KARACHI: Experts and academicians at an international science congress have emphasized that nanoscience and nanotechnology can play a vital role in Pakistan’s development, particularly in addressing global environmental challenges.
Speaking at the inaugural session of the three-day 1st International Congress on Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICNN-1) at the Prof. Salimuzzaman Siddiqui Auditorium, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS), University of Karachi, on Monday, speakers noted that wars between Iran and Israel, and between Pakistan and India, have underlined the decisive role of technology in modern times. They urged young scientists to drive innovation, essential for sustainable socio-economic progress.
The session featured prominent figures including Prof. Dr. Khalid Mehmood Iraqi, Vice Chancellor of Karachi University; Prof. Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman, Professor Emeritus and former Federal Minister for Science and Technology; Sindh Special Secretary Health Shadia Abdullah; ICCBS Director Prof. Dr. Muhammad Raza Shah; Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary, Coordinator General OIC-COMSTECH; philanthropist Mr. Aziz Latif Jamal and his daughter Ms. Samman Aziz Jamal; former Test Cricketer and Captain Younus Khan; nanotechnology expert Prof. Dr. Noor Muhammad Butt; and Dr. Dilshad Hussain. Over 600 national and international scientists are attending this hybrid global event.
Prof. Khalid Iraqi stressed the need to adopt world-class technologies, citing China’s example of significant GDP allocation to education. He noted that conflicts between nations show that technological superiority often determines victory, while the real wealth of institutions lies in trained human resources.
Prof. Atta-ur-Rahman highlighted the establishment of the National Commission on Nanoscience and Technology (NCNST) two decades ago to promote nanotechnology in Pakistan. He expressed gratitude to Mr. Aziz Latif Jamal for supporting the Latif Ebrahim Jamal Nanotechnology Center at ICCBS.
Special Secretary Health Sindh Shadia Abdullah praised ICCBS for hosting the conference, calling it a vibrant platform for global exchange of ideas. Prof. Raza Shah underlined nanotechnology’s global significance, acknowledging support from philanthropists Nadira Panjwani and Aziz Latif Jamal.
Prof. Iqbal Choudhary described nanotechnology as a driving force for innovation with solutions for pressing challenges, including environmental issues. Prof. Noor Muhammad Butt explained that nanoscience provides the fundamental principles enabling nanotechnology.
Ms. Samman Aziz Jamal highlighted the H.E.J. Foundation’s decades-long contributions to science in Pakistan, while Younus Khan said he felt humbled to join the scientific community, calling ICCBS a “national treasure where science meets purpose.”
The opening session concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Dilshad Hussain.
