Schneider Electric provides smart electrification solution for DG Khan Cement

Schneider Electric provides smart electrification solution for DG Khan Cement 

Karachi, August 31: DG Khan Cement Company Limited, Pakistan’s leading cement manufacturer, has chosen Schneider Electric to provide a comprehensive electrification solution for its latest production facility. DG Khan Cement Company’s Balochistan plant will use a range of smart hardware, software and services that will not only ensure the site is fully powered, but also to work towards optimizing power usage to make the facility more energy efficient and sustainable. Schneider’s EcoStruxure equipment is internet-of-things enabled, allowing the operations team a full view of energy usage across the factory. 

 Artificial Intelligence-powered software will help the company to take a predictive approach to maintenance, resulting in a facility that is much more productive.

Owned by Pakistan’s Nishat Group, the DG Khan Cement Company is amongst the top three Cement manufacturers in the country with a national market share of over 13 percent. The company has four production lines capable of producing over 8.2 million tons of cement annually. 

 The Balochistan plant is Pakistan’s largest cement production site and has a capacity of 10,000 tons per day. DG Khan Cement is constructing both a 10MW waste heat recovery and a 30MW coal fired power plant, which are set to start electricity generation in December 2020 and March 2021 respectively. 

Thanks to these two power generation facilities, the Balochistan site will be fully self-sufficient.  

“The most important criteria when selecting a solution was to have green technology that’s state-of-the-art and which will help us improve our energy efficiency. It’s important to us that we work with reputable suppliers who have a presence on the ground and a history in the country,” said Mr Raza Mansha, CEO, DG Khan Cement Company Limited.   

Speaking during the signing, DG Khan Cement Company’s Technical and Operations Director Dr Arif Bashir added: “Our goal is to monitor and manage power across our infrastructure efficiently, find electrical faults sooner, fix issues quicker, and achieve a faster return on investment. Thanks to Schneider Electric for introducing energy efficiency solutions that will improve performance.”

The hardware supplied includes low and medium voltage equipment, special dry type transformers and speed drives. Power meters and sensors will help provide data to the operations team on equipment performance. Uninterruptible power supply devices will provide backup power. All of the hardware is Internet-of-Things enabled and will share essential information about energy usage and efficiency levels.  

EcoStruxure Power Monitoring Expert (PME) software will be used to help maximize uptime and operational efficiency across the facility by maximizing operational lifecycle efficiency by using Artificial Intelligence to model power usage. Thanks to EcoStruxure Asset Advisor, the plant’s equipment will be monitored 24/7 by Schneider Electric’s Connected Services Hub, and management will be able to see performance data and recommended actions through an application on their phone. Any issues will be flagged immediately and rectified on-site. 

“This plant will ensure that DG Khan Cement Company is catering to the energy requirement of its cement production site and can continue to meet the needs of Pakistan’s construction industry for the years to come, and we’re delighted to be able to play a role in making this facility a leader when it comes to technology & innovation,” said Humayun Akhlaq Country General Manager, Schneider Electric Pakistan. “We are proud that our EcoStruxure solution will make this plant more energy efficient and productive, and help it become both greener and safer.”

Continue Reading

Jobs Opportunities in Military Engineer Services (MES).There are some position for Gilgit-Baltistan Quota.

Jobs Opportunities in Military Engineer Services (MES).There are some position for Gilgit-Baltistan Quota.

#jobs #job #jobsearch #hiring #career #work #recruitment #employment #careers #nowhiring #business #jobseeker #recruiting #jobseekers #jobsearching #jobinterview #hr #jobshiring #covid #jobhunt #jobopening #resume #education #success #jobvacancy #staffing #motivation #humanresources #vacancy #bhfyp

Continue Reading

Meezan Bank to provide financing to small Karyana stores!

Meezan Bank to provide financing to small Karyana stores!

Karachi, August 31, 2020: Meezan Bank, Pakistan’s first and largest Islamic bank, recently announced a ground breaking partnership with Finja, the country’s first dual-regulated fintech (regulated by SBP and SECP), to support MSMEs (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) through Shariah-compliant digital financing. 

Local small businesses play a major role in the country’s economy but unfortunately this sector has had limited access to the formal financial sector. With the outbreak of the Coronavirus pandemic, consumer preferences have moved swiftly from large grocery outlets to their neighbourhood ‘Karyana’ stores from where they can safely purchase daily essentials. Given their growing importance, Meezan Bank recognised that this segment is in dire need of financing to optimise their sales cycle and achieve business growth.

The partnership between Meezan Bank and Finja will allow MSMEs in the country to avail unsecured Islamic financing. The financing transaction will be managed digitally and in real-time and once approved the financing amount will be credited to his Meezan Smart Wallet account. Finja’s digital ecosystem will streamline and accelerate the credit evaluation and decision-making process. The system will assess risks using various eligibility checks and ensure compliance to the Bank’s risk acceptance criteria and will therefore ensure that financing decisions are taken very swiftly and Islamic financing is provided to the customer without any delay.  This collaboration will benefit the entire supply chain eco-system, focusing on facilitating the retailers and consequently, the distributors.

Mr. Qasif Shahid - CEO and Co-founder, Finja remarked, “In a short span, we have crafted relationships with over 5,000 merchants in multiple cities and have extended short term digital loans of over Rs. 500 Million to this segment at the back of our NBFC (Non-Banking-Financial Corporation) status. The response from this segment has been fantastic with a deep integrity-driven relationship leading to the build-up of a healthy portfolio.”

Mr. Ariful Islam – Deputy CEO, Meezan Bank, said that “Meezan Bank realizes how important it is for small businesses to receive timely financing during these challenging times. Our partnership with Finja will allow us the right digital platform to provide quick and convenient Shariah-compliant financing to our customers and serve as a precursor to growing the country’s supply chain segment.”  

Continue Reading

US-based venture capital fund SOSV backs eCommerce platform PriceOye.pk

Lahore, August 31, 2020: PriceOye.pk, Pakistan’s leading e-commerce platform, announced that it has raised an undisclosed amount of funding in its ongoing Pre Series A round led by the US-based venture capital fund SOSV. Last year, the company announced its seed funding round led by Fatima Ventures.  

