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  Tarar terms misinformation ‘biggest and most serious challenge of present era’

  Salis bin Perwaiz

  Federal Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar described misinformation as the biggest and most serious challenge of the present era, especially in the age of AI. Speaking at an IBA Karachi dialogue, he emphasized the need for joint action by the government, media, educational institutions, and civil society. Pakistan’s Digital Communication Department and iVerify Pakistan have been established to verify information, label fake news, and promote responsible journalism. Tarar highlighted that AI-generated content must be clearly labeled, and media houses have a critical role in addressing misinformation. He cited the World Economic Forum’s 2024 Global Risk Report, noting that misinformation poses a significant short-term global threat. Coordinated efforts are essential to counter the narrative challenges faced during events such as the May tensions with India.

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  IBA Karachi conducts international mediators’ training at IHCBA

  Business Recorder

  IBA Karachi’s Alternative Dispute Resolution Centre (IBA-ADRIC) successfully conducted an International Mediators’ Training Programme from January 19 to 23, 2026, at the Islamabad High Court Bar Association. The five-day programme was organized in collaboration with the Judiciary of Azad Jammu & Kashmir and the UK-based Essential Mediation Solutions. The training brought together judges, lawyers, business professionals, government officials, and students, making it Pakistan’s largest mediation cohort to date. It included 40 hours of structured training aligned with Pakistan’s Mediation Accreditation Rules 2023 and international best practices. Participants completing the programme became eligible to submit their profiles to the Ministry of Law and Justice as accredited mediators. The closing ceremony featured distinguished national and international dignitaries who highlighted the global relevance of mediation. The programme contributes to the institutionalization and strengthening of mediation in Pakistan.

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  ‘Media restrictions hampering fight against misinformation’

  News Desk

  The CEJ at IBA Karachi revealed that AI-driven misinformation surged in 2025, with deepfakes and misleading content spreading faster than ever. iVerify Pakistan analyzed over 1,000 claims from December 2023 to November 2025, verifying 513 across politics, religion, conflict, and social issues. CEJ Chairperson Azhar Abbas highlighted that restrictions on mainstream media worsen the problem, as silenced outlets allow social media and AI networks to fill the vacuum. Politics was the most exploited domain, with misinformation propagated by multiple actors, including PTI and PML-N supporters, as well as Indian accounts. CEJ Director Shahzeb Jillani emphasized expanding partnerships across media, academia, and public institutions to counter misinformation. Federal Minister Attaullah Tarar stressed that government alone cannot tackle disinformation and supported initiatives like iVerify. Social media and encrypted messaging platforms were identified as major channels for spreading false content.

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  آئی بی اے کراچی کا اسلام آباد ہائیکورٹ بار میں ثالثی تربیتی پروگرام

  اسٹاف رپورٹر

  آئی بی اے کراچی نے اسلام آباد ہائی کورٹ بار میں پانچ روزہ بین الاقوامی ثالثی تربیتی پروگرام کامیابی سے مکمل کیا۔ یہ پروگرام آلٹرنیٹو ڈسپیوٹ ریزولوشن سینٹر، اسلام آباد کے تعاون سے منعقد ہوا اور اس میں ججز، وکلا، کاروباری ماہرین، سرکاری اہلکار اور مختلف شعبہ جات کے طلبہ نے حصہ لیا۔ تربیت کے دوران شرکاء کو ثالثی اور تنازعہ حل کرنے کی مہارتیں سکھائی گئیں، جس سے ان کی پیشہ ورانہ صلاحیت میں اضافہ ہوا۔ تربیت مکمل کرنے کے بعد شرکاء وزارت قانون و انصاف میں بطور منظور شدہ ثالث اپنی پروفائل جمع کرانے کے اہل ہوگئے۔ اختتامی تقریب میں اسلام آباد بار کونسل، اسلام آباد چیمبر آف کامرس اینڈ انڈسٹری اور ڈائریکٹوریٹ آف لیگل افیئرز کے عہدیدار بھی موجود تھے۔ یہ اقدام پاکستان میں تصدیق شدہ ثالثوں کے نیٹ ورک کو مضبوط بنانے اور رسمی تنازعہ حل کے نظام کو فروغ دینے میں مددگار ثابت ہوگا۔

