AsiaNet-Pakistan Premier Editorial Content and Press Release Distribution Service
Islamabad, January 28, 2013 (PPI-OT): A one day seminar on “Nanotechnology and Stakeholders in Pakistan” commenced here on Monday. Addressing on the occasion, Secretary Science and Technology, Akhlaq Ahmad Tarar emphasized the importance of Nanotechnology and said Pakistan should seriously consider developing Nanotechnology manpower in the country.
He made these remarks during the inauguration session of a seminar jointly organized by Preston Institute of Nano Science and Technology (PINSAT) and International Development Research Centre (IDRC), Canada.
He said that by the year 2015 the products of Nanotechnology will have a market share of US $3 billion.
He said presently the government is spending only 0.6% of the GDP on Science and Technology and this is an extremely meager amount. He expressed the hope that through the efforts of the Ministry this amount would be increased to 2% of GDP by the year 2020.
Recently a Science and Technology Innovation Policy has been approved by the government. A task force has been formed to follow up on the recommendations contained in this policy. The Secretary requested PINSAT for its help in the revival of National Commission on Nano Science and Technology with a view to develop it within the country.
Dr. Abdul Basit, Chancellor of Preston University highlighted the achievements of the university. According to him, Preston University was the first university in the private sector established in 1984. Presently the university has campuses all over the country as well as two campuses abroad.
Dr. N. M. Butt, Chairman PINSAT also spoke on the occasion, highlighting the importance of Nanotechnology. He also emphasized the revival of National Commission on Nano Science and Technology.
During the technical session, Dr. Chen Wang, Director General National Centre for Nano Science and Technology Beijing China, Dr. M. Yahya Emeritus Professor Malaysia, Dr. Masoud Hafezi Ardakani CEO Inter-Islamic Network of Nanotechnology Iran, Dr. Ahmed Ayesha Assistant Professor UAE, Dr. Shahzad Alam Director General PCSIR Lahore and Dr. N. M Butt Chairman PINSAT Islamabad spoke about the developments taking place in the field of Nanotechnology in their respective countries.
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