Oxford Academic Highlights ICT Applications for Sustainable Environmental Protection Project in Pakistan

Karachi, Pakistan – July 11, 2024 – Pakistan’s ongoing battle against environmental degradation and climate change is receiving a high-tech boost through a collaborative effort between local and international universities. The ICT Applications for Sustainable Environmental Protection (ACTIVE) project, funded by the European Union, is aimed at empowering future generations with the technological expertise to tackle these pressing issues.

The ACTIVE project seeks to fill a critical gap in Pakistan’s environmental strategy by training highly skilled engineers capable of bridging the divide between Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) and environmental science. Partnering with universities across Pakistan, the project offers specialized Master’s degrees and expert courses in cutting-edge technologies such as Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, Remote Sensing, and the Internet of Things (IoT). This specialized training aims to equip future engineers with the tools needed to develop solutions tailored to Pakistan’s unique environmental challenges and the impacts of climate change on its communities.
Fostering collaboration at multiple levels, the project recently saw Dr Selvakumar, an academic from the University of Oxford, an innovator and researcher in enablement of emerging technologies in enhanced accessibility and inclusion, visiting Sir Syed University of Engineering and Technology (SSUET) in Karachi. During his visit, Dr. Selvakumar led a workshop focusing on the effects of climate change on vulnerable populations. This knowledge exchange is paving the way for future advancements in environmental protection strategies.
Prof. Dr. Muhammad Aamir, the leading figure of the EU Capacity Project titled “ICT Applications for Sustainable Environmental Protection (ACTIVE),” emphasized the severe impacts of climate change and the potential ICT solutions. “Our goal is to equip engineers with the knowledge and tools to develop innovative solutions for environmental protection, benefiting both urban and rural communities across Pakistan,” he stated.
The workshop also featured contributions from Prof. Dr. Tahir, Dr. Waleej, Ms. Nida, and Dr. Shakil, who discussed the integration of ICT in addressing environmental challenges. Dr. Muhammad Aamir underscored the importance of such collaborative efforts in achieving the ACTIVE project’s goals. Students from the Software Engineering, Computer Science, and Computer Engineering departments at SSUET participated, showcasing the project’s commitment to engaging the next generation of environmental stewards.
The ACTIVE project represents a significant step towards a more sustainable future for Pakistan. By equipping future engineers with cutting-edge skills and knowledge, the project empowers them to develop innovative ICT solutions. These solutions have the potential to mitigate environmental challenges, safeguard communities, and ensure a greener future for all Pakistanis.
*Public Relations Officer*