PROVINCE REPORT
PESHAWAR: The three-day 8th International Multidisciplinary Research Conference (IMRC-2026) concluded successfully at the Bara Gali Summer Campus of the University of Peshawar. Held from 10th to 12th September 2026, the conference was jointly organised by Sarhad University of Science and Information Technology, Peshawar, and the University of Peshawar, in collaboration with Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Women University, Women University Mardan and the University of Buner.
Based on the theme “Use of Artificial Intelligence to Protect Lives and Promote Peace: A Global Perspective,” the conference brought together Vice Chancellors, academicians, keynote speakers and researchers to explore the role of artificial intelligence in human welfare, education, healthcare, sustainable development and peace.
The conference was chaired by Prof. Dr. Salim-ur-Rehman, Vice Chancellor, Sarhad University. The proceedings were also graced by Meritorious Prof. Dr. Jamshaid Ali Khan, Vice Chancellor, University of Buner; Prof. Dr. Farhat Amin, Vice Chancellor, Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Women University; and Prof. Dr. Razia Sultana, Vice Chancellor, Women University Mardan.
Prof. Dr. Lutfullah Kakakhel, former Vice Chancellor of Sarhad University and Kohat University of Science and Technology, attended the opening ceremony as Chief Guest. Keynote addresses were delivered by distinguished experts, including Prof. Dr. Shariyeh Hosseini Nasab, Prof. Dr. Aykut Kişmir and Prof. Dr. Abdul Kareem Essa Al-Ruheli.
The conference received 637 oral abstracts, of which 278 were accepted, while 24 out of 89 poster submissions were selected. More than 175 presenters and researchers participated, including 26 international presenters from Yemen, China, Iran, Türkiye, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, Spain and Canada, as well as participants from across Pakistan.
The academic programme comprised 21 technical sessions conducted across three parallel halls, featuring keynote addresses, oral and poster presentations, panel discussions and scholarly interaction. A cultural evening was also arranged to celebrate Pakistan’s diversity and promote networking among delegates.
The conference was supported by the Higher Education Regulatory Authority, KP Information Technology Board, PASTIC, Directorate General of Science and Technology, Pakistan Science Foundation and Dosti Welfare Organization, along with various pharmaceutical and educational partners.
At the closing ceremony, Prof. Dr. Salim ur Rehman, Vice Chancellor, Sarhad University of Science & IT, Peshawar and Conference Chair, thanked the collaborating institutions, supporting organisations, keynote speakers, session chairs, presenters, organisers and supporting staff. Shields and certificates were also presented in recognition of their contributions.
The conference concluded with a commitment to promote multidisciplinary research, responsible applications of artificial intelligence and stronger national and international academic collaboration through future editions of IMRC.
