Lahore: The University of the Punjab (PU), through its Institute of Electrical, Electronics, and Computer Engineering (IEECE), is actively contributing to the INSPIRE-5G (International Network for Spectrum Policy, Innovation, and Resilient Expansion) initiative, supported by the International Science Partnerships Fund (ISPF–UKRI) and led by Dr. Muhammad Usman Hadi at Ulster University, Belfast, UK.

Prof. Dr. Kamran Abid, Director IEECE, has extended institutional support to this initiative, facilitating international collaboration and academic engagement at the University of the Punjab.

Dr. Kamal Shahid, Assistant Professor at IEECE, University of the Punjab, is playing a pivotal role in advancing this international collaboration through active research engagement, joint supervision, and academic coordination in the domains of 5G, 6G, drone technology, artificial intelligence, and next-generation wireless communication systems.

This collaboration marks a significant step toward strengthening UK–Pakistan partnerships in emerging technologies. Over the past few years, the joint efforts have resulted in:

• Supervision of multiple MSc research theses

• Publication of multiple research articles, with additional work in progress

• Academic collaboration across several leading universities in Pakistan

Through this collaboration, students and researchers at PU are gaining exposure to advanced research in 6G, artificial intelligence, and modern communication systems, enhancing academic quality, research output, and international visibility.

At a national level, the initiative aligns with Pakistan’s ongoing digital transformation, with over 300 5G sites operational under the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC). The collaboration will support technology readiness, build research capacity, and foster innovation in smart cities, energy systems, and national infrastructure.

Future plans include joint research publications, student exchange programs, and expanded collaboration in emerging technologies, further strengthening PU’s position within global research networks and reinforcing its commitment to academic excellence and innovation.