“Pakistani consumers are ready for world-class online shopping experience, and PriceOye.pk has proven itself to be the market leader thanks to the platform’s unbeatable prices and seamless experience. We’re grateful to back Adnan and Adeel as they go on to shape the future of the Pakistani economy,” said William Bao Bean, General Partner at SOSV and Managing Director of MOX, the Mobile Only Accelerator.

With a business model similar to China’s JD.com, PriceOye.pk is catering to Pakistan’s 210 million consumers by providing authentic, high-end products at low prices. The company reports over 2 million monthly active users and 38% month-on-month growth as of August 2020. PriceOye.pk was co-founded by serial entrepreneurs Adnan Shaffi and Adeel Shaffi, who have previously launched and exited two tech startups.

“One of the biggest problems with online shopping in Pakistan is counterfeit products. PriceOye.pk is bringing transparency and trust to the online shopping experience, helping the 210 million Pakistani consumers seamlessly buy certified products at low prices. Our focus on customer happiness has made PriceOye.pk a leading eCommerce platform in Pakistan, and we look forward to going further with the support from SOSV,” said Adnan Shaffi, Co-founder and CEO of PriceOye.pk 

The company said it will use the funds to expand its market share, continuing to serve the growing needs of Pakistani consumers in these challenging times. Pakistan has witnessed massive growth during COVID. The country now has 170 million mobile users, of which 81 million are connected to the internet, making it the 9th country with most number of mobile users in the world.

Recognized as the world’s most active investor in Q2’2020 by PitchBook and PwC, SOSV is among the few investors with increased investment activities despite the economic downturn.

Continue Reading

Emirates and flydubai reactivate partnership offering seamless travel to over 100 unique destinations through Dubai

Emirates and flydubai reactivate partnership offering seamless travel to over 100 unique destinations through Dubai

Dubai, UAE, 31 Aug 2020- Emirates and flydubai have announced that customers of both airlines can once again access a wider range of travel options around the world, connecting seamlessly and safely through Dubai.

Following the progressive resumption of passenger flights to global destinations, the two Dubai-based airlines have revived their successful and strategic partnership to offer customers increased connectivity, convenience and travel flexibility. Emirates customers can now travel on codeshare flights to over 30 destinations on flydubai, while flydubai customers have over 70 destinations they can travel to on Emirates. Some of the favourite flydubai destinations for Emirates passengers include: Belgrade, Bucharest, Kyiv, Sofia and Zanzibar.

Commenting on the renewal of the partnership, Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Chief Commercial Officer said: “We are delighted to announce that our customers can once again take advantage of the complementary strengths of Emirates and flydubai to access an enhanced network of cities on a single ticket and integrated loyalty programme, enjoy a safe, smooth and stress-free transfer experience through Dubai and have their baggage checked through to their final destination.

“The partnership has crossed a number of successful milestones since its inception in 2017 and over the coming months, Emirates and flydubai will be working together to re-open even more of the world for our customers,” added Kazim.

Hamad Obaidalla, Chief Commercial Officer at flydubai said: “We are confident that the demand for travel will continue to increase as more countries gradually start to lift restrictions on international travel. flydubai has restarted operations to 32 points around the network since June and we expect the number to steadily grow over the next few months. Dubai has put strong health and safety protocols in place which has encouraged well informed passengers to travel, whether for business, leisure or to reunite with their loved ones.

“We remain agile in our approach to maximise the utilisation of our fleet by supporting government efforts to operate repatriation flights and increasing cargo-only operations. Our partnership with Emirates will continue to facilitate a more seamless flow of passengers and cargo across our combined networks in the recovery phase,” commented Obaidalla.

Emirates and flydubai will offer travel experiences reflecting their individual brands while keeping the health and safety of customers and employees on the ground and in air as their top priority. The two airlines have each implemented extensive safety measures to combat COVID-19 at every step of the customer’s journey including enhanced sanitisation of all touchpoints and advanced HEPA filters fitted in aircraft cabins to eliminate dust, allergens and germs from the cabin air.

Customers transiting through Dubai go through thermal screening at the airport. Transfer desks at Dubai airport have been fitted with protective anti-microbial screens and airport staff dressed in personal protective equipment (PPE) are available to provide additional assistance. Several of flydubai’s flights to destinations in Africa, Central Asia and Europe operate from Terminal 3 of Dubai International Airport, facilitating seamless connections to passengers travelling on Emirates’ flights to and from Dubai.

COVID-19 PCR tests are mandatory for all inbound and transit customers to Dubai further assuring a safe transfer experience through the airport for customers of Emirates and flydubai.

Customers boarding Emirates flights will also be provided with a complimentary hygiene kit containing masks, gloves, hand sanitiser and anti-bacterial wipes.

Continue Reading

U Microfinance Bank Awarded ABF Corporate & Investment Banking Awards 2020

U Microfinance Bank Awarded ABF Corporate & Investment Banking Awards 2020

This year, U Microfinance Bank Ltd. (U Bank) was awarded the ABF Corporate & Investment Banking Award 2020 for the “Microfinance Syndication Deal of the Year – Pakistan” category. The Syndicate Term loan was executed between U Microfinance Bank Ltd. and Allied Bank Limited in the last week of December 2018, with the drawdown in trenches, with the purpose of fueling business expansion and growth in the loan portfolios.

This landmark transaction is the first and largest of its kind in the microfinance space of Pakistan in terms of the amount secured from multiple partner banks in the form of a syndicate. No other player in the microfinance industry of Pakistan has achieved the distinction of having a syndicated facility worth US$ 259Mn in a single transaction in the last 20 years. The facility participants comprise six leading commercial banks including the National Bank of Pakistan, The Bank of Punjab, Allied Bank Limited, Bank Alfalah Limited, MCB Bank Limited, and Askari Bank Limited.

The Syndicate transaction was timely and successfully finalized on considerably low-cost funding as compared to Pakistan’s industry and market norm. This collaboration was a testament to the banking channel relationship that U Bank has developed in the past years and demonstrates its brand value as an industry leader.

