, and a robust utility supply is integral to achieving this. The addition of 900 MW for Karachi is a gift to the people and the industries here, and it would be a great honor for the plant to be formally inaugurated by the Prime Minister upon its completion.”

Growth in power demand in KE’s service area is expected to remain above 5% and KE expects over 700 MW of new connections in next 2 years, with more than half in the industrial segment.

Construction works on BQPS-III plant started in December 2019 and work is progressing on a fast-track basis for completion of the plant to keep pace with the demand growth of the city.

In August 2021, K-Electric entered into a Gas Supply Agreement (GSA) with Pakistan LNG Limited (PLL) for the provision of 150 mmcfd RLNG to KE’s Bin Qasim Complex in the presence of Minister of Energy Hammad Azhar and SAPM Tabish Gauhar.

The GSA is the first of its kind where a government entity is directly providing gas to a private entity, and testifies to the Government’s commitment towards Karachi.

CEO K-Electric Moonis Alvi also thanked the Honorable Minister for his visit, commenting “BQPS-III is a collaboration between several stakeholders on both the engineering and financing side, which demonstrates the vision we all share for the prosperous future of our city, and for our country.

A stable, safe, and consistent supply of energy is crucial to sustaining continued development in Karachi, and KE is proud to be leading this effort for its customers.

We appreciate the support of the Federal Government and associated Ministries and look forward to embarking on a new era of progress and prosperity.”

At the same time, K-Electric has been working closely with the Federal Government and relevant stakeholders to establish new interconnections and grids at key locations which would enable Karachi to receive additional power from the National Grid, taking the total drawl from National Grid to 2,050 MW, which will cement the company’s mission to provide safe and reliable power to its growing customer base of 3.2 million and more.

Shoaib Akhtar lacks “tameez”, says Wasim Akram

Wasim Akram, former Pakistan captain, has slammed ex-speedster Shoaib Akhtar, stating he doesn’t understand why people take Akhtar seriously.

In answer, the former left-arm pacer chuckled and said: “Then appoint him as chairman. I’m not sure why people take Shoaib Akhtar’s words so seriously. A person who lacks “tameez” (manners) knows nothing about life” he continued.

When asked if local coaches could and should be appointed to the national team, Wasim Akram stated he wasn’t convinced any local coach would be suited to the job.

He further said, “Give me some names, give me an option amongst the local coaches and I will try and pick one good candidate but I doubt if there is any.”

“Javed bhai is a cricketing genius who has been connected with Pakistan cricket. He might serve as a cricket director or as a consultant. However, in order to be a coach, you must have been associated with Pakistan cricket for at least 10-15 years,” added he.

Responding to rumours that Babar Azam was dissatisfied with his T20 World Cup selection, Akram stated that the skipper was one of the finest batters in the world but that he would need to learn some things.

Wasim Akram answered, “not at all,” when asked if he had any influence on national team selection.

Korangi Mehran Town Factory fire case: Police interrogate K-Electric

Karachi: Police decided to interrogate Karachi Electric in the light of the statements of the arrested accused in Korangi Mehran Town factory fire incident

According to reports, Investigators contacted KE and thus claimed that an electrical short circuit in the factory caused the fire. A detailed statements of the arrested factory owners and others were also recorded.

Moreover, the police also interrogated about the details of how much load was approved for the factory, how much was used, how much load the factory wiring could withstand, and how many times it was inspected.

According to the investigators, the factory was rented by Ali Hassan Mehta, who holds a British citizenship, for Rs 300,000 a month. Luggage was prepared in the factory and sent abroad for sale, investigators added.

According to reports, a letter will be written to British Consulate to inform about the criminal negligence of the factory owner.

The factory owner, Hassan Ali Mehta, also used a single identity card number to register the names of two people, police added.

The FIR filed at the Korangi Industrial Area police station identified Mehta, Zaidi, two supervisors, Zafar and Rehan, and watchman Syed Zarin. The workers’ deaths were investigated under Sections 34 and 322 of the Penal Code.

16 workers killed in Mehran Town factory fire on August 27, as twas no emergency escape in the event of a mishap, and there was only one way out of the complex, investigators said.

According to the Karachi court, the fire department arrived late and the civil defence workers were inexperienced.

When the police questioned officials from the Sindh Building Control Authority and the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation, it was discovered that, according to the property papers, a residential building had been built in place of the factory.

K-electric’s response over Mehran Town Tragedy

The spokesman for K-Electric said that the tragedy of Mehran Town is very unfortunate for the loss of precious lives. He also said that the incident is not related to the electrical infrastructure, the internal wiring is the responsibility of the user.

However, he offered full cooperation in the investigation into the Mehran Town tragedy.

The spokesman added that acording to preliminary information, a standby generator was being used in the factory at the time of the fire.

