Scholar from Malakand successfully defended research on AI security risks


Malakand:Malik Zubair, an MPhil scholar at the University of Malakand’s Department of Computer Science and IT, has successfully defended his research on the cybersecurity threats posed by Artificial Super Intelligence (ASI), proposing innovative solutions to counter these emerging risks.



Under the supervision of Dr. Siffat Ullah Khan, Malik Zubair’s research explores the unprecedented challenges ASI presents, including existential risks, next-generation cyber-attacks, regulatory voids, loss of human control, and ethical concerns. His work sheds light on the pressing need for stringent governance models to prevent unintended consequences arising from unchecked AI advancements.



During his defense, the scholar emphasized that existing cybersecurity frameworks are ill-equipped to handle ASI-driven threats, which could surpass human capabilities and operate beyond traditional control mechanisms. He argued that without proactive countermeasures, the world could face an era of unpredictable digital security crises.



To address these vulnerabilities, Zubair proposed a series of strategic solutions. His recommendations include constrained optimization techniques to ensure AI systems function within ethical parameters, a Human-AI Empowerment (HAIE) model to reinforce human oversight, and Multi-Agent Reinforcement Learning (MARL) to develop self-regulating AI environments. Additionally, he advocated for the implementation of kill switches, AI sandboxing techniques, and a comprehensive ethical and regulatory framework to safeguard against ASI-related risks.



The external examiner, Professor Dr. Muhammad Nawaz of IM Sciences, Peshawar, commended the research, describing it as a crucial contribution to the ongoing global discourse on AI security. He noted that as artificial intelligence rapidly evolves, research like Zubair’s is essential to shaping regulatory frameworks and ensuring AI development remains aligned with human interests.



With AI safety becoming an increasingly critical concern worldwide, Malik Zubair’s work stands as a testament to the role academia can play in preempting technological risks. His research serves as a guiding framework for policymakers and cybersecurity experts striving to regulate AI before it surpasses human control.



SIAL launches modern ramp buses

Sialkot:Sialkot International Airport (SIAL) continues to set new standards in passenger convenience and operational efficiency with the induction of new state-of-the-art ramp buses.

According to a press release, the latest addition reinforces SIAL's commitment to providing world-class facilities and ensuring seamless connectivity between the terminal and aircraft. The newly introduced ramp buses are equipped with advanced features, including spacious interiors, comfortable seating, air-conditioning, and accessibility options for passengers with reduced mobility. These buses are designed to enhance the overall travel experience, ensuring a smooth and efficient transition for travelers boarding and disembarking flights. The buses care capable to take more than 100 passengers at a time.

The Chairman and Vice Chairman SIAL, said, 'The induction of these modern ramp buses marks another milestone in our ongoing efforts to elevate passenger services at Sialkot International Airport. We are dedicated to enhancing the comfort, safety, and efficiency of airport operations, and these buses will significantly contribute to that goal.'

This investment in infrastructure is part of SIAL's broader vision to continuously upgrade facilities and meet the evolving needs of passengers. As one of Pakistan's leading international airports, SIAL remains committed to adopting innovative solutions that ensure a seamless and world-class travel experience, it added.

SAU, Shahed University Tehran sign MoU to enhance academic, research collaboration

Hyderabad:Sindh Agriculture University (SAU) Tandojam has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Iran's prestigious Shahed University Tehran to strengthen collaboration in education, research, and innovation. As part of this agreement, 10 students from SAU will receive fully funded scholarships for higher education in Tehran, with 50 percent of the scholarships reserved for female students, while both institutions will jointly undertake research projects in agriculture, social sciences and agricultural engineering.

The MoU signing ceremony took place at SAU's Senate Hall on Saturday, where Vice Chancellor Dr. Altaf Ali Siyal and Dr. Mohammad Hussain Nohi Khan, Advisor to the President of Shahed University Tehran, formally signed the agreement. The event was attended by distinguished officials, including Dr. Iman Zamani, Director of International Relations at Shahed University, Dr. Syed Farman Ali Shah, Country Representative, and Dr. Mohammad Ismail Kumbhar, Director of University Advancement and Financial Assistance at SAU.

Under this agreement, both universities will facilitate faculty and student exchanges, explore joint research opportunities, and organize international conferences, seminars, and training programs. Specific academic activities and financial commitments will be formalized through supplementary agreements.

Speaking on the occasion, Vice Chancellor Dr. Altaf Ali Siyal highlighted the significance of this partnership, emphasizing that SAU and Shahed University will collaborate on research focusing on irrigated and arid agriculture. He noted that the scholarship program will enable Pakistani students to benefit from advanced studies in Iran while fostering academic exchange between agricultural experts from both nations.

