ICASE-2024 Highlighted Emerging Trends and Applications in STEAM Education with 20+ Sessions from Diverse Fields

2nd International Conference on STEAM Education (ICASE-2024) brought together thought leaders, educators, and innovators from across the globe to explore emerging trends and groundbreaking advancements in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM). With over 20 engaging sessions spanning diverse disciplines, the event served as a vibrant platform for interdisciplinary dialogue and collaboration. The conference commenced with an inspiring keynote address by Ms Vladimira Briestanska, CEO of the NEEM Foundation and The Future Farm, who emphasized the critical role of innovation in shaping the future of education. Esteemed dignitaries, included Mr Muhammad Haider Amin, Chairman Board of Governors, and Dr Muhammad Hamza Amin, Vice Chairman, Prof Dr Sayed Amir Gilani, Rector, TUF, Prof Dr Aman Ullah Malik, Pro-rector, TUF, Ms Zahida Maqbool, Registrar, TUF.

Dr Muhammad Hamza Amin delivered a compelling address on the transformative potential of STEAM education for Pakistan’s progress, emphasizing the importance of nurturing interdisciplinary skills for future generations.

Prof Dr Sayed Amir Gilani and Prof Dr Aman Ullah Malik highlighted the need for STEAM-based learning to build a resilient future for Pakistan and encouraged collaboration across disciplines to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving world.

Panel Discussion: Shaping Pakistan’s Future Through Integrated Education

An insightful panel discussion led by Ms Vladimira Briestanska, Prof Dr Syed Amir Gilani, Dr Humayun Irshad, Director of NIL/Chief Scientist at PhotoDay, Dr Zaid Malik, Assistant Prof King Sauod University, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and Prof Dr Rauf-e-Azam, Vice Chancellor GC University, Faisalabad, explored the role of STEAM education in transforming Pakistan's future. Their addresses highlighted the transformative role of STEAM fields in preparing future generations to face emerging global challenges.

Groundbreaking Insights at ICASE-24: IT Session Explores the Future of Technology in Healthcare and Education

The Information Technology session set an inspiring tone with Prof Dr Ramzan Talib, GC University Faisalabad, as chair and Prof Dr Sultan Zia, NFC Institute of Engineering & Fertilizer Research, Faisalabad as co-chair. The session featured a keynote by Dr Farhan Ullah from Northwestern Polytechnical University, China, on cutting-edge technological advancements, followed by Dr Syed Hamid Hussain Madni from the University of Southampton, Malaysia.

Key topics explored included AI-driven heart disease detection, innovative approaches in medical image processing, and the use of digital resources to support education in marginalized communities. The session emphasized technology’s transformative role in healthcare and education, concluding with a resounding call for continued research to drive meaningful, real-world impacts.

Transformative IT Solutions– AI and Blockchain Revolutionizing Recruitment, Law, and Education

This session was chaired by Prof Dr Ali Hammad Akbar from University of Engineering & Technology Lahore and co-chaired by Dr Muhammad Younas, National Textile University Faisalabad, and was moderated by Dr Muhammad Ibrar.

Dr Khalid Mahmood, National Yunlin University of Science and Technology, Taiwan, delivered the Keynote Address, Dr Muhammad Azhar, Hong Kong Shue Yan University followed with an Invited Talk. Other topics discussed included Blockchain for Law Enforcement, exploring blockchain's role in enhancing security and transparency in law enforcement, and AI-enhanced online Testing Systems, highlighting AI's impact on adaptive and efficient assessments. This session provided valuable insights into AI and blockchain applications across various sectors.

Advancements in Technology Driving Innovations in Blockchain, AI, IoT, Healthcare, Education, and Infrastructure (Islamic Studies)

In this session, keynote lecture was delivered by Dr Saman Iftikhar from the Arab Open University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, followed by an invited talk from Dr Muhammad Yasir of Henan University, Kaifeng City, China, focusing on enhancing blood donation procedures through the integration of Blockchain and IoT to ensure secure and efficient healthcare practices.

Notable presentations included Rana Hassam Ahmed from The University of Faisalabad, on “Enhancing blood donation procedures through Blockchain and IoT integration: An advanced method for ensuring secure and efficient healthcare practices”, and Muhammad Arslan from National Textile University “Development of a robust model to detect and mitigate malicious cryptojacking attacks using machine learning”. Other highlights included Ms Iqra Yousaf’s from NTU, Faisalabad on “Development of an Artificial Intelligence-based real time admission system dashboard for undergraduate prospective students” and Muhammad Aziz-ur-Rehman from MNSUA, Multan, on “A transfer learning approach to identify road pavement distresses using Deep Convolutional Neural Network”, later on, Ms Kalsoom Fatima from The University of Faisalabad, explored “Blockchain and IoT integration for pharmaceutical drug traceability”. The session underscored the transformative potential of technology in healthcare, education, and infrastructure development.