The factory was given an industrial and a commercial connection under the rules, spokesman for Electric said

Stranded Ship refloats after 7 weeks

Karachi: The cargo ship that had been stranded on a Karachi beach for 48 days has finally begun to float on Tuesday.

The mission to recover the stranded cargo ship Hang Tong 77 from the port city’s shore has been successful, according to reports.

According to reports, tug vessels have assumed control of the ship, which is moving at a speed of three nautical miles.

The cargo ship detained by Pakistan govt, “will be taken to the harbour,” stated Commodore (retd) Obaidullah, a nautical expert. However, “only until the faults listed are resolved may this ship depart Karachi for any other destination.”

“Since there is no specific salvage firm in Pakistan, it took time for the trapped ship to be retrieved, according to Obaidullah, who added that three attempts to rescue the ship had previously been made.

He added Hang Tong 77 is being accompanied by two tugs, one of which is on standby while the other tows the cargo ship.

Stocks in the PSX-100 continued to fall

Karachi: Pakistani equities fell further on Tuesday, as investors remained concerned about the possibility of the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) being included into the Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) index.

Today, MSCI will announce Pakistan’s reclassification from Emerging Markets (EM) to Frontier Markets (FM).

On November 21, the semi-annual index review, the prospective reclassification is scheduled to happen all at once. The MSCI has extended its consultation period with market participants until August 31, 2021.

A dearth of positive triggers, as well as the approaching Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting on the policy rate later this month, forced investors to be cautious and resort to profit-taking.

The benchmark PSX-100 index began the day on a bullish note, but as the market became more unsettled, the index succumbed to selling pressure from the cement sector.

On Tuesday, the benchmark KSE-100 index fell 188.56 points, or 0.40 percent, to 46,729.96 points.

The benchmark PSX 100 index continued to fall, according to Topline Securities, due to fears about Pakistan’s reclassification from the MSCI Emerging Market Index to the MSCI Frontier Market Index, which is expected later this evening.

“Aggressive selling occurred in the cement sector as a result of increasing coal prices, and the sector closed down on an average of 1.45 percent for the day,” it stated.

Towing of the stranded ship at Clifton

Karachi: The two anchors have been installed in the ship today while the old one was removed from the shore. The new anchors were installed at a distance of 20 meters.

Moreover, two steel ropes are tied between the ship and the crane barge. It has been decided to use the cobra form to tow the ship

Since a ship as big as 100,000 tons is towed by a cobra rope.

To do that, field boats along with crane barges and tugboats also took part in today’s operation.

However, the towing operation could be halted if the tides are high tomorrow or can resume from Wednesday.

According to the details, the next four to five days are suitable for towing.

The Pits dug for anchors on the coast can be too dangerous for civilians, who come to the beach, are at risk of falling into the pits If not filled properly

A large number of citizens have fallen and died in the pits dug in the past, shipping agent sources said.

Misbah-ul-Haq and Waqar Younis resign as coaches

Lahore: National cricket team head coach Misbah-ul-Haq and bowling coach Waqar Younis both have resigned. The two coaches brought the decision inot PCB’s notice on Monday.

On September 12, the New Zealand cricket team will arrive in Pakistan to play three ODIs and five Twenty20 Internationals. In this series, Saqlain Mushtaq and Abdul Razzaq will be the interim coaches of the national cricket team.

Misbah-ul-Haq informed that he reviewed his 24 months during his quarantine in Jamaica and said that he knows that this is not a suitable time to take this decision but he is not in a frame of mind to face the challenges right now.

Haq further said that he wanted to spend time with his family.

On the other hand, Waqar Younis said that when Misbah-ul-Haq announced his decision to resign, he also decided the same.

Younis confirmed that he is very satisfied and happy to have been able to play with Pakistan’s young bowlers.

Chief Executive of PCB, Wasim Khan, said that he respects Misbah-ul-Haq’s decision. He also praised Haq’s efforts and devotion to Pakistan cricket.

Khan termed Waqar Younis’s decision as a bold one. “We have appointed Saqlain Mushtaq and Abdul Razzaq as interim coaches for the New Zealand series,” added he.

However, the team management for ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2021 is yet to be announced.

Ali Gul Pir trolls Nida Yasir for asking dumb questions

Ali Gul Pir, a renowned Pakistani actor, singer, and comedian, has created a rib-tickling spoof video of host Nida Yasir, which recently went viral on social media and had Twitterati rolling on the floor laughing.

Pir is gifted in the arts, mocked Nida Yasir as she befuddled two NUST students who had created their own Formula 1 racing car. “Morning shows host VS Engineers,” he captioned the Instagram video.

The Naadaaniyan actor can be seen in the 2016 video, which has been exposed to intense mocking, asking the guests about how racecars actually operate. The presenter then wonders if the Formula One vehicles can accommodate more than one person. One kid answered, “Actually, it’s a formula vehicle.” As a result, just one person sits.”

