June 2007

Commission EventsVarsity NewsListings

...Much More Inside

153 Scholars Leave for France

2

19

Graphic Designer

Raja Ahmad Nadeem

Reporter

Waseem Khaliqdad

Proof Reader

Riaz-ul-Haque

Research Conference at SZABIST

Universities, Industry to Tackle Environmental Pollution

Pakistani Scholar Attends US Naval Academy Conference

IIUI Confers Honorary Degree on OIC Secretary General

IIUI, Ningxia Academy China Ink MOU

Universities of Peshawar, Sistan to Start Joint PhD in Geology

Workshops at PU Promote Use of Digital Library

Seminar on Drug Related Problems at LCWU thUAAR Holds 8 Convocation

Open House for Students at Governor House, Lahore thGIKI Holds 11 Convocation

th4 Degree Awarding Ceremony of Hamdard University

Pak-Turkey Workshop on Chemical Sciences

Biomedical Engineering Labs for MUET

National Seminar on Water Control at UAF

Third Convocation of CIIT Lahore

Earth Day Seminar at Karachi University

Mathematics Colloquium at IoBM, Karachi

Seminar on Afghan Refugees at University of Balochistan

Shams-ul-Mulk Elected as SOPREST President

BUET Khuzdar Holds First Convocation

HEC News & Views is published every month. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission of the publisher. The views expressed by authors in the articles is their sole responsibility and not of HEC.

HEC would like to thank all the institutions and individuals who c o n t r i b u t e d i n f o r m a t i o n a n d photographs for this magazine.

Assistant Editor

Aayesha Ikram

153 HEC Scholars Leave for FranceDr. Sohail Naqvi Gets French Academic AwardPakistan, Cuba to Strengthen Collaboration40,000 E-Books to Go Online through HEC's Digital LibraryMega Project for Chinese Language TrainingDr. Riaz-ul-Haq Joins HEC as Member (Academics)Workshop, Study Visit for VCs, Registrars at ThailandFaculty Professional Development Programme Begins at HEC International Conference on Research

thSeven Young Scholars to Attend 57 Meeting of Nobel Laureates HEC Honours Winners of National GamesHEC Scholars Win Awards at AIT, ThailandWorkshop on Animal Vaccine Production and Quality ControlWorkshop on Systematic Reviews in Healthcare at AMCWorkshop for HEC EmployeesNAHE Completes Training of 3200 Teachers GRE Workshop at Bahria UniversityBusiness Comm. Skills Course at Air UniversityWorkshop on Semester System at University of Balochistan

Table of Contents

34Successful HEC ScholarsNational Research Grant for UniversitiesTravel Grants to Teachers

Publisher: D.G. Admn.

June 2007

Commission EventsVarsity NewsListings

...Much More Inside

153 Scholars Leave for France

153 HEC Scholars Leave for France

A ceremony to bid farewell to a batch of 153 students leaving for France to carry out their PhD studies was held at HEC secretariat recently. Prof. Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman, Chairman HEC was the chief guest while Mr. Régis de Belenet, Ambassador of France to Pakistan was Guest of Honour on the occasion.

Congratulating the departing scholars, Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman said, “You are proceeding for France with the sole mission, which is to seek knowledge. You are very lucky to have got the chance to study in one of the most advanced countries, therefore try to utilize each and every minute of your stay over there”.

He stressed upon the scholars to adopt the questioning approach during the course of their study. “Don't hide your ignorance, rather try to be a good learner. We want each one of you to become a beacon of light for others and I want to assure you that upon your return, a bright future awaits you”, he added.

The Chairman emphasized that the HEC was making all out efforts to establish a merit-based and transparent system. He told the audience that there has been 2000 per cent increase in the development budget of higher education.

Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman mentioned the launch of 40,000 textbooks in addition to already available 25,000 free-of-cost journals of international repute. “In addition, HEC has se tup and made operational the video-conferencing facility in 15 universities where students can interact directly with foreign professors in real time. This and even more is just part of enabling environment HEC is creating for its returning scholars”, he said.

This current batch of scholars consist of four different schemes of HEC including Overseas Scholarship Scheme- Phase II (Batch-1), Masters Leading to PhD Scholarship in Economics and Finance Abroad, MS/MPhil Leading to PhD Scholarships for Teachers of Weaker Universities and PhD Scholarships for Natural and Basic Sciences, France.

The Chairman said that the HEC is revamping the overall system of higher education in the country. “We have started a number of programmes to enhance both quality and quantity of our higher education institutions”, he said.

He also mentioned the desire of President General Pervez Musharraf to meet these departing scholars. “The President is keeping a close eye on the activities of

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HEC Scholars leaving for France with Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman, Chairman HEC, Mr. Regis de Belenet, Ambassador of France to Pakistan, Dr. Sohail Naqvi, Executive Director HEC and Dr. S M Raza, Adviser HRD, HEC

HEC and he personally wanted to meet you but due to his busy schedule, he could not do so”.

He told the scholars that a research grant of about six million rupees will be available to each one of them in the final year abroad, so as to carry out researches upon their return without any difficulty.

Speaking on the occasion, the French Ambassador congratulated the students who were selected for higher studies in France. He said that he was happy to see the growing cooperation between the two countries in the higher education sector. He appreciated the HEC for providing an attractive environment to the faculty members and students for pursuing higher studies. He said that these students were actually the ambassadors of Pakistan. “And when you come back, you shall act as ambassadors of France”, he said.

“Every year since 2000, the number of Pakistani students leaving for France has increased dramatically. I

am sure these students will strengthen relations between the two countries”, he said.

Prof. Dr. Sohail H. Naqvi, Executive Director, HEC, thanked the Government of France and the French Embassy in Islamabad for their kind cooperation. He explained the objectives of the Human Resource Development (HRD) programme of the Commission.

He said that 250 students were already studying in France under HEC's scholarship schemes and the new batch consists of 153 more students. He asked the departing students to fully utilize their stay at France. “You must keep in mind that you people are the future of this nation so you should work hard and come back to serve this nation”, he stressed.

Earlier, Prof. Dr. S. M. Raza, Adviser HRD at HEC presented his welcome address and congratulated the departing scholars. He said that the HRD programme is the cornerstone of all the HEC initiatives.

Dr. Sohail Naqvi Gets French Academic Award

Prof. Dr. S. Sohail H. Naqvi, Executive Director, Higher Education Commission has been decorated with the prestigious French Award Les Palmes Academiques by the French Government. The Award, which has been given in recognition of his role in Pakistan-France academic cooperation, was presented to him by Mr. Regis de Belenet, French Ambassador to Pakistan at a well attended ceremony at French Embassy recently. Prof. Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman, Chairman HEC and members of the National Assembly were also present on the occasion. Les Palmes Academiques was originally created by Napoleon Bonaparte, to honour eminent members of the University of Paris. It was re-established on October 4, 1955 by President René Coty and is one of the world's oldest civil awards. Originally, the Palmes Académiques was only given to teachers or professors. In 1866, the scope of the award was widened to include major contributions to French national education made by anybody, including foreigners.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Naqvi said, “It is matter of great pleasure for me to accept this Award on behalf of my colleagues. Under the able guidance of Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman, HEC's investment in developing human resource and strengthening the higher education sector has now begin to pay dividends”, he said.

Mr. Regis de Belenet, the French Ambassador, appreciated the services rendered by Dr. Naqvi for the advancement of higher education in the country. “I must appreciate the growth in the quality and quantity of higher education sector in Pakistan and the credit definitely goes to Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman and Dr. Sohail Naqvi”, he added. Sketch by Raja Ahmad Nadeem

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Pakistan, Cuba to Strengthen Collaboration

A Cuban delegation headed by Mr. Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla, First Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Republic of Cuba met Prof. Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman, Chairman Higher Education Commission recently.

The delegation thanked the Pakistani Government for placing its trust in the Cuban endeavour for setting up 1,000 scholarships for graduate studies in medicine for Pakistani students in Cuba.

The Cuban Minister was accompanied by Mr. Gustavo Machin Gomez, Ambassador of the Republic of Cuba to Pakistan, Mr. William Carbó Ricardo, Deputy Director of North Africa and Middle East Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba, Mr. Omar Pereira Hernandez, Adviser of the First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba and Mr. Ariel Lorenzo Rodriguez, Second Secretary of the Embassy of the Republic of Cuba in Pakistan.

During the meeting, Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman appreciated the tremendous support provided by the Cuban medical teams after October 2005 earthquake and the ensuing offer of 1,000 scholarships that the Cuban Government made possible in view of the interest taken in the

recovery efforts of the international medical and disaster management teams operating in Pakistan after the quake.

So far, 356 students have reached Havana and the remaining scholarship slots have been already advertised. Talks focused on Cuba's strength in biotechnology, a much required knowledge that is the need of the hour for a developing country like Pakistan.

Speaking of the possibilities for further collaboration and cooperation between the two countries, Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman highlighted the areas in which Pakistan would be interested to work with the Cuban counterparts. He suggested that the medical students already studying in Cuba may be considered for PhD studies in biotechnology once they graduated in order to strengthen Pakistan's human resource in biotechnology.

Besides, those already with MS degrees may be sent to Cuba for doctorates in basic sciences, applied sciences, material sciences, IT related disciplines, engineering biochemistry, microbiology etc. “Cuban expertise could also help for postdoctoral fellowships in basic and applied sciences which would place a minimum of two

(L-R) Prof. Dr. Sohail Naqvi, Mr. Gustavo Machin Gomez, Prof. Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman, Mr. Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla and Prof. Dr. Anwar Nasim

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Pakistani scientists at Cuban centres of excellence”, he said. Another important collaboration discussed was for institutional linkages between the best centres in the two countries. Establishment of a Centre of Excellence in collaboration with Cuba in the field of biotechnology in a public sector university in Pakistan was also discussed.

Mr. Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla said that Pakistan's approach matched Cuba's and suggested that teams from both sides should meet to form the proposals. Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman was accompanied by Prof. Dr. Sohail Naqvi, Executive Director HEC, Dr. S. M. Raza, Adviser HRD and Dr. Anwar Nasim, Chairman Commission for Biotechnology, Pakistan.

40,000 E-Books to Go Online through HEC's Digital Library

The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has decided to provide 40,000 online books in addition to 23,000 journals that have been made available through the Digital Library Programme. The E-books support programme will allow researchers to access most of the important text and reference books electronically in a variety of subject areas.

For this purpose, the HEC has acquired 40,000 electronic books of the world's leading publishers that cater to the specific needs of the public and private universities and R&D organizations, participating in the programme.

The main objective of the whole effort is to support and strengthen the learning activities of students in Pakistan. The students, faculty and staff will have the access of E-books and all of the powerful research technologies offered through this platform.

Over 220 leading international publishers have been identified for the access including Oxford University Press, Taylor & Francis, Blackwell Synergy, BMJ publishing Group, Cambridge University Press, Emerald, John Wiley & Sons, The McGraw Hill Book Companies, MIT Press, Springer Publishing Company, Stanford University Press and Sybex Inc, United Nations University Press etc. containing a collection of over 40,000 e-books in varied disciplines, such as Business and Management, Information Technology, Engineering, Health and Biomedical, Life and Physical Sciences, Social Sciences, etc.

It is anticipated that students at undergraduate and graduate levels will greatly benefit from this powerful new service which will provide a tremendous source of important information to the student community. Pakistan will thus become one of the first few countries in the world in which the entire student community in

the universities will be given free access to a huge reservoir of knowledge. This represents an important and a historic step by HEC to improve the quality of education in our universities, and reduce the cost burden of higher education on students.

The salient features of the service include automatic save links to highlights, bookmarks and notes and storing them in personal bookshelves. The bookshelves can be shared by patrons, teaching staff, and administrators and items can be deleted at any time.

Moreover, InfoTools instantly links patrons from the full-text to other content within Ebrary databases, online resources within the subscribing library (federated search engines, ILS, dictionaries, encyclopedias, and third party databases), information on the web such as definitions, translations, maps, web search engines, and bibliographical information.

InfoTools also allow patrons to highlight, annotate bookmark, print, copy and paste text from any document into any text application, complete with customizable bibliographical citations.