The Syndicated Term loan has contributed significantly towards the growth of the organization and its loan portfolio. Over the years, U Bank has evolved into a strong microfinance service provider and is striving towards leading the industry in the coming years.

U Bank has grown from 75 branches in 2017, to 201 branches by December 2019, of which 60 branches were added in 2019 alone. By securing competitive pricing on this transaction, the Bank managed to pass on the maximum benefit to its customer, by offering lower interest rates on loans. In the past three years only, U Bank also secured a significant customer base, and our active borrowers increased from 187,000 to more than 314,000.

U Microfinance Bank Limited is in constant pursuit to enable the unbanked population of the country. On the occasion, Mr. Kabeer Naqvi – President  & CEO of U Microfinance Bank said ‘Our ambition is to bring banking services to the masses and enable them to earn a sustainable livelihood and improve their living standards. Being awarded the Microfinance Syndication Deal of the Year – Pakistan, is recognition of our constant endeavor towards financial inclusion for all ’

Due to the diligent efforts and remarkable banking practices, U Bank has once again taken the front row to lead Pakistan’s microfinance banking industry and has set new benchmarks.

Continue Reading

Over 200,000 job cuts globally in past few weeks herald economic pain ahead

Over 200,000 job cuts globally in past few weeks herald economic pain ahead

MGM Resorts International is one of an increasing number of companies that are trimming their workforce.

NEW YORK (BLOOMBERG) - Global corporations have announced more than 200,000 job cuts or buyouts in recent weeks, a worrying sign that more losses will come as furloughs implemented early in the pandemic turn into permanent layoffs.

MGM Resorts International and Coca-Cola were the latest examples on Friday (Aug 29), joining an increasing number of companies that are trimming their workforce after economies emerged from shutdowns. Almost a quarter of US workers that were temporarily laid off probably won't come back, according to Goldman Sachs estimates.

The cuts cast a shadow on the fragile rebound in the global economy at a time when Covid-19 continues to pose a threat and many government stimulus programmes have run their course. In the US, the rehiring of furloughed employees is key to further improvement in the labour market after millions of people lost their jobs at the onset of the health crisis.

The impact is widespread. Airlines were hit the earliest by a collapse in travel, and the job losses have now extended to retailers, entertainment and cosmetics companies.

Here are some of the largest job-cut plans and buyouts announced in the recent weeks:

TRAVEL AND TOURISM

As of July 24, more than 400,000 airline workers had been fired, furloughed or told they may lose their jobs in the future. More have been announced since.

American Airlines said it will cut 19,000 workers after federal payroll aid expires, rounding out a 30 per cent workforce reduction since the coronavirus pandemic began.

United Airlines expects as many as 2,850 pilot furloughs this year without approval for additional government support

CONSUMER GOODS AND RETAIL

The US retail industry furloughed more than one million workers in early April amid lockdowns. Many may become permanent. Cosmetics giant Estee Lauder, which had implemented furloughs during the shutdowns, now plans to reduce its workforce by 1,500 to 2,000 jobs worldwide, or about 3 per cent of total staff.

Ulta Beauty said this week it brought back 17,000 of the 33,000 employees furloughed in April. Not all of the remaining workers will be able to return this year.

Walgreens Boots Alliance said in July it planned to cut roughly 4,000 jobs in the UK.

Coca-Cola offered early departures to 4,000 workers in North America, with more planned around the globe.

JC Penney is cutting its workforce during its bankruptcy proceedings, with plans to close stores and reduce its workforce by about 1,000 corporate, field management, and international positions.

Bed Bath & Beyond will eliminate 2,800 jobs.

L Brands, which owns Victoria's Secret, is preparing to cut 15 per cent of corporate jobs, or roughly 850 positions.

Levi Strauss plans to eliminate 700 jobs.

INDUSTRIALS
With no sign that flying will recover anytime soon, makers of planes and engines have started to shed workers. Raytheon said at the end of July that it slashed about 8,000 jobs in its commercial aviation businesses, after disclosing furloughs in May.

Boeing is preparing to offer buyouts to employees for a second time this year, extending workforce cuts beyond the original 10 per cent target unveiled in April.

Airbus' CEO said early in July that a plan for 15,000 job cuts was not the worse-case scenario, and if a second wave of coronavirus were to emerge, the jetmaker would need to adapt again.

ENTERTAINMENT
Live entertainment, casinos and movie theaters will also take a while to recover. MGM, the largest operator of casinos on the Las Vegas Strip, has been struggling to fill its rooms and casinos since Nevada began reopening in early June. Two of the company's casinos, the Park MGM in Las Vegas and Empire City in New York, remain closed. On Friday, the company said it is sending pink slips to about 18,000 employees, more than one-quarter of its pre-pandemic US workforce.

NBCUniversal, a unit of Comcast, is eliminating jobs across its broadcast and cable-television businesses, movie studios and theme parks. The cuts may amount to 10 per cent of its 35,000-person payroll, the Wall Street Journal reported this month.

AT&T, whose WarnerMedia unit includes the Warner Bros studio and cable channels such as HBO, CNN and TBS, has been making its own reductions.

TECHNOLOGY
Salesforce.com's CEO pledged in March that the company wouldn't conduct any "significant" layoffs for 90 days, and he scoffed at other CEOs who wouldn't make the same promise. The software maker plans to cut 1,000 jobs, people familiar with the situation said this week.

Microsoft cut fewer than 1,000 jobs across various teams and locations, including MSN.com and its Azure cloud division, according to Business Insider.

FINANCE
With the pandemic constraining commerce, many firms are facing the prospect of losing billions of dollars on soured loans. While some large European banks have said they need to cut workers, US banks have largely abstained - except for Wells Fargo & Co.

Wirecard said this week it will eliminate more than half of its staff, about 730 jobs, and make other "far-reaching cuts" to preserve cash as a Munich court opened insolvency proceedings

Deutsche Bank's retail unit is accelerating thousands of job cuts at its German head offices after falling behind schedule during the coronavirus pandemic.

Standard Chartered was set to begin a new round of job cuts at the end of July, restarting reductions put on hold at the outset of the crisis.


