An engaging session on blockchain technology and its relevance to government operations was delivered by Mr. Burhan ul Haq on August 1, 2025 for participants of the 44^th MCMC. Mr. Burhan started by introducing Web 3.0 followed by a precise definition of blockchain. Using a step-wise diagram, the guest speaker illustrated how transactions in a blockchain were secure and transparent. The speaker presented a case study of Estonia’s e-governance model and how the country has used blockchain technology for budget transparency, e-voting, tax filing, and supply-chain tracking for rapid food safety. While discussing the benefits of shifting to blockchain, Mr. Burhan said that the transparency provided by such a system can help the governments to curb corruption and wastage by up to USD 3.5 trillion annually. The participants posed several queries during the lecture on how this technology can be integrated into their existing management information systems and also asked about data sovereignty and cybersecurity issues. The speaker comprehensively addressed each question and satisfied participants’ concerns related to data protection and security as well as the applicability and perceived benefits of blockchain technology in their respective departments.

The Sponsor DS, Dr. Jawad Tariq Awan, thanked the guest speaker for highlighting the importance of blockchain technology in making governance and public service delivery more transparent, secure, and accountable. The session concluded with a standing ovation to the esteemed speaker by the faculty and participants.