Nida then continued asking, “Oh, so it’s just a formula for the time being?” Have you ever experimented with a car?”

The engineers were perplexed, but answered, “No, it’s a formula vehicle.” and continued It’s a racing car.” Nida then inquired, “So, does it drive as quickly as a gasoline car?”

People also took to Twitter to share their two cents on host’s dumbfounded comments

 

Online Conference discuss need of Single National Curriculum

Karachi: Corporate Pakistan Group and Nutshell Conferences Group organised Online conference to discuss the need and importance of Single National Curriculum.

In its introductory session Federal Education Minister addressed about misunderstandings being generated regarding Single National Curriculum.

He said that, this is the first time in the history of Pakistan Single National Curriculum is introduced and it is hard task that may have many problems and hurdles.

States always want to set a minimum standard of quality education but unfortunately during 72 years of our country, education has been ignored but in the charter of PTI it has been given top priority.

The purpose of Single National Curriculum is to design method of learning initially from class I to V than VI to VIII and later than IX and X curriculum will also be prepared.

Shafqat Mehmood clarified that they are not going to replace any system of education whether it is O level or A level or Madaris, all can be continued. School may print/select their own syllabus but at least the standard of teaching and learning is fixed.

On reply of criticism on single syllabus, Shafqat Mehmood said that people think there would be one book for all children in Pakistan is not necessary.

We have designed model textbooks but it is not obligatory for them. Schools can select their own syllabus by taking NOC.

In the year of the same national curriculum had not been different from 2006 curriculum would not have been so much talk about it.

Further he said that schools are allowed to teach subjects of their own choice like music and Madaris can add Dars-e-Nizami with it.
English, Science and Mathematics will be taught in English language where as remaining subjects in Urdu.

To teach English in Pre Schooling teachers has to learn English as well. Teachers training programmes are also designed to train teachers that may have difficulties as well.

The conventional assessment system is, taking examination based on text books which is not sufficient to analyse learning outcomes of the students. Assessment system of National Curriculum is under process.

Punjab, KPK, Balochistan, Gilgit Baltistan and Azad Kashmir have been accepted National Curriculum but Sindh has objections on Sociology subject. Objections are very minor and can be resolved but it is not accepted on political basis.

Dr. Marrium Chugtai

Director of National Curriculum Council Mariam Chugtai said that many people are interested to be the part of curriculum development. Any suggestion from Teachers, Parents and Students will be appreciated.

The new syllabus from K.G to XII will be introduced within six months, uploaded on the website and feedback will be generated.

Previous syllabuses were compiled by educationists of Punjab Province only but this time the participation had been given to all the provinces.

A very flexible and impartial syllabus of Islamiyat is prepared with the consensus of religious scholars of all schools of thought.

People who are complaining about the shortage of books must be informed that several recommended publishers books are available on website.

Dr. Mariam Chughtai further said Government is in collaboration with google UK and other institutes to launch online teachers training programme.

She said unfortunately Urdu has been considered less important and criticised. If Private schools start Chinese to teach in their schools which will help to get corporate employment in future than no one will criticise but they should know that mother tongue has vital role in the process of learning.

The conference was also addressed by the director of Bloomfield School Shazia Asmat Zaidi, Head of ACCA Pakistan Sajeed Aslam, founder of rural development foundation Gul Mariam, Chief Exective of NBP Fund Dr. Amjad Waheed, Chairperson of Beaconhouse National University Nasreen Mehmood Qasoori, founder of Next Generation Professional Development Shagufta Jabeen, Managing Director Of Oxford University press Arshad Saeed Hussain, CEO of Roots Millennium Education Choudary Faisal Mushtaque, President of IBA Management Talib S. Karim, and discussed prose and corn and reservations regarding National Curriculum openly.

KE Teams work swiftly to restore power supply to Karachi

Karachi: KE teams remained active to restore power supply to Karachi following a tripping in the EHT transmission line which caused a disconnection between KE and NTDC circuits. This tripping was caused by a lightning strike on the NTDC’s 220 kV Jamshoro circuit.

KE’s power plants continued to operate in island mode which enabled swift restoration of power to Karachi. Restoration efforts were further expedited following reconnection between KE and National Grid.

KE teams were able to quickly restore power supply to all grids and began energizing the areas associated with these grids as well.

KE spokesperson commented on the efforts, stating, ’Our connection with the National Transmission Despatch Company (NTDC) has been completely restored.

Power supply to major parts of the city has also been completely reinstated. We are gradually energizing feeders in various localities our ground teams are available to rectify any localized fault.

Reports of sporadic rain across the city also slowed our progress as we had to initiate our safety protocols. Areas with high incidences of theft and illegal usage of electricity through kundas were kept off for safety reasons until ground teams provided clearance.”