Dr. Mohammad Hussain Nohi Khan, Advisor to the President of Shahed University Tehran, acknowledged Pakistan's prominent role in global agriculture and SAU's distinguished standing among the country's academic institutions. He emphasized that this agreement is not merely a formal document but a concrete step towards long-term academic and research cooperation.

He further announced that, as part of the initial implementation, the universities will promptly launch joint conferences, seminars, and workshops, with scholarships for more than ten students, half of which will be allocated to female students.

During the event, Dr. Iman Zamani, Dr. Syed Farman Ali Shah, and Dr. Mohammad Ismail Kumbhar also addressed the gathering. As per the agreement, Dr. Mohammad Ismail Kumbhar has been designated as the focal person for SAU, while Dr. Syed Farman Ali Shah will serve as the focal person for Shahed University Tehran.

DPO inspects transgenders’ school

Bahawalpur:District Police Officer Asad Sarfaraz Khan visited Special Education School of Transgenders Bahawalpur and inspected its different sections.

Director, Education Department, Tawakkal Ali and Deputy Director Ms. Shabbana briefed the DPO bout performance of the school and education being imparted to transgender students there. They thanked the DPO for providing police security to the school.

Talking to the students, the DPO said that transgenders should get education and professional training of modern skills to become useful citizens. 'Educated and professionally trained transgenders will be participating in efforts to make the national economy powerful. Education and skills training would make transgenders able to get jobs in different fields," he added.

Mansoor Khan for sustainable afforestation and biodiversity conservation to combat climate change

Abbottabad:Special Assistant to the Chief Minister KP for Climate Change, Forestry, Environment, and Wildlife, Masoor Khan Saturday, while commending the efforts of the Forest Department, emphasized the need for sustainable afforestation and biodiversity conservation to combat climate change.

He expressed these views during his visit to the Hazara Division to assess various forestry and environmental projects.

Masoor Khan inaugurated the Spring 2025 tree plantation campaign at the Forest School Thandiani, Abbottabad.

He emphasized the significance of the Forest School Thandiani, stating that the institute, established in 1974, has gained national recognition. Currently, 350 personnel are undergoing training, including the 88th one-year Forest Guard Course and the third one-year Wildlife Course.

He also announced the introduction of a comprehensive training program aimed at enhancing wildlife conservation skills.

During the visit, the Special Assistant inspected training exercises at the Forest Firing Range and reviewed various environmental initiatives along the Hazara Motorway. These included seed broadcasting projects, Miyawaki plantation drives, and barren land stabilization efforts. He also examined the operations at the Timber Depot in Goharabad and received a detailed briefing on its functions.

Mansoor Khan met with owners of Guzara forests, who raised concerns regarding balance timber permits, GIS mapping, national parks, and deforestation challenges. Assuring them that their concerns would be addressed on a priority basis in accordance with legal requirements, he reiterated the government's zero-tolerance policy on illegal deforestation.

He further announced that trained personnel from Peshawar would be deployed to the Hazara and Malakand divisions to facilitate forest owners at the local level.

He directed all relevant departments to expedite plantation projects and actively involved the local community to ensure the success of these initiatives. To enhance public engagement, he also announced the establishment of a complaint cell within the Forest and Wildlife Department to ensure timely resolution of grievances.

Reaffirming the government's commitment to forest conservation and environmental protection, he stated that all necessary efforts would be made to ensure Pakistan's transition towards environmental sustainability.

Training workshop on land revenue matters held

Multan:A training workshop on land related affairs was organized under the 'PULSE Project' aiming to enhance the expertise of revenue staff in property ownership, land transfers, record verification, and other legal matters here on Saturday.

Deputy Commissioner Qurat-ul-Ain Memon attended the workshop as the chief guest, accompanied by Additional Deputy Commissioner Revenue (ADCR) Owaid Irshad. During the session, revenue officials were provided with comprehensive training on various aspects of land revenue management to ensure efficiency and transparency in property-related transactions. Addressing the participants, DC Qurat-ul-Ain Memon stressed the need for maximum transparency and public facilitation in land-related matters, adding that all available resources must be utilized to achieve the goal. She urged revenue staff to discharge their duties with honesty and integrity, ensuring fair and efficient services for citizens.

ADCR Owaid Irshad reiterated the district administration's commitment to implementing reforms in the Revenue Department. He instructed officials to ensure the accuracy of land records and promptly resolve public grievances related to property transactions. The initiative is part of broader efforts to modernize land revenue management in the district, ensuring better governance and greater ease for the public in accessing land-related services.