TİKA Supports Human-Centered AI Research in Pakistan

The Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) has established a Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence Laboratory at the University of the Punjab in Lahore, Pakistan.

Equipped with modern computing and server infrastructure, the laboratory will support AI research that prioritizes human needs and social benefit.

The inauguration at the university’s Faculty of Computing and Information Technology was attended by TİKA Vice President Dr. Ali Ercan, Head of the Personnel and Support Services Department Uğur Vanlıoğlu, Islamabad Programme Coordinator Saliha Tuna, Punjab University Pro-Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Mahmood Saleem, Faculty Dean Dr. Shahzad Sarwar, academics and students. Yıldız Technical University (YTU) Rector Prof. Dr. Eyüp Debik and Vice-Rector Prof. Dr. Vatan Karakaya joined the ceremony online.

Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Ali Ercan highlighted AI’s potential in education, healthcare, research and public services. He emphasized the growing importance of asking whom these technologies serve and how they affect people’s lives. Ercan expressed hope that the laboratory would help young researchers develop both technical expertise and the ability to assess the social impact of the systems they create.

A New Platform for Türkiye–Pakistan Academic Cooperation

Facilitated by TİKA, cooperation between Punjab University and YTU will complement the laboratory’s infrastructure with academic collaboration. The partnership envisages joint research projects, student and faculty exchanges, and the development of joint courses and academic programmes in artificial intelligence.

With remote access available across the university’s campuses, the laboratory provides a shared research platform for students and academics. It aims to support the development of human-centered solutions in fields including healthcare, agriculture, energy, transport and education.