At the time it is being written, K-Electric has restored power supply to various strategic locations including KWSB pumping stations, Karachi Airport among others.

Restored areas included but were not limited to: Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Defence, Federal B Area, Baloch Colony, KDA, Orangi Town, Surjani, Azizabad, Gulistan-e-Johar, Saddar, Landhi, Baldia, and Malir.

The utility remains available for any queries or complaints via its call center 118, SMS service 8119, KE Live App, and social media platforms.

The Exclusion of the Chapter on Out-of-School Children in the Education Stats Report Requires Immediate Redressal: ECN

Karachi: A joint statement was issued here in Islamabad by the Education Champion Network (ECN) demanding the immediate restoration of the chapter on out-of-children in the recently published Pakistan Education Statistics report published by the Academy of Educational Planning & Management (AEPAM), Government of Pakistan.

ECN is a platform of 13 civil society organizations advocating for 12 years of free, equitable, and quality education for every girl in Pakistan.

“For over 25 years, the Government of Pakistan through AEPAM has published the Annual Education Statistics report. This document is largely viewed as the single most important source of comprehensive and valuable data on Pakistan’s performance in the realm of education.

For more than a quarter of a century, it has served to provide key insights to policymakers and education activists around the country and even beyond,” explained Qamar Naseem, National Coordinator of Blue Veins.

“However, the most recent Pakistan Education Statistics Report 2017-18 published in January 2021 was not only released after an unprecedented delay of three years but also had the glaring absence of the chapter on out-of-school children,”

“With one of the largest numbers of out-of-school children in the world, it is imperative that Pakistan’s performance with regard to bringing more children into schools is put forth for public review,” stated Zehra Arshad, National Coordinator at Pakistan Coalition for Education.

Pakistan is a signatory to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and has also adopted the 2030 Agenda as part of its national development effort. A key pledge made by Pakistan in this regard focuses on ensuring 100% literacy by the year 2030.

“The sudden exclusion of the chapter on out-of-school children from the recent Pakistan Education Statistics report also prevents both the government and the civil society to effectively monitor the country’s progress towards achieving SDG 4, that is quality equitable education,” pointed out education activist, Moiz Hussain.

“As per the Pakistan Education Statistics 2016 – 2017 report, an estimated 22.8 million children in the country were out-of-school with the majority of these children being girls,” shared Madiha Rahman, Programs Director at AzCorp Entertainment.

Adding to this point, Lalah Rukh Fazal-ur-Rahman, founder of ScienceFuse further pointed out, “Following the advent of the pandemic, it is feared that an additional estimated 1 million children have permanently dropped-out. Under such dispiriting circumstances, the need to account for the most marginalized children is all the more important.”

Asserting the importance of restoring the chapter on out-of-school children, Partab Shivani, Executive Director of Thar Education Alliance said, “Data on the number of out-of-school children in Pakistan is perhaps the most important indicator reflecting Pakistan’s success or failure in living-up to its constitutional promise of ensuring free, compulsory and quality education for every Pakistani child.

In the absence of this data, it is impossible to ascertain if any substantial progress has been made or even if we’re headed in the right direction.”

Da Hawwa Lur (DHL), Social Youth Council of Patriots (SYCOP), Thar Education Alliance, Awaz Foundation, Pak Alliance for Maths and Science Welfare Trust (PAMS), AzCorp Entertainment, Orenda Project, Durbeen, Idara Baraye Taleem-o-Taraqi (IBT), Blue Veins, Science Fuse, Pakistan Youth Change Advocate (PYCA), Pakistan Coalition for Education (PCE)

US embassy calls the accused in Noor Muqadam case

US embassy officials have telephoned Zahir Jaffer, the accused in the Noor Muqadam case, in Adiala Jail.

Zahir Zakir Jaffer, the main accused in the Noor Muqadam murder case, has got consular access as he is a US citizen. It has been approved by the Punjab Home Department after the NOC of the Home Ministry.

Zakir Jaffer is currently locked in the high security barracks of Adiala Jail and has been contacted by US embassy officials by telephone confirmed Federal Ministry of Interior and the Punjab government.

According to the Prison officials, US embassy officials spoke with Zahir Jaffar for 25 minutes.

however, the accused, Jaffar, initially reiterated his position that he is a US citizen and local law does not apply to him.

Metro Commemorated Independence Day with Green Pakistan Campaign, Women Sports Festival

Lahore: As part of its Independence Day celebrations, METRO Pakistan, being a socially responsible corporate organization, joined the Government of Pakistan’s Green Pakistan initiative.

The largest tree plantation campaign, by distributing tree saplings to its customers, in collaboration with The Trust School Lahore.

METRO Pakistan believes that such initial steps will grow into larger actions to help the nation’s environmental issues.

