August 2025

4th Technical Workshop on EndNote X8 & Generative AI 2025

Posted on August 28, 2025May 20, 2026 by Haris

Office of Research, Innovation and Commercialization (ORIC) in collaboration with the Department of Basic & Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology (FOST), successfully organized the 4th Technical Workshop on EndNote X8 & Generative AI 2025 on August 28, 2025, at the University of Central Punjab.

Prof. Dr. Muhammad Akhyar Farrukh, Director ORIC and Head of the Department of Basic & Applied Chemistry, in his opening remarks highlighted that the workshop was designed to strengthen research capacity by providing hands-on training in EndNote X8 for efficient reference management and citation formatting, along with an introduction to Generative AI tools for research writing, data handling, and academic productivity, with a strong emphasis on their ethical and responsible use.

A total of 47 participants from 10 universities across Pakistan attended, reflecting strong interest in advanced digital tools for research.

The sessions were led by Dr. Muhammad Afzal and Dr. Muhammad Riaz (EndNote X8) and Prof. Dr. Muhammad Akhyar Farrukh (Generative AI).

The workshop was smoothly organized by Dr. Muhammad Afzal, Dr. Muhammad Riaz, Dr. Muhammad Perviaz, and Mr. Malik Abdul Rahim, whose efforts ensured effective planning and support.

In the closing ceremony, Prof. Dr. Hafiza Rizwana Kausar, Dean FOST distributed certificates among the participants.

Attendees expressed appreciation for the valuable exposure to modern research tools that can significantly enhance the quality and efficiency of academic work.

Industrial Session on Advanced Analytical Techniques

Posted on August 13, 2025May 20, 2026 by Haris

Department of Basic & Applied Chemistry and ORIC Host Industrial Session on Advanced Analytical Techniques

The Department of Basic and Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Science & Technology, in collaboration with the Office of Research, Innovation & Commercialization (ORIC), University of Central Punjab (UCP), organized an engaging industry–academia session featuring Mr. Shahid Ali Mahmood, Manager RSL at TTI Testing Laboratories, a seasoned professional with over 30 years of experience.

The session, held on August 13, 2025, offered participants a deep dive into advanced analytical instrumentation, including HPLC, LC-MS, LC-MS/MS, GC-FID, GC-MS, and GC-MS/MS. Mr. Mahmood shared practical insights on operational protocols, industrial applications, and the significance of these techniques in modern analytical laboratories.

In his concluding address, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Akhyar Farrukh, Head of Department and Director ORIC, appreciated the guest speaker’s valuable contribution and urged students to actively engage in hands-on industrial and instrumental training, aspiring to become researchers who make meaningful societal contributions.

The event was coordinated by Dr. Muhammad Perviaz, Associate Professor, and Mr. Usman Idrees, Lecturer.

ORIC UCP Launches Summer Course on Entrepreneurship: From Idea to Startup Launch

Posted on August 11, 2025May 20, 2026 by Haris

Day 1 & 2

The Office of Research, Innovation and Commercialization at the University of Central Punjab, in collaboration with industry partners, is offering a two-week certified summer course designed to help aspiring entrepreneurs transform innovative ideas into viable startups.

The course will start on 11 August 2025 and includes ten sessions spread over two weeks. It covers business idea validation, legal and intellectual property frameworks, commercialization models, startup funding, and hands-on product development. Participants will gain practical experience and insights into building and scaling real ventures.

The program is open to students, researchers, early-career professionals, and aspiring entrepreneurs. The fee for the course is ten thousand rupees. Prospective students applying to UCP for Fall 2025 and current chemistry students may be eligible for a special discount. The last date to register is 9 August, 2025. Interested individuals can scan the QR code in the flyer to complete the registration process. This course offers an excellent opportunity to develop essential entrepreneurial skills and prepare for a successful business journey.

