RWU Hosts Research and Innovation Pitch Fest 2025

In line with directives from the Higher Education Department Punjab, Rawalpindi Women University (RWU) successfully hosted the Research and Innovation Pitch Fest 2025, awarding a total of Rs. 9 million in seed funding to startups, prototypes, and research projects. Projects from RWU secured Rs. 7 million, while Fatima Jinnah Women University (FJWU) projects received Rs. 2 million.

The event was organized by RWU’s Office of Research, Innovation and Commercialization (ORIC) in collaboration with FJWU, under the guidance of Mr. Syed Aoun Shah Muhammad, Program Lead, Overseas Placement and Commercialization Initiative Punjab. The Pitch Fest aligns with the vision of Punjab’s Minister for Higher Education, Mr. Rana Sikandar Hayat, to empower young women through research, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

A total of 350 participants from multiple disciplines presented 70 pitches in the competition. A jury of industrial and academic experts shortlisted 20 projects based on innovation, market value, and investment potential. After final presentations, seven outstanding projects were awarded industrial support and seed funding.

Addressing the participants, Mr. Syed Aoun Shah  emphasized the shift in Pakistan’s approach to global employment, noting that while earlier generations sought labor opportunities abroad, the current focus is on creating international-level opportunities for skilled youth. He added that the Pitch Fest provides students with not only financial support but also training and mentorship, with dedicated pools being established at each university.

Director ORIC, Dr. Motasim Billah, expressed gratitude to sponsors, guests, and organizers, noting that the event showcased remarkable creativity and scholarly effort. He highlighted that the program empowers students to turn prototypes and startup ideas into reality, providing financial support, training, and exposure to real markets, while addressing social and economic challenges.

Mr. Amjad Iqbal, Director Colleges HED Punjab, encouraged students to take full advantage of the current supportive environment for innovation and new ideas.

Representatives from the industries also shared their insights. Mr. Waqar Hussain of IBM underscored the importance of critical thinking and digital advancement, noting Pakistan’s potential in the global digital economy. Businessman Dr. Imran Muhammad Siddiq assured students that financial barriers would not hinder progress, encouraging women to expand their role in Pakistan’s innovation ecosystem. Mr. Imran Hussain of Kinetic Network highlighted the need for digital transformation in public sector schools to prepare future generations.

The ceremony concluded with the distribution of seed funding cheques to the winning faculty members and students. Present at this moment were Dr. Motasim Billah, Dr. Huma Rauf, Mr. Syed Aoun Shah Muhammad, Mr. Amjad Iqbal, and Mr. Waqar Hussain of IBM.