US–Hyderabad Symposium Highlights Shared Solutions for Innovation, Equity and Sustainability

Hyderabad:
Illinois State Senator Laura Murphy said governments across the world face similar challenges and stressed that real progress lies not in reinventing solutions, but in removing barriers that prevent proven ideas from being implemented. She was speaking at the USA–Hyderabad Symposium on “Bridges of Innovation: Technology and Interfaith Partnerships”, jointly organized by CMMA, WWMI, University of Florida, and Media Plus Foundation, held at the historic Nizam Club.

Calling her first visit to India a memorable and enriching experience, Senator Murphy praised the country’s warmth, culture, and hospitality, and said she was deeply honoured by the welcome extended to the US delegation. Emphasising people-centric governance, she highlighted equity in education and access to information as key foundations for effective policymaking.

Illinois State Representative Anna Moeller noted that the United States has grown stronger due to immigrants who brought ideas, ambition, and hard work. She said India has made immense contributions to the US, particularly through the South Asian community, and cautioned that restricting borders and limiting the exchange of ideas would hinder long-term progress.

Dr Tajammul Hussain, President of CMMA and Chief of Oncology, Chicago, called for deeper cross-border collaboration, urging professionals such as doctors, engineers, and technologists to move beyond narrow roles and embrace broader humanitarian responsibilities.

Speaking on urban resilience, John Mahyer, Vice President of Engineering Resources Associates, USA, shared effective stormwater management strategies currently used by US state governments and municipalities.

Indian-American AI healthcare specialist Dr Srikanth Mahankali spoke on artificial intelligence in healthcare, stressing the need for responsible innovation to maintain public trust. He cautioned against over-dependence on AI, stating that nearly 60% of people in the US prefer human involvement over AI in healthcare.

The symposium was attended by Prof. H. Sandhu (University of Florida), Engineer M.A. Nayeem (Chairman, Masah Construction), Sam Pappu (President, WWMI), Khaja Mohiuddin (Vice President, WWMI), senior architect Ameera Ashraf O’Neil, Syed Khaled Shahbaaz (CEO, Media Plus), and other dignitaries.