Summer 2025 Course – “Entrepreneurship: From Idea to Startup Launch” Kicks Off at UCP

The Summer 2025 course “Entrepreneurship: From Idea to Startup Launch” officially began on August 11, 2025, at the Takhleeq Basement Boardroom under the supervision of the Office of Research, Innovation and Commercialization (ORIC), University of Central Punjab. The session commenced with a brief overview of the course by Prof. Dr. Muhammad Akhyar Farrukh, Director ORIC – UCP, who highlighted the importance of entrepreneurial thinking, innovation, and market-driven skills for aspiring business leaders.

The first lecture was delivered by Mr. Yaser Amir Awan, Director Research and Innovation – Takhleeq, focusing on “From Idea to Business – Entrepreneurial Thinking & Opportunity Recognition”. His session covered the fundamentals of entrepreneurship, the entrepreneurial mindset and startup culture in Pakistan, problem identification and market needs, business idea generation and validation, customer discovery, target market analysis, and a feasibility checklist with initial cost estimates.

The second lecture, led by Muhammad Javed Afzal, Regional Chief (Central Region) – SMEDA, explored “Entrepreneurship as a Career Option”, inspiring participants to pursue innovation-driven ventures and transform creative ideas into sustainable business opportunities.

This engaging opening day set a dynamic tone for the rest of the summer course, aimed at equipping participants with the knowledge, skills, and practical tools to launch successful startups.

Day 3

ORIC Summer 2025 Course – Revenue Models and Financial Strategy

The Summer 2025 course “Entrepreneurship: From Idea to Startup Launch” featured an engaging session on Revenue Models and Financial Strategy by Dr. Amina Rizwan, Assistant Professor – University of Central Punjab. The lecture guided participants through selecting effective revenue models, understanding their mechanics, and aligning them with market needs.

Key topics included subscription, product sales, licensing, commission, and hybrid models, along with strategies for financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, break-even analysis, and exploring funding options. Practical exercises enabled participants to apply these concepts to their own startup ideas, enhancing their ability to build sustainable and scalable businesses.

The session was smoothly coordinated by Ms. Nagina Rafiq, Research Associate – ORIC UCP, as part of ORIC’s ongoing initiatives to equip aspiring entrepreneurs with essential business skills.

Day 4

ORIC Summer Course 2025 – Branding, Intellectual Property Protection & Patent Filing

The Summer 2025 course “Entrepreneurship: From Idea to Startup Launch” continued with a focused session on Branding, Intellectual Property Protection, and Patent Filing at the Takhleeq Basement Boardroom, organized under the supervision of the Office of Research, Innovation and Commercialization (ORIC), University of Central Punjab.

Dr. Raja Irfan Sabir, Professor (Innovation & Marketing), FOMS – UCP, delivered the first lecture on “Branding and Intellectual Property Protection”, emphasizing the role of branding in shaping customer perceptions and building market trust. He also explained key intellectual property rights, including patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, and best practices for protecting brands in both physical and digital spaces.

The second lecture by Prof. Dr. Muhammad Akhyar Farrukh, Director ORIC – UCP, on “Patent Filing and Real-World Examples” guided participants through patent eligibility, filing processes with IPO Pakistan, and shared practical examples of patentable innovations.

The session was coordinated by Ms. Nagina Rafiq, Research Associate – ORIC UCP, ensuring smooth facilitation as part of ORIC’s initiatives to strengthen entrepreneurial capacity.

Day 5

Week Two Highlights – Session on Product Compliance & Standards

The second week of the Summer 2025 course “Entrepreneurship: From Idea to Startup Launch” continued with an insightful session on “Understanding Product Compliance & Standards”, held in the Building C Common Room.

Mr. Majid Raza led the session, emphasizing the importance of aligning with local and international regulatory frameworks such as PSQCA, FDA, ISO, and GMP requirements. Participants gained practical knowledge on certification essentials for chemical and body care products, licensing procedures for regulated and non-regulated items, and the application process for obtaining a PSQCA license.

The discussion also highlighted documentation and compliance protocols—including applications, inspections, self-evaluations, and quality certifications—ensuring participants understood both the procedural requirements and the strategic value of adhering to product standards in today’s competitive markets.

