In September 2023 Dr. Bilgin Metin and Dr. Nazim Taskin from Bogazici University, Turkey made an impactful visit to Karachi, Pakistan, as part of the Recypher project in the field of cybersecurity. Their collaborative efforts brought a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table, fostering invaluable cross-border partnerships in the realm of digital security. Their visit marked a significant milestone in strengthening international cooperation for cyber resilience and enhancing the capabilities of
both institutions.
Charting the Future of Cybersecurity
Dr. Bilgin Metin and Dr. Nazim Taskin’s recent visit to IBA Karachi, Pakistan, as part of the Recypher project in cybersecurity, was a significant event. Over the course of their five-day stay, they engaged in constructive dialogues with university officials, hosted a series of workshops and seminars on cybersecurity for students, and held insightful discussions with the faculty and industry leaders. Their visit not only provided a platform for knowledge exchange but
also ignited a fresh perspective on cyber security in Pakistan, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts between academia and industry to fortify the nation’s digital defenses.
Day 1 Highlights
On the inaugural day of their visit to Karachi, Dr. Bilgin Metin and Dr. Nazim Taskin embarked on a captivating sightseeing journey across the vibrant city of Karachi. Accompanied by IBA CICT officials, they delved into the rich cultural tapestry of Pakistan. The day commenced with a visit to the Abdullah Shah Ghazi Mausoleum, a site of great historical and spiritual significance. Following this, they indulged in a feast of Pakistani flavors with a buffet lunch at BBQ Tonight. The next stop was Mohatta Palace, where they immersed themselves in the country’s Independence-era history, beautifully depicted through captivating pictures and exhibits. The day continued with a scenic boat ride
along the Arabian Sea’s coastline at Port Grand, offering breathtaking views of Karachi’s shoreline. The tour culminated on a serene note at Sea View Beach, where they savored dinner amidst the tranquil sounds of the ocean, creating
memorable moments that set the stage for their academic collaborations in the days to come.
Day 2 Highlights
Day 2 of Dr. Bilgin Metin and Dr. Nazim Taskin’s visit to Karachi took them to the City Campus of IBA Karachi, marking another day of fruitful exchanges. The morning began with a nourishing breakfast, setting the stage for a day filled
with meaningful interactions. The highlight of the day was a focused and insightful discussion, centering on the pressing issue of cybersecurity in Pakistan. A panel of industrial experts hailing from diverse domains, including banking, cybersecurity, academia, and health sciences, came together to delve into the intricacies of this crucial topic. Their collective wisdom and perspectives enriched the dialogue, reinforcing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing the ever-evolving challenges in the realm of cybersecurity.
Day 2 of Dr. Bilgin Metin and Dr. Nazim Taskin’s visit to Karachi continued to be a dynamic and knowledge-intensive experience. Following the insightful focus group discussion, the day progressed with a workshop involving CSR Activity
students at IBA Karachi. Dr. Bilgin Metin led this hands-on session, focusing on VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) and Pentesting (Penetration Testing) techniques. This practical workshop not only provided students with a valuable
opportunity to gain real-world cybersecurity skills but also allowed for further exploration of the intricate field of cybersecurity. It showcased the commitment to fostering a new generation of cybersecurity experts and highlighted the collaborative spirit of their visit.
Day 3 Highlights
On Day 3 of Dr. Bilgin Metin and Prof. Nazim Taskin’s visit to Karachi, their exploration of cutting-edge cybersecurity initiatives continued with a visit to the Cyber Range, an impressive computer lab developed by IBA’s representatives of the ReCyP:HER project. This state-of-the-art facility is equipped with top-notch laptops, PCs, and other advanced cyber gadgets, all poised to play a pivotal role in the transformation of cybersecurity in Pakistan. The Cyber Range exemplifies the commitment to fostering innovation and excellence in the realm of digital security. It not only represents a significant step toward the advancement of cybersecurity but also underscores the collaborative spirit and dedication to revolutionizing the nation’s cyberdefense capabilities.
Day 3 of Dr. Bilgin Metin and Dr. Nazim Taskin’s visit in Karachi carried forward the momentum from their seminar with IBA Computer Science students. The day was dedicated to delving deeper into the multifaceted world of cybersecurity. Dr. Bilgin and Prof. Nazim continued to share invaluable insights, drawing from their extensive expertise, and engaged in meaningful discussions with the students. This exchange not only enriched the students’ understanding of cybersecurity challenges and solutions but also inspired them to pursue careers in this critical field. Their visit underscored the importance of knowledge exchange between academia and industry, ultimately contributing
to the development of a robust cybersecurity ecosystem in Pakistan.
Day 4 Highlights
Day 4 of Dr. Bilgin Metin and Dr. Nazim Taskin’s visit to Karachi was characterized by a series of impactful engagements. They commenced the day with a significant meeting alongside the Dean of SMCS (School of
Mathematical and Computer Sciences) at IBA Karachi and other esteemed senior faculty members. The focus of this meeting revolved around the critical issue of cybersecurity in Pakistan and the vital role that educational institutions
can play in shaping a cyber-resilient society. Their collective insights and perspectives laid a strong foundation for future collaborations in this essential domain. In addition to this, Dr. Bilgin Metin led an enlightening session for final year students, imparting knowledge on the art of crafting effective research proposals, a crucial skill for budding researchers. The day concluded with a delightful dinner at Mandi House, featuring Arabian cuisine, where the informal
exchanges further cemented the bonds of collaboration and knowledgesharing among all attendees.
