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Academic Staff Of QAU Meet Chairman HEC

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A delegation from the Academic Staff Association (ASA) of Quaid-i-Azam University Islamabad met with Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan, on Wednesday. The delegation included President Dr. Mazhar Iqbal, Vice President Dr. Aneesa Sultan, General Secretary Dr. Khalid Saleem, and Joint Secretary Dr. Fakhar Bilal, as stated in a press release.

During the meeting, the ASA highlighted the financial challenges faced by Quaid-i-Azam University, Pakistan’s top-ranking higher education institution. The Chairman was informed that the university’s normal functioning was impaired due to a shortage of funds.

The ASA emphasized that the Tenure Track System (TTS) was designed to attract and motivate highly capable and productive faculty members through a competitive pay package. However, due to infrequent salary revisions, TTS salaries now lag behind the regular Basic Pay Scale (BPS) package and do not offer post-retirement pensions or benefits.

ASA-QAU advocated for a 60% increase in TTS salaries to match the salary increases received by other government employees over the past several years. They also demanded a proportional annual increase in salaries as announced by the government for all government employees.

Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed acknowledged the insufficiency of the higher education budget given the increasing expenditures. He promised to advocate for a budget increase with the government and informed the delegation that the HEC has already taken up the issue of TTS salary increases with the government. He agreed to issue a new communication to the government regarding this matter.

Additionally, Dr. Ahmed mentioned that the HEC is providing technical and financial support to universities for implementing solar energy projects, with special consideration for Quaid-i-Azam University. This initiative aims to help QAU mitigate high energy costs, which are significantly affecting its budget.

The ASA thanked the Chairman for his time and agreed to maintain ongoing communication regarding the issues faced by the academic community.

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18% Teenagers Of Pakistan Suffer From Hypertension Due To Lifestyle Choices: Experts

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Around 18 percent of Pakistani teenagers aged 15 years and above are suffering from high blood pressure due to sedentary lifestyles, obesity, high salt intake, tobacco consumption, gaming addiction, and social media use leading to physical inactivity. About 46 percent of adults aged 18 and above have raised blood pressure, contributing to the burden of cardiovascular diseases in the country, health experts revealed during a news conference at a hotel.

Renowned health expert and General Secretary of the Pakistan Society of Internal Medicine (PSIM), Dr. Somia Iqtidar, highlighted that many young people and adults are unaware of their elevated blood pressure, which silently damages their blood vessels and vital organs, including the heart, lungs, kidneys, and eyes, potentially leading to death.

The press conference was held to launch the Discovering Hypertension project, a CSR initiative of a pharmaceutical firm in collaboration with five leading medical societies. The project aims to screen one million people for hypertension by June 30, 2025, across 500 sites in Pakistan. Those found to have hypertension will be referred to 100 specialized clinics for management and treatment.

Experts noted that physical inactivity, consumption of junk and processed food high in sodium, and tobacco use are major causes of hypertension among Pakistani youth.

Renowned neurologist and President of the Neurology Awareness and Research Foundation (NARF), Prof. Muhammad Wasey, stated that hypertension is a leading cause of stroke in Pakistan, claiming over 400,000 lives annually. He identified air pollution, high per capita oil consumption, tobacco use, high salt intake, and physical inactivity as leading causes of hypertension in Pakistan. Prof. Wasey urged people to eat simple foods with low sodium, walk at least 40 minutes daily, avoid processed foods and sugary drinks, and abstain from smoking and vaping.

President of the Pakistan Hypertension League (PHL), Prof. Nawaz Lashari, and Prof. Fawad Farooq, General Secretary of the Pakistan Cardiac Society (PCS), emphasized the impact of unhealthy lifestyle choices, such as poor diets and lack of exercise, on the increasing prevalence of hypertension and related cardiovascular diseases.

Actress and brand ambassador of the Discovering Hypertension project, Aamina Sheikh, expressed her surprise and concern about the damage caused by high blood pressure and pledged to promote preventive measures and the importance of a healthy lifestyle, including physical activity.

Project Director of Discovering Hypertension and Deputy Chief Executive Officer of PharmEvo, Syed Jamshed Ahmed, stated that the project aims to screen around one million people for hypertension. Blood pressure screening facilities will be available at 500 sites across Pakistan, and those found to be hypertensive will be connected to 100 clinics for management and treatment. The theme of the project is “check, change, and control.”

Ahmed emphasized the project’s goals to create awareness about hypertension, educate at-risk individuals to change their lifestyles, and connect chronic patients with physicians to prevent cardiac disease, stroke, and other ailments.

Several other health experts, including lifestyle medicine expert Dr. Shagufta Feroz and Dr. Masood Jawed, also spoke at the event. A large number of cardiologists, family physicians, diabetologists, and medical students were in attendance.

