The Vice President of Hyderabad Chamber of Small Traders & Small Industry (HCSTSI), Shan Sehgal, participated in the joint meeting organized by ORIC Steering Committee, Corporate Advisory Council (CAC), and Industry Advisory Board (IAB) at Isra University, Hyderabad. The meeting was attended by prominent industrial leaders, corporate representatives, deans of various faculties, directors, and experts from research and industry.
Representing Hyderabad’s industrial and SME sector, Vice President Shan Sehgal emphasized that strong collaboration between academia and industry is essential for national development, advancing research, technological advancement, and securing the future of young professionals. He stated that Pakistan, particularly Sindh, urgently needs to connect its industrial sector with modern research. He reiterated that the Hyderabad Chamber has always supported initiatives that bring academic research and practical industry closer together.
Mr. Sehgal further highlighted that the SME sector is the backbone of Pakistan’s economy; however, limited access to research and modern technology prevents small industries from keeping pace with global advancements. He appreciated the initiatives taken by Isra University, noting that the university’s platforms serve as a valuable bridge between industry and academic institutions.
During the meeting, Director ORIC, Prof. Dr. Kamran Khokhar, and Additional Director, Mr. Haseebullah Memon, presented a detailed briefing on strengthening research, innovation, and academia–industry linkages. The participants were also briefed on the Penta Helix Model, a development framework based on academia, industry, government, society, and media. Separate consultation sessions were held with industrial experts from different faculties to discuss collaborative research, technology transfer, training programs, internship opportunities, and practical measures for student skill development.
Speaking to the panel members and university management, Mr. Sehgal stated that small industrialists of Hyderabad are eager to benefit from advanced research facilities, testing laboratories, technical training programs, and joint academia–industry projects, but institutional cooperation is crucial to make this possible.
He announced that the Hyderabad Chamber will, in the coming days, collaborate with Isra University to organize joint workshops, skill development sessions, and specialized industry meetings aimed at resolving industrial challenges. The Hyderabad Chamber of Small Traders & Small Industry appreciated Isra University and ORIC management for hosting an excellent joint meeting and expressed hope that such initiatives will pave the way for a new direction, stronger partnerships, and practical outcomes between academia and industry.
