Students of IoBM as GROs for 5th International Exhibition - TEXPO 2024

We take immense pride in announcing that students from the Institute of Business Management (IoBM) have done a three-day paid internship of "Guest Relationship Officers (GROs)" at the 5th International TEXPO 2024. They have been awarded with certificates of completion as well. It was held from October 23 to October 25, 2024, at the Karachi Expo Centre under the theme "Weaving the Way to Sustainability" initiated by the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP). In the wake of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the landmark event focused on enhancing Pakistan's textile and leather industries of Pakistan while also advancing IoBM's promotion through education for sustainability. We are thankful to Mr. Asif Z. Warsi, Senior Assistant Manager-QEC-IoBM, for his instrumental efforts in providing this learning opportunity. His persistent efforts ensured the participation of IoBM students in this prestigious international exhibition, whereby students gained significant exposure to the industry and a vast array of experience in the importance of sustainability factors in the textile and leather industries.

While pursuing this internship, students worked in various committees such as the International and National Seminars Committee, B2B Committee, Media Team, Foreign Delegates, High-Profile Committee, and Hotel Management Committee. They got hands-on experience, conducted interviews with international delegates, attended seminars, managed high-profile meetings, and observed debates on relevant textile and leather industry topics. Moreover, visiting textile and leather design studios, attending fashion shows, or participating in TEXPO Talks made up for other immersive learning experiences amid insights shared by industry leaders about sustainability.

It allowed students to earn their place as GROs by participating in meaningful activities that aided in furthering knowledge on sustainable practices and approaches about the textile and leather industries. IoBM targeted the following Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

• SDG 4-Quality Education: Through practical learning and skill-building opportunities, students enhance their knowledge and competencies in line with global educational standards, empowering them with real-world industry experience.
• SDG 5-Gender Equality: The diverse and inclusive roles at TEXPO provided equal learning opportunities for all students, promoting gender equality and empowering women through active participation in leadership roles. Female students gained confidence and valuable exposure by honing their leadership and teamwork skills, which reinforced IoBM's commitment to fostering women's empowerment and creating an environment where every student can thrive.
• SDG 9-Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure: By participating in discussions on sustainable industrial practices, students gained insights into how innovation and improved infrastructure can drive sustainable development, particularly in Pakistan's textile sector.

This experience allowed students to not only learn industry-oriented tools but also better understand and appreciate an inclusive learning environment that promotes gender equality and sustainable industrial practices, helping IoBM achieve its mission of bringing academia closer to the industry.