Lahore, August 22, 2025 — The National Institute of Public Administration (NIPA), Lahore, hosted Prof. Dr. Syed Waqar ul Qounain Jaffry, Chairman, Department of Information Technology and Director, National Centre of Artificial Intelligence, University of the Punjab, as a guest speaker in the 44th Mid-Career Management Course (MCMC).

Prof. Jaffry delivered an insightful lecture on “Artificial Intelligence: Conceptual Understanding, Potential, and Applications”, highlighting how ICT, data-driven governance, and AI are shaping the future of public sector management. The session covered a wide range of themes including machine learning, generative AI, ethical challenges, legal frameworks, and Pakistan’s newly approved National AI Policy 2025.

Drawing on international best practices and local success stories such as NADRA’s biometric systems, Punjab Safe Cities Authority’s AI surveillance, and the Ehsaas and Sehat Sahulat programs, Prof. Jaffry emphasized the critical role of AI in enhancing transparency, efficiency, and citizen-centered governance.

He urged officers to embrace ICT and AI-driven approaches in public service delivery, while ensuring ethical oversight, accountability, and inclusivity in their implementation. The session concluded with an engaging Q&A, where participants explored practical pathways for applying AI to improve governance in Pakistan.