The Government College University Lahore (GCUL) and Pakistan Single Window (PSW) have signed a memorandum of understanding to link students of the university’s Department of Entrepreneurship with trade facilitation systems, internships and industry mentorship aimed at improving entrepreneurship and trade readiness.

Under the agreement, the two sides will jointly run workshops and seminars to familiarise students with PSW’s trade facilitation platforms, import and export procedures and business compliance requirements. The MoU also outlines internship opportunities at PSW, live projects and case studies, and mentoring sessions with trade professionals to provide hands-on exposure to regulatory frameworks and digital trade systems.

The MoU was signed by PSW Chief Executive Officer Syed Aftab Haider and GCUL Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Muhammad Omer Chaudhry. Prof Dr Babar Aziz, Dr Saima Sarwar and Dr Fouzia Shahin, director academic planning and external links, were also present.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Haider said PSW was committed to empowering future entrepreneurs by simplifying access to trade and providing practical tools to help businesses expand beyond borders, adding that the partnership would help build early trade awareness and real-world exposure, including the impact of sustainability on global trade.

Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Chaudhry said the collaboration reflected GCUL’s focus on industry engagement that enhances student learning beyond the classroom, and would help equip students with practical knowledge, relevant skills and exposure to national trade systems to support their entrepreneurial journey.

The accord also includes measures to encourage gender-inclusive entrepreneurship, including specialised training modules and mentorship for women students to help address barriers to participation in trade and business. Networking events and trade fairs are also planned to connect students with trade experts and business professionals.