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Introducing Infinix GT 20 Pro: The Official Gaming Phone Of The PUBG MOBILE Super League CSA

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Infinix, Pakistan’s top-selling smartphone brand, has announced the upcoming GT 20 Pro as the Official Gaming Phone for the prestigious PUBG Mobile Super League (PMSL) in the Central and South Asia (CSA) regions. This collaboration provides mobile gamers with essential tools for unparalleled gaming experiences in PMSL from May 22 to June 16.

Weiqi Nie, Head of Product at Infinix, expressed his excitement: “The current season of PMSL CSA has captured global attention. The exceptional performance of the Infinix GT 20 Pro will propel players to new heights, enabling them to secure remarkable victories. We are also thrilled to announce that the Infinix GT 20 Pro is among the first smartphones worldwide to support PUBG MOBILE in 120FPS, offering gamers an extraordinary and immersive mobile gaming experience.”

Infinix GT 20 Pro PUBG MOBILE Version: Tested and Proven for Esports Tournaments

The Infinix GT 20 Pro PUBG MOBILE Version has been designated as the Official Gaming Phone for PMSL CSA. Before receiving this official recognition, Infinix conducted three rounds of tests on the Infinix GT 20 Pro.

1. The first round, led by the laboratory, assessed the competition device’s basic performance.
2. The second round involved a stress test, simulating a match environment and evaluating both quantitative and qualitative aspects based on player feedback.
3. In the third round, professional players tested the phone’s cooling system and other functions in a simulated full-scenario setting, providing valuable feedback.

After undergoing rigorous testing, the Infinix GT 20 Pro demonstrated its capability and was established as the dedicated esports-level smartphone for PMSL CSA. Additionally, the Infinix GT 20 Pro has also been featured in other major mobile gaming tournaments such as Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) and Honor of Kings (HOK).

Infinix GT 20 Pro: The Only Smartphone with a Dedicated Gaming Display Chip in Its Price Range

The Infinix GT 20 Pro sets itself apart in its price range by offering dual chips that rival flagship Snapdragon processors, delivering esports-level performance and visually stunning experiences.

It is the first IRX-certified smartphone from Infinix, guaranteeing players a more immersive gaming experience. The phone’s Stable Frame-rate Engine ensures efficient power consumption, optimal rendering efficiency, smart cooling during gaming, smooth visuals, and accelerated network performance, all contributing to an exceptional and efficient gaming experience. Enhanced cooling capabilities, including a larger graphite sheet and a VC liquid cooling system, further improve heat dissipation efficiency.

Designed for professional gaming, the Infinix GT 20 Pro boasts a Bezel-Less 144Hz FHD+ AMOLED Display and Dual Speakers with Sound by JBL, providing gamers with an immersive audio-visual experience. With the Clean & Pure OS 2.0, the phone offers a seamless and uninterrupted gaming environment, free from unnecessary software. The Hyper Charge Mode, supported by a 5000mAh battery and 45W Fast Charging, ensures extended playtime without long waiting periods.

The Infinix GT 20 Pro showcases the Cyber Mecha Design, capturing the Infinix GT spirit of Metal, Power, and Speed with a unique Turbine Blade Pattern for dynamic, high-performance aesthetics. Its Mecha Loop LED Interface offers extensive customization, with eight color combinations and four lighting effects, allowing gamers to personalize their device extensively. Inspired by the intricate structure of beehives, the exterior design aligns with modern gaming’s vibrant aesthetics, making it a standout choice for gamers seeking performance and style.

Pricing & Availability:

The Infinix GT 20 Pro will be exclusively available in Pakistan starting June 2024, featuring captivating colors such as Mecha Blue, Mecha Orange, and Mecha Silver. With generous memory configurations of 12+256GB, this powerful smartphone provides ample storage space to fulfill all your digital needs.

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KATI President Emphasizes On Empowering Women To Develop Country

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President of the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI), Johar Qandhari, emphasized on Wednesday that empowering women through education, professional skills, and motivation is crucial for the country’s development. Speaking at a women empowerment event organized by KATI in collaboration with the Fehmida Begum Foundation, Qandhari noted that while women’s representation in the legislature and their participation in multinational organizations, banking, and the health sector is increasing, this trend needs to be extended to all areas of life.

Qandhari highlighted the vital role of women in industrial development and economic stability, pointing out that women in Pakistan are not yet receiving the recognition they deserve in business institutions. He stressed that the empowerment of women, who make up half of Pakistan’s population, is essential for the country’s progress. He expressed pride in the resilience, determination, and courage of contemporary women who are making significant contributions to society despite numerous challenges. Qandhari also praised Nighat Awan, Senior Vice President of KATI, for her relentless efforts in empowering women.