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  Finance czar calls for consensus on resource-sharing

  Amin Ahmed

  Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb emphasized the need for consensus between federal and provincial governments on the National Finance Commission (NFC) award, linking funding allocations to measurable outcomes. Speaking at the Pakistan Population Summit, he highlighted the importance of accountability, self-reliance, and addressing population growth and climate change for Pakistan’s economic roadmap toward a $3 trillion economy by 2047. International partners, including the UK and World Bank, stressed sustainable population management, family planning, and skill development to turn Pakistan’s young population into a demographic dividend. IBA’s Dr. S. Akbar Zaidi and LUMS VC Dr. Ali Cheema underscored economic challenges, rising unemployment, and the need to integrate population strategies into broader development plans. The summit highlighted that execution, not just policy, is crucial to address Pakistan’s economic and social challenges.

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  ‘We are witnessing worst phase of country’s media history’

  Bilal Ahmed

  Journalist Zahid Hussain, delivering the sixth Razia Bhatti Memorial Lecture at IBA's Centre of Excellence in Journalism (CEJ), stated that Pakistan is experiencing its worst phase of media history. He discussed the decline of objective journalism, attributing it to media house owners prioritizing personal interests over ethics. Hussain highlighted the increasing censorship and influence of powerful entities, comparing it to past regimes. He also criticized international media biases, citing cases like Raymond Davis and the Iraq war. Despite challenges, he expressed optimism about digital media's potential for independent journalism. The session honored Razia Bhatti's legacy of uncompromising objectivity.

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  Autobiography detailing key events in judicial history launched

  Waqas Ali Ranjha

  The autobiography “Adliyah Mein Mere 44 Saal” by retired Justice Agha Rafiq Ahmed Khan was launched at IBA Karachi. The book offers a first-hand account of the judicial system in Pakistan, chronicling significant events, challenges, and personal experiences from his 44-year legal career. Speakers, including judges, lawyers, and journalists, praised the book for highlighting issues like nepotism, favoritism, and delayed justice. Noted lawyer Muneer Malik described it as a historic document, while Justice Khan emphasized the importance of timely justice, especially by the district judiciary.

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  Autobiography detailing key events in judicial history launched

  Waqas Ali Ranjha

  At IBA Karachi, the autobiography Adliyah Mein Mere 44 Saal by retired Justice Agha Rafiq Ahmed Khan was launched, chronicling his personal and professional journey through Pakistan’s judicial system. The book highlights key moments in judicial history, systemic issues like nepotism and favoritism, and emphasizes the urgent need for timely justice. Legal experts and dignitaries at the event praised the book as a valuable, first-hand account of judicial appointments and challenges. Justice Khan called on the district judiciary to ensure quick and fair delivery of justice, stressing its critical role in public trust and legal integrity.

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  FIA seeks details of all foreign travel tickets of IBA Karachi’s three officials by Oct 3

  Syed Muhammad Askari

  The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has launched an inquiry under Section 25 of the Anti-Money Laundering Act 2010 against IBA Karachi. It has requested details of all foreign travel tickets and financial records related to the executive director, registrar, and director HR by October 3. The investigation concerns alleged misconduct, corruption, and misuse of institutional funds. FIA has also asked for procurement records, payment details, employee recruitment data, and asset declarations of senior officials from FY 2019–20 to FY 2024–25. The proceedings aim to verify transparency and possible financial irregularities in IBA’s management and operations.

