Special editorial feature 
 

Special Editorial
Feature

School of Mathematics and Computer Science (SMCS)

A New Chapter in IBA’s Legacy

The launch of IBA-SMCS marks a significant step forward for Pakistan’s STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) future.

By Dr. Shakeel A. Khoja | August 2025


IBA, Karachi, has long been synonymous with excellence in business education in Pakistan. Yet in an era where technological fluency is no longer optional but foundational, IBA is boldly moving to establish itself as a leader in another critical domain: the School of Mathematics and Computer Science (SMCS). This is not merely institutional growth—it is a decisive recalibration.

With roots in computer science education stretching back to 1983, IBA has already produced generations of skilled graduates who have shaped Pakistan’s IT industry. Now, through the formalization of SMCS, it is poised to do so with intentional scale, academic intensity, and an eye on international relevance. IBA-SMCS is not simply a response to global technological realities—it is an assertion that Pakistan, too, must help shape them.

What sets this new school apart in a saturated landscape? How will it tackle today’s digital demands and help transform Pakistan from a tech consumer into a tech leader? This article explores the bold vision and strategy behind SMCS—and why its moment is now.

From Diploma to Doctorate: The Evolution of Computer Science at IBA

IBA’s venture into computer science began modestly in 1983 with a diploma program to address a shortage of system analysts in Pakistan. Over the years, this initiative evolved into comprehensive BS, MS, and PhD programs in Mathematics, Computer Science, and Data Science, disciplines that now underpin every modern industry.

Today, SMCS houses cutting-edge research labs focused on:
• Artificial Intelligence
• Big Data and Analytics
• Telecommunications and IoT
Robotics
• Web Science and Human-Computer Interaction

These labs are more than academic spaces—they are engines of innovation, driving applied research, fueling startup incubation, and forging powerful industry partnerships. Here, ideas don’t stay on paper—they come to life.

Market Recognition: IBA’s CS Graduates in High Demand
The IBA Placement Survey (2024) revealed that MS(CS) graduates earn the highest average salaries among all postgraduate programs at IBA, outpacing even MBAs. BS(CS) graduates rank first in earning potential among IBA’s undergraduate programs. These outcomes reflect market validation of the School’s academic rigor, practical relevance, and visionary programming—a reputation SMCS aims to elevate further.

In a world where data is capital and AI is infrastructure, graduates of SMCS are positioned not merely to participate in the digital economy but to define it.

The SMCS Vision: Four Pillars of Growth
To secure its place as a national leader in STEM education, SMCS has outlined a strategic roadmap focusing on:

1. Expansion of Academic Programs

IBA’s existing CS programs are robust, but a comparative glance at leading global institutions highlights the need to broaden specialization and interdisciplinarity. Planned academic initiatives include:
• A new MS in Artificial Intelligence (AI), launching Fall 2026.
• Provision of a BS (Mathematics) program that equips students with theoretical depth and computational agility for industry roles.
• BS(CS) specializations in AI, Cybersecurity, Data Analytics, and Information Systems.
• Cross-disciplinary courses in Business Analytics, FinTech, and IT Policy.

Distinctive Edge: Unlike peer institutions that focus narrowly on technical training, IBA’s multidisciplinary strength allows for hybrid programs, such as Financial Technology (FinTech) and Legal Informatics, that bridge technology, governance, and business. This is not just education; it is ecosystem-building.

2. Faculty Growth: Bridging the Student-Teacher Gap

The School has onboarded exceptional faculty, including individuals with global academic credentials, high-impact research, and strong industry ties. Alongside them, seasoned professionals from the tech sector deliver practice-driven coursework, ensuring students gain practical, real-world knowledge alongside theoretical foundations.

3. Strengthening Internal and External Linkages

SMCS has established several international collaborations with leading academic institutions and research centres to foster innovation. Aligned with IBA’s mission to undertake consultancy and applied research that enriches teaching and shapes discourse on critical issues in business and public policy, SMCS is well-positioned to play a pivotal role in addressing global challenges through science and technology. These linkages have translated into increased research grants, industry-funded projects, and an emerging entrepreneurial ecosystem.


Industry Integration

In an interconnected world, the value of a school lies not only in its classrooms but in its networks. At IBA-SMCS, industry collaboration is integral to the academic experience. Through structured programs like the SMCS Industry Partner Program, students gain hands-on experience by working on real-world problems provided by leading companies such as Folio3, Systems Limited, Social Champs, VentureDive, AlphaVenture, and 10Pearls, under expert mentorship. These projects culminate in the Final Year Project (FYP) Exhibition, where industry representatives evaluate student work, effectively bridging academia and professional practice. Beyond this, SMCS fosters industry engagement through visits, panel discussions, classroom sessions, and workshops—such as the Azure Workshop—offering students direct exposure to the latest technologies like AI and machine learning. This immersive approach equips students with practical skills, industry insights, and valuable networks, giving them a competitive edge and a smooth transition into the workforce.

4. Upgrading Physical Infrastructure

SMCS is investing in an ambitious physical and technological expansion to meet its academic ambitions. The new US$2 million Jaffer Family Foundation (JFF) Building, currently under construction, will house new labs, collaborative spaces, and innovation hubs. It will anchor emerging programs in Data Science, AI, and Robotics while serving as a center for techno-incubation.

In parallel, a dedicated High-Performance Computing (HPC) cluster has been launched to support compute-intensive research across disciplines, from large language models and scientific simulations to deep learning and fluid dynamics. This infrastructure will power the school’s research future—and with it, the next wave of national innovation.

Internship Advantage
SMCS provides students with valuable mid-semester internship opportunities, allowing them to spend two to three months working alongside industry professionals. These internships offer practical, firsthand experience that reinforces academic learning while helping students sharpen technical and professional skills. More importantly, they provide direct exposure to the pace, culture, and expectations of real-world workplaces. Looking ahead, SMCS is actively working with industry partners to introduce extended six-month paid internships, aiming to offer students a more immersive and impactful experience that enhances their readiness for successful careers in the tech industry.

A Catalyst for Pakistan’s Tech and AI Future
The launch of IBA-SMCS marks a significant step forward for IBA and Pakistan’s STEM future. By combining academic excellence, industry collaboration, and interdisciplinary innovation, SMCS aims to set global tech trends. In a world where AI drives economies, cybersecurity safeguards nations, and data science powers every sector, institutions like SMCS are essential. To accelerate this vision, SMCS calls on industry to partner in research and talent development, invites students to pursue high-demand fields like AI, FinTech, and Data Science, and urges government and donors to invest in building Pakistan’s digital future.

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