Deputy Patron-in-Chief of KATI, Zubair Chhaya, acknowledged the increasing participation of women in the private sector. He noted that although opportunities are not yet equal, women are excelling in various fields. Chhaya commended women for effectively managing both office and domestic responsibilities, demonstrating their ability to handle multiple roles simultaneously. He also pointed out that in the current economic situation, it has become essential for all household members to contribute financially.

Standing Committee Chairman Zahid Hameed discussed various initiatives undertaken in collaboration with the Fehmida Begum Foundation to provide professional training for women in different skills, helping them become self-reliant and organizing seminars to increase employment opportunities for women in industries.

President of the Fehmida Begum Foundation, Dr. Sheikh Idris, Senior Vice President of KATI, Nighat Awan, Vice President Muslim Mohammadi, Former Presidents Masood Naqi and Ehteshamuddin, Rukhsana Sheikh, Zainab Hameed, and UNDP Project Manager Naveed Sheikh reaffirmed their commitment to women’s empowerment through their participation in the event.

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Sri Lanka T20 Team Owner Arrested For Graft Allegations

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The foreign owner of a T20 cricket team in Sri Lanka’s Premier League (LPL) was arrested on Wednesday on suspicion of corruption, police said, a day after a highly publicized player auction.

Tamim Rahman, the owner of Dambulla Thunders and a British national, was stopped at Colombo airport before boarding a flight to Dubai. Police and immigration officials informed AFP that he was arrested following a court order on suspicion of match-fixing.

Rahman has been remanded in custody until May 31 pending further investigations. He is being investigated under two provisions of the sports act related to match-fixing and attempting to organize betting.

A special police unit specializing in sports corruption carried out the arrest, marking the first time an official from the LPL tournament, which began four years ago, has been detained.

Those convicted under the sports act could face substantial fines and up to 10 years in prison.

On Tuesday, Rahman’s Dambulla team spent $450,000 to purchase 24 players, including Afghanistan’s all-rounder Karim Janat for $80,000, the most expensive foreign player.

Following the corruption allegations against Rahman, the tournament organizers terminated the rights of the Dambulla Thunders. The LPL rights holder, IPG Group, stated, “This termination/retraction of rights aims to uphold the values and reputation of the LPL, ensuring that all participants adhere to the highest standards of conduct and sportsmanship.”

It is not immediately clear whether the five-team tournament will proceed with only four teams or if a replacement for the Dambulla Thunders will be arranged.

The LPL tournament is set to begin on July 1 and conclude on July 21.

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Five Drug Peddlers Arrested, Huge Cache Of Narcotics Seized

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In response to the special directives of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Islamabad, Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi, the police have launched a comprehensive campaign titled “Nasha Ab Nahi” to eradicate narcotics and protect young people from drug abuse.

A public relations officer reported on Wednesday that, within the last 24 hours, the police apprehended five drug peddlers from different parts of the city and seized a significant amount of drugs.

Following these directives, the Tarnol police arrested an individual named Muhammad Usman and confiscated 1,170 grams of heroin from him.

The Kirpa police team arrested an individual named Saddam Hussain and seized 1,520 grams of heroin.

Similarly, the Phulgran police arrested two individuals, Irfan Shah and Muhammad Naseer Shah, recovering 1,110 grams of heroin and 10 bottles of wine from their possession.

The Shahzad Town police arrested an individual named Nazakat Hussain and confiscated 580 grams of heroin.

Separate cases have been registered against the suspects, and further investigations are underway.

The SSP Operations has instructed police officers to intensify the crackdown on criminal elements. He emphasized, “The safety and security of the citizens is our foremost priority, and no laxity will be tolerated in this regard.”

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Imran Khan, Bushra Bibi Bail Pleas Adjourned Until June 4

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On Wednesday, the Islamabad District and Sessions Court postponed the hearing on six bail applications of PTI founder Imran Khan and one bail application of his wife, Bushra Bibi, until June 4.

Additional Sessions Judge Afzal Majoka presided over the hearing of these bail applications. Representing Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi, lawyers Mirza Asim, Zahid Bashir, and Fatahullah appeared in court and requested a postponement, asking to present their arguments on the next scheduled date.

Imran Khan’s lawyer noted that they were also scheduled to attend hearings for the 190 million pound case and the cipher case later that afternoon.

Judge Majoka remarked that during the previous hearing, he intended to set a later date for the arguments, but the PTI lawyers had requested the current date. The PTI lawyer explained that they had expected the cipher case to be resolved by now, but the hearing for that case was also set for Wednesday.

During the last hearing, Adiala Jail authorities mentioned that the video link system was being transported from Haripur. The system has now arrived, and the court instructed Adiala Jail authorities to ensure Imran Khan’s attendance via video link.

The court then postponed the hearing on the bail applications of former Prime Minister Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi until June 4.

