Quaid-i-Azam University (QAU), Islamabad, and Pathfinder CITADEL signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at fostering collaboration in education, research, innovation, entrepreneurship, and human resource development.

The MoU was signed by Prof. Dr. Zafar Nawaz Jaspal, Vice Chancellor, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, and Mr. Asad Ikram, President, Pathfinder CITADEL.

The MoU establishes a broad framework for cooperation between the two institutions to enable joint programs, research initiatives, innovation projects, technology-driven ventures, and strengthened industry-academia linkages.

Under the agreement, both organizations will collaborate on talent development, employability enhancement, and upskilling programs to prepare students for emerging industry demands. The partnership will also facilitate certifications in Artificial Intelligence (AI), digital skills, engineering technologies, and leadership development.

As part of the collaboration, Pathfinder CITADEL will support national and international placement opportunities for QAU graduates and provide access to engineering, deep-tech, and AI-driven startup acceleration programs. Students and researchers will benefit from connections with investor networks, mentors, laboratories, and innovation facilities, as well as opportunities to participate in demo days, boot camps, innovation showcases, and entrepreneurial festivals.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Dr. Zafar Nawaz Jaspal said that the partnership would create new opportunities for students, researchers, and faculty members by connecting academia with industry and innovation ecosystems.