METRO Pakistan has already carried out similar drives to make Pakistan green in the past.

In addition, METRO participated in the Independence Day Women Sports Festival organized by the Lahore College for Women University with the office of the Deputy Commissioner Lahore, and distributed gifts bags among the participants.

The players showcased their best skills in various sports including Cricket, Basketball, Volleyball, Handball, and Badminton.

The event was widely supported and attended by, among others, national players, the Provincial Ministers, and the Lahore administration.

Virtual Khuli Katchehri at the High Commission UK

London – Farah Kazmi: High Commissioner Moazzam Ahmad Khan held the 7th virtual ‘Khuli Katchehry’ with the Pakistani diaspora in the UK today. A large number of community members attended the virtual Katchehri.

During the interaction, the diaspora members sought redressal of their issues regarding visas, NICOPs, POCs, passports and property matters in Pakistan.

The High Commissioner redressed some of the problems instantly. He assured that the remaining issues would be taken up with the concerned authorities in Pakistan.

He also welcomed the suggestions of the diaspora members for the improvement of the services.

The diaspora members were particularly anxious to know as to when Pakistan was being removed from the UK’s Red List for travel.

The High Commissioner said that he was in contact with the relevant UK authorities on the matter. He said in view of the travelling difficulties being faced by the British Pakistanis, getting Pakistan on the Green List was his priority.

The community members also commended the excellent performance of the Prime Minister’s Citizen Portal in resolving the problems of the overseas Pakistanis.

They also appreciated the initiative of Virtual Khuli Katchehri at the Mission that not only helps resolve the problems of the community but also connects the community with the High Commission.

As per the directions of Prime Minister Imran Khan, the virtual Khuli Katchehri is held at the High Commission every month.

Independence Day marked by Flag Hoisting at the High Commission

London – Farah Kazmi: The 75th Independence Day of Pakistan was marked by a Flag Hoisting Ceremony at the Pakistan High Commission London today.

High Commissioner Moazzam Ahmad Khan hoisted the National Flag and the messages of the President and the Prime Minister of Pakistan were read out on the occasion.

Pakistan High Commissioner to the UK, Moazzam Ahmad Khan addressing at the Independence Day of Pakistan. Officers of the High Commission reading out messages of the President and Prime Minister of Pakistan

In his address to the community, the High Commissioner felicitated all Pakistanis on the Independence Day and prayed for the peace, prosperity and progress of the country.

He paid glowing tributes to the Quaid-i-Azam, Allama Iqbal and other heroes of Pakistan Movement, who, through their unwavering resolve and visionary leadership created an independent state for the Muslims of the sub-continent.

Giving an overview of Pakistan, the High Commissioner said Pakistan had successfully restored peace and stability in the country and now the focus of the national leadership was economic development and welfare of the people.

He said Pakistan had long been seen through geo-strategic lenses but now was the time to look at the country afresh from its geo-economic importance. He added that Pakistan was moving forward and was poised to become a regional economic hub.

On Pakistan-UK relations, the High Commissioner underscored the importance of historical and deep rooted bilateral ties, and said that growing bilateral trade and economic ties were another manifestation of our mutually beneficial relations.

The High Commissioner commended the Pakistani diaspora for their vital role in the progress and development of the UK as well as Pakistan and for bringing the two countries closer. He also urged the diaspora and British investors to take advantage of the investment opportunities in Pakistan, particularly in the tourism sector.

Speaking about Covid-19 Pandemic, the High Commissioner shared with the community that under the leadership of Prime Minister Imran Khan, Pakistan had successfully coped with the first three waves of the virus and expressed confidence that the Government would be able to overcome the ongoing fourth wave as well.

On Pakistan’s retention in the UK’s travel red list, the High Commissioner said he was fully aware of the hardships being faced by the community. He said he was in contact with all relevant authorities of the UK government and hoped that Pakistan would soon come out of the red list.

Amina Ansari artist presenting Quaid-i-Azam’s portrait to the High Commissioner at Independence Day ceremony

The High Commissioner paid glowing tribute to the sacrifices of the Kashmiri people living under the illegal occupation of India. He reiterated Pakistan’s moral, diplomatic and political support to them for their just cause of self-determination.

Pakistan High Commissioner to the UK, Moazzam Ahmad Khan conferring Sitara-e-Pakistan on Baroness Sayeeda Warsi at the Independence Day ceremony at Pakistan High Commission London

On behalf of the President of Pakistan, the High Commissioner conferred Sitara-e-Pakistan and Sitara-e-Quaid-i-Azam on Baroness Sayeeda Warsi and Yasmin Qureshi MP respectively.

Pakistan High Commissioner to the UK, Moazzam Ahmad Khan conferring Sitara-e-Quaid-i-Azam on Yasmin Qureshi MP

He said the civil award for both the distinguished ladies was recognition for their services to Pakistan and its people.