Read on Source

Continue Reading

Walmart joins Microsoft bid for TikTok as it looks to add social to its armoury

Walmart teams up with Microsoft in bid for TikTok

Walmart joins Microsoft bid for TikTok as it looks to add social to its armoury

US retail giant – and parent of the UK’s Asda chain – Walmart is joining Microsoft in a bid to buy the US arm of Chinese social media site TikTok in a deal that is thought to be clinched by next week.

According to US news network CNBC, Walmart has confirmed its interest in joining the buy up, which is under pressure to be agreed as soon as possible with US president Donald Trump insisting that the social site be sold into non-Chinese ownership or be banned from the US.

In a statement a statement to CNBC, Walmart said: “The way TikTok has integrated e-commerce and advertising capabilities in other markets is a clear benefit to creators and users in those markets. We believe a potential relationship with TikTok US in partnership with Microsoft could add this key functionality and provide Walmart with an important way for us to reach and serve omnichannel customers as well as grow our third-party marketplace and advertising businesses. We are confident that a Walmart and Microsoft partnership would meet both the expectations of US TikTok users while satisfying the concerns of US government regulators.”

Walmart already works closely with Microsoft, having sealed a deal to use Microsoft 365 and Azure across its business. The addition of a social site like TikTok, which has been built from the ground up to drive marketing and ecommerce through video interaction would put the retailer in an interesting new place that could see it taking on Amazon.

However, companies including Oracle and Netflix have also both reportedly been interested in TikTok, with at least one report suggesting Oracle is getting close to securing some type of deal.

The Walmart TikTok involvement also comes just hours after Kevin Mayer quit as TikTok CEO due to ongoing political turmoil. Trump demanded that an American company purchase TikTok’s US business, and Microsoft has emerged as the front runner in the ongoing talks.

Continue Reading

Sidra Iqbal Envisions an Educated Pakistan

Sidra Iqbal Envisions an Educated Pakistan

Karachi 29 Aug, 2020:  Sidra Iqbal has been a constant beacon of light for youngsters in Pakistan. Not only is she one of the most celebrated TV personality, but the ambitious journalist is also an Ambassador for one of the largest privately owned networks of low-cost formal schools in Pakistan; The Citizens Foundation. Sidra is also the Youth Ambassador for I-Hope program and actively champions causes of substance that empowers the youth to make a positive difference.

Sidra hosted a TV show "Aaj Pakistan with Sidra Iqbal" that aims to bring the real issues to center stage. The show invites policy makers, decision influencers and the civil society for meaningful dialogue. Recently the Federal Minister of Education, Mr. Shafqat Mehmood featured in an exclusive conversation about academic planning and policies in Pakistan. 

The present government completed two years and it was a perfect occasion to take stock of the national educational framework. More than 20 million children of school going age are out of school in Pakistan. The Higher Education provision capacity in the country is worse than Sub-Saharan Africa. Yet, the Pakistan continues to produce global distinction holders and academic high achievers in every domain. One wonders how enormous is the true potential of our youth that remains unexplored. 

The Covid-19 pandemic forcing schools to close, the private school’s fees hike and the latest Cambridge A Levels Results 2020 controversy were pressing issues in the background of this conversation. These prompted Sidra to ask the Federal Minister candid and critical questions. 

While going into depth about the problems faced when applying to professional colleges and universities in Pakistan, Sidra pointed out how intermediate students have an advantage, in comparison to A-level students, due to a difference in the grading system. Other significant issue raised was the safety of students on campus and the frequent student suicide occurrences. 

Taking up the cause of education in Pakistan, Sidra Iqbal has identified several flaws or pending improvements in the education sector, including the tedious access to education and the need for more effective coordination between the federal and provincial education ministries; which are inhibiting the nation from moving forward adequately. Being involved in both local and international forums, Sidra has pledged to help children pursue their dreams and opportunities, through educating them and improving access to schools. 

Sidra has not only taken up the cause of Educating Pakistan, but has emphasised time and time again on her program as well as social media platform how ‘pursuits of higher should polish your best talents’ attesting to her belief that ‘Quality Education includes a safe and enriching environment to empower the youth’.

Continue Reading

United Airlines bids farewell to change fees in push for bookings

United Airlines bids farewell to change fees in push for bookings

CHICAGO (Reuters) - United Airlines (UAL.O) said on Sunday it is permanently eliminating change fees on tickets for U.S. travel effective immediately, the latest effort by a U.S. airline to try to stimulate bookings hit by the coronavirus pandemic.

Chicago-based United is among the major U.S. airlines that began implementing temporary waivers of change fees this year to give passengers more flexibility with their travel plans given the uncertainty surrounding the pandemic.

Now it is making the policy permanent for all standard Economy and Premium cabin tickets and also applying it to any ticket already booked through the end of the year. The standard change fee - charged to passengers who change their tickets - for domestic flights was $200.

In a video message to customers, Chief Executive Scott Kirby said getting rid of fees is often a top request from passengers.

The move matches Southwest Airlines’ (LUV.N) long-standing policy of not charging fees for ticket changes.

Rivals American Airlines (AAL.O) and Delta Air Lines (DAL.N) traditionally do charge for changes. Along with United, they were booking record revenues before the pandemic crushed demand, thanks largely to fees for things like checking luggage or choosing a seat.

In another change, beginning Jan. 1 United will allow customers to list for stand-by for free on a different flight on the same day of travel with the same departure and arrival cities if a seat is available.

Kirby called the moves a departure from decisions airlines had made in the past to survive difficult times, sometimes at the expense of customer service, saying United “won’t be following that same playbook as we come out of this crisis.”

Airlines are burning through millions of dollars daily because of the pandemic, but agree that restoring customer confidence and providing travel flexibility will be key to encouraging people to start traveling again and pave the path back to profitability.

