The University of Kotli Azad Jammu and Kashmir recently hosted the Startup and Entrepreneurship Conference 2024 an event hailed as a groundbreaking initiative that seamlessly bridged the academic and professional worlds. This transformative gathering brought together some of Pakistan’s most influential IT and entrepreneurial visionaries, providing students with an extraordinary opportunity to engage, learn and be inspired by real world success stories.

Startup and Entrepreneurship Conference 2024

The speakers included Wahaj Siraj (CEO, Nayatel), Hisham Sarwar (CEO, Innovista Pvt Ltd), Abdul Salam (CEO, 9D Technologies and Hazel Mobiles), Fateh Mehmood (CEO, Riffat Mehmood Hospital), Mrs. Gul Zeba (CEO, Red Marker Systems), Saadaat Hussain (Chairman, Lakeshore City), Muhammad Ismaeel Khan (CEO, Property Nama), Baber Mushtaq (Startup Growth Manager, NIC Islamabad) and Ms. Sameen Amjad who graced the occasion with their expertise and experiences.

The conference was a beacon of inspiration as the distinguished speakers shared their remarkable entrepreneurial journeys, shedding light on the trials, triumphs and transformative moments that defined their careers. They offered invaluable insights into current market dynamics, emerging trends and the critical skills needed to thrive in today’s competitive landscape, igniting a spark of innovation and ambition in the hearts of the attendees.

A notable highlight of the event was the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) between the University of Kotli and leading organizations paving the way for enhanced collaborations in internships, research opportunities and job placements for students.

Prof. Dr. Ghulam Nabi, Dean of the Faculty of Computing and Engineering warmly welcomed the distinguished guests and emphasized the University's commitment to integrating theoretical knowledge with practical application. His words resonated with the spirit of the conference reinforcing the significance of Academia Industry Synergy.

Honorable Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Rahmat Ali Khan in his address expressed his gratitude to the speakers for their contributions to the entrepreneurial ecosystem and sustainable development. He lauded the efforts of the Dean, the Chairman of the Department of CS&IT, and the Program Coordinator Mr. Ammar Habib for their unwavering dedication to fostering impactful public private partnerships.

The event was further elevated by the presence of the Minister of Civil Defense and Disaster Management Amir Yaseen Chaudhary who commended the University’s forward thinking initiatives. He announced the establishment of a Software Technology Park at the University of Kotli a landmark development that promises to transform the region into a hub of technological innovation and opportunity.

The Startup and Entrepreneurship Conference 2024 was not merely an event but a celebration of ambition, innovation and collaboration an inspiring testament to the limitless possibilities that emerge when talent meets opportunity.