KARACHI: Speakers at a conference said that artificial intelligence (AI) can accelerate innovation, boost economic growth and transform industries like healthcare, education and finance and expand access to services, especially for underserved communities.

The conference — New Age Innovation: Create Impact in an AI-driven Future — drew together a distinguished group of industry leaders, innovators, and professionals, who discussed the potential and observed AI can drive inclusive progress and help solve some of the world’s most pressing challenges when developed responsibly.

The event was organised by the New World Concepts at a local hotel on Tuesday.

Speaking on the occasion, former federal minister and renowned scientist Prof Dr Atta-ur-Rahman spoke on how acquisition of knowledge is a lifelong journey. He elaborated that Pakistan needed to galvanise by harnessing technology and AI especially in enhancing skill levels of university students.

Dr Rüdiger Lotz, Consul General Germany in Karachi, mentioned the importance of AI and how it has improved the industry practices in Germany. He also mentioned that while AI is beneficial, safeguards also need to be taken.

Dr S. Akbar Zaidi, the executive director of the Institute of Business Administration Karachi, provided a critical perspective on how institutions and societies can adapt to the AI revolution. He spoke on the socio-economic implications of AI and how policy, education, and governance can shape inclusive, sustainable impact.

Dr Zainab Samad, chair of the department of medicine at Aga Khan University, spoke on how AI is affecting health and well-being. While detailing the transformative impact of AI on medical diagnostics and patient care, she also shared how continuous use of new technologies impacts the brain and social interactions.

Yasmin Hyder, CEO of New World Concepts, welcomed the audience and highlighted the critical role of innovation and AI in today’s work environment and the need to upskill for latest technologies.

Corporate leaders Sohail Javaad Syed, Asma Shaikh, Naz Khan, Atyab Tahir, Qashif Effendi and Zia Salahuddin also spoke.

A panel discussion also explored how technological innovations are reshaping ways of work and driving growth, with real-world examples of AI implementation.

Published in Dawn, May 7th, 2025