The browsing options include navigating pages in the book with the requested search terms or flip through pages using the arrow buttons, unlimited users and browsing through a particular subject area.

The service has user-friendly searching options. It includes searching everything in a book by entering text in one field, refining search results using the search results page, searching for words and phrases that are close to each other and exploring from within a book, resources in the library, and on the Web. The advance search options include Text, Author, Title, Subject, ISBN, Abstract, Years of Publication and Keyword.

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Mega Project for Chinese Language Training

The Chinese Huazhong Normal University (HUN) and the Higher Education Commission (HEC) will collaborate to begin a comprehensive project for providing facilities to Pakistani faculty members and students to learn Chinese language within Pakistan and at the HUN, China.

The plan was discussed in detail during a meeting between a delegation of HUN headed by its President, Prof. Dr. Ma Min and the HEC team led by Prof. Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman, Chairman HEC, who was assisted by Dr. Naveed Malik, Vice Chancellor, Virtual University of Pakistan, Prof. Dr. Riaz-ul-Haq Tariq, Member Academics HEC, Prof. Dr. Riaz Hussain Qureshi, Adviser Quality Assurance HEC, Mr. Muhammad Yaqoob, Adviser Finance HEC and Mr. Rahim Bux Channa, DG Academics HEC. The others members of the HUN delegation included Mr. Ren You Zhou, Standing Deputy Dean of College of International Cultural Exchange, HNU and Mr. Gao Zhuo Xian, Director of International Office, HUN.

The Project will consist of four different programmes. The first programme is to strengthen the Confucius Centre at National University of Modern Languages.

The Centre will offer both short-term and long-term courses, the purpose of which will be to inculcate the working knowledge of Chinese language to Pakistani students particularly those going to China for PhD under HEC scholarships programmes.

The second programme in the project includes setting up of Chinese Language Training Centres in major universities of Pakistan particularly one in each province. The Chinese delegation was of the view that in the first instance, one such Centre may be established at University of Karachi or University of the Punjab, Lahore.

Another important plan is to start a national distance learning programme in Chinese language. For this purpose, the infrastructure of Virtual University of Pakistan will be utilized. Interactivity through video-conferencing and internet will be an essential part of this programme. The Vice Chancellor, Virtual University will visit the Huazhong Normal University to explore the modalities of the programme.

The fourth programme involves sending Pakistani students to China for four-year degree programme so that after completing degree they may teach Chinese l a n g u a g e i n t h e u n i v e r s i t i e s , w h e r e centres/departments of Chinese language exists.

During the meeting, the Chinese delegation proposed the establishment of Pak-China Centre at the Huazhong Normal University to be jointly established by HEC and HUN where Pakistani faculty members and students will be trained in the Chinese language. The idea was appreciated by the HEC side and the delegation was asked to give detailed specifications regarding this Centre.

Dr. Riaz-ul-Haq Joins HEC as Member (Academics)

Prof. Dr. Riaz-ul-Haq Tariq has joined the Higher Education Commission as Member (Academics). Previously, he served as the founding Vice Chancellor of the University of Sargodha for four years. Dr. Riaz did his PhD in Science Education from University of East Anglia, United Kingdom; MSc in Chemistry from University of the Punjab, Lahore. He has vast experience of teaching and research. He is the author of four books besides publishing many research papers at the national and international levels. Dr. Riaz established the Department of Education at Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan. He also worked as consultant with COSMO International, a Japanese firm for the establishment of Fertilizer Technology Training Institute, Multan (now known as NFC Institute of Engineering and Technology, Multan).

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Workshop, Study Visit for VCs, Registrars at Thailand

The first delegation of vice chancellors and registrars of public sector universities of Pakistan returned after a successful ten-day workshop and study visit programme on 'Good Governance

stin Universities in the 21 Century' at the Asian Inst i tute of Technology, Bangkok, Thailand from May 22- June 1, 2007.

A joint effort of the AIT Extension of Asian Institute of Technology and the Learning Innovation Division of the Higher Education Commission (HEC), this was the first-ever workshop of its kind.

It has been one of the key objectives of HEC to holistically provide facilitation to empower universities of Pakistan in quality governance to effectively compete in the incessantly changing era of global competitiveness. For this purpose the HEC has planned this continual activity to provide a venue to the university leadership and senior management to discuss i s s ue s r e l e van t t o good governance with their foreign counterparts and share good models of governance that can be then applied to their own systems.

Moreover they were also given the unique opportunity to get up-to-date and holistic understanding of modern university governance, identify critical issues relevant to effective academic management and administrative practices and gain an understanding of the skills and attitude needed for managing changes in the organizational culture.

The visiting senior management were also able to interact and discuss bilateral matters and the possibility of collaboration with

AIT and other universities. Besides AIT which was the host university, the participants also visited the King Mongkut's University of Technology, the Thammasat University, the Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok University and Siam University. In addition, the delegates were also taken on a study tour of the Thailand Science Park, National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA) and Thailand's Commission on Higher Education.

The workshop consisted of various academic sessions were arranged during the workshop where the distinguished participants were exposed to different issues being faced by higher education institutions all over the world. The seminars facilitated by AIT were conducted by highly accomplished resource persons from various parts of the region.

The first seminar was conducted on 'Strategic Management Issues: A Case of a Philippine University' by Dr. Nicanor C. Austriaco, VP for Academic Affairs, Angeles University, Philippines. Similarly, another interactive and informative seminar was conducted by Dr. Roland Amoussou-Guenou, Head of IP Programme, on 'Managing University Intellectual Property'. It was followed by another session on University 'Performance-based Compensation' by Prof. Peter Haddawy, VP for Academic Affairs, Asian Institute of Technology.

Another lecture was delivered by Prof. Dr. Thanwa, Vice-President of the Keirsestart University on 'Best Practices in University Project Management'. Last but not least, Prof. Said Irandoust, AIT President conducted a two-hour session on 'Managing Change in University Organizational Culture: A Case Study from Sweden'.

In addition to the academic sessions at the AIT, the organizers had also arranged various seminars on issues relating to good governance at the visiting universities for a deeper understanding of Thailand's perspective on higher education complying with global competitiveness. This was a unique experience where each university facilitated a tour of their institution followed

Prof. Dr. Pirzada Qasim Raza Siddiqui, Vice Chancellor Karachi University and leader of the Pakistani delegation, presents a souvenir to the Vice President,

International Affairs, University of Thammasat

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by a seminar/lecture presentation by their senior management official to discuss key success factors along with providing ample information about their systems, management and achievement.

The lectures arranged at various universities included 'Issues on Management of an Autonomous University' at King Mongkut's University of Technology; 'Best Practices in Managing University Resources' at the Thammasat University; 'Issues on University Quality Assurance' by the Office of Commission on Higher Education; 'Scientific and Technological Research and Development' at Thailand Science Park, National S c i e n c e a n d Te c h n o l o g y Development Agency (NSTDA) ICT Applications in University Teaching and Administration at Bangkok University and another enriching interactive session conducted at the Siam University on 'Challenges for University

stLeaders in the 21 Century'.

The AIT management also arranged separate sessions that included visits at the Mahidol University; UNESCAP; discussion

and interaction with Dean and faculty members of AIT School of Environment, Resources and Development (SERD), School of Management and AIT School of Engineering and Technology where they discussed about possible collaborations in various programmes.

Another major feature of the visit was the lunch hosted by the Ambassador of Pakistan to Thailand, Lt. Gen. (R) Khateer Hassan Khan. Prof. Dr. Pirzada Qasim Raza Siddiqui, Vice Chancellor, Karachi University and Ms Noor Amna Malik, Director General, Learning Innovation, HEC expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the Ambassador for honouring the visiting delegates. Lt. Gen. (R) Khateer Hassan was also chief guest besides Prof. Said Irandoust at opening ceremony of the Workshop on May 22, 2007.

AIT also arranged social and cultural activities for the delegates. They toured the Grand Royal Palace and visited the globally famous Pattaya city as well. The most memorable of all was the farewell boat dinner hosted by AIT at the ancient city of Ayyuthiya.

The delegation was led by Prof. Dr. Pirzada Qasim. The others participants included Dr. Aziz Ali Najam, Vice Chancellor, Karakurum International University, Gilgit; Dr. Farhana Jahangir, Vice Chancellor, Frontier Women University, Peshawar; Brig. Mukhtar Ahmad Khan, Vice Chancellor, Balochistan UET, Khuzdar; Dr. Muhammad Akram Chaudhry, Vice Chancellor, University of Sargodha; Dr. Saeeda Asadullah Khan, Vice Chancellor, Fatima Jinnah Women University, Rawalpindi; Dr. Munawar Mirza, Vice Chancellor, University of Education, Lahore; Dr. Asmatullah Khan, Vice Chancellor, University of Science & Technology, Bannu; Dr. Abdul Rahim Malik, Vice Chancellor, Shah Abdul Latif University, Khairpur; Dr. Muhammad Nizamuddin, Vice Chancellor, University of Gujrat; Dr. Arif Ali Zaidi, Vice Chancellor, GC University, Faisalabad; Brig. (R) Agha Ahmed Gul, Vice Chancellor, University of Balochistan, Quetta; Dr. Arshad Iqbal, Registrar, AJK University, Muzaffarabad and Mr. Sajid Sohail, Registrar, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad. The Higher Education Commission was represented by Ms Noor Amna Malik, Director General Learning Innovation Division and Mr. Fida Hussain Director, Learning Innovation Division.

The visiting delegation with Prof. Said Irandoust, President AIT and Lt. Gen (R) Khateer Hussian, Ambassador of Pakistan to Thailand

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Faculty Professional Development Programme Begins at HEC

The Learning Innovation, Higher Education Commission launched the 45-day long Faculty Professional Development Programme from June 11, 2007. About 30 participants from all the public sector universities of Pakistan are attending this course. The course aims at equipping the higher education teachers with the principles of pedagogical knowledge and skills imperative for effective teaching learning process. Prof. Dr. Riaz Hussain Qureshi, Adviser QA & LI, HEC was chief guest at the inaugural ceremony. Ms. Noor Amna Malik, DG LI Division, HEC was also present at the occasion.

Mr. Fida Hussian, Director LI, HEC gave the welcome address. He said that the primary purpose of this programme was to develop pedagogical skills of university faculty of all the disciplines.

Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Noor Amna Malik highlighted the vision of Learning Innovation Division, which is playing a significant role to equip the faculty members with modern technological, pedagogical and professional training. “This ultimately trickles down to provide quality education to the students”, she stressed.

At the end, Dr. Qureshi appreciated the LI Division for successfully organizing faculty development programmes. He also highlighted the importance of Quality Assurance and Learning Innovation in the improvement of higher education in the country. The Adviser stressed on improving quality of faculty, curricula, assessment procedures and students by providing infrastructural facilities, research and learning environment.

Participants of the course with Dr. Riaz Hussain Qureshi, Adviser QA & LI, HEC and other Commission officials

A project of the Higher Education Commission to establish a sub-campus of Bahauddin Zakariya University in Sahiwal has been approved by the Central

Development Working Party. The project will provide infrastructure and other academic facilities at the sub-campus to ensure access to quality

and diversity in education to people of the region. The project will include construction of two academic blocks to house five academic departments, two hostels to house 150 students each, staff

residences and student civic facilities. It will also enhance the library facilities, computer laboratories along with office equipment, furniture and fixtures. A large human resource component of the project will ensure 50 foreign doctoral scholarships for the University as part of the human resource development programme for the faculty.

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International Conference on Research, Development and Emerging Technologies

A t w o - d a y i n t e r n a t i o n a l conference on 'Research , Development and Emerging Technologies' was organized by NUST Institute of Information Technology (NIIT) in collaboration w i t h H i g h e r E d u c a t i o n Commi s s i on and Campus Consultancy Services, UK at the HEC Secretariat recently.

The main objective of the Conference was to provide a forum to higher education faculty to share the best practices in research methodologies for their academic institutions to evolve into veritable centres of research excellence. The Conference also showcased key emerg ing technologies that would likely be t he d r i ve r s o f e conom i c development in knowledge-based economies of the future. The speakers were acclaimed scholars in their areas of expertise representing premier academic institutions of the United Kingdom.