Day 6

Hands-on Product Development Session Marks Day Six of Entrepreneurship Course

The sixth day of the ongoing course “Entrepreneurship: From Idea to Startup Launch” organized by the Office of Research, Innovation and Commercialization (ORIC), UCP, featured an engaging and highly practical session led by Prof. Dr. Aziz-ur-Rehman, Director/Chairperson, Department of Chemistry – Institute of Chemical Sciences, GC University Lahore.

The session offered participants an invaluable hands-on experience in product formulation, focusing on the development of everyday consumer items such as hand wash and dishwash liquids. The participants were guided through the entire process of formulation, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing between active and inactive ingredients, as well as the scientific principles underlying pH balance, product stability, and viscosity control.

A special focus was placed on safety, shelf-life, and the role of preservatives, equipping participants with the knowledge required to create consumer-ready products that align with industry standards. The practical exposure allowed learners to not only understand theoretical concepts but also apply them directly in a laboratory setting—bridging the gap between science and entrepreneurship.

At the conclusion of the session, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Akhyar Farrukh, Director ORIC, presented a souvenir to Dr. Aziz-ur-Rehman in appreciation of his contribution to the course and his efforts in fostering product development skills among the participants.

The day underscored the course’s mission of transforming innovative ideas into market-ready products, providing participants with real-world insights into consumer product development and entrepreneurial innovation.

Day 7

Entrepreneurship Course Showcases Pilot-Scale Production at UCP’s In-House Facility

The seventh day of the ongoing course “Entrepreneurship: From Idea to Startup Launch”, organized by the Office of Research, Innovation and Commercialization (ORIC), UCP, provided participants with an immersive experience in body care product formulation and small-scale production at UCP’s In-House Facility.

Prof. Dr. Muhammad Akhyar Farrukh, Director ORIC at UCP, introduced participants to the essentials of small-scale and industrial equipment, followed by a practical demonstration of blending, mixing, heating, and filling techniques available at UCP. The training focused on bridging laboratory-scale product development with pilot-scale production, enabling participants to understand how entrepreneurial ideas are scaled into commercially viable products. He also guided in-house QC checks (pH, analysis, TDS, viscosity) and SOPs to ensure product quality, safety, and compliance.

Prof. Dr. Aziz-ur-Rehman guided participants through the formulation of moisturizing lotion. The session emphasized the careful selection and balance of ingredients to achieve both functional performance and consumer appeal.

This comprehensive hands-on session not only exposed participants to the formulation of cosmetic products but also highlighted the practical workflow of product development and production, aligning entrepreneurial innovation with industry practices.

Day 8

Entrepreneurship Course Explores Digital Design & Visual Storytelling

As part of the ORIC Summer Course “Entrepreneurship: From Idea to Startup Launch”, an engaging 08th session on development of company logo and visual storytelling for social media design was conducted on August 21, 2025.

The session was led by Mr. Ahsan Raza, Graphic Designer, Communications Department, UCP who guided participants through the essentials of visual storytelling and digital design. The lecture combined theory with practice, covering core design principles such as contrast, alignment, and proximity, while also demonstrating how to use emotion, color, and layout to strengthen a brand’s digital identity.

Participants gained hands-on training in Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop, learning typography choices, color palette selection, visual hierarchy, and pre-publishing checks to ensure high-quality, platform-optimized content. Practical tips for using social media visuals to engage audiences on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn were also shared.

The session was coordinated by Ms. Nagina Rafiq, Research Associate – ORIC

Day 9

ORIC’s Entrepreneurship Course Concludes with Certificate Distribution Ceremony at UCP

The ORIC Summer Course “Entrepreneurship: From Idea to Startup Launch”, organized by the Office of Research, Innovation and Commercialization (ORIC), UCP, successfully concluded on August 21, 2025, with a formal certificate distribution ceremony. This was the first-ever course of its kind at UCP, designed to equip students with practical entrepreneurial knowledge and hands-on skills.

