Lahore: The Institute of Chemical Engineering and Technology (ICET), University of the Punjab, organized a meeting of its Industrial Advisory Board (IAB) to review curriculum revisions and discuss the introduction of new academic programmes in line with emerging industrial requirements and international academic standards.
According to a spokesperson, the meeting was attended by ICET Director Prof Dr Syed Nadir Hussain, President Sudar Industrial Association Engr Syed Maaz Mehmood, Environmental Protection Agency expert Engr Usman Azhar, Consultant Berger Paints Engr Dr Sheraz Ahmed Qureshi, Deputy Chief Manager NEandSC Engr Dr Arfan Ul Haq Subhani, GM PARCO Engr Amar Abbad and Head Technical Operations Fauji Foods Ltd Engr Ifzal Akhter.
Prof Dr Syed Nadir Hussain briefed the participants on the revised curricula of BSc Chemical Engineering, BSc Chemical Engineering with specialization in Petroleum and Gas, and MS Process Safety and Management.
He also presented the BSc Food Engineering programme, which is planned as a new programme at ICET from the 2027 intake onwards.
He said several initiatives had been undertaken to strengthen academic and research facilities at the institute, including the establishment of laboratories for paint manufacturing and research, water treatment, process simulation, and energy and sustainable environment. Two new pieces of equipment had also been procured for the main Chemical Engineering Laboratory, while a 30-KW solar system had been installed.
The ICET director said the institute’s library had been renovated and LED lighting installed in classrooms with the support of ICET alumni. He added that further development plans focused on improving the quality of education through curriculum enhancement and faculty capacity development in line with international standards.
Prof Dr Nadir Hussain also highlighted the significance of professional accreditation, saying that the Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC) was now a member of the Washington Accord and ICET’s Chemical Engineering graduates registered with PEC could pursue professional opportunities with international organizations.
The industrial experts appreciated the comprehensive revision of existing curricula and the introduction of new undergraduate and graduate programmes in response to emerging industrial needs. They particularly appreciated ICET’s efforts to incorporate contemporary knowledge, emerging technologies, industry-relevant skills and practical competencies into its academic programmes.
The IAB members expressed their support for the initiatives and observed that continuous curriculum enhancement and programme development would help improve the employability, professional competence and global competitiveness of ICET graduates.
They also shared suggestions for further strengthening the curricula, incorporating emerging technologies and industry trends, and enhancing the academic and professional development of graduates.
