Pak-US science venture: US pledges $15,000 grant for researchers

2013 marks 10 years of collaboration to encourage technology transfer and research.

“We live in a globalised world faced with challenges that cross borders and require innovative solutions,” Olson said. PHOTO: AFP/FILE

ISLAMABAD:


The US envoy announced $15,000 worth of seed grants offer for researchers this summer under the Pak-US Science & Technology Cooperation Programme on Wednesday.


Richard Olson was speaking at a two-day symposium on Economic Growth through Technology Transfer at the National University of Science and Technology. “We live in a globalised world faced with challenges that cross borders and require innovative solutions,” he said.


The ambassador said the symposium brings together American and Pakistan researchers, universities, government official, and entrepreneurs to help build partnerships between researchers and the private sector. “This year marks 10 years of Pak-US partnership and a joint contribution of over $35 million to fund Pak-US scientist-led research projects in 40 institutes.”

The collaboration aims to introduce concepts of technology transfer and to foster new interactions between research projects and the private sector aimed at enhancing translation of research across these domains.

Talking to The Express Tribune, Dr Muhammad Waheed Akhtar from University of Punjab, said the announcement was welcome for researchers who shy away due to fiscal constraints.

The event was jointly organised by the Higher Education Commission, Ministry of Science and Technology, the US State Department, USAID and US National Academy of Sciences.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 1st, 2013.
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