Continue Reading

Woh aik ungli jo mushkil waqt main aap ky aansoo ... #Islamicquotes #Quoteoftheday -

Woh aik ungli jo mushkil waqt main aap ky aansoo ...  #Islamicquotes #Quoteoftheday  - 

#quoteoftheday #quotes #urduquote #urdushayari #urduquotes #quoteoftheday #quotes #urduquote #urdushayari #urduquotes #HadeesMubrak

Continue Reading

Qarz lenay say apnay aap ko... #HadeesMubrak #Islamicquotes #Quoteoftheday  - 

#quoteoftheday #quotes #urduquote #urdushayari #urduquotes

#quoteoftheday #quotes #urduquote #urdushayari #urduquotes

Continue Reading

Chinese investors Met with PM to Expressed their Commitment to enhance Business cooperation

Chinese investors Met with PM to Expressed their Commitment to enhance Business cooperation

Islamabad 28th August 2020:  A delegation of 10 leading Chinese companies undertaking business ventures in critical sectors including energy, communication, agriculture, science and technology, financial sector and industry called on Prime Minister Imran Khan. 

The delegation comprised of representative of Huawei Pakistan, Power Construction Corporation of China (Power China), China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), China Gezhouba (Group) Pakistan, China Three Gorges South Asia Investment Company Ltd, China Railway Group Limited, Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, China Machinery Engineering Corporation and China Mobile Pakistan Limited. Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Mr. Yao Jing and Mr. Javed Afridi, CEO Haier were also present.

Minister for Communication Murad Saeed, Minister for Industries Muhammad Hammad Azhar, Planning Minister Asad Umar, Finance Advisor Dr. Abdul Hafeez Sheikh, Commerce Advisor Abdur Razaq Dawood, Chairman Board of Investment Atif R. Bokhari, Chairman CPEC Authority Lt Gen (R) Asim Saleem Bajwa also attended the meeting.

The Chinese investors thanked the Prime Minister for his personal interest in facilitating Chinese investors and business community in Pakistan. The participants expressed satisfaction over business-friendly policies of the present government especially in improving ease of doing business. They reaffirmed commitment to further expand their investments and explore more business opportunities in various sectors of the economy. “Various reforms introduced at policy and implementation level have enhanced confidence of the Chinese business community and Pakistan is being looked as a major partner in development in the post COVID-19 environment", stated the Chinese Ambassador. 

The Prime Minister while welcoming the representatives of leading Chinese company stated that Pakistan accords great importance to strengthening its relations with China. The Prime Minister reiterated that Pakistan and China have shared destiny. He said that strengthening of business to business ties of the people of the two countries is a foremost priority.  

The Prime Minister assured the Chinese investors that his government will accord highest priority to provision of every possible facilitation to the Chinese investors. The Prime Minister asked the Chinese business houses to establish their regional offices in Pakistan.

Continue Reading

Virgin Atlantic Set to Launch New Services to Pakistan From London and Manchester

Virgin Atlantic Set to Launch New Services to Pakistan From London and Manchester

Virgin Atlantic is pleased to announce it will be launching flights to Pakistan in December 2020.

Islamabad: 27th August 2020:-Operating three new routes from London Heathrow to Lahore, London Heathrow to Islamabad, as well as from Manchester to Islamabad; these direct flights and new services will go on sale in September 2020 subject to applicable regulatory approvals, and will boast Virgin Atlantic’s Upper Class, Premium and Economy Light, Classic and Delight offering.

Pakistan has the seventh largest diaspora in the world and the new services aim to respond to the large, fast-growing demand to visit friends and relatives (VFR) from customers in the UK and the US, as well as capturing demand for business travel to the region as global economies gradually recover from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Adventurous travellers will enjoy the UNESCO sights of Lahore, as well as exploring the foothills of theKarakoram, Hindu Kush and Himalayasmountain rangesoutside Islamabad.

The services will offer seamless, speedy connections and a consistent long-haul onboard experience for customers travelling from destinations throughout North America, including New York JFK, Los Angeles, Washington, Boston and San Francisco via London Heathrow onwards to Pakistan. Connections from European destinations will also be available through codeshare and interline partners. 

As well as flying customers, Virgin Atlantic will offer a fast, efficient cargo service presenting new opportunities for companies looking to export and import goods such as fresh produce and textiles between prime markets in the UK and US, and Pakistan. 

Alison Blackburne, Acting Head of the British High Commission in Pakistan, said:

“Virgin Atlantic starting flights to Pakistan is great news for the hundreds of thousands of people who regularly travel between our two nations, as well as a boost to UK-Pakistan trade links. We look forward to welcoming Virgin Atlantic to this fantastic country.”

JuhaJarvinen, Chief Commercial Officer at Virgin Atlantic commented: “With travel restrictions remaining in place for many destinations around the world, we’re continually evaluating our network, looking at customer demand and where there are opportunities to launch new services.” 

“Pakistan is an extremely exciting opportunity for us – it boasts one of the largest foreign-born populations in both the UK and the US and, as people start to travel to visit loved ones, we’re anticipating the demand  to visit friends and relatives will increase post COVID-19. Both Lahore and Islamabad are popular year-round destinations and we look forward to welcoming travellers onboard as demand for leisure and business travel gradually increases to the region. 

“We also see a significant opportunity to increase competition in the US – Pakistan market. Using the strength of our trans-Atlantic services we’re able to offer customers the shortest journey to and from destinations in the US such as New York, Los Angeles and Washington by connecting through London Heathrow”. 

Virgin Atlantic restarted passenger flying on 20th July after a three month hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic and is currently operating flights to New York JFK, Los Angeles, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Barbados and Miami with further routes being added throughout September and October.

To ensure the health and safety of customers and crew, Virgin Atlantic is implementing additional measures to offer peace of mind in the airport and when taking to the skies. These include enhanced and thorough cleaning practices at check in, boarding gates and onboard including the use of electrostatic spraying of high-grade disinfectant in all cabins and lavatories before every flight, ensuring no surface is left untouched.  Safe distancing will also be adhered to wherever possible, and mask wearing will be required throughout the journey. All customers will be provided with a personal Health Pack for their health and safety, which will contain three medical grade face masks to be worn onboard, surface wipes and hand gel.

