Air University’s Department of Statistics and Data Analytical Sciences launched the 3rd International Conference on Recent Trends in Statistics, Data Analytical Sciences and AI Tech Expo on 19 October. The forum concludes on 20 October.
Air Marshal (Retd.) Abdul Moeed Khan HI (M) stated that data serves as a fundamental resource for national growth and development, though its potential remains underutilised in Pakistan. Khan argued that effective data utilisation is necessary to promote innovation, generate new knowledge, and support evidence-based decision-making.
He noted that data provides the basis for exploring innovative ideas and creating solutions to complex problems. The retired air marshal also highlighted that Air University introduced an interdisciplinary undergraduate programme in Statistics and Data Analytical Sciences that includes creative technologies and artificial intelligence.
Dr Ammara Nawaz Cheema, Head of the Department of Statistics and Data Analytical Sciences at Air University, addressed the conference to stress the importance of converting data into tangible impact and innovation. Cheema advocated for equipping students with a practical understanding of data systems and their ability to transform lives.
She underscored the necessity of strengthening ties between government, academia, and industry, while pushing for a quadruple-helix approach that includes communities as key stakeholders. The department saw its student population expand from 7 MS students to roughly 400 in a single year.
Other speakers included Prof. Dr. Tasawar Hayat, Vice Chancellor of the University of Sargodha, and Dr. Shahjahan Khan OAM, Emeritus Professor at the University of Southern Queensland in Toowoomba, Australia.
