The University of Karachi (KU) and the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on Thursday to promote academic collaboration, student internships, and technical training.
The signing ceremony took place at the Vice Chancellor Secretariat. KU Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Khalid Mahmood Iraqi and CTD Deputy Inspector General of Police Capt. (R) Ghulam Azfar Mahesar signed the agreement.
Under the MoU, the CTD will offer internship opportunities to students from KU’s Department of Computer Science (DCS). The partnership aims to create a framework for academic, technical, and professional development between both institutions.
The agreement focuses on strengthening institutional cooperation and providing students with practical industry exposure through live projects. In return, the DCS will deliver professional training and computer-related education to CTD personnel.
According to the agreement, third- and final-year students will participate in structured internship programmes designed to improve software engineering, data analysis, and technical skills. Selected students will work on real-world technology projects to gain practical experience and industry insight.
Speaking at the ceremony, CTD DIG Capt. (R) Ghulam Azfar Mahesar said the department seeks stronger engagement with academic institutions. He added that, alongside security responsibilities, the CTD is working to engage young people and reduce violent attitudes through constructive interaction.
He noted that universities provide an effective platform for promoting awareness and strengthening connections between students and public institutions.
Meanwhile, Chairperson of KU’s Department of Computer Science Professor Dr Sadiq Ali Khan said the department would support CTD capacity building through practical and focused technical training.
KU Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Khalid Mahmood Iraqi highlighted Pakistan’s geopolitical challenges and said modern technology and skilled personnel remain essential in addressing security threats.
He added that the DCS and CTD are considering specialized short courses covering modern computing tools, technological advancements, and data management. He also said future plans include certificate and diploma programmes and technology-based workshops tailored to CTD operational requirements.
Senior officials, faculty members, and representatives from both institutions attended the signing ceremony.
