University of Karachi proposes AI and cybersecurity center with China

What happened

Professor Dr Wasim Qazi, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Karachi (KU), met with the Chinese Consul General, Feng Deheng, in Karachi to discuss expanding cooperation between Pakistan and China [1, 2]. During this meeting, several academic and cultural initiatives were proposed:

• The establishment of a Pakistan-China Center for Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity at KU [1, 2]. Vice Chancellor Qazi noted that a building for this center is already available at the university [2].
• The creation of a Pakistan-China Museum at KU to preserve historical heritage, academic resources, cultural artifacts, and collections such as zoological and botanical specimens [1, 2].
• The proposal of a special Hall of Fame to recognize individuals for significant contributions to scholarship and education [1].
• The expansion of the Confucius Institute at KU to include more Chinese culture, academic engagement, and people-to-people exchanges beyond language instruction [2].

The discussions also covered joint research programs in several fields, including agriculture, biotechnology, food technology, the maritime or ocean economy, energy, pharmacy, microbiology, and sociology [1, 2]. Other areas for collaboration include faculty and student exchange programs, professional training, and technological innovation [1, 2].

These proposals coincide with the upcoming 75th anniversary of Pakistan-China diplomatic relations and the 75th anniversary of the University of Karachi [1, 2]. Consul General Feng Deheng expressed interest in the AI and cybersecurity center, stating it could serve as a platform for student training, faculty development, and collaborative research [1].

Who is affected

• Students and faculty at the University of Karachi may benefit from new research opportunities, training programs, and exchange initiatives [1, 2].
• Leading Chinese universities and research institutions have been invited by KU to participate in these joint initiatives [1].

Professor Qazi plans to visit China in November 2026 to meet with representatives from major Chinese universities to explore formal institutional agreements and actionable projects [1].