Prof. Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman, Chairman HEC was chief guest at the inaugural ceremony. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman said that knowledge had become the key driver in the process of development. “Gone are the days when natural resources contributed to the development of nations. Now it is knowledge and knowledge alone that differentiates between developed and underdeveloped countries”, he said.

He said that research, technology, innovation and entrepreneurship were the key words in the creation of sustained economic growth

particularly amongst developing nations. “Fully alive to this fact, the Government tasked HEC to spearhead a comprehensive campaign for building a knowledge- based economy as engine of socio-economic development in Pakistan”, he added.

The Chairman said that efforts were being made to uplift institutions of higher learning and bring them at par with international standards. “We are attracting the brightest minds of the nation to come forward and excel in learning and research. We are encouraging both individuals and institutions to play an effective role in development of higher education in the country”, he asserted.

Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman described the various initiatives of HEC for improving higher education sector in Pakistan. He said that highly creative faculty was the key to a successful higher education system and the centre of HEC's efforts is, therefore, faculty development. “Our faculty development programme consists of three parts. First of all, identifying the brightest and sending them abroad for higher studies in top institutions worldwide. In the last 18 months, 1200 scholars have been placed at various institutions and another thousand

Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman, Chairman HEC, Lt. Gen. (R) Shujaat Hussain, Rector NUST and Dr. Arshad Ali, Director General, NIIT sit on stage during the inaugural ceremony

Participants and speakers of the Conference

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will be sent abroad this year. Secondly, we are attracting foreign faculty to work in our universities and some 500 have returned to Pakistan for long or short-term assignments. Thirdly, there is indigenous PhD programme for maximizing the number of PhDs in higher education institutions but without compromising quality”, he said.

He further said that a large number of linkages have been established with reputed foreign universities, fifty such linkages with British universities, with a purpose to enhance the standards of local universities.

He appreciated the NIIT for organizing this international conference on research, development and emerging technologies. “It is heartening to see that there is a growing realization among our academics for importance of research culture in universities and such events really prove stimulating in this regard”, he said.

Earlier, Prof. Dr. Arshad Ali, Director General, in his welcome address, thanked the Higher Education Commission and Campus Consultancy Services, UK for organizing the Workshop. He appreciated the efforts of HEC in promoting an enabling and supporting environment for research in the country.

Lt. General (R) Syed Shujaat Hussain, Rector NUST was also present at the occasion. Different experts including 13 scholars from UK, gave presentations on different dimensions of the subject topic during the Conference.

The Conference speakers included Prof. Jeremy Allam, Professor of Ultra fast Opto-electronics, University of Surrey; Prof. John Taylor, Education Management, University of Southampton; Prof. Dr Arshad Ali, Director General, NUST Institute of Information Technology; Dr. Des McLernon, Electrical and Electronics Dept., University of Leeds; Prof. Tony Griffiths, Institute for Sustainability, Energy and Environmental Management, School of Engineering, Cardiff University; Prof. Keith Williams, Institute for Sustainability, Energy and Environmental Management, Cardiff University; Prof. John Hancock, Dean of Engineering, University of Glasgow; Dr. David Hugh Nash, Vice Dean, School of Engineering, University of Strathclyde; Dr. Fayyaz Memon, Department of Engineering, University of Exeter; Dr. Ihtesham Ur Rehman, Reader in Biomedical Materials, Queen Mary, University of London; Dr. Chris Edwards, Control and Instrumentation group, Dept. of Engineering, University of Leicester; Prof. Javaid Rehman, Professor of law and Director of Research, Brunel University.

Seven Young Scholars to Attend th

57 Meeting of Nobel Laureates

Seven young scholars have been selected on merit from thall over the country to attend the 57 Meeting of Nobel

thLaureates (19 Meeting in Medicine/Physiology) from July 1-6, 2007, Under the Programme for Interaction of

Young Pakistani Scholars with Nobel Laureates in Lindau Germany.

Eight to ten Pakistani students and young researchers, sponsored by Higher Education Commission and Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission have been participating in Lindau Annual Meetings regularly since 2003. During their stay, they meet and discuss their scientific pursuits with Nobel Prize Winners as well as more than 500 fellow participants from over 40 countries.

The selected scholars for this year are Fozia Fatima, Ayub Teaching Hospital, Abbottabad; Junaid Ashraf, KRL Hospital, Islamabad; Lubna Siddiq, CMH,

Rawalpindi; Pashtoon Murtaza Kasi, Aga Khan University, Karachi; Syed Hammad Hassan, A.F.I.D., Rawalpindi; Talha Vaqar, Aga Khan University, Karachi and Waqas Tariq Qureshi, Rawalpindi Medical College.

The process for the selection of candidates started in January 2007. Apart from the announcements in the media, all the Vice Chancellors as well as Chairmen/Heads of Department of relevant universities/institutions/medical centres were requested to nominate their best graduates for this highly competitive award. After scrutiny in the light of prescribed criteria, 25 candidates were short-listed out of 122 applicants. The interviews were held at Pakistan Science Foundation, Islamabad. Along with the regular members of the organizers/selection committee, subject specialists in the field of medicine/physiology were also invited for thorough evaluation. Finally, seven candidates were selected by Lindau Council in Germany.

12

HEC Honours Winners of National Games

Paying rich tribute to university students who won eight gold medals, three silver medals and eight bronze medals in the National Games, the highest ever in the history of Pakistan, Prof. Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman, Chairman HEC stated that “The Higher Education Commission gives equal importance to sports as well as academic activities in the universities. We want our students to have a balanced personality. We want them to excel in sports in addition to academic ventures”.

Prof. Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman was speaking as chief guest at a ceremony to award prizes to the students who won

thmedals in the 30 National Games at HEC Secretariat recently. The ceremony was attended by vice

chancellors, sports directors, officials of sports federations, federal and provincial sports ministries.

These students participated under the banner of Higher Education Commission/ Pakistan Universities Sport Board in the National Games held in Karachi from April 9-14, 2007. Eleven men and five women teams of HEC/PUSB participated in the Games.

The Chairman HEC said that the Commission was establishing sports facilities in the universities across the country. “We have allocated over Rs. 200 million for promoting sports culture amongst our university students”, he said.

He said that the sports was an essential part of character building. “It is the best way to discover the hidden qualities of oneself including determination, hard work, discipline, tenacity and sportsman spirit. Sports unleashes many such facets of your character and makes you a disciplined person”.

Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman appreciated the efforts of teams' coaches and managers. He said that the Commission would expand its investment in universities' sports. “Our target is to achieve medals in the international competitions like Olympics but that is not possible without commitment and hard work”, he added.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Dr. Sohail Naqvi, Executive Director HEC said that universities' sports has been given due importance since the inception of the Commission in 2002. “Like academics, sports also need to be developed on scientific principles. We are making every possible effort to strengthen the basic infrastructure of sports in the universities”, he said.

He said that the achievements in the National Games were just a beginning. “We have, no doubt, the best talent and we'll provide them the best coaching and opportunities. We are also seeking support from Austria, Germany, Iran and some other countries to facilitate us in this regard”.

Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman, Chairman HEC presents trophy to the teams Manager while Mr. Talat Khursheed, Director General Sports, HEC look on

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Earlier, Mr. Talat Khursheed, Director General Sports, HEC highlighted the achievements of HEC/PUSB teams in the National Games. He said that there was tremendous improvement in the past one year.

“This year, our teams won eight gold, three silver and eight bronze medals which is a record performance from universities' teams in the 33 years history of national games”, he asserted.

He thanked the sports divisions of universities for their active support and appreciated the commitment and

hard work by the student players. “I must also appreciate and thank the coaches and managers who worked day and night to train the youngsters”, he added.

Later, Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman awarded medals, cash prizes and certificates to the students who had shown excellent performance in the National Games.

The Chairman HEC also awarded scholarships to the sports people. In addition, Sports Colours were also conferred on the players.

HEC Scholars Win Awards at AIT, Thailand

Two HEC scholars have won awards for o u t s t a n d i n g performance at the

t h107 graduation ceremony at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), T h a i l a n d . M r . Naveed-ul-Islam and Mr. Shahid Iqbal were g iven the outstanding student awards in the field of Microelectronics and Telecommunications respectively.

Mr. Naveed received the Infineon Prize in recognition of his outstanding academic performance in the field of Microelectronics. He obtained his BSc degree, major in Electronics and Communications, from the University of Engineering and Technology, Taxila, in 2001.

He was admitted in AIT in August 2005 and completed his Master of Engineering degree with research on “Fabrication of Dye Sensitized Solar Cell (DSSC) Focusing on Improvement in Cell Performance”. Prior to joining AIT, he worked as Assistant Manager at the National Engineering and Scientific Commission (NESCOM), Pakistan.

The Infineon Prize is given from funds provided in 2003 by the Infineon Technologies AG, through its Asia Pacific Office in Singapore. It was also a matter of great honour

for Mr. Naveed, and his country, to

thaddress the 107 graduation batch on b e h a l f o f a l l o u t s t a n d i n g students in this graduation batch. Moreover, AIT has also offered him PhD Fellowship of 56 credits out of 84 total credits.

The other scholar, Mr. Iqbal Shahid, won the Wireless Personal Multimedia Communications (WPMC) Prize in recognition of his outstanding academic performance in the field of Telecommunications (Wireless Multimedia).

Mr. Shahid obtained his B.Eng. degree, major in Electronics Communications, from the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) in 2001.

He joined the AIT in August 2005 and completed his Master of Engineering degree with a thesis entitled “Bit-Interleaved Space-Time Coded Modulation with Iterative Decoding over Correlated Fading Channels”.

Prior to joining AIT, he worked as Assistant Manager at NESCOM. The WPMC Prize is given by Yokosuka Research Park R&D Committee and Communications Research Laboratory of Japan, from funds established in 2001 in recognition of AIT's contributions to WPMC.

Naveed-ul-Islam Iqbal Shahid

14

Workshop on Animal Vaccine Production and Quality Control

The National Core Group in Life Sciences, Higher Education Commission organized a two-day workshop on “Animal Vaccine Production and Quality Control” in collaboration with COMSTECH at Islamabad from May 28-29, 2007.

The major objectives of the Workshop included evaluation of current status of animal vaccine production in the country and to develop long-term strategy to improve the production capacity, its quality and marketing infrastructure.

The people involved in vaccine production, quality control and R&D were invited from 12 institutions from all over the country. The participants were told that, at present, five institutions in public sector and nine in private sector were involved in vaccine production against livestock and poultry in the country.

They were informed that 12 different types of animal vaccines against economically important diseases are being manufactured at these units. However, quantitatively only 5-20 per cent of each type of the required vaccine is being manufactured in the country, whereas rest of the vaccines are being imported.

At the end, various recommendations were made for improvement of animal vaccine production. These included establishment of National Biologics Agency and a task force to evaluate the production capacity and quality control facilities at the local vaccine production units and suggest measures for their improvement.

It was suggested that technical assistance should be provided to the local vaccine manufactures through government or international expertise and develop a strong epidemiological data and regular monitoring network for identifying vaccine priority areas and to know efficacy of the used vaccine.

It was further recommended to increase R&D work on vaccine production using local strains of infectious diseases in addition to establishing national reference laboratories for pathogen characterization and setting up of seed stocks for vaccine strain.

A comprehensive report in this regard will be prepared by the visiting USDA expert and submitted to the Ministry of Food Agriculture and Livestock (MINFAL).

Participants of the Workshop with Dr. Saadat Aaliya, Project Director, Life Sciences and Ms Nyla Jabeen, Research Officer, Life Sciences

15

Workshop on Systematic Reviews in Healthcare at AMC

A three-day scientific workshop on 'Systematic Reviews in Healthcare' was organized by Learning Innovation Division, HEC in collaboration with Amcolians Alumni Association at Army Medical College Rawalpindi from May 14-16, 2007.

The purpose of the workshop was to build research evaluation capacity in the senior medical faculty and make them able to evaluate research published in the international literature.

Prof. Waqas Waheed and Prof. Hashim Raza were invited from Manchester and South East England respectively, to facilitate the participants’ learning in this workshop. Dr. Haider from Aga Khan University of Health, Karachi and Dr. Ilyas Mirza also joined the panel as resource persons.

