In a bid to boost the startup community and shed light on success stories, business leaders and academics in Karachi underscored the importance of implementing Artificial Intelligence (AI) in local industries to achieve remarkable results. Encouraging aspiring entrepreneurs, they quoted a famous Urdu couplet, emphasizing resilience in the face of challenges. The leaders acknowledged the ups and downs of business but advocated for persistent efforts towards a brighter future. Insights into various entrepreneurial journeys were shared, along with advice on attracting global investments to Pakistan.
The occasion was the inauguration of the two-day conference titled ” +92Disrupt,” organized by Katalyst Labs at a local hotel on Saturday. Anzar, the Associate Dean of Teaching and Learning at Habib University, stressed that multinational companies recognize the advantages of AI, predicting its prevalence in all industries in the coming months. He highlighted the role of industrialists not only as users but also as developers of this modern technology.
Anzar explained,
“AI can streamline process automation, play a crucial role in research, and contribute to the success of new products in the market. It facilitates digital tools for capacity development, and companies can redefine themselves through AI, offering numerous avenues for the transformation of industries.”
Amir Paracha, Chairman and CEO of Unilever Pakistan Limited, urged young talent not to leave the country, emphasizing the need to consider Pakistan as their home ground. He advocated for companies to create roadmaps for gradually increasing salaries, emphasizing the importance of building sustainable business models capable of weathering global crises.
Addressing the new generation, Jehan Ara, Founder, and CEO of Katalyst Labs, expressed confidence in their intelligence, hunger for success, and global connectivity. She highlighted the international recognition of Pakistani professionals, with organizations from multiple countries seeking talent from Pakistan. Ara commended the newer generation for their awareness, compassion, and desire to uplift the less privileged.
Babar Ahmed, Co-Founder and CEO of Mindstorm Studios, emphasized the significance of conferences in inspiring people and sharing success stories. He acknowledged the challenges faced by Pakistan and called for giving exposure to individuals working at a grassroots level, fostering new ideas to benefit both individuals and the industry, ultimately contributing to the country’s progress.