Thursday, 14th May 2026

The Riphah Institute of Hospitality and Culinary Arts (RIHCA), participated in the 4th International Conference on Action Research in Multidisciplinary Perspective (ICARMP 2026) & Future of Hospitality Symposium hosted by University of Management and Technology on 13–14 May 2026 in Lahore, Pakistan.

Held under the theme, “Sustainable Innovation and Digital Transformation: Integrating Artificial Intelligence and Knowledge Management for a Resilient Business Future,” the prestigious international forum brought together scholars, researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to explore contemporary challenges and opportunities through applied research and interdisciplinary collaboration.

The conference served as a dynamic platform for discussions on Sustainable Innovation, Artificial Intelligence, Digital Transformation, and Knowledge Management within the hospitality and tourism industry.

As part of the conference proceedings, RIHCA’s Director, Mian Athar Jamil, participated as a Distinguished Panelist in the session titled “Sustainable Innovation, AI, and Digital Transformation in Hospitality & Tourism.” During the panel discussion, he shared valuable industry insights, practical expertise, and academic perspectives while emphasizing the importance of innovation-driven education and future-ready hospitality practices in an evolving global landscape.

Adding to RIHCA’s strong academic presence at the event, Dr. Naveed Ahmad, Head of Department at RIHCA, chaired a session during the symposium. He thoughtfully evaluated student posters and entrepreneurial concepts, providing constructive feedback and encouraging creativity, innovation, and academic excellence. Dr. Naveed Ahmad also presented certificates to participants in recognition of their contributions and innovative ideas.

The symposium also highlighted student achievement and entrepreneurial excellence. Syeda Ayesha Ali, a Semester 8 student of BS Hospitality at RIHCA, participated in the Poster Submission Session by presenting her entrepreneurial venture, “Tidbits by Ayesha,” a home-based customized cake business focused on creative designs, premium quality, customer satisfaction, and digital innovation through social media marketing.

Her innovative business concept received distinguished appreciation from the session chairpersons, and she was awarded a participation certificate for her outstanding effort and entrepreneurial vision.

RIHCA continues to strengthen its commitment to academic leadership, innovation, entrepreneurship, and industry engagement while empowering future hospitality professionals to excel in the rapidly evolving hospitality and tourism sector.