Tuesday, November 25, 2025: The Institute of Geography, University of the Punjab, celebrated GIS Day 2025 with great enthusiasm. The event brought together the Heads of Departments and faculty from across the Faculty of Geo-Sciences, PU, as well as the Chairpersons of Geography departments from Lahore College for Women University (LCWU), Forman Christian College (A Chartered University), and Government College University, Lahore.
The ceremony opened with a warm welcome by Dr. Adeel Ahmad (Assistant Professor, Institute of Geography), who hosted the GIS Day celebrations seminar. This was followed by an engaging address from Prof. Dr. Isma Younes (Director, Institute of Geography), who spoke about the evolution of GIS and highlighted the Institute of Geography’s contributions in advancing geospatial education, research, and applications in Pakistan. The event also featured distinguished industry experts, including Dr. Urooj Saeed (Senior GIS Specialist, The Urban Unit), Engr. Imran Abbas (CEO, Spatio), and Mr. Murad Ali Kisana (Managing Director, Spatio).
Dr. Urooj shared valuable insights on revenue boundary mapping, Punjab’s socio-economic registry, and large-scale GIS-based surveys that have documented millions of individuals. Engr. Imran highlighted Spatio’s work in surveying, geomatics, aerial mapping, and advanced spatial solutions. Honorary shields were presented to all invited speakers in recognition of their contributions.
A cake-cutting ceremony, led by Prof. Dr. Isma Younes, added a celebratory touch to the event. A map layout design competition was also conducted, featuring participation from students of the Institute of Space Sciences, College of Earth and Environmental Sciences (CEES), Centre for GIS (CGIS), and the Institute of Geography. The Space Science team secured first position, CGIS achieved second, and the Institute of Geography secured third place. Winners received cash prizes and certificates.
A concluding panel discussion emphasized several collaborative opportunities, including the development of a central geospatial data repository, establishing an MoU with The Spatio, launching interdisciplinary courses across Geo-Sciences, and involving industry experts to enhance student exposure and practical learning.
In addition to the formal proceedings, an interactive corner featured a Map Pin Wall, where attendees marked their current location and future aspirations. A GIS Thought Board allowed students to express what GIS means to them. These creative activities added an engaging and reflective dimension to the celebration.