HEC chairman visits PUCIT AI Lab, lauds research initiatives

LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 4th Apr, 2026) Chairman Higher Education Commission (HEC) Niaz Ahmad Akhtar on Saturday visited the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Lab at the Punjab University College of Information Technology (PUCIT) and reviewed ongoing research, innovation initiatives and development projects.

During the visit, Punjab University Vice Chancellor Muhammad Ali, Dean Faculty of Computing and Information Technology Shahzad Sarwar, and other senior faculty members were also present.

The HEC Chairman was given a comprehensive briefing on the institution’s ongoing research activities, innovation-driven projects and academic development programmes. He appreciated the efforts of PUCIT in promoting a strong research culture and fostering an environment conducive to technological advancement.

He emphasized the critical role of artificial intelligence in shaping the future of higher education and industry, noting that emerging technologies would play a key role in transforming academic and professional landscapes.

Dr Niaz Ahmad Akhtar reaffirmed the Higher Education Commission’s support for initiatives aimed at promoting innovation, interdisciplinary research and skill development aligned with global technological trends.

On the occasion, the Vice Chancellor of Punjab University expressed gratitude for the visit and reiterated the university’s commitment to strengthening research infrastructure and producing graduates equipped to meet the challenges of the digital era.