Peshawar (Khyber Mail): The University of Peshawar’s Business Incubation Center (BIC) achieved a historic milestone with the launch of its first startup COHORT, bringing together industry leaders, government officials, and aspiring entrepreneurs in a grand inauguration ceremony on Thursday.
The event was graced by Special Assistant to the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Industries, Abdul Karim Tordher, as the chief guest. Other notable attendees included industry leaders, university officials, and representatives from various organizations.
Dr. Shakeel Khan, Head of BIC, opened the ceremony with an inspiring address, highlighting the incubation center’s mission to nurture entrepreneurial talent and provide a platform for young innovators. Special Assistant Abdul Karim Tordher emphasized the government’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and providing necessary support to startups.
Former President of the Chamber of Commerce, Fawad Ishaq, pledged full industry support for the incubation center, assuring mentorship and collaboration opportunities for the startups. Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Muhammad Naeem Qazi lauded the initiative as a landmark achievement, reaffirming the university’s dedication to cultivating a culture of innovation and business excellence.
Industry leaders and international representatives also extended their support. Fazal Moqeem Khan, President of the Sarhad Chamber of Commerce, stressed the importance of strengthening industry-academia linkages, while British Council representative Ms. Tahira Kaleem highlighted the role of global collaboration in fostering innovation.
The inaugural cohort consists of 25 promising startups spanning various industries, including environmental conservation, edtech, fintech, and other emerging sectors. Notably, 10 startups are focused on environmental sustainability, underscoring BIC’s commitment to responsible and impact-driven entrepreneurship.
Over the next six months, these startups will participate in an intensive incubation program, benefiting from expert mentorship, business development training, and networking opportunities. Upon completion, they will be well-equipped to scale their businesses and contribute to the economic and social development of the region.
The launch of this first cohort marks a defining moment for the University of Peshawar, positioning BIC as a hub for entrepreneurial excellence and strengthening its role in bridging academia with industry to drive sustainable economic growth.