The workshop was inaugurated by Lt. General Mushtaq Ahmad Baig, Surgeon General/DGMS (IS). He

highlighted the importance of research and development in the medical profession and hoped that the workshop would help to build a broad based researcher group of senior and junior doctors.

Ms. Noor Amna Malik, Director General Learning Innovation, HEC elaborated the efforts of the Commission to meet the international standards of research and learning, which was highly appreciated by the audience that comprised all general officers the Army Medical Corps, AMC faculty and other distinguished guests.

In the closing ceremony, Prof. Dr. Riaz Hussain Qureshi,

Adviser QA&LI, HEC addressed the audiences.

Dr. Qureshi expressed satisfaction on the content and

interactive way in which the workshop was conducted.

At the end, certificates were distributed among the

participants.

Workshop for HEC Employees

A Workshop on English Language Skills has been organized for Higher Education Commission Employees by HEC's Learning Innovation Division in collaboration with British Council from May 28 to July 19, 2007 at Commission Secretariat in Islamabad.

The basic purpose of this Workshop, which is first of its kind for HEC employees, is to improve employees' written and spoken skills especially noting and drafting

competence in the official correspondence.

Prof. Dr. Riaz Hussain Qureshi, Adviser Quality Assurance and Learning Innovation, was chief guest at the inaugural ceremony. Twenty participants from different departments of HEC are attending the Course.

Ms Lynn Clark, an English Language Teaching Consultant is resource person for the Workshop.

Ms Noor Amna Malik, DG Learning Innovation, HEC with speakers and participants of the Workshop

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Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Riaz stressed the significance of English language in the present age. “English language has always been a difficulty in our country, which is a big disadvantage

stin the 21 century. There is no other option but to strengthen our written and spoken skills in English if we have to move forward”, he said.

English Language Skills Enhancement Programme is similar to the IELTS course. It focuses on all aspects of functional English including reading, writing, listening and speaking.

This course would help the participants to strengthen communication skills,

language

improve English grammar usage, and enhance understanding of HEC templates. This programme is the first of its series and more officers/officials will be nominated from HEC for the next batch.

NAHE Completes Training of 3200 Teachers

National Academy of Higher Education (NAHE) is pursuing excellence in higher education by conducting professional development training courses for university as well as college teachers.

NAHE, according to stipulated target mentioned in PC-1 of the project, had to train 3200 university as well as college faculty members. The Academy has not only successfully achieved its set target but is going beyond the target figure.

These trainings are organized at the doorstep of universities. For this purpose , 39 Human Resource Development Centres have been established in various public sector universities across the country.

These centres are not only established in major cities like Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad but also in far flung areas like Gilgit, Nawabshah and Bannu etc.

The month long intensive in-service training course covers all the essentials for successful teaching. The focused areas are Educational Psychology, Educa t iona l Measurement and Evaluation, Administrative Planning and

Communication Skills, Curriculum and Material Development, Advanced Teaching Skills, and Research Skills.

The coordinator, who is usually a senior faculty member of the respective university, engages experienced and competent resource persons for taking sessions during the course.

The courses are completely funded by NAHE. The success of the course is evaluated through 'Quality Assurance Mechanism 'QAM'. This QAM has a package of evaluation proformas for evaluating the course through different angles. The QAM gives us feedback about the success and impact of the course.

NAHE is planning to make these trainings as mandatory in all the public sector universities of Pakistan in the next phase with improved instructional material.

HEC Employees attending the course with Dr. Riaz Qureshi and Ms Lynn Clark, English Language Teaching Consultant

Participants of Staff Development Course held at Frontier Women University, Peshawar with Dr. Farhana Jehangir, Vice Chancellor of the University and

Dr. Javaid Iqbal Awan, Project Director, NAHE

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A five-day workshop on GRE at Bahria University, Islamabad was organized by Learning Innovation Division, HEC from June 4-8, 2007.

Faculty members of 20 universities from all over Pakistan were trained in this workshop.

The basic objective of the workshop was to familiarize the faculty members with GRE test taking techniques. The workshop provided them an opportunity to enhance their skills of analytical writing, verbal and quantitative reasoning.

Vice Admiral Farooq Rashid was chief guest at the opening ceremony of the Workshop. Mr. Hammad Ashraf, the resource person, highlighted the objectives and content of the workshop.

The chief guest thanked the LI Division, HEC for extending support and facilitating the workshop. He further explained Bahria University's vision of enhancing the human resource capital of Pakistan through professional training and development. Khawaja Azam Ali, MD Quality Assurance, HEC distributed certificates among the participants.

GRE Workshop at Bahria University

Business Comm. Skills Course at Air University

A one-week 'Business Communication Skills Course' organized by Higher Education Commission in collaboration with Air University, Islamabad concluded here recently. Thirty faculty members from local universities were invited to participate in the programme. The purpose of the Workshop was to equip the participants with essential skills used in the business communication.

Dr. Amina Nasir from International Islamic University, Islamabad was resource person for the Workshop.

The participants requested the Higher Education Commission to arrange such workshops on regular basis. At the end, the chief guest awarded certificates to the participants.

Workshop participants with Vice Admiral Farooq Rashid, Rector, Bahria University and Ms Noor Amna Malik, DG Learning Innovation, HEC

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Workshop on Semester System at University of Balochistan

A two-day workshop on semester system was held at University of Balochistan, Quetta from May 25-26, 2007. Seventy-three participants from various departments of the University attended the workshop. Mr. Mohammad Zaki, Assistant Director, LI Division, HEC coordinated the workshop.

Dr. Pervez Mughal, GIKI, Topi and Mr. Mohammad Jawaid Aslam, Controller of Examinations, GC University, Faisalabad were resource persons. In the opening ceremony, Mr. Rasool Buksh Raeesani, Pro Vice Chancellor, University of Balochistan, Quetta presented his views on various initiatives taken by his institution for quality education and reforms in the examination system.

He said that after thorough analysis of various examinations systems adopted by all public universities, his University has drafted a manual on semester system which will be implemented after the administrative approval of the Vice Chancellor.

While appreciating the organization of the workshop, t h e p a r t i c i p a n t s r e c o m m e n d e d t h a t workshops/seminars on semester system should be arranged throughout Pakistan which would help in

developing a unified semester system and capacity building of stakeholders involved in its implementation.

At the closing session, Mr. Raeesani said that the HEC was making all out efforts to promote academic vitality by providing training and development opportunities, which not only support learning and teaching but also assist individuals in working effectively together within their departments and throughout the university community. He elaborated the importance of semester system and strongly appreciated policies of NCES for the development and improvement of semester system. He said that University of Balochistan will follow the semester system very soon.

Mr. Mohammad Zaki, in his concluding remarks, congratulated the participants for successful execution of workshop. He said that NCES of HEC has given many recommendations and one of them is to introduce the semester system in all public sector universities by fall 2008. “The basic purpose of this workshop is to spread awareness among the concerned officials and stakeholders regarding semester system. The HEC is in continuous consultation with all the public sector universities before implementing the semester system”, he said.

Participants of the Workshop along with the resource persons

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Research Conference at SZABIST

“Universities should focus on interdisciplinary research and encourage the scholars to conduct research in all fields of studies”.

This was stated by Dr. David Taylor, Acting Provost, The Aga Khan University while inaugurating the N i n t h Na t i o na l Re s ea r c h Conference on Management, Computer and Social Sciences & Economics organized by Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto Institute of S c i e n c e a n d Te c h n o l o g y (SZABIST) on May 19, 2007.

Dr. Taylor said that the universities should establish and promote research in the country, as it would play a key role in the scientific, social and economic development of Pakistan.

He urged the scholars to make best use of internet, digital library and online available resources. He advised scholars to conduct research on social, gender, human rights and water management issues in particular adding that research was an open-ended activity.

Dr. Javaid Laghari, Acting President, SZABIST said that the Institute has emerged as a research university in Pakistan. He said that the research conference at national level would provide a platform to scholars to share their research and be recognized.

Ms Azra Maqsood, Deputy Director, SZABIST briefed the audience about the PhD programme in Management, Computer and Social Sciences & Economics at the Institute. “SZABIST is making every effort to create research environment in the country”, she said.

Over 70 research papers were presented at the Conference in six parallel sessions. These included 52 papers in computer sciences, eight papers in management sciences and 10 papers in social sciences and economics.

Dr. Javaid Leghari, Acting President of SZABST presents shield to Dr. David Taylor, Acting Provost, Aga Khan University

Universities, Industry to Tackle Environmental Pollution

The Higher Education Commission is strengthening Departments of Environmental Sciences in various universities to tackle the problems related to environment themes. This was stated by Prof. Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman, Chairman HEC while speaking as chief guest at a seminar on 'University-Industry Interaction for Abatement of Environmental Pollution and Climate Change' organized by International Islamic University,

Islamabad in collaboration with Higher Education Commission and Tourism Promotion Services Limited. ‘We are confronting an impending environmental disaster as this part of the world is going to be among the worst affected in the next 30-50 years', said Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman. He said that the realization of the depletion of the ozone layer and global warming has been there for the last two decades, and the Kyoto Protocol has been signed by most countries. He said that there was mounting evidence that over the next 20-25 years, there would be devastating floods in the rivers of Pakistan due to rapid melting of glaciers. “This would be followed by an even more critical period of drought as the rivers would dry up due to insufficient ice on the glaciers, causing desertification. It was therefore vitally important to build large number of dams to store excess water over the next 10-15 years which would be used in

20

Pakistani Scholar Attends US Naval Academy Conference

Mr. Zeeshan-ul-Hassan Usmani, a Fulbright Scholar from Pakistan, participated in 2007 United States Naval Academy Foreign Affairs Conference, held in Annapolis, Maryland recently.

The 47 annual Naval Academy Foreign Affairs Conference (NAFAC) invited students from both civilian and military institutions to explore issues related to this year's theme “Asia at the Crossroads.”

The theme was of immense importance as Asia has become a centre of power and influence in world affairs. The region's economy is fastest growing in the world and the emerging regional powers are at a strategic crossroads. Asia is struggling to deal with the converging promises and perils of globalization as well as conventional and non-conventional threats. How the Asian nations manage their transitions at home and abroad will decisively shape the world's future.

th

During the Conference, Zeeshan-ul-Hassan introduced his country to hundreds of delegates and met with Dr. Henry A. Kissinger, former Secretary of State and Nobel Peace Prize Winner, Vice Admiral Rodney P. Rempt, Superintendent United States Naval Academy, Captain Kevin Lyles, Chief, International Security Strategies, OPNAV NSIS, Keiichi Higuchi, First Secretary Embassy of Japan and Dr. Thomas J. Christensen, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs among others.

subsequent long periods of drought”. The option of renewable or wind energies for general use in Pakistan is also not a possibility at the present, he said adding that France, however, produces 70 per cent of its energy through nuclear energy.

Among the institutions funded by HEC are departments of Environmental Sciences. They are at present functioning at Peshawar University, Mehran University of Engineering and Technology, Jamshoro, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad and Lahore College for Women University Lahore.

Mr. Azam Jamil, Corporate Director, Tourism Promotion Services, in his welcome address stressed the

contribution of Serena hotels in upholding environmental safety measures and integrating technology and people's participation for regulatory compliance, resource conversation and disposal of wastes.

Dr. Anwar H. Siddiqui, President IIUI stressed the importance of science and technology and revealed that IIU is now branching out in fields of science as there was no difference between Islamic and non-Islamic subjects. Dr. Rozina Tufail, MNA and Chairperson National Committee of Science and High Tech for Economic Growth also spoke on the occasion.

The Seminar provided a forum to enhance the futuristic liaison of universities with industry and is meant to bridge the gap between industrial environmental problems and their mitigation on research based approach by providing an edge to the environmental student groups in particular to gain exposure with the industrial practical environmental concerns and recommending mitigation plans to them and developing Clean Development Mechanisms (CDM) by the industry for establishing a framework for abatement of environmental pollution and climate change.

