IBA–SMCS Advances STEM Education Through Winter School

December 29, 2025: December 29, 2025 - January 06, 2026: The School of Mathematics and Computer Science (SMCS), IBA Karachi, in collaboration with STEMx - The STEM School for the World organized a Winter STEM School, offering students an immersive academic and residential learning experience focused on advanced scientific thinking, interdisciplinary exploration, and research-oriented learning.

The Winter School commenced with orientation and reflective sessions led by Dr. Athar Osama (Founder, StemX), introducing students to purpose-driven learning and the mindset required for scientific inquiry. This was followed by an interactive exploration of Quantum Computing conducted by Dr. Jibran Rashid (Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science), where students engaged with concepts such as superposition, entanglement, and quantum strategies.

Over the following days, students examined personality, leadership, and self-awareness through guided discussions, explored Artificial Intelligence and Computer Vision through real-world applications presented by Dr. Atif Tahir (Professor, Department of Computer Science), and questioned fundamental laws of the universe in engaging physics sessions on gravity and time led by Dr. Babar Qureshi (Professor, Department of Mathematics). The academic journey continued with sessions on Topology by Dr. Danish Ali (Assistant Professor, Department of Mathematics), encouraging abstract and visual thinking, and an interdisciplinary day combining Computational Neuroscience with Dr. Adeel Razi, where students worked with real MRI and fMRI datasets, alongside Cybersecurity sessions conducted by Dr. Faisal Iradat (Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science), featuring live demonstrations and discussions on digital ethics and privacy.

Beyond the classroom, students participated in experiential learning activities, including a visit to the TDF MagnifiScience Centre, engaging with hands-on science exhibits, as well as recreational and social activities that encouraged reflection, collaboration, and peer bonding.

In the final phase of the Winter School, students worked on student-led projects in thematic areas such as Quantum Computing, Neuroscience, Cybersecurity, General Relativity, and Topology. With continuous mentorship, participants brainstormed, developed, tested, and refined their ideas, culminating in final presentations and graduation. The program was further enriched by the presence of Dr. Haroon, a physicist from CERN (European Organization for Nuclear Research), who inspired students by connecting classroom learning to real-world scientific research and global applications.

Throughout the eight days, students experienced learning beyond textbooks, forming friendships, engaging in meaningful discussions, building confidence, and cultivating intellectual curiosity. The Winter School concluded not only with projects and certificates, but with a strengthened mindset rooted in critical thinking, collaboration, and purpose-driven learning.