The 17th International Conference on Open-Source Systems and Technologies (ICOSST) 2023, organized by Al-Khawarizmi Institute of Computer Science (KICS), University of Engineering & Technology Lahore, concluded with resounding success and unprecedented achievements.

Mr. Ayub Ghauri, Founder of HospitAll (Pvt) Ltd and Executive Director of NETSOL Technologies, graced the opening ceremony as the Chief Guest, alongside distinguished guests including Prof. Dr. Nasir Hayat, Pro Vice Chancellor UET, Prof. Dr. Shahid Rafique, Mr. Shazeb Rathore, and Mr. Khawaja Farukh from GNS Solutions Pvt Ltd. Reflecting on the conference, Mr. Ayub Ghauri shared, “We are just a few steps away from becoming a superpower in science and technology; it’s about developing the winning mindset of our students to avail more opportunities.”

The conference featured the submission of 120 research manuscripts from various countries, with top-quality papers accepted. Noteworthy speakers from prestigious global universities shared insights on Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security, Generative AI, and the Internet of Things (IoT).

A highlight of the event was the panel discussion on “Generative AI: The Engine of Next Digital Revolution – Challenges and Opportunities,” featuring industry experts such as Ms. Sadia Gondal from UET Lahore, Prof. Dr. Wajahat Mahmood Qazi from COMSATS Lahore, and Prof. Dr. Usman Ghani Khan from the Department of Computer Science, UET Lahore.

The exposition showcased products from KICS research labs, with leading industries participating in a recruitment drive. Participating companies included Dubbizle SMC Pvt Ltd, Horizon International, Shaheen Advisors, JFreaks Software Solution, GNS Solutions Pvt Ltd, Magnus Electric, E-Taz, Printable.pk, and Motto Vest.

The conference also hosted the “BRAINIAC’23” competition and workshops organized by IEEE UET Lahore in collaboration with IEEE Lahore Section and KICS. Students participated in modules like Programming Contest, Impact – A Startup Idea Competition, Gaming Competition, and Logo & Branding Competition, with a total prize pool of up to Rs. 1,00,000.

The closing ceremony, attended by Vice Chancellor UET, Prof. Dr. Habib ur Rehman, was marked by an impactful statement. He praised Dr. Waqar and his team for successfully conducting the 17th edition of this international conference. Addressing the participants, he declared, “It’s crucial to recognize that the pace of progress in the West has surged ahead. To catch up and even surpass global benchmarks, we must accelerate our efforts with unmatched speed and unwavering dedication by adopting new technologies.”

The event concluded with the announcement of student competition winners, followed by the distribution of certificates to participants and organizers. In his closing remarks, Prof. Dr. Waqar Mahmood, Director KICS, expressed gratitude for the successful event, commending the organizing team. The conference marked a milestone with the signing of an MoU and collaborative efforts to foster research.