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ATC Drops Contempt Proceedings Against Two FIA’s Directors

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An anti-terrorism court (ATC) on Wednesday dismissed contempt proceedings against two directors of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) after they offered an unconditional apology.

Earlier, FIA’s Director of Cyber Crime, Jehanzaib Nazir, and Director of the Anti-Terrorism Wing, Humayun Masood, appeared before the court and apologized unconditionally for not complying with court orders.

The court then warned both officers, stating that any future negligence would result in strict action.

Following their apology, the court dropped the contempt proceedings against them.

The contempt proceedings had been initiated due to their failure to submit records in a case against Amir Shahzad, despite repeated orders. The court had issued a notice to the officers, asking why contempt proceedings should not be initiated against them for their non-compliance.

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Failure is a part of this industry: Osman Khalid Butt on films, friends, and his indomitable mother

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Sitting amidst a crowd of delighted engineering students, the exchange of wit and banter flowed effortlessly between the host and the guest. Osman, known as aclockworkob on social media as a nod to his favorite book, Clockwork Orange, welcomed viewers into his world by reminiscing about his extraordinary late mother, who passed away in 2006. She was a woman who left her homeland – France – to be with the love of her life in Lahore, and Osman fondly recalled how she served as the glue that bound his vast extended family together.

In a heartfelt tribute to his mother, Osman reflected, “Everyone believes their mother to be the most extraordinary being, but mine truly was special.” He shared memories of her resilience during the tumultuous times of the ’65 and ’71 wars, highlighting her decision to remain in Pakistan despite opportunities to leave. She not only assisted the Pakistani government but also established a French school, demonstrating her dedication and love for the country.

Osman admired his mother’s accomplishments even more considering her vastly different upbringing in France. Upon her marriage, she entered into a complex joint family structure, which, while a testament to her unwavering love, also presented its own unique set of challenges.

“It was a significant culture shock for her,” Osman explained. “She struggled with Urdu, despite my father’s efforts to teach her, and Punjabi posed an even greater challenge.”

Not one to concede defeat easily, Osman’s mother gradually picked up Punjabi bit by bit and would respond in kind to anyone attempting to belittle her. “I believe she truly embraced the best of Pakistani culture,” Osman reminisced affectionately. “I owe my looks and intelligence to her! She was a gentle critic, incredibly loving. Her absence was deeply felt by everyone in the family.”

When it comes to theatre, Osman’s fans might recall his foray into acting with a role in Moulin Rouge. However, what many may not know is the near-chaotic moment when Osman inadvertently pointed a prop gun at then-President General Pervez Musharraf, who was seated in the front row. Although it was just a prop gun, Osman vividly remembered the wave of fear that swept through the audience as he took aim.

“The climax required me to point the gun at the audience,” Osman revealed. “I was at center stage, and after aiming at the audience, I had to turn the gun towards myself before a simulated suicide. He [Musharraf] was seated right in the front row, directly in the line of sight where I was aiming the gun. Everyone knew it was a prop gun, but I could sense the panic spreading! Once I moved the gun away, you could visibly see the audience relax.”

Despite his successful career, Osman cherishes his friendships with colleagues Maya Ali, Zara Noor Abbas, and Ahmed Ali Akbar. “I should probably keep a stopwatch for every time someone asks me why I haven’t collaborated with Maya,” Osman joked. “People assume there’s tension between us if we haven’t been seen together for a while, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. We’re all great friends, and whether we work together again depends on producers and casting directors. When the right project comes along, we’ll team up!”

Reflecting on his journey, Osman acknowledged the inevitability of failure in the industry. “Failure is a part of this industry – of any industry, really,” he philosophized. “I even had a movie banned because it poked fun at the then-president, but a ban brings its own publicity!”

Now, with a thriving career, Osman can set aside the fear of failure and bans. And with his intellect, if by some twist of fate his acting career were to falter entirely, Osman could always return to academics, drawing from the intelligence he’s been blessed with, much like the engineering students he addressed.

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Food Department Manshera Commences Wheat Procurement At 3900 Rupees Per 40 KG

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In accordance with provincial government directives, the Food Department Mansehra has established a wheat procurement center and commenced purchasing wheat at the rate of 3900 rupees per 40 KG. The Food Department has set a target of procuring 12000 metric tons of wheat.

Wheat dealers from Punjab are selling their produce in district Mansehra, and local farmers have been instructed to sell their wheat at the procurement centers.

The KP government has fixed the price of wheat at 3900 rupees per 40 kilograms. During an official visit to the wheat procurement center at the Food Warehouse, Deputy Commissioner Mansehra received a briefing from District Food Controller Abbottabad, Shaukat Sultan, regarding the ethical guidelines for wheat procurement.

The Deputy Commissioner also inspected the facilities provided at the wheat procurement center in Havelian and issued instructions to ensure smooth facilitation for landlords and farmers.

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