Beaconhouse National University (BNU)

Mr. Asif Peer delivered an insightful discourse on the "Future of Information Technology" at Beaconhouse National University (BNU) as part of the ongoing BNU Talks: Distinguished Lecture Series organized by SCIT. Mr. Asif Peer, a distinguished figure in the Information Technology sector, currently holds esteemed positions as CEO, Managing Director, and Member of the Board of Directors at Systems Limited. Mr. Peer has played a pivotal role in shaping the growth and success of Systems Limited, executing strategic initiatives in alignment with the company's vision and mission. Under Mr. Asif Peer's leadership, Systems Limited has won four consecutive Forbes Asia's Best Under a Billion awards (2020-23). His dedication and leadership have propelled Systems Limited to new heights, earning accolades such as the Microsoft Business Applications Inner Circle and Asia Money's Most Outstanding Company award for three consecutive years (2021-2023), along with SAP EMEA awards, PSEB IT Export Awards, and multiple P@SHA ICT Awards. In recognition of his unwavering commitment to excellence and exceptional contributions to the IT sector, he was honored with the presidential award, Sitara-e-Imtiaz, in 2022. During his recent address at the Distinguished Lecture Series organized by the School of Computer & IT (SCIT) on February 20th, 2024, Mr. Peer expounded upon the imperative of establishing a robust groundwork in core computing concepts. Emphasizing the indispensability of this foundation, he underscored the significance of comprehending fundamental principles such as algorithmic efficiency, data structures, computational complexity, and software engineering paradigms. Mr. Peer illuminated how proficiency in these foundational pillars forms the bedrock for navigating the intricate landscapes of emerging technologies, including quantum computing. Central to Mr. Peer's discourse was the spirit of perpetual learning and adaptability, which he deemed essential for professional growth and success in the dynamic IT ecosystem. Advocating a mindset characterized by openness to new ideas and technologies, he urged attendees including students of different departments and academic semesters, to transcend conventional boundaries and embrace innovation. Furthermore, Mr. Peer emphasized the need for individuals to transcend the confines of rigid thinking and embrace the transformative potential of emerging technologies. In the interactive Q&A session that ensued, Mr. Peer addressed pertinent issues surrounding technology adoption and stakeholder engagement. Stressing the importance of clarifying tangible benefits to stakeholders, including strategies for overcoming resistance to technological change and fostering organizational buy-in. Moreover, Mr. Peer underscored the holistic nature of professional development, highlighting the significance of cultivating technical expertise and fostering a mindset characterized by resilience, adaptability, and proactive learning. Furthermore, Mr. Peer offered an in-depth probe of the emergence and spread of generative AI, clarifying its long-term influence on several IT-related issues. Using his extensive experience, he provided practical advice on using generative AI to spur innovation and gain an edge over competitors across a range of industrial sectors. The thought-provoking talk was an effort to explore the boundaries of leadership excellence and technology innovation at SCIT's Distinguished Lecture Series. Mr. Asif Peer embodied intellectual curiosity and creative leadership while providing priceless insights into the revolutionary path of information technology. His speech inspired a shared dedication to innovation and lifelong learning in both seasoned practitioners and aspiring experts.