‘International Pure Mathematics Conference’: Keeping abreast on the mathematical front

Speakers urge for focus on all branches of mathematics.

ISLAMABAD: To enhance the understanding of mathematics and provide mathematicians an opportunity to exchange ideas at an international level, a three-day “International Pure Mathematics Conference 2011” started here at the Quaid-i-Azam University on Saturday.

The conference received an overwhelming response as 84 mathematicians from 26 countries attended the session. The speakers urged for focus on all branches of mathematics and exchange of ideas on subjects important to the development sector.

During his inaugural address, QAU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr Masoom Yasinzai said, “Mathematics is playing a significant role in the development of science and technology all over the world and Pakistan will not lag behind in contributing its share in its development.”

He hoped that novel ideas will emerge in these serial conferences and will have a “centrifugal impact on mathematics in Pakistan”.

Dean Faculty of Natural Sciences at QAU and President of Pakistan Mathematical Society, Prof. Dr Qaiser Mushtaq, said that a sound mathematical foundation is a pre-requisite for development in science, and therefore, it is imperative that we develop an adequate mathematical culture in Pakistan. He said that the responsibility for promoting and improving mathematics in Pakistan rests primarily with the academics.

“If mathematics is to be properly supported by society, then mathematicians must not forget their obligations. Universities must go beyond measuring success only in terms of grants or publications, and researchers must recognise their larger obligations,” he added.

Former Federal Minister for Law Dr Babar Awan emphasized the need to enhance the contribution of institutions of higher learning in science, technology and innovation. “We are living in a time where we cannot ignore the fast-paced global changes,” he said.

During the three-day conferences nine foreign mathematicians will give keynote speeches, while 42 speakers will give short communications. This is the 12th conference in its series and has grown to acquire international acclaim. It has been organised in collaboration with Pakistan Science Foundation, National Centre for Physics, Preston University and the Pakistan Mathematical Society of QAU.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 31^th,  2011.