The airline is offering a temporary simplified hot food service in all cabins and from October, will be reintroducing special meals catering for individual dietary requirements including Halal, vegetarian, vegan and gluten free. Meals have been redesigned to limit interaction, enclosed and controlled from preparation in a Covid-safe, monitored environment to the moment it is served. Economy and Premium Economy customers will now enjoy a “Fly safe, eat well” meal box, which incorporates a choice of three hot meals, cheese and biscuits and a dessert pot washed down with a selection of beverages. Upper Class customers will receive a choice of three hot meals, desserts, including cheese & biscuits and a ciabatta roll, all delivered to their seat on a tray. All customers will receive a second meal service which, on day flights from the UK, includes the delicious Mile High Tea in collaboration with celebrity pâtissier Eric Lanlard.

Flights to Pakistan are on sale later this year.  For further information visit www.virginatlantic.com or call 0844 2092 770.

Continue Reading

Nurturing ICT Talent Ecosystem in Pakistan : HEC and Huawei to Quadruple ICT Training Program

Nurturing ICT Talent Ecosystem in Pakistan : HEC and Huawei to Quadruple ICT Training Program

Islamabad, August 26, 2020:The Huawei ICT Academy program will increase the number of training slots for Pakistani students four fold, from 800 per year to over 3,000 per year. A strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to this effect was signed between the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and Huawei Technologies Pakistan. 

Under the MoU, Huawei ICT Academies will be established in eight new universities,which will join existing 15 academies by the end of 2020, bringing the total number of universities to 23. In addition, the Training Academies in 5 of the existing universities will be upgraded. The program will provide important support for the government's Digital Pakistan initiative.

Chairman HEC Tariq Banuri graced the virtual signing ceremony as chief guest. The event was also attended by Parliamentary Secretary for Federal Ministry of Education and Professional TrainingMs. WajihaAkram, Executive Director HEC Dr. Fateh Marri, Vice President, Public Affairs and Communications, Huawei Middle East Li Xiangyu (Spacelee), and a large number of Vice Chancellors. 

Addressing the ceremony, Chairman HEC said that the government is keen to bring about the technological transformation of the country, especially through the Digital Pakistan initiative, and the Huawei ICT Academy Programwill provide a great contribution to this objective. 

He said that the program also supports HEC'scommitment to investing in the practical skills of Pakistani youth. He mentioned that HEC has launched the new undergraduate education policy,which includes a major focus on enhancing practical learning. “The new undergraduate program will offer students a menu of options to acquire practical skills, including through internships, entrepreneurial training, participation in social clubs, and sports. IT skills have become essential for future success in every field of endeavor.

The Chairman advised the Vice Chancellors to leverage the opportunities provided by the Huawei ICT Academy Program, not only to enhance students' skills, but also to harness technologies in the universities operations, developing collaboration with other universities, and mobilizing revenues. 

He concluded by saying that the MoU was a milestone in the longstanding relationship with Huawei, and is a reflection and reaffirmation of the deep-seated friendship between Pakistan and China. “Each step that we, the Pakistani and Chinese entities, take will further strengthen the Pakistan-China relations”.

Ms. Akramcongratulated the HEC and Huawei on taking forward the ICT Academy Program. She said the academia-enterprise cooperation projects, like the Huawei ICT Academy Program, will help build the ICT talent ecosystem in Pakistan.“I would like to thank Huawei technologies for their efforts and investment in Pakistan, and entrusting our youth, specifically those from the rural areas.” 

Mr. Spacelee said Huawei has, for many years, been privileged to contribute to the development of Pakistan’s ICT ecosystem together with local partners like HEC. “We are excited to be working with HEC again to expand the opportunities available through the Huawei ICT Academy.” He appreciated HEC's proactive leadership in the promotion of the digital economy in Pakistan. 

Earlier, Dr. Marri shed light on the background of Huawei ICT Academy Program. He said that 800 students have been trained through the program on yearly basis, and that the MoU will provide an opportunity to increase the number to over 3,000 per year. He stated that HEC and Huawei have a shared motive to extend services and expertise in the field of IT and Communications. 

The Huawei ICT Academy Program is a global initiative aimed at promotion of ICT technology skills. The program was launched by HEC and Huawei in 2017. It features industry-academia linkages and cooperation with universities in different countries for development, training and certification. It is based on Huawei's advanced technologies in the ICT area and leading market solutions. 

Twenty six universities submitted their proposals to the HEC for joining the program. Following an open and competitive selection process, eight universities were chosen to host the next set of ICT Academies. Theseare Mirpur University of Science and Technology, University of Central Punjab, Muhammad Nawaz Sharif Agricultural University, Khawaja Fareed UET, Usman Institute of Technology, Sindh Madressatul Islam University, UET Peshawar and the University of Peshawar. The five existing academies which will be upgraded, based on their past performance, are COMSATS University Islamabad, NUST, UET, NED University of Engineering and Technology, and Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute (GIKI).

Continue Reading

TVET Sector Support Programme Hands Over 50,000 PPE kits and 40,000 Surgical Masks To Government Of Sindh

TVET Sector Support Programme Hands Over 50,000 PPE kits and 40,000 Surgical Masks To Government Of  Sindh 

KARACHI, August 26th , 2020:- The donor-funded TVET Sector Support Programme handed over 50,000 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) kits and 40,000 surgical masks to the government of Sindh todayin a small ceremony held at the training institute of ‘Charter for Compassion’. 

The items were produced under a special initiative of the programme to support the Government of Sindh in addressing challenges in the healthcare sector during COVID-19. The ceremony was jointly organized by the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC), Sindh Technical Education and Vocational Training Authority (STEVTA) and Charter for Compassion (CfC). The ceremony highlighted support measures carried out by the TVET Sector Support Programme during the pandemic. 

The PPE kits and surgical masks were produced by 40 young women and 35 young men who received competency-based training for dress-makingunder the ‘Humqadam’ project. This special practice-oriented training was introduced to provide semi-skilled labour, affected by the lockdown, amuch-needed opportunity to further improvetheir skills and engage in an income-generating and social support activity. 

Speaking at the ceremony, the Adviser to Chief Minister of Sindh on Law, Anti-Corruption Establishment, and Information, Mr. Murtaza Wahab said that, “On behalf of government of Sindh, I show my gratitude to European Union, Germany and Norwegian government for their support of 50,000 PPE kits and 40,000 surgical masks for our health-care-professionals. The pandemic is not over yet and the efforts of this Programme by training youth is a vital socio-economic contribution”.

