Scientific development neglected in Pakistan: KU seminar

Expert panel discusses the need for improved research and development facilities for scientists.

KARACHI: Negligence towards science and its development in Pakistan was highlighted at a seminar, titled ‘Responsible conduct of Science’, on Monday at Karachi University (KU).

Experts from the International Council for the Life Sciences (ICLS), a nonprofit organisation dedicated to enhancing global biological security, urged Pakistan to pay attention to the research and development facilities required for the progress of science. ICLS Pakistan president, Anwar Nasim, said, “Even if Pakistan cannot be at the forefront of scientific development, it must take inspiration from progress of other countries.” He talked about increasing national as well as global activity among scientists from different disciplines for advancement in the field.

KU vice chancellor, Dr Pirzada Qasim Raza Siddiqui, shared recent statistics that a majority of students prefer other disciplines, such as commerce, over science.

The two-day conference, held at the Dr A.Q. Khan Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, was attended by scientists from Egypt, Malaysia, and the UK.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 17^th,  2011.