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  Festival held to showcase cultural diversity

  Bureau report

  The Dosti Peshawar Literature Festival celebrated cultural diversity and intellectual discourse under the theme "Ranaiy-e-Khayal." Organized by Dosti Welfare Organisation in collaboration with the University of Peshawar and other institutions, it featured keynote addresses, panel discussions, author talks, book launches, workshops, and exhibitions. Special sessions focused on Foreign Affairs, Special Education, and Higher Education. The festival also showcased healing documentaries and a cultural segment at Nishtar Hall, including "Kathak Katha" and "Sanata." It concluded with a musical tribute, "Songs of Peshawar," by Jwand Parasta Band.

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  CEJ at IBA celebrates its 10-year journey in meaningful manner

  Business Recorder

  The Centre for Excellence in Journalism (CEJ) at IBA marked its 10th anniversary with the event “A Decade of Excellence” at the JS Auditorium, City Campus. The gathering brought together journalists, academics, diplomats, and students to celebrate CEJ’s role in promoting ethical, innovative, and impactful journalism in Pakistan. IBA’s Executive Director, Dr. S. Akbar Zaidi, stressed the Centre’s significance in academia and highlighted the need to revisit the role of journalism in light of AI and democratic values. US Consul General Scott Urbom praised CEJ’s decade-long partnership with the US government, its contributions to press freedom, and nurturing future journalists. Renowned journalist Hamid Mir reflected on the increasing censorship in Pakistan, warning of its implications for press freedom and democracy.

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  HBL & IBA launch first-ever hackathon on ‘Agri Case Study’

  BUSINESS RECORDER

  HBL, in partnership with IBA Karachi, organized the first-ever hackathon under its University Alliance Programme, introducing a jointly developed ‘Agri Case Study’ centered on Pakistan’s dairy sector. The event aimed to inspire students to create innovative, technology-driven solutions for agricultural challenges. A three-member IBA team won for their outstanding idea and received a ‘Golden Pass’ to HBL’s League Internship and Management Trainee Programme, along with a cash prize. The initiative strengthens industry-academia collaboration to foster leadership and innovation in Pakistan’s agriculture.

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  IBA-CED sparks dialogue on mental health, leadership

  BUSINESS RECORDER

  IBA Karachi’s Centre for Entrepreneurial Development (CED), in collaboration with Synapse – Pakistan Neuroscience Institute, organized “Crucial Conversations: Stories of Impact” to address mental health challenges through the lens of leadership, purpose, and entrepreneurship. With over 24 million people affected by mental health issues in Pakistan, the session brought together leaders from academia, development, and industry. Panelists, including Dr. Akbar Zaidi and Mushtaq Chhapra, discussed the emotional pressures of leadership and the importance of values and resilience. Keynote speaker Dr. Rüdiger Lotz emphasized cross-sectoral support for emotional well-being. The final panel focused on mental health in startups, with entrepreneurs sharing personal experiences of burnout and coping strategies.

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  IBA Karachi awards 1046 degrees at Convocation 2025

  Business Recorder

  IBA Karachi held its Convocation 2025 at the Main Campus, awarding degrees to 1,046 graduates, including 780 undergraduates, 259 postgraduates, and 7 PhDs. The ceremony celebrated the first graduating cohorts of MS Data Science and MS Marketing programs. Chief Guest Muhammad Ismail Rahoo and Guest of Honor Dr. Muhammad Amjad Saqib praised IBA for nurturing talented students and shaping future leaders. Dr. S. Akbar Zaidi highlighted the institution’s commitment to providing quality education and building value in its graduates. Position holders were awarded medals, shields, and merit certificates, while sports achievements, such as archery and shooting, were also recognized. The event reinforced IBA Karachi’s reputation as a leading institution with AACSB accreditation.

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  IBA Karachi hosts session on ‘ADR in Commercial Disputes’

  BUSINESS RECORDER

  IBA Karachi organized a session titled “Impact of IBA for Smoothly Handling Commercial Disputes through ADR” to highlight the significance of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in Pakistan's legal and business landscape. Hon’ble Justice Jawad Hassan addressed the session, advocating for arbitration, mediation, and reconciliation as cost-effective, time-saving alternatives to traditional litigation. He praised IBA’s pioneering role in institutionalizing ADR in Pakistan and emphasized the importance of mandatory mediation to improve access to justice. The event reinforced IBA’s commitment to legal literacy, business ethics, and governance among students and stakeholders.