Mr. Zeeshan-ul-Hasan Usmani (L) with Dr. Henry Kissinger, former Secretary of State and a Nobel Peace Prize Winner

21

IIUI Confers Honorary Degree on OIC Secretary General

Calling for a multi-dimensional interfaith dialogue, Prof. Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu, Secretary General, OIC has urged universities and academicians from the Muslim world to come forward with enhanced efforts for countering Islamophobia and fostering atmosphere of dialogue between Muslims and the Western Worlds. He was addressing a special convocation at the International Islamic University, Islamabad organized for conferment of honorary degree of D.Lit in recognition of his outstanding contribution in the development of the Muslim world and re-activation of the OIC as a vibrant body.

Lt. Gen. (R) Javed Ashraf Qazi, Federal Minister for Education was chief guest on the occasion. Makhdoom Khusru Bakhtiyar, State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Manzoor Ahmad, Rector IIUI, Dr. Anwar Hussain Siddiqui, President IIUI and a large number of ambassadors, diplomats, intellectuals and faculty members of the University were also present. Terming the increasing discrimination and intolerance against Muslims particularly in Europe and North America a serious issue, Dr. Ihsanoglu said

that the distortion of Islam and attempts to defame it as an extremist faith would contribute negatively to the cause of dialogue and world peace.

Countering the phenomenon of Islamophobia with all its forms and aspects, rectifying the increasing negative discourse of the Western politicians and media and disseminating the true message and tenets of Islam can not be achieved only through the efforts of OIC Secretariat. Active support of the member states is essential for countering negative propaganda against Islam and Muslims', he said.

Dr. Ihsanoglu further stated that the recognition of the present day challenges by the OIC leaders is a ray of hope for the future of the Muslim world. “The

th 34 meeting of the OIC foreign ministers has approved criteria, procedure and mechanism for selection of 20 universities of the Muslim world to be evolved to the rank of first 500 universities of the world and, hopefully, IIUI will be one of them”, he said.

IIUI, Ningxia Academy China Ink MOU

The International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI) and Ningxia Academy of Social Sciences, China have signed an agreement for mutual cooperation in academic fields. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by Dr. Anwar Hussain Siddiqui, President, IIUI and Mr. Lei Xingkui, Deputy President, Ningxia Academy, who headed a six-member delegation of the Academy.

According to the MoU, the Chinese Academy will send researchers to learn Arabic, English, Islamic Culture and other subjects each year at IIUI. The travelling expenses will be borne by the Academy while the University will provide accommodation and local hospitality. Moreover, IIUI will send its members to Chinese Academy for conducting research and learning Chinese language and culture. The Chinese academy will be allowed to reprint selected

Arabic articles published in the annual journal of the University. Both sides also agreed to foster coopera t ion in f i e lds o f Economics Research. According to the agreement, IIUI will establish a Department of Chinese language in Islamabad. The cooperation will also help Dawah Academy to publish Chinese language books for preaching of Islam.

Prof. Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu, Secretary General, OIC, Lt. Gen. (R) Javed Ashraf Qazi, Federal Minister for Education and others speak at the occasion

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Universities of Peshawar, Sistan to Start Joint PhD in Geology

A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed between the University of Peshawar and University of Sistan-Baluchistan, Iran to start a joint PhD programme of studies. Prof. Dr. Adam Turkamanzehi from University of Sistan-Baluchistan and Prof. Dr. Haroon Rashid, Vice Chancellor, University of Peshawar signed the agreement.

Dignitaries from Iranian Consulate and Iranian Culture Centre, Peshawar including Mr. Mohammad Eghbal Asghari, Consul General and Mr. Masood Eslami, Director General also graced the occasion.

Prof. Dr. Asif Khan, Director, National Centre of Excellence in Geology presented details of the Agreement including technical and financial protocol being signed between the two Universities. He assured full support from the Centre in terms of curriculum development, teaching and research to make this programme a success.

Dr. Turkamanzehi admired the positive response from the University of Peshawar in mater ia l i z ing the Agreement. He presented a shield of his University to Prof. Haroon and extended, on behalf of Chancellor of his University,

invitation to Vice Chancellor and the senior faculty of the University for participation in the launching ceremony of the proposed joint PhD Programme at Zahedan in September this year.

Mr. Asghari stated his long-standing desire for close cooperation between institutions of high learning between the two brotherly countries. He assured full support not only from the consulate but from the foreign office of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Workshops at PU Promote Use of Digital Library

The University of Peshawar organized a series of one-day workshops to promote the usage of digital resources available through the National Digital Library Programme. The purpose was to maximize the utilization of these resources by faculty members, l i b ra r i a n s , r e s ea r ch s t uden t s (PhD/MPhil) and postgraduate students.

A team of staff members was constituted to act as resource persons/facilitators for

these workshops. They included Mr. Ibrar Mohammad, Ms Mukhtar Shaheen, Mr. Tahir Jan, and Mr. Irfan Ullah. The workshops were conducted in 19 different departments and institutes of the University from March-May, 2007.

In his remarks, Prof. Dr. Haroon Rashid, Vice Chancellor, University of Peshawar appreciated the efforts of Central Library Staff for holding the workshops. He said that faculty members and research students could only benefit from digital resources when they are adequately trained to use these resources. He hoped that University community would make best use of these resources for study and research.

Dr. Haroon Rashid, Vice Chancellor, University of Peshawar and Dr. Adam Turkamanzehi of University of Sistan-Baluchistan

sign the agreement to start Joint PhD Programme

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Seminar on Drug Related Problems at LCWU

A national seminar titled "Drug Related Problems, Who is Responsible" was organized under the auspices of Pharmacy Department of Lahore College for Women University (LCWU), Lahore recently.

The main objective of the Seminar was to create public awareness regarding drug related problems, and to bring different professionals having divergent interests under one umbrella so as to discuss the problems in a rational way and give recommendations to develop an efficient health care system.

Ch. Muhammad Iqbal, Minister for Health, Punjab, was chief guest at the inaugural session. He said that the Seminar had provided an excellent opportunity to health care professionals to discuss the drug related problems in detail. He hoped that there would be a fruitful and conclusive discussion on the ways the pharmacists could serve for the betterment of therapeutic practices and patient care.

Prof. Dr. Bushra Mateen, Vice Chancellor, LCWU said that awareness and understanding the concept of pharmacoviligence was need of the hour if we want to safeguard the interest of patients and protect them from drug related problems. “We need to develop a partnership among all the players with ultimate goal of providing drug therapy with minimized related problems”, she stressed.

Those who attended the event included professors and students from pharmacy departments of various universities; doctors, pharmacists, nurses, retailers, whole sellers; representatives of distribution networks, WHO, Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association, Pharma Bureau, natural pharmaceutical industry and consumers; officers of both federal and provincial health departments and legal experts.

The participants of the seminar unanimously recommended that pharmaceutical sector should be transformed into service oriented, instead of profit based. They stressed upon the Government for legislation to regulate practitioners, hospitals, poly-clinics and pathological laboratories in the private sector.

It was recommended that the curriculum for education in medical colleges and pharmacy departments should be revised in order to meet the challenges emerging from drug related problems. Emphasis was laid on development and implementation of an efficient ADR reporting system on the same line as that of FDA, for which all key stakeholders should be invited for designing of this system by the federal and provincial governments. The participants strongly recommended that all new drug sales licenses should be issued to pharmacists only and that there must be a joint effort by pharma sector and academia to carry out bio-equivalence study, so that public can get cost effective generic products.

There was an agreement that the multinational companies in Pakistan should not be allowed to manufacture and sell vitamins, antacid, simple analgesics and carminative mixtures. The Ministry of

Health has been asked not to register the medicine without going through the therapeutic and sa fe ty t e s t on Pak i s t an i population. It was suggested that a public awareness programme should be organized on regular basis by inviting all key players responsible for delivery of quality drugs to the public. The disposable products like syringes, canulas drip sets and stunt etc. should be brought under the Drug Act 1976. Similarly there must be

an efficient system for disposal of hospital waste. Moreover, an immediate legislation was demanded to regulate production and promotion of products manufactured under alternate system of medicines. In addition, it was stressed to prepare a drug information handbook by the highly trained physicians, pharmacist and researchers in the field of drugs and medicine.

Dr. Farzana Nazir, Parliamentary Secretary Health was chief guest for the concluding session. She said that health is a fundamental human right and no government could provide it without ensuring delivery of quality drugs. “Our government is spending a lot of money to improve the health care services”, she said. She was impressed by the active discussion in the open forum. “The recommendations made today are thought provoking. I shall try my best to implement these through concerned departments/agencies”, she said.

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thUAAR Holds 8 Convocation

Educational Reforms are Yielding Results: Governor

“The educational reforms introduced by the Government have started yielding results as the universities are producing quality researchers, scholars and scientists to lead the country towards progress and prosperity”. This was stated by Lt. Gen. (R) Khalid

Maqbool, Governor Punjab while speaking at the th 8 Convocation of University of Arid Agriculture (UAAR),

Rawalpindi recently. The Governor, who is also Chancellor of the University, conferred degrees on the graduates.

Stressing the importance of agricultural sector, he said that the strength of the Punjab province lies in agriculture. “By imparting proper and modern knowledge to the students, we shall be able to meet the requirements of international market”, he said.

The Chancellor emphasized the importance of research and urged the students to carry out research in different disciplines of agriculture such as Biotechnology and Environmental Sciences. Appreciating the role of UAAR, the Governor said that the enrolment in University has been doubled in the last six years and the development budget of the University would touch the figure of Rs. 800 million next year.

“The Government is making efforts to improve the academic and research environment in universities by allocating sufficient financial resources. Now, it is up to

faculty and students of these institutions to make full use of these resources and contribute towards national development”, he stressed.

He underlined the importance of utilizing modern technologies in the field of agriculture. “All the stakeholders including farmers, universities, research organizations and market representatives must work together to enhance quality crops production”, he said. The Governor applauded the establishment of a sub-campus of UAAR at Khushab.

Earlier, in his welcome address, Prof. Dr. Khalid Mahmood Khan, Vice Chancellor UAAR highlighted salient features of programmes initiated by the University in the last year, which include establishment of placement bureau, quality control and initiation of two new faculties namely Faculty of Forestry, Range Management and Wildlife and Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences.

He said that classes in short courses in livestock at sub-campus in Khushab have started and those at the Food Technology and Horticulture Department shall start soon. He informed the Governor that a project has been undertaken to strengthen the Department of Entomology, costing about Rs. 34 million as well as to improve and amplify sports facilities involving an expenditure of Rs. 38 million.

Lt. Gen (R) Khalid Maqbool, Governor Punjab and Dr. Khalid Mahmood Khan, Vice Chancellor, University of thArid Agriculture at the 8 Convocation of the University

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Open House for Students at Governor House, Lahore

In order to promote awareness and sense of participation on issues of national importance, open house events for university students are arranged in the Governor house, Lahore. The forum on the topic "International Politics and Challenges to Pakistan" was organized on May 3, 2007.

Students from eight public sector universities from all over the province participated in the forum. Four themes of discussion were finalized and the students of two universities made their deliberations.

The themes were 'Pakistan's role in global politics', 'Pakistan's relevance regarding geo-strategic perspective', 'Pakistan as a surety for a global and regional stability' and 'India- Pakistan peace process'.

The students actively participated and shared their opinion on all the given topics. A panel of experts and

moderators helped the students in understanding the main ideas. A general discussion followed after each theme.

Lt. Gen. (R) Khalid Maqbool, Governor Punjab appreciated the students for sharing their viewpoints. The students expressed their pleasure on getting an opportunity for open discussion on the topics of national interest. The Governor concluded the discussion on various themes and related it to the happening in and around Pakistan. The participants enjoyed the open house forum and felt encouraged.

thGIKI Holds 11 Convocation

thThe 11 Convocation of the Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute (GIKI) of Engineering, Sciences and Technology was held on May 30, 2007. Lt. Gen. (R) Ali Muhammad Jan Aurakzai, Governor NWFP was chief guest on the occasion.

Addressing on the occasion, the Governor said that in the present highly competitive scenario Pakistan needs engineers who have the capacity to accept the challenges, the dedication to pursue higher goals, ability to be innovative and the professional competence to play the role of a troubleshooter.

