Pakistan’s largest hackathon
In the spirit of innovation and forward-thinking, the Bank of Punjab (BOP) hosted a launch ceremony to unveil the details for their hyped Pakistan’s largest hackathon’ Sprint Pakistan — Powered by digiBOP, Empowering Innovation for Global Impact’ in collaboration with its executing partner, National Incubation Centre (NICL) at the Lahore University of Management Sciences (Lums) who will be involving incubation centres across these cities.
This ceremony officially kicks off a series of hackathons in seven major cities, inviting all startups and fintechs to participate and compete for the most innovative ideas. According to a press release, winners from each city hackathon will later compete in the final Grand Hackathon to be held in Lahore at NICL Lums.
The winners from the grand hackathon will win cash prizes worth Rs2.2m and a fully sponsored trip with return tickets to Singapore, representing Pakistan at the Singapore Fintech Festival 2023.
TDAP exhibition for women
The Trade Development Authority of Pakistan is organising the 11th WEXNET Exhibition at the Lahore Expo Centre from Sept 30 to Oct 2 to provide a platform for women entrepreneurs from all across Pakistan to showcase their diverse products, according to a press release. The basic aim of WEXNET is to empower women entrepreneurs within the domestic sphere of trade and eventually enable them to enter the global trade arena.
WEXNET is the largest women’s exhibition, with over 300 stalls displaying diverse product ranges during the three-day event. Here, visitors will find various exclusive items and dazzling displays from renowned brands like Daachi, Pie in the Sky, Kaarvan Crafts and many more.
The products being displayed will include herbal and food products, health and beauty products, handicrafts and linens, home textiles and fashion, gems and jewellery and much more.
OGDCL, Nust partnership
To address critical exploration and production issues, the Oil & Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) and the National University of Sciences and Technology (Nust) have forged a strategic partnership to drive innovation, research, and educational excellence in Pakistan’s energy sector, according to a press release.
OGDCL and Nust have signed a document of understanding, ushering in new opportunities for innovation, research, and educational excellence in Pakistan. The organisations have pledged to explore a wide range of collaborative initiatives, with a primary focus on research and development endeavours, the advancement of scientific knowledge, and innovation in Pakistan’s energy sector.
Enhancing research
Per a press release, the Nust Placement Office is excited to announce its partnership with S&P Global Inc to reshape research, industrial connectivity, training, and employment prospects for both institutions. Through this alliance, Nust and S&P Global are set to cultivate a dynamic ecosystem that nurtures talent, propels innovation, and catalyses industrial progress.
The memorandum of understanding is a testament to both organisations’ shared vision in establishing long-term, sustainable growth. This includes offering cutting-edge final year project opportunities for students, thus providing a unique platform for practical application of knowledge.
Furthermore, the partnership will serve as a nurturing ground for identifying and cultivating extraordinary talent, equipping them with essential real-world skills that go beyond conventional academic teachings.
Hyundai’s Santa Fe
According to a press release, Hyundai Nishat Motor (Private) Limited (HNMPL) is about to launch its fifth locally assembled model, Santa Fe. Building on the success of their previous models, such as the Sonata, Elantra, and Tucson, the Santa Fe promises to usher in a new era in the SUV segment. With a focus on advanced features, this vehicle is poised to emerge as a true competitor in the SUV market.
Tabani acquires Siha
Tabani Group, a renowned business conglomerate in Pakistan, has acquired the world’s first and only Sharia-compliant OPD Company, Siha Health and Wellness Private Limited, as a subsidiary, as per a press release.
The company has been accredited by 17 Islamic scholars from Pakistan, Africa, UAE, India, and Bangladesh as a fully Shariah-compliant entity.
Published in Dawn, The Business and Finance Weekly, September 25th, 2023
