Sindh Madressatul Islam University (SMIU), through its Department of English, organized TEDx SMIU to provide students with an opportunity to engage with speakers from different professional and social fields. Held on October 1, the event brought together distinguished personalities and young professionals who discussed leadership, emotional intelligence, entrepreneurship, technology, social responsibility and personal development. The programme was designed around the exchange of ideas and experiences, giving students an opportunity to hear directly from individuals working across business, media, leadership, social service and other areas. The event also included discussions around the changing role of Artificial Intelligence and the opportunities and challenges emerging technologies are creating for young people.
The event featured talks by Ali Ahmad Awan, Hamza Yaqoob Tabani, Erica Robin and Junaid Iqbal, among other speakers. Their discussions covered different aspects of personal and professional development, including the importance of maintaining a positive mindset, developing effective relationships, embracing innovation and technology, and contributing to society through professional and community initiatives. Other participants included Ali Tabish, Saqib Abro, Farhan Essa and Sabreen Hisbani. The diversity of speakers allowed students to hear perspectives from professionals associated with different sectors and areas of public and professional life, while the technology-focused discussions also introduced students to the changing environment shaped by Artificial Intelligence.
The programme was attended by SMIU faculty members, students and other notable personalities, creating an environment for interaction beyond conventional classroom learning. Discussions on entrepreneurship, technology and leadership provided students with exposure to experiences outside their academic disciplines, while the focus on social responsibility connected professional development with wider community participation. TEDxSMIU’s official website describes the 2026 conference as a full-day programme featuring talks, installations and conversations, with the event held at the university’s main auditorium in Karachi. The university itself offers programmes across fields including Computer Science, Software Engineering, Artificial Intelligence and Mathematical Sciences, Media and Communication Studies, Business Administration and English.
In his concluding remarks, SMIU Vice Chancellor Dr. Mujeeb Sahrai appreciated the Department of English for organizing the event and providing students with a platform to interact with accomplished personalities and explore diverse ideas. He highlighted the importance of initiatives that contribute to critical thinking, confidence, creativity, innovation and social responsibility among young people. The event concluded with appreciation for the speakers, organizers, faculty members and students who participated in the programme. TEDxSMIU’s 2026 conference also reflects the university’s continued focus on bringing students into discussions around technology, innovation, leadership and emerging opportunities through platforms that connect academic communities with wider professional and social perspectives.
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