Children who presented National Anthem in a group photo with the High Commissioner and his spouse, and receiving prizes at the Independence Ceremony at Pakistan High Commission

The ceremony concluded with a national song presented by children and cake cutting by the High Commissioner and his spouse.

Cake cutting at the Independence Day of Pakistan

Similar events were held at Consulates of Pakistan.

Pakistan High Commissioner to the UK, Moazzam Ahmad Khan along with Lord Zameer Choudrey inaugurating a newly installed Cash Free Machine at the UBL branch of the High Commission on 14 Aug 2021

On this occasion, a newly installed Cash Free Machine at the UBL branch of the High Commission was also inaugurated by the High Commissioner and Lord Zameer Choudhry.

Media Persons covers the High Commission London Independent Day Ceremony.

Chevening and Commonwealth Scholars from Pakistan hosted at the High Commission

London – Farah Kazmi: High Commissioner Moazzam Ahmad Khan hosted Pakistani Chevening and Commonwealth Scholars over a Dinner Reception at the Pakistan High Commission London.

As many as 45 Scholars enrolled in various academic programmes at the UK Universities attended the reception.

Pakistan High Commissioner to the UK, Moazzam Ahmad Khan interacting with the Chevening and the Commonwealth Scholars from Pakistan at the Pakistan High Commission London

In an interactive session with the students, the High Commissioner congratulated the students on their selection for the prestigious scholarship programmes.

He urged them to benefit from the enriching academic experience in Britain and make the most of their stay in the UK by making lasting friendships with the British people and fellow scholars from other countries.

The High Commissioner also apprised them of the working and efforts of the High Commission in promoting the relations between Pakistan and the UK.

Pakistan High Commissioner to the UK, Moazzam Ahmad Khan in a group photo with the Commonwealth Scholars from Pakistan at the Pakistan High Commission London

The students shared their experiences here in the UK and said that such scholarship programmes were vital to promote people to people contacts and develop appreciation for cultural diversity.

They also apprised of their efforts to introduce Pakistan’s rich and diverse culture, tourism opportunities and economic potential to their fellow scholars from over 160 countries.

Careem joins forces with the Govt to conduct a vaccination drive for its Captains and employees

Karachi: Careem, the Super App for the greater Middle East and Pakistan, in collaboration with the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) administration and the Government of Sindh (GoS), arranged a Covid-19 vaccination camp for its Colleagues, Captains, their families and other residents of the workplace at its Karachi and Islamabad offices. 

Zeeshan Hasib Baig, Country General Manager, Careem Pakistan, stated”,

“We are extremely grateful to the respective government offices for collaborating with us in setting up vaccination drives. I encourage all Careem Captains, Colleagues and Customers, to get vaccinated as soon as possible and play their part in defeating the virus. Only together, we can beat the spread of this deadly virus”.

Careem is looking forward to ensuring that all its Captains and Colleagues are not only completely vaccinated but are also following the recommended guidelines and will continue to urge its Customers to follow the same at all times. 

Careem also introduced a “Get Vaccinated” tool in its Super App earlier this year, allowing Customers to call the nearest vaccination centre and book a hassle-free ride, avoiding all traffic and parking issues.

The tool includes detailed information from official government sources on the vaccines being offered in the country, their eligibility, and the timings and locations of all vaccination centres across the country.

Famous Urdu poet and critic Naqqash Kazmi died of Corona

London-Farah Kazmi: Prominent Urdu poet and critic Naqqash Kazmi has died in Karachi due to the terrible Indian Delta virus.

Naqqash Kazmi

He has been undergoing treatment at Bahria Town International Hospital in Karachi since last week.

Kazmi was born on July 8, 1944, in the house of Fasihullah Kazmi, a well-known Urdu and Persian poet from Jaunpur. The poet was also the author of ‘Rang-e-Safar’, ‘Daman-e-Gul’ and ‘Mirasat’.

Books written by Naqqash Kazmi

The 77-year-old Naqqash Kazmi was also awarded the Presidential Award Medal of Excellence Urdu Letrature.

The late Naqqash Kazmi played an active role in the Arts Council Karachi and did his Masters in Linguistics, Urdu Literature and Political Science.

His funeral prayers were offered at Imambargah Bab-ul-Alam while burial was held in Hussain Valley.

Naqqash Kazmi with his wife

Among the mourners are two sons Ramesh Kazmi, Danish Kazmi and daughter Shahronia Kazmi.

Naqqash Kazmi with family members

System Limited earns a place in the Microsoft inner circle 2021/22

Karachi: Systems Limited, Pakistan’s leading information technology consulting and services company, has achieved the prestigious Microsoft Business Applications 2021/2022 Inner Circle award.

