Mohammad Sarfraz: A Quest for Light at TJU

Muhammad Sarfraz, a Pakistani doctoral student at Tianjin University, is applying artificial intelligence (AI) to renewable energy systems, exemplifying the growing educational and technological collaboration between China and Pakistan under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Tianjin in 2025.

Growing up in the remote village of Dera Ghazi Khan in southern Punjab, Pakistan, Sarfraz faced frequent power outages due to dust storms and winds. “From an early age, I was curious about the world beyond my hometown and fascinated by how technology could improve everyday life,” he recalls. “I often wondered if there was a more affordable and convenient solution to provide consistent power to these remote communities.”

Driven by this curiosity, Sarfraz pursued higher education and research opportunities in China over the past decade. Now a PhD candidate at Tianjin University’s School of Electrical and Information Engineering, he focuses on AI-driven innovations in renewable energy storage system, contributing to sustainable development goals shared by both nations.

Sarfraz’s academic journey began in Pakistan, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Sukkur Institute of Business Administration University in 2016. Eager to apply his skills, he spent two years working for a government department in Lahore, developing and maintaining an Integrated Command, Control, and Communications (IC3) system. “This work was valuable,” he says, “but it did not fully satisfy my desire to deepen my technical skills and gain advanced knowledge related to my field of interest.”

Turning to China, Pakistan’s “friendly neighboring country known for its rapid technological development and research opportunities”, he completed a master’s degree in electrical and automation engineering at North China Electric Power University in Beijing. There, he researched renewable energy forecasting, discovering AI’s potential. “AI is revolutionizing how energy systems are integrated, planned, and controlled, enabling predictive insights such as estimating remaining useful life, which relates to my work on battery health assessment and lifespan prediction,” he explained.

This led him to Tianjin University for his doctorate, drawn by its “academic excellence, supportive environment for international students, strong career prospects, and global recognition in research and development.” As China’s first modern university, Tianjin University embodied a legacy of innovation that mirrored Sarfraz’s own aspirations. “Its forward-looking research culture and focus on cutting-edge technologies make it an ideal place for innovation and personal growth,” he says.

Life as a doctoral candidate at TJU is a harmonious blend of intellect and exploration. His routine includes lab work on simulations, AI model training, and battery data analysis for “AI applications in energy systems, specifically the prediction and optimization of renewable energy storage in urban systems.” This research supports China’s green energy initiatives and addresses power challenges in developing regions.

Weekends offer a chance to immerse in Tianjin’s unique East-West blend. “Walking along the Haihe River, exploring the Wudadao area, enjoying local street food, or visiting cultural landmarks that showcase the city’s unique fusion—from Italian-style streets to French-inspired architecture,” Sarfraz describes. These outings aren’t mere distractions; they fuel his creativity, reminding him how diverse perspectives can spark innovation.

Sarfraz's cultural engagement peaked with a CGTN livestream on Tianjin's blend and SCO2025 role. He was invited to join the “one-day world walk” show and shared insights on Tianjin’s cultural fusion and how it fosters global collaboration. Tying it to his engineering background, he highlighted “how technological innovation in Tianjin connects with the goals of SCO2025, from smart infrastructure to green energy solutions.”

He was particularly amazed by Prince Qing’s Mansion, where a century-old heating system and beautiful chandeliers still function perfectly. Learning Tianjin’s history—from nurturing China's first modern university to establishing the nation’s postal system—reinforced its innovative spirit. “These stories showed me how Tianjin has long been a hub for innovation and progress,” he reflects.

As a Pakistani scholar, Sarfraz sees Tianjin’s fusion mirroring SCO2025: “cooperation without losing identity.” Like the city’s blend of traditions and architecture, SCO fosters diversity for shared goals in “regional security, economic cooperation, trade, technology, sustainability, and cultural exchange.” It opens doors for “joint research projects, innovations in green energy, and cross-border student exchanges”—areas Tianjin University leads.

Studying at Tianjin University has fostered Sarfraz’s growth. “It has taught me patience, perseverance, adaptability, and global thinking,” he says. Rigorous research and cultural bridging turned challenges into opportunities for “growth, collaboration, and cross-cultural learning.”

Looking ahead, Sarfraz plans to continue in academia and research, focusing on sustainable energy systems and battery technologies. After completing his doctorate, he envisions a postdoctoral position or role at a Chinese R&D institute for a few years to apply his work. Long-term, he’ll maintain ties with China through “joint research projects, visiting professorships, or technology transfer initiatives between Pakistan and China.” His ultimate goal? To bring AI-driven solutions back to Pakistan, perhaps illuminating those remote villages that first sparked his curiosity.

In Sarfraz’s journey, the flickering lights of a Pakistani village have evolved into the bright promise of global innovation. As Tianjin gears up for SCO2025, his story reminds us that true progress blooms at the intersection of cultures, technologies, and unyielding dreams.

By Eva Yin