Arts & Social Sciences - Exploring Islamic Perspectives on Sustainable Development and Education at ICASE-24

This session brought fresh perspectives on Islamic principles and their role in sustainable development and education. Chaired by Dr Muhammad Zaid Malik, Translation Centre, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and co-chaired by Mr Abdul Qayyum Gondal, Lincoln University College, Malaysia, the session featured keynote speaker Mr Muhammad Shahbaz Manj from University of Education, Lahore, who highlighted the alignment of Islamic teachings with global sustainability goals.

Dr Prof Matloob, Dean of Arts and Social Sciences, TUF, covered the topic of the role of Seerah in promoting education, women’s rights, ethical values, and character building. Experts from The University of Faisalabad, Al-Azhar University, and Lincoln University College explored how Islamic principles guide societal development, emphasize women’s dignity, and advocate for ethical teaching. The session concluded with a call for integrating these values to address contemporary global challenges.

Session 2: Arts & Social Sciences – Ethical Leadership and Personal Growth for Contemporary Challenges

The second session of the Arts & Social Sciences focused on the ethical teachings and leadership of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Chaired by Dr Zia Ahmad from the West Fife Islamic Education and Welfare Centre, Scotland and co-chaired by Dr Muhammad Waris Ali from Lahore Garrison University. The session featured a keynote lecture by Dr Zia Ahmad on "Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Ethical Teachings and Guidance for Everyday Life", and a keynote lecture by Dr Humayun Abbas, from GC University, Faisalabad.

The session explored key aspects of leadership and governance, with Muhammad Farhan Ur Rehman discussing "Leadership and Governance - Lessons from The Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Exemplary Leadership." Dr Humeira Khalil from The University of Faisalabad presented on "Personal Development Through the Seerah: Strategies for Self-Improvement," emphasizing how the Prophet's life offers practical approaches to self-growth. Mr Khalid Mahmood Arif from Riphah International University also focused on achieving personal growth through the teachings of the Prophet, highlighting the importance of ethical and spiritual development.

Innovative Advances in Pharmaceutical Sciences Highlighted at ICASE-24

The session was chaired by Prof Dr Rabeay Younes Hassan, Director of the Biosensors Research Center at Zewail City of Science and Technology, Egypt, and co-chaired by Dr Sohail Arshad, Professor at Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan, featured insightful presentations on cutting-edge pharmaceutical research.

Keynote speaker, Dr Haji Muhammad Shoaib, Associate Professor at Islamia University Bahawalpur, discussed nanoparticle-based skin rejuvenation treatments. Other notable talks included Sadia Rafique, Lecturer at The University of Faisalabad, on micellar solutions for antioxidants, Fatima Rasool, Assistant Professor at Punjab University, Lahore, on ethosome encapsulation for skin depigmentation, and Muhammad Shoaib, Researcher at Hay Moulay Rachid University, Morocco, on bioactive glass nanoparticles for bone regeneration. Dr Sohail Arshad concluded with insights on advancements in drug delivery systems. The session highlighted the latest innovations in pharmaceutical sciences.

Insights into Emerging Technologies: Mathematics & Engineering Session at ICASE-24

Featured prominent discussions on advanced research topics, chaired by Dr Aashir Waleed from UET Faisalabad and co-chaired by Dr Ahmad Zeeshan from IIU Islamabad, with Dr Aaqib Majeed serving as the moderator. The session commenced with opening remarks from Dr Aashir Waleed, followed by an impactful keynote presentation on "Concentrated Solar Power (CSP)" by Dr Waleed himself.

Subsequent presentations included Misbah Mehrab from UET Faisalabad, who introduced a "Wireless, Voice-Controlled, Automated 2-Wheel Drive Forklift" designed for industrial warehouses. Mr Faiz Muhammad from The University of Faisalabad explored the "Relaxation Analysis of Thermal Jump Conditions on MHD Flow" in porous stretching sheets, while Umair Ameen, also from The University of Faisalabad, discussed "A Literature Gap in Fuzzy Soft Graph." Muhammad Umar Farooq presented on the "Significance of Magneto-Hydrodynamic Nanofluid Flow Over a Porous Surface with Thermal Radiation," highlighting potential applications in thermal engineering.

Further contributions included Muhammad Yasir Jamal from UET Lahore, who discussed "Isolation Enhancement of Dual-Band MIMO DRA Antennas Using Dual-Band Metasurface for 5G Applications." The session concluded with Dr Ahmad Zeeshan from IIU Islamabad speaking on the "Application of AI-Based Techniques in Fluid Mechanics." Dr Zeeshan then delivered closing remarks, summarizing the session's insights and emphasizing the relevance of interdisciplinary approaches in advancing engineering and mathematical research.

