Tech Industry Leaders Inspire SALU Students with AI and IT Career Roadmap

Tech Industry Leaders Inspire SALU Students with AI and IT Career Roadmap
29-01-2026
Press Release
A high-level delegation from SMS Technologies | Pathfinder Group, led by Mr. Iqbal Ahmed Butt, Chief Executive Officer, and Mr. Syed Azfer Iqbal, Director Corporate Affairs, held a major career-focused seminar at the Students Society Center, Shah Abdul Latif University (SALU), Khairpur, today.
The interactive session engaged students and faculty members in an insightful discussion on the transformative power of technology in shaping future careers. Organized under the Faculty of Physical & Social Sciences, the seminar highlighted emerging trends in Artificial Intelligence and Information Technology, emphasizing their critical role in professional growth and societal development.
Speaking on the occasion, Vice Chancellor Meritorious Professor Dr. Yousuf Khushk termed the session a crucial opportunity for students to gain direction in an era where digital skills and industry engagement are indispensable. “The role of universities is not limited to awarding degrees; it is equally important to connect students with the practical demands of the real world,” he stated, reaffirming SALU’s commitment to fostering academic-industry linkages.
Syed Azfer Iqbal, Director Corporate Affairs at SMS Technologies | Pathfinder Group, highlighted the critical role of IT in career advancement. He urged students to harness Positive AI and technology constructively for their careers and society. Mr. Iqbal specifically advised using social media strategically to enhance professional prospects rather than for passive scrolling, recommending platforms like LinkedIn for global networking and career development. He further encouraged students to proactively seek scholarships and personal development opportunities online and to focus on entrepreneurship enabled by AI and IT.
Iqbal Butt, Chief Executive Officer of SMS Technologies, applauded the students for their keen intelligence and active participation in the event. “Students are a gold mine and it should be explored,” he stated, appreciating their inherent skills, abilities, and knowledge. In a significant announcement, he pledged, on the basis of public-private partnership, to establish an AI lab at the university to enhance students' skills and employability, contingent on the university providing the requisite space.
The central dialogue focused on the pivotal theme of leveraging IT and AI, described as essential tools shaping the present and future for students globally and in Sindh specifically. The speakers underscored that technology is no longer confined to specialized departments but is integral to all fields, opening doors to innovation and global opportunities.
Key advice to students included building strong fundamentals in logic and problem-solving, acquiring technical skills like programming, and honing critical soft skills. The importance of using AI responsibly, as an assistant for learning and efficiency, not a shortcut, was strongly emphasized.
The session included an interactive discussion where students explored overcoming resource challenges, applying tech solutions to local problems in Sindh in sectors like agriculture and education, and understanding diverse tech career pathways beyond programming, such as data analysis, project management, and AI training.
Later, the delegation visited a project exhibition by students of the Institute of Physics, featuring innovative models including a solar turbine, a sensor detector stick, an object detection system, and projects for gas leakage and fire protection detection.
A formal vote of thanks was extended by Professor Dr. Noor Ahmed Shaikh to the speakers for sharing vital insights on AI.
The proceedings were conducted by Shamaila Rubab.
Mr. Iqbal Butt (CEO, SMS Technologies): A veteran with over 27 years in IT and telecom, including 17 years with Ericsson in senior roles. He holds a Master’s in Computer Science.
Mr. Syed Azfer Iqbal (Director Corporate Affairs, SMS Technologies): Holds a Master’s in IT and brings 24 years of experience with U.S. Diplomatic Services in Pakistan. He is a noted writer, music producer, and social activist focused on community development.
The event concluded on a high note, leaving students with a clear message: that with the right skills and a proactive mindset, they can use technology to shape their own futures and contribute meaningfully to societal progress.
Dean Faculty of Social Sciences Professor Dr Liaquat Ali Chandio, Professor Dr Riaz Ahmed Shaikh, Professor Dr Hidayatullah Shaikh, Professor Dr Farman Mangi, Professor Dr Deedar Jamro, Sarfraz Korejo, Dr Sahib Oad, Saira Chandio, Waseem Kalhoro, Aijaz Mahar and a large number of students participated.
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