Her Excellency (H.E.) Ms. Androulla Kaminara, Ambassador of the European Union to Pakistan, while speaking at the occasion,said, “The EU has made major efforts across its ongoing cooperation portfolio, as well as with additional funds, to support Pakistan and its citizens during this crisis. We are delighted that the TVET Sector Support Programme has been able to redirect some of its work rapidly to providehelp through various measures.This has not only been limited to the equipment handed over today, but also includes beds and bed spreads.” 

H.E Ms. Birgit Kuhlmann, Chargé d’affaires, Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany in Karachi while speaking at the occasion mentioned that 64% of the Pakistan population is under 30. Their contribution in the fight against COVID-19 is instrumental”.H.E. Ms. Vigdis Halvorsen, First Secretary Development of the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Pakistan mentioned that ‘skilled youth in any country is the strength to pave the way for a brighter future. I am happy that our Programme is supporting the government in training the youth who contribute with their efforts for the Pakistani society in these challenging times”.

The initiative is part of an ongoing Workplace-Based Training(WBT) approach being implemented to prepare young people for the labour market.A special training fund for Sindh and Balochistan has been set up by the TVET Sector Support Programme where 18,000 young men and women will receive practice-oriented workplace-based training. The fund supports training institutes to develop and provide tailor-made programmes for jobs in the private sector. 

The Programme is funded by the European Union, the Federal Republic of Germany and the Royal Norwegian Embassy. TVET Sector Support Progrramme is being implemented by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH in close collaboration with the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC), Technical Education and Vocational Training Authorities (TEVTAs) and a number of public and private sector organizations at national and provincial levels. 

Ms. Iris Cordelia Rotzoll, Team Leader, TVET Sector Support Programme, GIZ-Pakistan, Mr. Omair Abubaker, Regional Coordinator, TVET Sector Support Programme, GIZ-Pakistan, Ms. Nabeela Umar, Director General, NAVTTC Sindh, Mr. Saleem Raza Jalbani, Chairman, Sindh TEVTA and Mr. Agha Sohail Pathan, Managing Director were also among the prominent attendees at the event.

Continue Reading

Lucky Cement records consolidated earnings of PKR 7.32 billion for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2020

Lucky Cement records consolidated earnings of PKR 7.32 billion for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2020

Karachi, August 25, 2020: On a consolidated basis, Lucky Cement Limited reported net profit after tax of PKR 6.13 billion after taking out PKR 1.19 billion attributable to non-controlling interests for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2020. This translates into earnings per share (EPS) of PKR 18.96 / share as compared to PKR 35.03 / share reported during the last year.

Further, on a consolidated basis, the Company achieved gross turnover of PKR 162.87 billion which is 19% higher as compared to last year’s turnover of PKR 136.59 billion. During the fiscal year 2019-20 under review, the Company’s overall Consolidated Net Profit decreased by 45.9% as compared to the same period last year. The decrease in consolidated Net profit was mainly attributable to decrease in Net Profit of Cement segment (Holding Company) which decreased by 79.0% due to lower margins and higher input costs. This decrease in Net Profit of holding company was partially offset by significant increase in Net Profit from foreign operations (LCL Investments Holdings Limited) as compared to last year. Despite challenging market and economic dynamics, the increase in Net Profit is mainly attributable to growth in sales volume, increase in cement prices and decrease in input costs from both Congo & Iraq projects. While the profitability of ICI remained similar to last year, the increase in Automobile segment’s profitability also contributed towards improving the consolidated Net Profit.

On a standalone basis Company’s, overall sales volumes declined by 0.6% to reach 7.63 million tons during the current fiscal year. The local cement sales volume registered a decline of 7.6% and were 5.41 million tons in comparison to 5.85 million tons last year, however, the export sales volumes of the Company improved by 18.8% to reach 2.16 million tons as compared to 1.82 million tons during the last year. Anticipating challenges in domestic demand of cement the Company developed new sales markets for clinker exports. Resultantly, the Company’s clinker exports increased by 32% as compared to previous year.

Further, with regards to Company’s standalone financial performance, the gross sales revenue decreased by 7.8% to PKR 62.30 billion compared to PKR 67.55 billion reported during last year. This was mainly due to lower domestic selling prices during the year. Moreover, the increase in input costs in addition to higher transportation costs and the impact of lockdowns due to COVID-19 also adversely impacted the Company’s profitability. Despite these challenges, Lucky Cement recorded net profit after tax of PKR 3.34 billion. Similarly, the standalone EPS of the Company is PKR 10.34 / share as compared to last year’s reported EPS of PKR 32.44 / share.

The Company reported progress on the greenfield investment project for producing 1.2 million tons of clinker at Samawah, Iraq and 1 X 660 MW supercritical coal based power project at Port Qasim.

Lucky Cement remains committed towards making a real contribution to the society and the communities in which it operates. The Company extended its merit-based support to deserving and less privileged students in Pakistan and abroad. The Company also continued to donate generously towards health-based initiatives by supporting various welfare organizations. In support of the UN Sustainability Development Goals, the Company has initiated and promoted various sustainable projects to support the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda. 

The Company reported that although COVID-19 cases in Pakistan have receded significantly, it is yet to be seen by when it comes fully under control globally. With the current macro-economic situation, the Outlook of the Cement industry will continue to improve due to increase in demand in both domestic and international markets. Based on the demand projections in the North, management expects that the prices in North will stabilize compared to the outgoing year. Export sales are anticipated to remain strong, however, prices will remain competitive due to surplus capacities available in the region. Further, the Company expects the package announced for the construction industry by the Federal Government and their key initiatives will have a positive impact on the cement demand of the country.    

Continue Reading

CDC to facilitate investment in Pakistan Stock Market by Non Resident Pakistanis (NRPs) through Roshan Digital Account

CDC to facilitate investment in Pakistan Stock Market by Non Resident Pakistanis (NRPs) through Roshan Digital Account 

“Central Depository Company of Pakistan Limited (CDC) to facilitate investment by Non-Resident Pakistanis in the Pakistan Stock Market through Roshan Digital Account with designated large-scale banks” said Mr. Badiuddin Akber, CEO-CDC. 