Membership in this elite group is based on sales achievements that rank Systems Limited in the top echelon of Microsoft’s Business Applications global network of partners.

Inner Circle members consist of the top 1% of Microsoft Partners that performed to a high standard of excellence by delivering valuable solutions that help organizations achieve increased success.

2021/2022 Inner Circle members are invited to the Inner Circle Summit in March 2021 as well as virtual meetings between July 2021 and June 2022, where they will have a unique opportunity to share strategy and network with Microsoft senior leaders and fellow partners.

This recognition of Inner Circle for Microsoft Business Applications coincided with Microsoft Inspire, the annual premier partner event, which took place July 14-15, 2021. Microsoft Inspire provides the Microsoft partner community with the opportunity to learn about the company’s road map for the upcoming year, establish connections, share best practices, experience the latest product innovations, and learn new skills.

“In a year of deep business transformation for every company and every industry on the planet, it is extremely rewarding to be able to recognize Microsoft Business Applications partners from every corner of the world that accelerated our joint customers’ digital transformation and drove unsurpassed customer success,” said Cecilia Flombaum, Microsoft Business Applications Ecosystem Lead.

“Our Inner Circle members are chosen based on their business performance as well as capabilities as an organization, whether that’s creating IP, developing solutions, or having an industry-leading focus on digital transformation. Microsoft is honored to recognize Systems Limited for their achievements this past year, their dedication to our customers, and their innovation around the Microsoft Cloud.”

For over 44 years, Systems Limited has excelled in providing innovative solutions that have helped its clientele accelerate time to value, maximize competitive edge, and exceed customer expectations.

By closely collaborating with the teams at Microsoft, Systems Limited maintains a strong understanding of the Microsoft platform to deliver.

Federal Minister Shafqat Mahmood discusses educational collaboration with UK organisations

London/Farah Kazmi: The joint invitation extended by Prime Minister of the UK, President of Kenya and the Chair of Global Partnership for Education (GPE), Federal Minister for Education and Professional Training, National Heritage and Culture Shafqat Mahmood is on an official visit to London to attend the Global Education Summit, scheduled to be held from wednesday.

Shafqat Mahmood, Federal Minister for Education, Professional Training, National Heritage and Culture in a meeting with Alison Johns, CEO of Advance Higher Education, UK at the Pakistan High Commission London

Led by Shafqat Mahmood, the Pakistan delegation comprises Education Minister Sindh Saeed Ghani, Education Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Sharam Khan Tarakai, MNA Wajiha Akram, Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Education and other federal and provincial officials.

Prior to the Summit, the Federal Minister today held bilateral meetings with Alison Johns, CEO of Advance Higher Education, and Christine Ozden, Chief Executive of Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE). Educational collaboration was discussed in detail.

Advance HE is a global not-for-profit charity, headquartered in the UK, using their expertise and sharing best practices in improving higher education across the world.

In the meeting with its CEO, the two sides exchanged views on global best practices in higher education. It was agreed that Advance Higher Education would work closely with National Academy of Higher Education Pakistan in course-design to ensure quality of teaching and learning, leadership development, and governance and administration in Pakistan’s higher education sector.

Pakistan’s first-ever international fellowship program was launched recently on 13 July 2021 with Advance HE, UK as a prime partner.

In his meeting with Christine Ozden of Cambridge, the Minister discussed the Cambridge International exam system.

In view of the ongoing pandemic, they held detailed discussion on future course of action regarding conduct of exams, and efforts to work together in ensuring a robust mechanism for gauging academic progress through online platforms.

Ozden also appreciated Pakistan’s efforts to smoothly conduct Cambridge exams in consultation with all national stakeholder.

The Karakoram – Ice Mountains of Pakistan” by Colin Prior

London/Farah Kazmi: A photography book entitled “The Karakoram – Ice Mountains of Pakistan” by acclaimed landscape photographer Colin Prior was launched at the Pakistan High Commission London on wednesday.

The book is a descriptive and visual compilation of Prior’s several visits to Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region to photograph the mountains and capture their beauty.

Pakistan High Commissioner to the UK, Moazzam Ahmad Khan and photographer Colin Prior addressing at the book launch ceremony at Pakistan High Commission London on 28-07-2021

In his remarks on the occasion, High Commissioner Moazzam Ahmad Khan congratulated Colin Prior on publishing a masterpiece that brought to greater light the unique natural beauty of northern areas of Pakistan.

He appreciated the efforts that went into producing the book, which, he said, couldn’t have been possible without tremendous compassion for nature.

Photographer Colin Prior presenting his photography book “The Karakoram: Ice Mountains of Pakistan” to Pakistan High Commissioner to the UK, Moazzam Ahmad Khan at Pakistan High Commission London

Mentioning positive reviews of Pakistan as a tourism destination by leading travel publications and organisations, he said that Pakistan tourism was poised to grow exponentially.