Advancements in Biological Sciences Discussed at ICASE-24

An insightful session on Biological Sciences featuring experts in Biochemistry, Biotechnology, and Microbiology was chaired by Prof Dr Amer Jamil, University of Agriculture Faisalabad with Dr Hira Munir, GC Women University Faisalabad as Co-Chair, the session provided a platform for academic leaders and researchers to present pioneering work. Keynote speaker Prof Dr Imran Amin from NIBGE delivered a lecture on innovative genome editing and CRISPR-Cas delivery methods for crop improvement, emphasizing advances in plant biotechnology.

Dr Rizwana Mustafa, CEO of Scientific Pakistan, highlighted AI's transformative impact on scientific writing. Presenters also showcased structural characterizations and bioactivities of plant extracts and nanoparticles, including studies on Caralluma tuberculata, Leptadenia Pyrotechnica, Aloe Barbadensis Miller, Silybum Marianum, and Althaea Officinalis, each offering promising applications in health sciences. The session underscored the critical role of biotechnological research in addressing 21st-century challenges.

Exploring Business Transformation and Organizational Dynamics

This session in ICASE-24 was graced by Prof Dr Abdul Ghafoor from the Institute of Business Management Sciences, with Dr Sajjad Ahmad Baig from Faisalabad Business School as Co-Chair. Esteemed speakers presented on cutting-edge topics, with a keynote by Logaiswari Indiran from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia on "Transforming Businesses into AI-centric Models." Additional presentations from The University of Faisalabad scholars included Absar Ahmad Khan's insights into the "Phygital Experience and Consumer Retention" and Maryam Saleem's exploration of "Careerism and Career Success." Themes such as workplace bullying, halal cosmetics, knowledge management, and the impact of culture on public sector performance were also discussed, emphasizing organizational development and innovation.

An enchanting Soiree Night at The University of Faisalabad celebrated the spirit of Sufism, exclusively for ICASE-24 conference guests, celebrated the cultural richness of Sufi music, offering guests and conference attendees an evening of soulful performances. Featuring renowned artists and captivating Sufi melodies, the night created an atmosphere of spiritual reflection and cultural appreciation. The Soiree Night aimed to highlight the spiritual heritage of Sufism, providing an immersive cultural experience for both international and local guests at the ICASE-24 conference, further enhancing the conference's impact and fostering cross-cultural connections.

ICASE-24: Exploring Key Trends in Management and Organizational Sustainability (Business Management)

The academic session was inaugurated under the leadership of Prof Dr Muhammad Abrar, Chair of the session and a distinguished scholar from Lyallpur Business School, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan. Assisting him was Dr Yasir Tanveer, Co-Chair of the session and an esteemed faculty member of the same institution. The keynote lecture, titled "Knowledge Hiding Culture in Academia," was delivered by Dr Muhammad Waseem Bari from GC University Faisalabad, who explored the challenges of knowledge sharing and its implications in academic environments. Following this, Ms Mehreen Ijaz from The University of Faisalabad presented her research on the “Impact of Green HRM on Organizational Sustainability,” emphasizing the mediating role of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in fostering sustainable practices within organizations. Muhammad Rizwan Ullah, also from The University of Faisalabad, examined “Factors Affecting Tax Preparation Errors Among Tax Professionals in Pakistan”, highlighting the key drivers behind common errors in tax preparation.

Another notable presentation was given by Muhammad Salman Chughtai of International Islamic University, Islamabad, who discussed the “Role of Leadership Humility and Psychosocial Safety Climate in Career Success”, focusing on how these factors contribute to career development through job crafting and a sense of calling. Finally, Rabia Arshad from The University of Faisalabad presented a study on “The Effect of ESG Performance on Stock Market Volatility”, analyzing the relationship between Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors and stock market fluctuations in Pakistan. Ms Rabia Lodhi, from TUF delved into the “Impact of Risk Management and Board Effectiveness on Firm Performance”,meanwhile, Safa Iftikhar examined the “Effect of Rewards, Organizational Support, Values, and Job Enlargement on Job Retention”.

Innovative Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Insights Shared at Scientific Session

A highly informative scientific session was conducted to explore advancements in physiotherapy and rehabilitation featuring a series of impactful presentations. Keynote speaker Osama Saeed from Evans Street Physiotherapy, Australia, delivered insights on the effects of virtual rehabilitation on upper extremity motor recovery in patients with subacute stroke. Gulraiz Ayub and Syed Saqlain Babar from The University of Faisalabad presented on the role of virtual reality in improving trunk control and gross motor functions in children with developmental delays and on comparative motor rehabilitation techniques in spastic diplegic cerebral palsy, respectively.

