An MOU signing ceremony between Al-Khawarizmi Institute of Computer Science (KICS), University of Engineering & Technology Lahore, and Riphah Institute of Systems Engineering (RISE), Riphah International University was held at Riphah International University Lahore Campus, for the agreement of Huawei ICT Academy ASC (Academy Support Center). This collaboration is set to monitor the ICT academy program, work cooperatively to explore other opportunities of alliance between the two organizations, and address the ICT skills requirements in the Pakistan ICT industry.

Al-Khawarizmi Institute of Computer Science (KICS) aims to conduct research & development activities in the fields of Computer Science and Information Technology.  It was envisioned as an institute for advanced and high-quality applied research working in collaboration with industries and other academic institutions on national and international levels to bring about the IT revolution in Pakistan whereas, Riphah Institute of Systems Engineering (RISE) is taking research initiatives to educate future leaders which will enable them to unveil knowledge and generate fresh ideas. The research groups there, work in liaison with varied international research consortiums in the research areas including Penetration Testing, Source Code review, Infrastructure Security Assessment.

Memorandum of understanding between the two parties was duly endorsed with the signatures of Director KICS, Prof. Dr. Waqar Mahmood, and DVC/Director RISE, Dr. Saad Zafar in the presence of Ms. Fatima Samiullah, Training Manager Huawei, Mr. Fahmeed Akram, Manager Research & Trainings, KICS, Mr. Khurram, Assistant Director RISE, Mr. Obaid ur Rehman, Manager Security, and other faculty members.

According to the MoU, KICS will support RISE in terms of training, certification, ICT talent ecosystem activities, deliver the TTT to the respective faculties of RISE, instruct the instructors to get Huawei HCAI certification however RISE will provide the Resources to acquire and deliver the Huawei practical training to their students by incorporating the knowledge into their courses thereby bridging the industry academia gap. RISE intends to play key role with KICS to pass technical skills to Riphah students by making them industry ready with the technical expertise and certifications.

At the end of the MOU ceremony, both of the directors showed interest in further collaborations and dedicated this collaboration as a beginning of a new journey that will open new avenues in R&D.