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IBA Karachi, Aga Khan University (AKU) and Habib University have joined forces to explore artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education.
The three universities hosted the Annual Teaching and Learning Symposium 2026 at IBA’s Main Campus. This year’s theme was “AI in Pedagogy.” The event brought together academic leaders, educators and researchers from Pakistan and abroad.
During the symposium, participants explored AI’s opportunities and challenges in higher education. They also discussed ways to improve teaching methods and strengthen student engagement through technology.
At the opening session, Dr. Sana Tauseef, Conference Chair and Director of IBA Karachi’s Office of Academic Quality and Excellence, welcomed the participants. She stressed the importance of collaboration as universities respond to AI’s growing influence.
Similarly, Dr. Farid Panjwani, Dean of AKU’s Institute for Educational Development, described the event as an important milestone. He highlighted the value of collective efforts to improve teaching and learning.
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Later, university leaders joined a panel titled “Teaching for Today and Tomorrow: What Should Universities Stop, Start, and Continue in the AI Era?”
Dr. S. Akbar Zaidi, Executive Director of IBA Karachi, moderated the discussion. The panel featured Dr. Sulaiman Shahabuddin, President of Aga Khan University; Wasif Rizvi, President of Habib University; Salma Aslam, CEO of Durbeen; and Dr. Moeed W. Yusuf, Vice Chancellor of Beaconhouse National University.
Together, the panellists examined how universities can adapt their teaching practices. They also considered what institutions should change, retain or introduce as AI becomes more widely used.
One of the symposium’s key highlights was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between IBA Karachi, AKU and Habib University.
Through this agreement, the three institutions reaffirmed their commitment to academic collaboration and innovation. Moreover, the partnership highlighted the importance of working together to address emerging challenges in education.
Dr. Fazilat Siddiq, Professor at the University of Oslo in Norway, delivered the keynote address. Her presentation was titled “Critical Thinking and Agency in the Age of AI: Time to Re-think Higher Education?”
During her address, she highlighted the importance of critical thinking and learner agency. She also discussed technological, pedagogical and content knowledge in higher education.
As AI continues to influence learning, these skills can help educators and students make informed decisions. Therefore, universities must consider how technology can support learning without weakening independent thought.
In addition to panel discussions and the keynote address, the symposium featured interactive sessions and an EdTech Innovation Showcase. The programme also included Visual Voices and a student performance.
These activities gave participants further opportunities to explore new approaches to teaching and learning. Meanwhile, the awards ceremony recognised contributions made during the event.
Finally, Dr. Jane Rarieya, Vice Provost for Quality, Teaching and Learning at AKU, and Dr. Mohammad Shahid Shaikh, Vice President for Academic Affairs at Habib University, delivered the closing remarks.
The symposium concluded by emphasising the importance of academic collaboration. Overall, the event encouraged universities to explore how AI can support effective teaching, strengthen critical thinking and improve student learning experiences.
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