PU hosts seminar on digital transformation

A Celebration of Digital Transformation and Social Progress

In honor of Pakistan's 79th Independence Day, the Punjab University Department of Social Work, in partnership with the Center of Information Technology (CIT), hosted a significant seminar titled "Digital Transformation: A Roadmap till 2047." The event brought together a diverse group of participants, including academic leaders, industry experts, and faculty members. Among the notable attendees were Prof. Dr. Uzma Ashiq, Chairperson of the Department of Social Work, and Syed Ammar Jaffri, Director of CIT. Additionally, experts such as Nabila Intisar, Ambreen Sipra, Saher Malik, and Irum Shaheen Malik contributed their insights to the discussions.

Prof. Dr. Uzma Ashiq opened the seminar by highlighting its purpose: to commemorate the nation’s independence while reinforcing the commitment to building a digital and inclusive future. She emphasized that the seminar was a reflection of the department’s mission to empower communities and promote social justice. According to her, the initiative showcased how social work education is evolving to meet global challenges through the integration of emerging technologies, digital literacy, and policy innovation. This effort, she noted, ensures that no one is left behind in the rapidly changing digital landscape.

Syed Ammar Jaffri, Director of CIT, presented an inspiring vision for a digitally empowered and inclusive Pakistan by 2047. He described the seminar as an opportunity to explore the intersection between social work values and digital innovation. His speech underscored the importance of inclusive development and sustainable progress, emphasizing the role of technology in fostering equitable growth across all sectors of society.

The seminar featured in-depth discussions on several critical areas. Experts addressed the significance of digital education and skill development in preparing the workforce for the future. They also explored the potential of AI-driven policy-making and academic research in shaping effective governance. Cybersecurity emerged as another key topic, particularly in the context of social protection systems. The inclusion of women and youth in emerging tech spaces was also highlighted as a vital step toward achieving broader societal equity.

Furthermore, the discussion extended to aligning academic reforms with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) framework. This approach ensures that educational institutions contribute meaningfully to national and global sustainability targets. By integrating these goals into curricula and research, universities can play a pivotal role in driving progress and addressing pressing social issues.

The seminar concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and direction. It served as a platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration among various stakeholders in the fields of social work, technology, and education. The event not only celebrated the spirit of independence but also laid the groundwork for a future where digital transformation and social progress go hand in hand. Through such initiatives, institutions like Punjab University continue to lead the way in creating a more inclusive and technologically advanced society.