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  IBA Karachi organises ‘Annual Career Fair 2025’

  BUSINESS RECORDER

  IBA Karachi hosted its Annual Career Fair 2025 at its Main Campus, organized by the IBA Career Development Center (IBA-CDC). Under the theme “Think Next,” the event brought together over 170 companies from various industries, including banking, IT, manufacturing, retail, and pharmaceuticals. Industry professionals served as mentors, providing students with career guidance. Dr. S Akbar Zaidi, Executive Director of IBA, emphasized the fair’s role in connecting students with job opportunities and industry insights, reinforcing IBA’s commitment to graduate employability.

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  NBP applauded for promoting equal opportunities and inclusivity at Career Fairs

  BUSINESS RECORDER

  The National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) is reinforcing its commitment to equal opportunities and workplace inclusivity by actively participating in career fairs at top universities across the country. Recently, NBP engaged with students at institutions like LUMS, IBA, University of Punjab, IoBM, and others, promoting inclusive hiring practices. The bank highlighted initiatives such as targeted recruitment for underrepresented groups and internship opportunities. Mirza Muhammad Asim Baig, EVP & Group Head of HR at NBP, emphasized the bank’s dedication to fostering a diverse, bias-free corporate environment.

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  Tooran Asif appointed as President & CEO of UBank

  Business Recorder Report

  PTCL Group has appointed Tooran Asif as the new President & CEO of U Microfinance Bank Limited (UBank). With over three decades of experience in digital and retail banking, Asif has held key leadership roles at Mashreq Bank UAE, Standard Chartered, Citigroup, and ANZ Bank. He previously served as CEO of KT Bank Pakistan Limited. Holding an Electrical Engineering degree and an MBA from IBA, Asif is expected to lead UBank’s growth and innovation. PTCL Group’s President & Group CEO, Hatem Bamatraf, expressed confidence in Asif’s leadership and commitment to financial inclusion.

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  Country’s political system deeply flawed, says Dr Ishrat Husain

  THE NEWS INTERNATIONAL Correspondent

  At a seminar organized by the Pakistan Women’s Foundation for Peace (PWFFP) for Women's Day 2025, former SBP governor Dr. Ishrat Husain criticized Pakistan’s flawed political system, emphasizing governance failures and self-serving politics. He noted how Pakistan fell behind India economically due to institutional decline. Speakers highlighted gender disparities, with Pakistan ranking 145th in global gender parity. Discussions covered issues like women’s workplace discrimination, lack of representation in leadership roles, and challenges in governance. Experts stressed the need for electoral reforms and policy changes to improve governance and gender equality.

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  Experts stress need for stronger green finance policies for energy transition

  THE NEWS INTERNATIONAL Correspondent

  The Indus Consortium hosted the ‘Banking on Renewables’ event in Karachi, bringing together banking professionals, CSOs, and environmental experts to discuss green finance policies for energy transition. Speakers highlighted the role of financial institutions in promoting low-carbon growth and the challenges in implementing the State Bank’s Green Banking Guidelines (GBGs) and Environmental and Social Risk Management (ESRM) frameworks. Experts emphasized stronger public-private partnerships and increased financial support for renewable energy. The event also featured research presentations on the socio-economic and environmental risks of Pakistan’s LNG sector, urging equitable access to green financing.

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  HBL, IBA launch first agri hackathon with focus on dairy

  The News International Correspondent

  Habib Bank Limited (HBL) and the Institute of Business Administration (IBA) jointly launched Pakistan’s first agricultural hackathon, focusing on the dairy sector. Organized under HBL’s University Alliance Programme, the event encouraged students to develop innovative, tech-based solutions for challenges in agriculture. A three-member IBA team won the competition, earning a Golden Pass to HBL’s League Internship and Management Trainee Programme along with a cash prize. The initiative aims to bridge academia and industry, nurturing future leaders to drive transformation in Pakistan’s agricultural sector, particularly dairy.