“The graduate programme of GIK Institute has been a remarkable success.

Lt. Gen (R) Khalid Maqbool, Governor Punjab with thestudents who participated in the Open House

Lt. Gen (R) Ali Muhammad Jan Aurakzai, Governor NWFP and Dr. Abdullah Sadiq, Rector, GIKI with the graduating students

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th4 Degree Awarding Ceremony of Hamdard University

The fourth degree awarding ceremony of Hamdard University's Islamabad campus was held recently. Dr. Ishfaq Ahmed, Adviser to Prime Minister on Science and Technology, was chief guest on the occasion.

While congratulating the graduating students, Dr. Ishfaq urged them to excel in their chosen fields of studies. He said that the present government was taking bold initiatives to promote the education of science and technology in the country.

He said that a lot had to be done to promote research culture in our educational institutions. “Except few institutions, there is a lack of quality and advanced research in our country, especially in the emerging areas of science and technology”, he stressed.

Speaking on the occasion, Senator S. M. Zafar, Chancellor Hamdard University said that the Government was taking measures to build a partnership between private and public sector but the pace was slow. “This partnership should be made on a faster track as we are already lagging far behind and the global changes are taking place at an accelerated pace, “he said.

Welcoming the guests, Prof. Dr. Mohammad Iqbal Qureshi, Vice Chancellor said that education was the prime tool to develop and sustain inventiveness and to become more efficient in achieving material gains. “Education is the only pathway to quality human resource development and to enhance our standing in the comity of nations”, he said.

Khawaja Ejaz Sarwar, Chief Executive Officer, Hamdard University, Islamabad and Dr. Navaid-ul-Zafar, Vice-President, Hamdard Foundation also addressed on the occasion.

Later, merit certificates were awarded to the students achieving outstanding positions in HIMS, HIIT, and HIPS.

It is indeed a great achievement that a large number of scholars sponsored by HEC, NESCOM and other prestigious organizations opt for GIKI,” he said.

Dr. Abdullah Sadiq, Rector GIKI, said that during the late eighties and early nineties the founding fathers of this Institute, under the wise leadership of former President Mr. Ghulam Ishaq Khan, were able to mobilize enough funds from non-governmental sources to build and equip this sprawling fully residential campus.

Engr. Shams-ul- Mulk, President of the Society for the Promotion of Engineering Sciences and Technology in Pakistan (SOPREST) said, “We are determined not to make any compromise on quality.”

The degrees were awarded to 209 BS, MS and PhD students as well as gold medals were given

to those who clinched top positions in their respective fields. Umair Sadiq and Raheel Adnan Janjua bagged the Ghulam Ishaq Khan medal and the Quaid-e-Azam medal respectively for distinction in academics and overall best performance during their studies in the Institute. Faculty-based gold medals for BS programmes went to Waqar Aziz (Computer Science Software Engineering), Farhan Imtiaz (Computer Science System Engineering), Umair Sadiq (Electronic Engineering), Jawad Munir (Engineering Sciences), Umair Tariq (Mechanical Engineering) and Mr. Talha Shakil (Metallurgy and Materials Engineering).

Recipients of cash prizes for the best academic performance in MS programmes were Adeel Mumtaz (Computer Science and Engineering), Kashif Mahmood and Khawer Javaid Manzoor (Electronic Engineering), Ahmad Jan (Engineering Sciences), Saad Hussain (Mechanical Engineering) and Muhammad Imran Khan (Metallurgy and Materials Engineering). All the participants observed a moment of silence and offered Fateha for the departed soul of founder of GIKI, Ghulam Ishaq Khan, who passed away on October 27, 2006.

A graduating student receives her degree at the Convocation

27

The National Centre of Excellence in Analytical Chemistry (NCEAC), University of Sindh, Jamshoro jointly organized a three-day 'Pak-Turkey Workshop on Chemical Sciences' in collaboration with the University of Selcuk, Konya.

For this purpose, a seven-member delegation of NCEAC paid a one week visit to Konya and Istanbul recently.

While speaking at the opening ceremony, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Iqbal Bhanger, Director, NCEAC explained the purpose of the Workshop. He highlighted the importance of environmental pollution abatement procedures in the present day scenario.

Dr. M. Y. Khuhawar, Dean, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Prof. Dr. Tasneem G. Kazi also discussed their scientific work in the light of Workshop's theme, which was highly appreciated. The NCEAC delegation also included Dr. Ahsan Siddiqui, Ms. Farah Naz Talpur and Mairaj A. Noorani. Eminent Scientists from Middle East Technical University, Ankara including Prof. Metin Balci, Prof. Yavuz Ataman, Prof. Ayhan S. Demir also presented

their papers. Besides, scientists from various others universities of Turkey also attended the Workshop.

A total of 18 presentations were made along with 32 poster presentations during which research fellows and the teaching staff actively participated.

Meanwhile, the Department of Chemistry, Selcuk University and the NCEAC also agreed to sign a preliminary MoU for enhancing joint research programmes and exchange of faculty members.

Prof. Bhanger and the accompanying academic staff had detailed discussions with Prof. Dr. Mustafa Ersoz and Prof. Dr. Mustafa Yilmaz of Selcuk University about the joint research work between the two institutions. They also discussed short-term exchange programme of teachers and students in the near future.

After the Workshop, the Pakistani delegates were invited to visit Konya Sugar Industry and Zade Vegetable Oil Industry. Both these industries have most modern automatic plant and have strong relations with the University of Konya, Turkey.

Pak-Turkey Workshop on Chemical Sciences

Participants of the Pak-Turkey Workshop

28

National Seminar on Water Control at UAF

Pakistan is becoming a 'Water Scarce Country' due to combined effects of population growth, increasing crop water and industrial demand, decreasing surface water reservoirs and diminishing groundwater shortage. This was stated by Prof. Dr. Bashir Ahmad, Vice Chancellor, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad while addressing the inaugural session of National Seminar on “Water Control in Tertiary Irrigation Channels- Issues and Remedies”.

Dr. Bashir expressed his concern over the situation of rapid water shortage as per capita

3water availability has come down from 5000 m

3in 1950 to about 1100 m in recent years. “This situation is marginally above the threshold limit of water scarcity i.e. 1,000

3m per capita, which is shrinking further if additional surface and groundwater resources are not developed” he added.

Highlighting the worst affects of constrained water availability, the Vice Chancellor said that water shortage leads to less energy, less industrial output, limited jobs, less tube well operation, reduced agriculture, less food and farm income.

He stressed the need for utilizing all available resources to conserve this precious resource and use it with a high degree of efficiency. He said that the control and management of water at tertiary part of the irrigation system has been a challenge for

Biomedical Engineering Laboratories for MUET

Dr. Ishrat-ul-Ebad, Governor Sindh, recently inaugurated the laboratories at Department of Biomedical Engineering, Mehran University of Engineering and Technology (MUET), Jamshoro.

The Governor, who is also Chancellor of the University, was briefed about the infrastructure and functional hierarchy of the Department by Prof. N.P. Chowdhry. The chief guest was accompanied by Dr. A.Q.K. Rajput, Vice Chancellor, MUET and Prof. Dr. Aftab Memon, Co-Chairman of the Department.

This was followed by practical demonstration of t ra i n i ng equ i pmen t fo r b i omed i ca l instrumentation by Mr. Amjad Ali, Mr. Noman Khan and Mr. Mohsin Ahmed Shaikh successively. Afterward, there was a demonstration of the telemedicine project conducted at the Department.

With a real time display of electrocardiograph on a laptop screen, the Chancellor was escorted to Biomedical Engineering Laboratory-2 where the patient side was located. There was a patient dummy simulating the ECG waveform.

The Governor was explained the project by Mr. Mohsin Ahmed Shaikh and Mr. Amjad Ali. He examined the hardware developed at Biomedical Engineering Laboratory and the software (Graphic User Interface) for viewing

real time electrocardiograph both on the computer screen of the patient side and the consultant side, connected by wireless connectivity recently installed in the Department.

This WiFi connectivity covers the whole Department. The guest expressed his appreciation over the work demonstrated and encouraged to introduce such solutions on larger scales.

The laboratory scheme of Rs. 31.857 million was approved by

the HEC. Under this Scheme, two faculty members also

completed their Masters from UK in Telemedicine and

Biomedical Engineering respectively and rejoined the

University.

Governor Sindh is being briefed about Biomedical Engineering laboratories at MUET, Jamshoro.

29

the past three and half decades because of its extensive nature which is responsible for water losses to the tune of 40 per cent of the flows delivered to the watercourse network.

Mr. Mushtaq Ahmad Gill, Director General, Water Management Directorate said that effective water control structures such as round panel outlets in conjunction with improvement and lining options tend to offset the effectiveness of the lining programmes in achieving the goals of conserving water losses.

Prof. Dr. M. Rafiq Choudhry, Cha i rman, Depar tment o f Irrigation and Drainage said that at tertiary level, the control on irrigation water is primarily exercised through installation of

the control structures, generally known as field outlets and partly by the watercourse lining and improvement activities by reducing water losses in the watercourses and fields.

Third Convocation of CIIT Lahore

The third convocation of Comsats I n s t i t u t e o f I n f o r m a t i o n

th Technology (CIIT), Lahore and 10convocation of CIIT as a whole

thwas held on April 13 , 2007.

A total of 673 graduating students o f d i f fe rent batches and programmes were invited out of which 550 students participated a l o n g w i t h t h e i r parents/guardians. This was the highest number of students ever participated in any convocation of CIIT.

The graduating students included 108 of BCE, 197 of BCS, 71 of BIT, 182 of MBA, 51 of MBE, 56 of MCS and eight of MSCS.

Ch. Nouraiz Shakoor, Minister for Science and Technology, who is also Chancellor of CIIT, was chief

guest on the occasion. The Minister awarded medals and degrees to the graduating students. He also announced Rs. 30 Million for the campus buses and strengthening of Laboratories in addition to Rs. 150,000/- as prize money for the students.

Prof. Dr. Bashir Ahmad, Vice Chancellor, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad and others sit on stage during the inaugural session of the Seminar

A graduate receives his degree from Ch. Nouraiz Shakoor, Minister for Science and Technology

30

Earth Day Seminar at Karachi University

The Centre of Excellence in Marine Biology, University of Karachi organized a seminar entitled 'Human Activities and Marine Environment' to mark the Earth Day on April 22, 2007. About 150 participants attended the Seminar.

In his welcome address, Prof. Dr. Javed Mustaquim, Director of the Centre, said that Earth Day was being celebrated to promote a cleaner and safer environment for everyone. “Earth Day is an occasion for people to focus on saving the environment and taking part in activities that preserve the constituents of earth-oceans, air and land”, he said.

“Based on current scientific evidences, emissions of green gases from human activities are projected to cause significant global climate change during 21st century. These would create novel challenges for costal and marine ecosystem that have already been s t r e s s e d f r o m h u m a n development, land-use change, environmental pollution and over-fishing,” he added.

Prof. Naveed Ahmed Tahir, Director, Area Study Centre for E u r o p e , s a i d t h e U N Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, in its recent report, had predicted that Asia would be getting less rainfall, affecting agricultural production leading to food and water shortages. ”About 60 million of affected people would be from South Asia”, she added.

Prof. I. Musu from Italy, who is Scientific Coordinator of Euro-Asian Research and Training in Climate Change Management, s a i d t ha t UN f ramework

convention on climate change addresses the problems, adding, a 'Clima' was designed to work on them.

Interaction between climate change and sustainable development was the focus of research area, he said, adding, the Clima has four Pakistanis as its members.

He also mentioned the start of a two-week course programme on Costal Management and Climate Change and Risk Assessment. He informed the audience that experts from private and public sector would share their information and knowledge with the course participants.

Giving a presentation on “Social impact assessment of Karachi”, Dr. Arshad Ali Baig said that Pakistan had to play an important role in cyclic process of monsoon season, adding, the climate change was not just because of global warming, but also because of social problems. “Deforestation rate is very high in the country and it is the main reason for climate change,” he added.

Prof. Altaf Khan made a presentation on “Environmental and Health Issues of Pakistan”. He said that water and wastewater management, air pollution, solid waste management, industrial waste and marine pollution are the main issues confronting the country.

