Aiming to shape the future of industry and society, the 4th International Conference on “Sustainable Computing and AI” commenced at Sindh Madressatul Islam University on Wednesday.

The event, supported by the Sindh Higher Education Commission, was inaugurated by Prof. Dr. Tariq Rafi, Chairman of Sindh HEC, and Dr. Mujeeb Sahrai, Vice Chancellor of SMIU.

Dr. Tariq Rafi highlighted the significance of fostering a research culture in Pakistani universities, emphasizing the transformative impact of information technology and artificial intelligence on modern life. He noted the necessity for students and faculty to adapt to this technological shift, underscoring Pakistan’s capabilities demonstrated during recent conflicts.

Acknowledging the Sindh Government’s contributions to higher education, Dr. Rafi praised Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah for his commitment to improving educational standards in the region.

Vice Chancellor Dr. Mujeeb Sahrai expressed gratitude to the attendees and emphasized SMIU’s commitment to research, noting the university’s efforts in publishing ten research journals. He addressed the challenges posed by AI, urging the academic community to navigate these complexities effectively.

Dr. Tariq Rahim Soomro from the Institute of Business Management advocated for global agreements to curb AI misuse, particularly in deceptive contexts, and called for internal oversight to monitor AI developments.

The inaugural session featured speeches by esteemed academics, including Prof. Muazzam Ali Khan Khattak and Dr. Tariq Mahmood, with a virtual address from Canadian scholar Prof. Dr. Martin Maier. The proceedings were managed by Assistant Professor Wafa Mansoor Buriro and Ms. Bakhtawar Daudpota.