BIC-MUST, Mirpur AJ&K delegation visits Business Incubation Centre of International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) to enhance collaboration & strengthen Innovation Ecosystem by exploring best practices in Startup Incubation, Entrepreneurial Development & Student Innovation Facilitation

In alignment with the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan’s vision to foster innovation and entrepreneurship across academic institutions, a delegation led by Dr. Sohaib Manzoor, Director Business Incubation Center (BIC) of Mirpur University of Science and Technology MUST, Mirpur AJ&K visited the Business Incubation Centre at the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) for a knowledge-sharing and benchmarking visit. The purpose of the visit was to explore best practices in incubation management, student startup facilitation, and entrepreneurship development adopted by IIUI’s BIC.

The delegation was warmly hosted by the IIUI BIC team, led by Engr. Muhammad Ahsen Mirza, Director Business Incubation Centre / Science, Technology and Business Space (STBS), Dr. Munwar Ali Kalwar (Assistant Director, BIC/STBS), and Mr. Jawad Saeed (Coordinator, BIC/STBS). During the visit, the IIUI team provided a detailed briefing on the structure, initiatives, and impact of their incubation ecosystem. The session covered strategic areas such as startup incubation models, mentorship programs, resource allocation, and student engagement in entrepreneurial activities. The MUST delegation toured the incubation facility, interacted with incubated startups, mentors, and operational staff, and gained valuable insights into the operational dynamics and success strategies employed at IIUI. Discussions also addressed the challenges faced by early-stage entrepreneurs and the role of universities in providing enabling environments for innovation.

Dr. Sohaib Manzoor and his team appreciated the professional setup and impactful initiatives of IIUI’s Business Incubation Centre. He acknowledged the center’s significant contribution in promoting a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation among students, and in facilitating the growth of viable business ventures. Both institutions expressed a mutual desire to establish stronger linkages through formal collaboration, joint activities, and continuous knowledge-sharing to further strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem in higher education. The visit concluded on a positive note with a shared commitment to contribute collectively toward national development through innovation-led entrepreneurship.