Dr. Hammad Naveed, Pro-Rector UCP, shared the University’s vision for entrepreneurship, stressing the need to prepare graduates to create jobs rather than seek them, thereby contributing to innovation and sustainable economic growth. He also awarded certificates to all participants in recognition of their successful completion of the program.

Prof. Dr. Muhammad Akhyar Farrukh, Director ORIC, presented an overview of the intensive two-week program, which featured 12 sessions over 8 days, conducted by eight distinguished resource persons from UCP and partner institutions. The course addressed a broad spectrum of themes, including entrepreneurial thinking, business model development, financial strategies, product compliance, branding, intellectual property, product development, pilot-scale production, and digital design skills.

The course underscored UCP’s strong commitment to cultivating an entrepreneurial ecosystem and empowering students with the competencies to transform innovative ideas into successful ventures.

ORIC-UCP Conducts Workshop on Patents, and Research Commercialization

Posted on August 6, 2025May 15, 2026 by Haris

The Office of Research, Innovation and Commercialization (ORIC) at the University of Central Punjab organized a comprehensive workshop on “Innovation, Patents, and Research Commercialization” on August 6, 2025. The session was led by Prof. Dr. Muhammad Akhyar Farrukh with the objective of strengthening faculty capacity in intellectual property management and promoting applied research outcomes.

The workshop provided an in-depth overview of intellectual property rights, including the types of IP, national and international patent filing procedures, and commercialization pathways for academic research. Participants were also guided through the standards and guidelines of IPO Pakistan and United States Patent and Trademark Office, gaining practical insights into what constitutes patentable innovation and how to effectively draft and structure patent applications.

A key focus of the session was the patent prosecution process, including strategies for responding to objections and improving the chances of successful patent approval. Faculty members also engaged in interactive discussions on transforming research outputs into market-ready solutions and institutional consultancy opportunities.

To enhance practical understanding, live demonstrations were conducted using online platforms such as the USPTO Patent Center and the IPO Pakistan e-journal, allowing participants to explore patent tracking systems and access published patent applications in real time.

The workshop concluded with a strong emphasis on bridging the gap between academia and industry by converting research into commercial products and services. It reinforced ORIC-UCP’s commitment to fostering innovation, supporting intellectual property development, and promoting a sustainable culture of research commercialization and knowledge transfer within the university.

ORIC-UCP Conducts Workshop on Research Proposal & Grants

Posted on August 3, 2025May 19, 2026 by Haris

The University of Central Punjab successfully conducted the sixth session of its ongoing MS/MPhil/PhD Supervision Course – Cohort 3 on August 5, 2025, as part of its continuous commitment to strengthening research supervision in alignment with the Higher Education Commission Graduate Education Policy (GEP) 2023.

The session was led by Prof. Dr. Muhammad Akhyar Farrukh and focused on the “Principles of Course Design.” The training aimed to enhance faculty understanding of developing structured, research-oriented academic courses with strong alignment between learning outcomes, teaching strategies, and assessment methods. Participants were guided on how to design courses that not only improve student engagement but also contribute to academic excellence and research productivity.

A significant component of the session was dedicated to strengthening research capacity among faculty, particularly in developing effective research proposals and understanding competitive grant writing frameworks. The discussion highlighted how well-structured course design can directly support high-quality research output, funding applications, and successful project execution in both national and international contexts.

The session also emphasized the integration of Generative AI tools in academic course design, research planning, and instructional delivery. Faculty members were introduced to practical applications of AI to support literature development, proposal drafting, data structuring, and enhancing research efficiency while maintaining academic integrity.

Overall, the session provided a comprehensive platform for academic capacity building by linking course design with research proposals, grant acquisition strategies, and modern AI-enabled teaching methodologies. It reinforced UCP’s commitment to fostering a strong research culture, improving supervision quality, and enabling faculty to lead impactful research and innovation initiatives across disciplines.