In a significant stride towards technological advancement, Pakistan and China have joined forces to establish an Artificial Intelligence (AI) development hub in South Asia.
In a significant stride towards technological advancement, Pakistan and China have joined forces to establish an Artificial Intelligence (AI) development hub in South Asia. Dr. Wu Jun, Director of the CPInS Lab at the Pakistan National University of Science and Technology (NUST), emphasized the potential for Pakistan to become a regional leader in AI with further collaboration with China.
The CPInS Lab, established in early 2022 through a partnership between NUST and the Guangzhou Institute of Software Application Technology, has been at the forefront of AI research and development. Dr. Wu Jun highlighted the lab’s progress in areas such as UAV control systems and AI recognition localization, paving the way for the application of smart city technologies in Pakistan.
Dr. Wu Jun stated, “Through this platform, our mature research results could be deeply connected with local projects in Pakistan, providing smart city-related products and intelligent solutions according to local conditions.” The lab aims to leverage core technologies such as smart street lights and intelligent video systems to enhance urban governance capabilities in Pakistan.
Seemab Latif, Head of the Pakistani side of the lab and Associate Professor at NUST’s School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, emphasized the importance of science and technology cooperation for Pakistan’s socio-economic development.
He underscored China’s leading position in the AI industry and Pakistan’s vast potential for scientific and technological growth, highlighting the opportunity for Pakistan to emerge as an AI development hub in South Asia.
The lab is actively developing smart city projects tailored to Pakistan’s needs, including efficient traffic management systems and infrastructure monitoring systems. Recent developments include the piloting of a license plate recognition system and intelligent security system in Pakistan, aimed at enhancing safety and convenience for residents.
Dr. Wu Jun also addressed Pakistan’s vulnerability to natural disasters, particularly floods, stating, “Scientists from both sides pooled their wisdom to develop a vital result ‘UAV-assisted edge framework for real-time disaster management,’ which provides a more scientific and effective solution for local flood fight.”
In addition to technology transfer, talent exchange and training are integral components of the collaboration. The lab has already recruited four outstanding postdoctoral fellows from Pakistan to work in Guangzhou for an extended period, with plans to continue student recruitment in the future.
The establishment of the CPInS Lab and its ongoing initiatives signify a significant step towards harnessing AI and advanced technologies for the benefit of Pakistan and the wider region. By leveraging China’s expertise and Pakistan’s potential, the collaboration aims to drive innovation and foster economic development through science and technology cooperation.