He said that 30 per cent of the land contributes 80 per cent pollution while rest of 20 per cent comes from oceans. “So it is our responsibility to take serious measures to save the earth”, he added.

Dr. S. M. Niaz Rizvi spoke on marine pollution and environment issue in the sea along Pakistan coast. He said that ecosystem was bearing pollution effects and the sea-level was also increasing. “This is not a good omen for people living near coastal belt”, he added.

Group photograph of the seminar participants

31

Mathematics Colloquium at IoBM, Karachi

A Mathematics Colloquium entitled “Optimization” was organized by the Mathematics Society of the Institute of Business Management (IoBM), Karachi. The basic objective was to elicit information about the importance of Mathematics in academic, professional, business and managerial excellence. The participants proposed significant measures for applying Mathematics in economics, business and management.

Mr. Ashraf Janjua, Dean, College of Business Management was chief guest on the occasion. Various eminent scholars and professionals gave their presentations in different sessions of the Colloquium.

Dr. Ejaz Ahmed, Head of CCSIS at IoBM, h ighl ighted the importance of Mathematics in everyday life while Mr. Wajahat Ali, the Society Adviser who had a major role in organizing the Event, narrated importance of the topic “Optimization”.

Mr. Jawwad Ahmed Farid, Alchemy Associates, presented his paper on optimization portfolio related to actuarial sciences. He discussed real life scenario and addressed problems he faced while working with KSE data. Prof. Dr. S. M. Aqil Burney, University of Karachi, gave a comparison of first and second order training algorithms for ANN. He talked about special minimization cases, such as feed-forward network training.

Mr. Zaki Rashdi, National University of Computer and Emerging Science (FAST), gave an analysis of queuing problem by simulation. He emphasized that simulation approach may provide an effective means to analyze and solve such problems. Ms. Kahkashan Iqbal, PAF-KIET Karachi, gave a presentation on quantitative analysis on data of sales of Honda atlas cars Pakistan limited. She showed a real life application of quantitative analysis to find out the strengths of a relationship between variables.

Prof. Masood-ul-Haq, Usman Institute of Technology, gave a presentation on reliability in networks for some systems. He discussed two very commonly used designs of electric systems, network in parallel and network in series, which can be used to develop other complicated designs. Mirza Jawwad Baig of HIMS gave a presentation on optimizing system information by its dimension. He discussed the linear and non-linear computation methods applied to business systems by using real life applications.

Prof. Dr. Jawaid Qamar, Dean Faculty of Sciences at Dadabhoy Institute and the Session Chair, urged the educational planners, policy makers, managers and faculty members to promote the concept of method-oriented rather than job-oriented or market-oriented education.

Mr. Saghir Muhammad, Senior Lecturer and an organizer of the Colloquium, presented recommendations of the “Mathematics Colloquium 2007”. He said that complicated systems in business cannot be analyzed through simple methods hence optimal course of actions should be used to solve such problems.

Mr. Talib S. Karim, Executive Director Academics, IoBM (L) presents award to Mr. Ashraf Janjua, Dean, College of Business Management

Participants of the Colloquium pose for a group photograph

32

Seminar on Afghan Refugees at University of Balochistan

A seminar entitled 'Afghan Refugees and Challenges of Peace-building in Pakistan' was held at Department of International Relations, University of Balochistan, Quetta. The main objective of the Seminar was to discuss the problems and complications for maintaining peace and security both in Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Prof. Sikandar Mehdi from International Relations Department, University of Karachi was the guest speaker. In his speech, he deliberated upon the living conditions of Afghan refugees in Pakistan and its implications on peace and security in the region. He also gave various suggestions for organized repatriation of the refugees.

Prof. Dr. Mansoor Akber Kundi gave his presentation on 'Pakistan as an Immigrant State'. He described various phases and types of migration and highlighted state policies on migration while comparing with Iran's policies on migration.

Mr. Abdul Manan Bazai's presentation entitled 'Post 9/11 and its Implications on Pak-Afghan Relations' described the overall conditions of the people of Afghanistan in the wake of 9/11 and how it has affected the relations between the two neighboring countries. He highlighted the role of Pakistan as a frontline state and challenges faced by it in countering terrorism. The speeches were followed by a question-answer session.

Shams-ul-Mulk Elected as SOPREST President

Engr. Shams-ul-Mulk has been elected as new President of Society for the Promotion of Engineering Sciences and Technology in Pakistan (SOPREST). He has succeeded late Mr. Ghulam Ishaq Khan, former President of Pakistan, who was lifetime President of the Society. The latter passed away on October 27, 2006.

Mr. Shams is associated with GIK Institute a brainchild of Mr. Ghulam Ishaq Khan since 1996 when he was selected as Founding Member of the General Council of SOPREST and Member of the Board of Governors of the Institute. He chaired meetings of the Board and the Executive Committee during illness of the late President.

He has been elected for a term of five years through a resolution unanimously passed by the Founding Members of SOPREST.

BUET Khuzdar Holds First Convocation

The first convocation of Balochistan University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), Khuzdar was held on May 8, 2007. Mr. Owais Ahmed Ghani, Governor Balochistan, who is also Chancellor of BUET, was chief guest at the occasion.

Addressing the graduates, Mr. Ghani said that education alone could bring prosperity for a nation. “In the

prevailing socio-economic circumstances of the province, quality education is essential in order to improve human resource and people's life”, he said.

He advised the students to stay focused on their education rather than politics or other negative activities. “The prosperity and well being of Balochistan relies on students' determination and devotion”.

A civi l engineer by profession, Mr. Shams-ul-Mulk has served at key positions in Water and Power Deve lopment Authority (WAPDA) and f i n a l l y b e c ame i t s Chairman. He remained associated with the construction of major projects including Tarbela Dam, Mangla Dam and Ghazi Barotha Hydro Project as well as major irrigation and drainage projects in the Indus Basin. He has also been a consultant to World Bank, Member of the Technical Committee for Water Resources and Member of the Cabinet of NWFP.

33

The Governor said that Government has embarked upon around Rs. 312 million for development projects in Balochistan aimed at bringing province at par with other regions of Pakistan. “These projects include establishment of various universities, colleges and other standard educational and vocational institutions”, he added.

He also announced that a Mining Department and a Faculty of Humanities would be established at the University. Moreove r, he a l so ment ioned establishment of a medical college at Khuzdar. “The present Government is determined to revolutionize human resource development in Balochistan so that the province could compete with changing national scenario”, he stressed.

Speaking on the occasion, Brig. (R) Mukhtar Ahmad, Vice Chancellor BUET congratulated the graduating students and said that the University has played a pivotal part in imparting quality engineering education in the face of numerous constraints and hardships.

He praised the role of the Governor and Higher Education Commission for their full fledge support and assistance in improving the various aspects of University and hoped that they would continue their support in future as well. In the end, Governor Balochistan Owais Ahmed Ghani awarded degrees to 110 graduates and conferred 16 gold, six silver and four bronze medals to the distinguished graduates.

The Iranian Research Organization for Science and Technology (IROST) invites all researchers, inventors, innovators from all over the world to participate in the annual Khwarizmi International Award (KIA). The purpose of this Award is to recognize outstanding scientific achievements and honour excellent research contribution by scientists in the field of Engineering, Medical Sciences, Basic Sciences, Human Sciences, Agriculture and Emerging Technologies (bio, nano et.,). The research works should fall into one of the following categories: Invention, Innovation, Applied Research and Fundamental Research. All applications along with complete information are due by October 31, 2007. For guidelines and application form, please concerned the KIA website: http\\khwarizmi.irost.ir

Key Dates: October 31, 2007 : Deadline for SubmissionJanuary 10, 2008 : Announcement for WinnersFirst week of February : Awarding Ceremony

Send all material to:Khwarizmi International Award (KIA) - Secretariat

No. 71, Shahid Mosavi St., Enghelab Ave,P O Box: 15815-3538-TEHRAN 15819, IRAN

E-mail: khwarzimi@irost.org Tel/Fax: (+98-21) 8882 5099/ 8883 8336

stThe 21 Khwarizmi International

Award (KIA)CALL FOR PARTICIPATION

Mr. Owais Ahmed Ghani, Governor Balochistan gives away degree to a graduating student

34

Successful HEC Scholars

Following is the list of HEC scholars who have completed their PhD Studies under various scholarship programmes of Higher Education Commission. Following 10 PhD scholars have completed PhD under the HEC scheme titled “Development of S&T Manpower through Indigenous PhD (300 Scholars) in Pakistan”. This is in addition to 10 PhD scholars who had already completed their PhDs under this scheme.

Sr. No.

Name of Student

Name of Supervisor

Subject Thesis Title Year of Passing

Name of University

1Dr. Iftikhar Hussain Bhatti

Dr. Riaz Ahmad

Agronomy

Agro-Physiological Studies on Sesame-Legumes Intercropping Systems Under Different Geometric Arrangements

2006

University of Agriculture, Faisalabad

2 Dr. Muhammad Azeem

Prof. Dr. Arshad Majeed Mirza

Physics

Self-organized and Chaotic States in Electron-Positron-Ion Magnetoplasma with Equilibrium Flows

2006 QAU, Islamabad

3

Dr. Siraj ul Islam

Dr. Nasir Ahmad

Informatics and Computer Sciences

Numerical Solution of Boundary– Value Problems Using Non-Poylynomial Spline-Function

2006

PIEAS, Islamabad

4

Dr. Hassan Fawad Junejo

Prof. Dr. M. Pervaiz Mughal

Mechanical Engineering

Finite Element Modeling of Weld Based Rapid Prototyping

2006

GIKI, S&T Topi

5

Dr. Azizuddin

Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Chaudhry

Chemistry

Phytochemical Studies on Murraya Paniculata

and

Related Medicinal Plants of Pakistan and Microbial Transformation of Bioactive Compounds

2006

HEJ Research Institute of Chemistry, University of Karachi, Karachi

6

Dr. Muhammad Naeem

Dr. Wasim Ahmad

Biological Sciences

Identification of Genes Involved in Inherited Ectodermal Dysplasias

2006

Quaid-e-Azam University, Islamabad

7

Dr. Naeem Ahmad

Dr. Fayyaz ul Hassan

Agronomy

Response of Wheat to Subsurface Soil Compaction and Improvement Strategies

2006

University of Arid Agriculture,

Rawalpindi

8

Dr. Shah Alam

Prof. Dr. Farman Ullah

Plant Protection

Integrated Pest Management of Wheat Aphids

2006

NWFP Agricultural University, Peshawar

9

Dr. Syed Abdul Muiz

Dr. Khasan S. Karimov

Electronics Engineering

Organic Semiconductor Electronics

2006

GIK, Institute of S&T, Topi, Swabi

10

Dr. Siraj ul Islam

Prof. Dr. S. Ikram Tirmizi

Engineering Sciences

Effect of New Cross-section Evaluations on Criticality and Neutron Energy Spectrum of a Typical Material Test Resear ch Reactor

2006

GIK, Institute of S&T, Topi, Swabi

35

The following 10 Scholars completed their PhDs under the Scholarship Scheme titled “Merit Scholarship Scheme for PhD Studies in Science and Technology (200 Scholarships)”. This is also in addition to five scholars who had already completed their PhDs.

Sr. No

Name Name of Supervisor

Subject Thesis Title Year of Passing

Name of University

1 Dr. Muhammad Sajid

Dr. Tasawar Hayat

Mathematics

Similar and Non- similar Analytic Solutions for Steady Flows of Differential Type Fluids

2006

Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad

2 Dr. Tooba Feroze

Prof. Dr. Asghar Qadir

Applied Mathematics

Some Aspects of Symmetries of Differential Equation and Their Connection with the Underlying Geometry

2006

Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad

3

Dr. Mohammad Javed Khan

Dr. Aslam Ibrahim

Nuclear Engineering

Study of Design Parameters of Natural Uranium Fueled Nuclear Research Reactors Coefficients, Wims-D/4, Citation

2006

Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS), Islamabad

5

Dr. Muhammad Rizwan

Dr. Nasir Ahmad

Nuclear Engineering

A Core Conversion Study by Using Higher Density Low Enriched Uranium Fuels

2006

Pakistan Institute of Engineering & Applied Sciences (PIEAS), Islamabad

6

Dr. Sammar Yousaf

Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary

Chemistry

Isolation, Structure Elucidation and Biotransformation Studies on Secondary Metabolites from Withania somnifera and Related Plants

2007

HEJ Research Institute of Chemistry, University of Karachi, Karachi

7

Dr. Naveen Mukhtar

Dr. Abdul Malik

Chemistry

Studies in the Chemical Constituents of Erigeron Canadensis (Conyza Canadensis) and Berchemia Pakistanica

2005

HEJ Research Institute of Chemistry, University of Karachi, Karachi.