He further stated that Roshan Digital Account is a remarkable step taken by the State Bank of Pakistan to facilitate Overseas Pakistanis. Similarly, allowing NRPs to invest in Stock Market through Roshan Digital Account is a further facilitation for NRPs which is the result of SECP’s vision to create ease of doing business for investors. He applauded the collaborative efforts of both SECP and SBP through which this important milestone was achieved. 

Through this initiative, NRPs desirous of investing in the Stock Market of Pakistan will be able to do so through an efficient, secure and convenient mechanism. Since there is no additional requirement other than having a Roshan Digital Account for NRP to start investing in Stock market, they just need to provide consent to their respective Bank to link them with CDC. Within the next 24 hours, they will be able to trade without the need of any further documents or information as CDC is going to act as the information hub, connecting stock market with the banks. 

CDC is working on this project zealously with SBP designated banks. The service will be available to NRPs with the availability of the Roshan Digital Account, which is scheduled to be launched very soon. More details will follow soon.

Continue Reading

The Sexual Health Crisis in Pakistan: Here is how Oladoc is making an impact

The Sexual Health Crisis in Pakistan: Here is how Oladoc is making an impact

Islamabad:-Sexual health has always been a taboo topic in Pakistan. Even though access to sexual education and sexual health resources is one of the basic human rights, the cultural context of the Pakistani society has made it extremely hard for people to talk openly about it. Regardless of numerous trained medical professionals operating in the country who specialize in sexual health, people are still reluctant to consult, because societal messaging has convinced them that it is a shameful act to even take help from medical professionals when it comes to sexual and reproductive health. 

The impact of this unnecessary cultural taboo has been drastic. Sexual and reproductive health in Pakistan is at an all-time low. People all around the country are contracting sexually transmitted infections and, on top of it, suffering in silence. The officially calculated numbers are drastic on their own but since people never report their sexual issues the actual figure is probably a lot higher. 

The ultimate demise of Sexual and Reproductive Health in Pakistan

Access to good sexual and reproductive health-care is not only a matter of better life quality, it is a matter of life and death if we take into account the number of people who get impacted by chronic infections such as HIV/AIDS or women who lose their life during illegal abortions. According to a report by UNAIDS, there has been an increase of 369% AIDS related deaths in Pakistan in a period of just eight years (2010-2018). The number of infected people has also risen from 14 000 to 22 000. The same report indicates that only 4.29% of men and women in Pakistan knew accurate ways of preventing the transmission of the HIV infection. The same can be said for other sexually transmitted diseases since the precautionary steps for STDs are all the same. 

Apart from STDs Pakistanis also lack an understanding of reproductive planning. According to estimates, the most popular contraceptive method in Pakistan is abortion because people either do not know about regular contraceptives or consider them immoral or against their religious values. The worst part is that, since Pakistan’s law does not consider abortion as legal, women are forced to do them under dangerous circumstances with bad facilities. According to a 2012 report by a U.S based population council, Pakistan has one of the highest abortion rates in the entire world 48-50 per 1000 births. In 2012, a total of 2.2 million abortions were performed in Pakistan while the use of other contraceptives did not gain any momentum as it should have been. 

How oladoc- a digital healthcare company, is working for better sexual healthcare in Pakistan? 

oladoc is a doctor booking platform that aims to make improved healthcare universally accessible to all of Pakistan’s population. Noticing that sexual and reproductive health is in shambles in the country, oladoc set out on a mission to utilize the platform for the betterment of this crisis. The team identified that the problem could be tackled by focusing on three areas-education, counseling and bridging the gap between medical professionals and the local public. 

The first step was to educate people about the extent of the problem and at the same time making them realize that they did not have to suffer in silence and that the resources were out there. Since the topic is considered a taboo and people are reluctant to engage in such conversations, the best chance of successfully imparting this education was through the digital space. 

The three main tools that oladoc used for this purpose were its Youtube channel, Health Blog and social media channels such as facebook and instagram. Knowing that there was already a lot of misinformation present on the internet, oladoc made sure that the content that they produced was 100% correct. For this purpose, interviews with practicing sexologists, gynecologists and andrologists were conducted and then uploaded to the Youtube channel. This activity was important because it not only imparted educational material but also decreased the gap between practitioners and the patients as it showed people that talking to a medical professional without shame and awkwardness was possible.

The first Youtube video was published on 27th July, 2018. It was an interview with a renowned sexologist in lahore (Dr. Samra Amin) and was based on erectile dysfunction and infertility in men. The video now has more than 4.5 lac views and has motivated countless people to seek out treatment for their sexual problems. Since July 2018, oladoc has posted more than 20 detailed interviews with sexual health experts on their Youtube channel covering a wide range of topics within the subject of sexual and reproductive health. These videos combined have a viewership of more than 3 million. On other fronts, oladoc has been regularly posting blog articles that are penned down by sexologists themselves. These articles combined have a viewership of more than a quarter million.

The response to the Youtube videos and the blog articles was overwhelming and they successfully achieved the target of educating people. The next step was to provide people a space where they felt safe enough to ask for guidance and counseling. oladoc’s Facebook page came in handy at this stage as countless people started sending in messages to ask for guidance on how they could get access to medical professionals who were educating the masses on Youtube from the platform of oladoc. The oladoc team while responding to these messages made sure that people do not feel any shame or embarrassment and can ask questions freely.

The whole campaign was not only for the sake of awareness and as anticipated had an actual impact on people’s attitude towards sexual and reproductive health and oladoc has data to show that. The campaign started in July 2018, the total number of appointments related to sexologists for that year were just around 300 but as the campaign progressed and people got more aware, the number of appointments increased by 300% during 2019. The year 2020, brought an even bigger revolution for sexual health as an additional increase of 150% was seen in the number of appointments booked with sexologists and the number is increasing still. oladoc is dedicatedly working to keep up the pace for the mission of providing improved sexual and reproductive healthcare avenues to the Pakistani population.

Continue Reading