LAHORE: As many as 640 projects by students representing 48 universities and 14 colleges across the province were presented at the PinTech Expo 2025.

The exhibition included models in various fields such as chemical, civil, mechanical, electrical, IT, medical, biomedical, agriculture, science and social sciences.

The Punjab Higher Education Commission (PHEC) and the Higher Education Department (HED) jointly organised the expo.

Punjab Minister for Higher and School Education Rana Sikandar Hayat was the chief guest. The minister visited all the stalls, interacted with students about their models and appreciated their efforts.

He said the appointment ofpermanent vice chancellors at universities has begun to bring out hidden talent from academic institutions.

He said the growing interest of youth in technical education is a positive sign and scholarship programmes provided further opportunities for talent to shine.

He said emergency measures were being taken to promote skills-based education among students, with initiatives starting at the schoollevelto encourage students towards technical education.

He said technology-related competitions and exhibitions are also being organised at the college and university levels to foster innovation among the youth.

Highlighting the purpose of the expo, the minister said the exhibition was organised to bridge the gap between aca-demia and industry and to provide opportunities for the youth.

He said such initiatives allow young minds to turn their ideas into practical innovations. On this occasion, he announced a prize of Rs500,000 for the top model in each category and Rs200,000 for the second-best model, stating that such expos serve as a valuable encouragement for young innovators.

Furthermore, the minister announced the allocation of a Rs100 million fund to support, polish and provide more opportunities to young talent in the near future.

WORLD BOOK AND COPYRIGHT DAY: The Punjab University Library and Institute of Information Management (IIM) jointly organised an awareness walk and seminar to mark World Book and CopyrightDay here on Monday.

The day began with an awareness walk from the Institute of Information Management to Al Raazi Hall, symbolising the enduring journey of knowledge and learning.

On this occasion, PU Pro-Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Khalid Mahmood, Secretary Archives & Libraries Wing Muhammad Khan Ranjha, Director IIM Prof.

Dr. Shafigur Rehman, Chief Librarian Dr Haroon Usmani, Dr. Marghoob Hussain Tahir from Osaka University, columnist Afzaal Rehan, faculty members, librarians and a large number of students were present.

In his address, Dr Mahmood highlighted the ongoing relevance of books and said that books still exist, and it`s only the format that has evolved.

He urged library professionalsto embrace modern technology and update their strategies to meet the needs of the digital generation.

Mr Ranjha shared various initiatives undertaken by his office for the advancement of archives and libraries across Punjab.

Dr Rehman emphasised that both HM and the PU Library have a proud tradition of commemorating this special day dedicated to books and literacy.

He said HM and library have always taken the lead in promoting the culture of reading and the intellectual value of books in PU.

Dr Tahir captivated the audience with his reflections on the personal and social value of book reading, while Afzaal Rehan shared thoughtful insights on sustaining reading habits in the digital age.Staff Reporter