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  IBA’s Annual Career Fair draws large number of students

  THE NEWS INTERNATIONAL Correspondent

  The IBA Karachi hosted its Annual Career Fair 2025 at the IBA Main Campus, organized by the IBA Career Development Centre (IBA-CDC). With the theme "Think Next," the event attracted over 170 companies and professionals from diverse industries. The fair provided students with a platform to explore career opportunities, engage with industry leaders, and receive mentorship. Executive Director Dr. S Akbar Zaidi highlighted IBA’s commitment to producing employable graduates. The event featured mentorship lounges and interactive career guidance sessions, with industry experts sharing insights on career growth and development.

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  IBA unveils its new Executive MBA Programme

  THE NEWS INTERNATIONAL Correspondent

  The Institute of Business Administration (IBA) Karachi introduced its restructured Executive MBA (EMBA) Programme, developed in collaboration with the Stanford Life Design Lab. The program is designed to prepare senior managers for leadership roles by focusing on competitiveness, growth, and sustainability. Executive Director Dr. Syed Akbar Zaidi emphasized IBA’s evolution beyond a business school. The program follows a block teaching model, allowing global faculty participation and offering international immersion in Silicon Valley. With an immersive curriculum and corporate mentorship, the IBA-EMBA aims to equip executives with strategic leadership skills. Applications for Fall 2025 are now open.

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  آئی بی اے میں مائی چیلنج اسٹوری“ڈیجیٹل مقابلوں کا انعقاد

  DAILY EXPRESS

  IBA Karachi میں سینٹر فار اونٹ پر نورل ڈیولپمنٹ (CED)، سینٹر فار انوویشن لرننگ اینڈ ایجوکیشن ٹرانسفارمیشن اور Cayspace کے اشتراک سے "میچیلنج اسٹوری" کے عنوان سے ڈیجیٹل مقابلے منعقد کیے گئے، جن میں 5 اسکولوں کے 400 سے زائد طلبا نے حصہ لیا۔ مقابلوں میں طلبا کی تخلیقی اور پیشہ ورانہ صلاحیتوں کو ابھارنے پر زور دیا گیا، جبکہ بانی انڈس اسپتال ڈاکٹر عبد الباری خان اور CEO ٹیم اینڈ اسٹوری سعد آفریدی نے اپنی زندگی اور خدمات کے تجربات شیئر کیے۔ مختلف اسکولوں کے طلبا نے اعلیٰ پوزیشنیں حاصل کیں، جن میں دعا نیم، مریم احمد، عبد اللہ منان اور خدیجہ رومان نمایاں ہیں۔

  ڈاکٹر کامران ممتاز، ڈائریکٹر سینٹر فار انوویشن لرننگ اینڈ ایجوکیشن ٹرانسفارمیشن، نے خطاب میں کہا کہ ڈیجیٹل مہارت طلبا کی حقیقی اقتصادی اور سماجی صلاحیت کو اجاگر کرنے میں اہم کردار ادا کر سکتی ہے اور تعلیمی ترجیحات میں اسے شامل کرنا ضروری ہے۔

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  Entrepreneurs, educators share stories of resilience to mental health challenges

  Dawn Report

  IBA Karachi, in partnership with Synapse – Pakistan Neuroscience Institute, hosted “Crucial Conversations: Stories of Impact” to explore the intersection of mental health, leadership, and entrepreneurship. The event focused on fostering open dialogue, identifying practical solutions, and encouraging emotional resilience among leaders and startups.

  Panels featured leaders from IBA, TCF, and AKU, who discussed vulnerability, institutional resilience, and the emotional weight of leadership. A keynote by the German Consul General highlighted the importance of systemic and cross-sectoral support for youth mental health. The final panel addressed the psychological toll of entrepreneurship, with real-life stories of burnout and personal coping strategies.

  The event underscored that emotional well-being is essential to strong leadership and sustainable innovation.