Colin Prior made an illustrated presentation and shared personal experiences and recollections of his travels to the region. He said:

Landscape photographer Colin Prior’s book, “The Karakoram: Ice Mountains of Pakistan” that was launched at Pakistan High Commission London

“Having made six, month long expeditions to the Karakoram Mountains, I am delighted, finally, to see the project published in my latest book, The Karakoram – Ice Mountains of Pakistan.

“My hope is that this book will raise awareness of The Karakoram Mountains, in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan, as the finest mountain range in the world and showcase, what I believe, to be the world’s most spectacular gallery of shape and form.”

Group photo: (from left) Amb. (R) Leena Salim Moazzam, Pakistan High Commissioner to the UK, Moazzam Ahmad Khan, Photographer Colin Prior and H.E. Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Ambassador of Bahrain to the UK at the book launch ceremony at Pakistan High Commission London

In addition to the High Commission, Bestway Group, Rangoonwala Foundation, United Bank Ltd. Habib Bank Ltd. and Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) partly sponsored the publishing of the book by Merrell Publishers.

Breaking new grounds in human-centered design – Systems Limited launches Studio 77

Karachi: Systems Limited is ready to explore a new approach to design as it reimagines its creative workspace, Studio 77 – the company’s center of creative excellence where human-centrism meets cutting-edge technology to bring breakthrough ideas to life.

At Studio 77, the team re-thinks design processes, pushes the boundaries of technology, and innovates to create user experiences that align with the behaviors, expectations, and perspectives of the customers.

To celebrate the launch of Studio 77, Systems Limited hosted a physical event that welcomed prominent figures from the IT sector, senior management of its clientele, and country’s art & design fraternity. The launch was organized with all the precautionary COVID-19 SOPs in place.

Asif Akram, COO at Systems Limited, welcomed the guests and while sharing his vision behind Studio 77, commented, “We’ve seen a recent surge in the growth of workplaces with creative spaces.

With Studio 77, we aim to introduce a creative atmosphere where our driven and motivated team has the right tools and technology at its disposal to bring its breakthrough ideas to fruition.

What you see today is the result of multiple brainstorming sessions, meticulous planning, and tireless commitment by our team to make sure that every nook and corner of Studio 77 screams innovation and creativity – something that Systems has become synonymous with.”

Systems Limited has used a modular design approach to bridge the gap between traditional office space and best-in-class technology to support the multiple phases of the creative and design process.

Badar Khushnood, co-founder Bramerz and Fishery, commented, “I congratulate the entire team of Systems Limited for bringing a user-driven perspective in Pakistan emphasizing a problem-solving mindset.

It is the need of the hour, and more companies should adopt this well-structured approach of leveraging design to breaking big problems into smaller challenges.”

Further explaining the human-centric approach of Studio 77, Khurram Safdar, Head of Customer Experience and Design, added, “The two driving forces behind Studio 77 are digitization and human-centrism.

Digitization in today’s world is happening at a fast pace, and we need to embrace it. And we need to work together and use all the technological innovations at our disposal to deliver human-centered experiences to our clients.

It is a space where we make impactful decisions while keeping humans at the center of everything we create. With Studio 77, we’re bringing our creative ethos of collaborative ideation, constant innovation, and rapid implementation to the world.”

Get a free ride to local vaccine centers with Mastercard and Uber

Karachi: Payment technology company Mastercard and ride-hailing service Uber are collaborating to help as many people as possible receive a vaccination during this critical time by offering free rides to people in Pakistan who would like to receive the COVID-19 vaccination.

Riders will be able to avail two free rides, to and from dedicated public vaccination centers in Lahore, Karachi and Islamabad with a maximum cap of 250 PKR per ride. The rides will be offered until July 31, 2021 for people of all ages.

The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed the world, impacted economic activity and transformed the way we live. Fortunately, more countries are rolling out access to COVID-19 vaccines, and every vaccinated person is gradually contributing to herd immunity.

This directly benefits the pursuit of other personal passions – like travel and events – becoming easier for everyone going forward.

Long-term strategic partners Mastercard and Uber are globally activated to help communities, support public authorities and cities as they work to fight the spread of the pandemic.

Through its mission to “do well by doing good”, Mastercard hopes that the initiative will enable more people to access a safe travel solution to vaccine centers.

Last year, Mastercard partnered with Uber in its largest region-wide initiative to provide 120,000 free trips to frontline workers in Middle East & Africa during the height of the pandemic.

Earlier this year, the two companies extended their long-standing partnership with a new strategic initiative that enables Uber to drive digitization across their business operations, leveraging Mastercard’s single infrastructure to meet all types of payments needs across Uber Rides, Uber Eats, Uber Pass, and Uber for Business.

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