New research center aims to foster local expertise and applications of blockchain technology for economic advancement.
Key Takeaways:
i) Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS) has established the Center for Digital Innovation and Blockchain (Cedar).
ii) Cedar will focus on interdisciplinary research and development of blockchain technology relevant to Pakistan’s needs.
iii) The center aims to collaborate with industry, government, and academia to promote the adoption of blockchain solutions.
Lahore, Pakistan – The Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS) has announced the launch of its Center for Digital Innovation and Blockchain (Cedar), marking a significant step towards advancing blockchain research and application within Pakistan. This pioneering initiative seeks to cultivate local talent and drive innovation in a technology with the potential to transform various sectors of the Pakistani economy.
Cedar will serve as an interdisciplinary hub, bringing together experts from diverse fields such as computer science, business, economics, and law to explore the multifaceted applications of blockchain. The center’s research agenda will be tailored to address challenges and opportunities specific to Pakistan, including enhancing transparency, improving supply chain efficiency, and fostering financial inclusion.
Speaking at the launch event held at the LUMS campus in Lahore, Dr. Arshad Ahmad, the Vice Chancellor of LUMS, emphasized the importance of this initiative for Pakistan’s technological landscape. “Blockchain technology holds immense promise for Pakistan’s digital future. Through Cedar, we aim to create a vibrant ecosystem for research, development, and deployment of blockchain solutions that can contribute to economic growth and societal progress,” he stated.
The center plans to engage in collaborative projects with industry partners, government agencies, and other academic institutions, both domestically and internationally. This collaborative approach will ensure that Cedar’s research is grounded in real-world needs and that its findings can be effectively translated into practical applications.
The launch of Cedar at LUMS signals a growing recognition of the transformative potential of blockchain technology within Pakistan and a proactive step towards harnessing this potential for national development.
Initial research areas for Cedar are expected to include exploring the use of blockchain in areas such as agricultural supply chains, digital identity management, and secure financial transactions. The center also aims to offer educational programs and workshops to build a skilled workforce in blockchain technology within Pakistan.
The launch of Cedar at LUMS signals a growing recognition of the transformative potential of blockchain technology within Pakistan and a proactive step towards harnessing this potential for national development.