Other notable contributions included Mr Muhammad Nouman Hussain from Padstow Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre, Australia, who highlighted the benefits of active breathing techniques post-coronary artery bypass surgery, and Wardah Jabbar from The University of Faisalabad, who examined vestibular and postural improvements through specific exercises in IT students. Mr Irtasam Ahmad delved into the effects of neurological music therapy on mild cognitive impairment in older adults, while Mr Saad Tariq validated telehealth-based assessments for carpal tunnel syndrome. Noreen Kiran addressed the prevalence and risk factors of musculoskeletal disorders in special education teachers.

Expert Panel Explored Sustainable Nutrition and Innovative Research

An enlightening academic session, chaired by Prof Dr Mahr-un-Nisa, Chairperson of GC University Faisalabad, and co-chaired by Prof Dr Mirza Akmal Sharif from Madinah Teaching Hospital, Faisalabad, brought together experts to discuss cutting-edge trends and challenges in nutritional sciences. Moderated by Dr Sadia Hassan, the session featured compelling keynote lectures and research presentations. Prof Dr Mahr-un-Nisa delivered a keynote on modern trends in sustainable nutrition security, followed by Beenish Israr from the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, who highlighted the challenges and opportunities in empowering communities through nutrition education.

Mahwish from the University of Sargodha explored the intricate link between malnutrition and inflammatory biomarkers. Ms Farwa Tariq from Constituent College Toba Tek Singh, University of Agriculture Faisalabad emphasized policy engagement and STEAM outreach in nutritional sciences. Innovative research was showcased by Zainab Sarfraz from The University of Faisalabad, who evaluated oatmeal cookies fortified with avocado puree, and Noor Bakht, who studied the anti-androgenic effects of natural herbs on PCOS. Ms Hina Niaz also presented an insightful study on the association between dietary patterns, nutritional status, and academic performance in school-going children.

Insights into Cutting-Edge Vision Research and Global Eye Care Education

Department of Optometry organized an illuminating session on the 2nd Day of ICASE-24. Key topics included "Publish or Perish: Unveiling Malpractice in Research Publication", by Dr Imran Khalid, Services Hospital Lahore, Ms Sadaf Qayyum from Al-Shifa College of Medicine, Islamabad presented findings on the effect of short-term exposure to shorter wavelengths on sub-foveal choroidal thickness in young emmetropic adults under hyperopic defocus, Ms Rabia Saeed – Superior University, Faisalabad, explored the impact of moist snuff on tear film and intraocular pressure. Ms Nimra Gul from The University of Faisalabad explored the role of acupressure in dry eye management. These presentations reflected the innovative strides being made in both clinical research and education.

Innovative Perspectives on Literature and STEAM Integration at ICASE-24 Conference

The STEAM Conference at ICASE-24 witnessed a thought-provoking session chaired by Dr Asma Aftab, Associate Professor at the Department of English, GC University, Faisalabad, with Prof Dr Muhammad Asif Shafi as Co-Chair. Dr Asma Aftab formally inaugurated the session, highlighting the significance of integrating arts and literature into STEAM education.

Dr Shafat Yar Khan, Associate Professor, Head of English Department, University of Central Punjab, Lahore, emphasized upon “Integrating STEAM Education into Literary Studies in Pakistan: Developing Industry-Academia Linkages”.

Dr Muhammad Saleem, Professor of English Literature, Riphah Institute of Language and Literature, Riphah International University, Lahore Campus, presented an analysis on “An Investigation of Ayad Akhtar's Disgraced and American Dervish in the Light of Julia Kristeva's Theory of Intimate Revolt”.

Other oral presentations showcased an impressive range of topics exploring the intersections of literature, ecology, gender, and digital representation. Ms Siqa Fatima and co-author Ms Muqaddas Saif presented their analysis of Kamel Daoud’s "The Meursault Investigation," shedding light on spiritual apathy. While Rimal Fatima and Ms Muqaddas Saif critically analyzed postcolonial representation in Netflix’s "Never Have I Ever", while poster presentations addressed ecofeminism and ecological safeguards in literature and architecture. The 2nd session offering a rich exploration of language, literature, and critical thought was chaired by Dr Azhar Pervaiz from the Department of English, University of Sargodha,and co-chaired by Dr Ghani Rehman from Hazara University, Mansehra, Pakistan, shared their insights on “Pragmatic Propositions for Argument Realization”.

Dr Umer Azim from Government Postgraduate College Lahore presented on “STEMing or STEAMing: The Importance of Language Arts”, highlighting the integration of language arts in STEM disciplines. Ms Maham Akram, Coordinator, Undergraduate Program, Department of English TUF, presented a critique on “Colonial Ideology in Alexie’s The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven”, while Ms Rakia Imtiaz, Coordinator, Postgraduate Program, Department of English, TUF presented a “Comparative study on transcendentalism in Emerson and Thoreau”.

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