8

Dr. Kiran Iqbal

Dr. Abdul Malik

Chemistry

Phytochemical Studies on Duranta Repen Linn.

and Ehretia Obtusifolia Hochst

2005

HEJ Research Institute of Chemistry, University of Karachi, Karachi

9

Dr. Muhammad Farooq

Dr. Nazir Ahmad

Crop Physiology

Assessment of Physiological and Biochemical Aspects of Pre-sowing Seed Treatments in Transplanted and Direct Seeded Rice

2005

University of Agriculture, Faisalabad

10

Dr. Irfan Afzal

Dr. Nazir Ahmad, Professor

Crop Physiology

Seed Enhancements to Induce Salt Tolerance in Wheat

2005

University of Agriculture, Faisalabad

36

The following scholar has completed his PhD under the scheme titled “Development/Strengthening of Selected Departments of Social Sciences & Humanities in General Universities of Pakistan”

Sr. No

Name Name of Supervisor

Subject Thesis Title Year of Passing

Name of University

1 Mr. Shabbir Ahmed Khan

Dr. Sarfraz Khan

Economics Uzbekistan’s Agricultural Organization and Management, 1990-2000: with Reference to Cotton

2006 University of Peshawar, Peshawar

National Research Grant for Universities

Under Research Grant Project of Higher Education Commission, creative researchers of the country working in various fields of science and technology as well as social sciences are awarded research grants to enable them to conduct R&D in priority areas of science and technology, relevant to national needs.

Twenty six approved projects are being included in this issue. The other project proposals will continue to be published in the forthcoming issue of the magazine.

Principal Investigator Subject Institution Amount Rs. Period

Dr. Hamidullah Shah Mycotoxins in cereal crops as a risk factor for food safety in Pakistan

NWFP Agricultural University, Peshawar

1,901,117 3 Years

Dr. Nasir Ahmad Saeed

Molecular genetic study of NBS-LRR super-family of resistance (R) genes for developing leaf rust disease resistance in wheat (T. aestivum)

Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad

1,968,600 3 Years

Dr. Abdul Hakeem Shaikh

Ecology, dynamics and potential of some micro-organisms on population health of Karachi district

Federal Urdu University of Arts, Sciences and Technology, Gulshan -e-Iqbal Campus, Karachi

1,974,995 3 Years

Dr. Raheel Qamar Mapping the genes responsible for autosomal recessive retinitis pigmentosa

COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Islamabad

5,964,450 3 Years

Dr. Abdur Rab

Evaluation of heat treatment methods for the posthaevest quality and storage life of citrus (sweet orange) fruit

NWFP Agriculture University, Peshawar

1,032,240 2 Years

Dr. Hidayat -ur-Rahman Production of modified double cross maize hybrids as source of low cost seed

NWFP Agriculture University, Peshawar

1,705,170 3 Years

Dr. Shahla Siddiqui An assessment of expectations of families of patients admitted in the intensive care unit

The Aga Khan University, Karachi

56,304 3 Months

37

Arshed

profession using research-based interactive techniques in quality education

Technology, Karachi Campus

3,723,500

2 Years

Dr. Zahid Mahmood

Parent-child relationship:

attachment styles, parental–

rearing and children behavioural problems

G. C. University, Lahore

2,099,645

3 Years

Dr. Dileep Kumar Rohra

Quantification of cell free fetal mRNA in maternal plasma: an approach towards the development of a predictive biochemical marker for preeclampsia

The Aga Khan University, Karachi

3,105,900

2 Years

Dr. Asifa Ahmed

Differential proteomic analysis of human ocular fluids

COMSATS Institute of Information and Technology, Islamabad

1,099,050

2 Years

Postgraduate diploma in physics education- training physics Federal Urdu University

Dr. Tahira Nasreen graduates for the teaching of Arts, Sciences and

Dr. Yasin Raashid

The release trial: a randomised trail of umbilical vein oxytocin versus placebo for the treatment of retained placenta

King Edward Medical University, Lahore

829,770

3 Years

Dr. Farooq Latif

Strain improvement of Humicola specie/s for over production of cellulase and application in the finishing of garments

Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad

3,704,640

3 Years

Dr. Muhammad Raza Shah

Synthesis of Nanotubes and ring polymers from realm of scientific curiosoty to reality

University of Karachi, Karachi

1,899,451

3 Years

Dr. Sumayya Saied

Evaluation of disinfection by-products (DBPs) and mutagen level and their formation potential associated health risk in the various sources of drinking water of Karachi

University of Karachi, Karachi

1,948,000

2 Years

Dr. Majid Mumtaz

Evaluation of heavy metals pollution in the edible fishes of Arabian Sea along the Karachi coastal region

University of Karachi, Karachi

764,000

1 Year

Dr. Muhammd Afzal Ghauri

Biotechnological applications of microorganisms in bioleaching and bioremediation of metals

Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad

3,598,927 3 Years

Dr. Tahira Iqbal

Molecular heterogeneity of acetylation of different probe drugs in local populations

University of Agriculture, Faisalabad

4,384,470 2 Years

Dr. Sheikh Abdul Saeed

Effect of chronic treatment with the constituents of nigella sativa seeds extract on reproductive parameters in male rat

The Aga Khan University, Karachi

972,391 3 Years

Principal Investigator Subject Institution Amount Rs. Period

38

Principal Investigator Subject Institution Amount Rs. Period

Dr. Nasrullah Khan Minimum ignition energy study of combustible fuel gases

Federal Urdu University of Arts, Sciences & Technology, Islamabad

9,477,735 3 Years

Dr. Noor Abbas Din Khattak

Generation and characterization of cold plasma for deposition on solid surfaces

Gomal University, D. I. Khan 5,297,565 3 Years

Dr. Sheikh RiazuddinStudies on the role of tricellulin tight University of the Punjab,

11,222,290 3 Years junction protein Lahore

Dr. Asad Ali Incidence and management of mosaic disease of cucurabit in NWFP

NWFP Agriculture University, Peshawar 4,798,520 2 Years

Dr. Shafique Ahmad Arian

Synthesis, characterization, thermal degradation and burning of nanocomposite polymeric materials

Shah Abdul Latif University, Khairpur 5,730,457 3 Years

Dr. Rabia Hussain

Identification of biomarkers indicating risk of disease development in exposed household contacts of tuberculosis patients

The Aga Khan University, Karachi 6,333,159 3 Years

Dr. Syed Ali Antiviral effects of fluoroquinolones on hepatitis C virus

The Aga Khan University, Karachi 9,722,196 3 Years

Travel Grants to TeachersFollowing travel grants, for the faculty members of public sector universities, were sanctioned in March 2007:

Mr. Irshad Ahmed, Research Associate, Centre of IT, IMS, Peshawar

3rd International Colloquium on Signal Processing and its Applications

Malaysia 9-11.03.2007 107,730

Mr. Fazl -e-Hadi, PhD Scholar, D/o Computer Science, IIU, Islamabad

IEEE International Conference on Integration Technology

China 20-24.03.2007 106,060

Mr. A.Salman Mirza, Assistant Prof/Network Engineer D/o Bio-Informatics, GC University, Faisalabad

4th International Conference on Business Management 2007

Sri Lanka 22.03.2007 43,680

Dr. Abdul Ghaffar, Assistant Prof. D/o Meterology, CIIT, Islamabad

4th Gulf Seismic Forum Kuwait 24-27.03.2007 34,160

Mr. Muhammad Ashraf, Senior Scientific Assistant CENUM, PAEC, Mayo Hospital, Lahore

To Pursue PhD Mexico March, 2007

55,000

Dr. Zubair Ahmed Memon, Lecturer, D/o Civil Engineering, MUET, Jamshoro

To Pursue PhD Malaysia Last week of March, 2007

15,720

Name & Address of Applicant Title of Conference VenueDate(s) of Conference

Recommended Grant in PKR

39

Mrs. Tanveer Fatima Miano, Lecturer, D/o Horticulture, SAU, Tandojam

International Symposium on Prospects of Horticultural Industry in Pakistan

Faisalabad 28-30.03.2007 22,260

Mr. Jamil Ahmed Jokhio, PhD Scholar, D/o Horticulture, SAU, Tandojam

International Symposium on Prospects of Horticultural Industry in Pakistan

Faisalabad 28-30.03.2007 19,550

Dr. Nusrat Jahan, Associate Prof. D/o Zoology, GC Univ. Lahore

73rd Annual Meeting AMCA

USA 01-05.04.2007 174,690

Dr. Siraj -ul-Islam, Assistant Prof. D/o Basic Sciences, UET, Peshawar

South African Numerical and Applied Mathematics Symposium

South Africa 02-04.04.2007 66,920

Mr. Muhammad Ali, Lecturer, D/o Computer Science, IMS, Peshawar

International Conference of Information Technology (ITNG)

USA 02-04.04.2007 99,478

Mr. Yaseen Ahmed Meenai, Lecturer, Centre of Computer Studies, IBA, Karachi

3rd International Conference on Research Education in Mathematics

Malaysia 10-12.04.2007 73,620

Prof. Dr. Muhammad Zafrullah, F/o Telecommunication and Information Engineering, UET, Taxila

Al-Azhar Engineering 9th International Conference 2007

Egypt 12-14.04.2007 82,960

Name & Address of Applicant Title of Conference Venue

Date(s) of Conference

Recommended Grant in PKR

Mr. Riffat Asim Pasha, Asst. Prof., D/o Mechanical Engineering, UET, Taxila

Al-Azhar Engineering 9th International Conference 2007

Egypt 12-14.04.2007 81,040

Syed Riaz Akbar Shah, Assistant Prof. D/o Mechanical Engineering, NWFP UET, Peshawar

SAE World Congress 2007

USA 16-19.04.2007 174,700

Prof. Dr. Abdur Rashid, Director, Centre for Plant Biodiversity, U/o Peshawar

3rd Global Botanic Garden Congress

China 16-20.04.2007 151,920

Mr. Haider Abbas, Horticulturist, Karachi University Botanic Garden, U/o Karachi

3rd Global Botanic Garden Congress

China 16-20.04.2007 105,560

Prof. Dr. Fauzia Shamim, Professor, D/o English, U/o Karachi

IATEFL Conference Scotland UK 18-22.04.2007 113,080

Prof. Dr. Ghulam Taqi Bangash, Dean, F/o Arts and Humanities, U/o Peshawar

International Conference - Religions on the Borders - New Challenges in the Academic Studies

Sweden 19-22.04.2007 136,000

Mr. Muhammad Khaleequzzaman, Head, D/o Islamic Banking and Finance, IIU, Islamabad

IIUM International Conference on Islamic Banking and Finance

Malaysia 23-25.04.2007 91,495

40

Mr. Muhammad Ahtisham Aslam, PhD Scholar, D/o Computer Science, U/o Leipzig, Germany

11th International Conference on Computer Supported Cooperative

Australia 26-28.04.2007 100,100

Dr. Iftikhar Ahmed, Professor, D/o Electrical Engineering, Federal Urdu University, Islamabad

11th International Conference on Computer Supported Cooperative

Australia 26-28.04.2007 128,800

Prof. Dr. Abdul Rehman, D/o Architecture, UET, Lahore

Middle East Garden Tradition

USA 26-29.04.2007 82,670

Dr. Muhammad Zubair, Asst. Prof., D/o Horticulture, NWFP Agriculture, Peshawar

International Medicinal and Aromatic Conference on Culinary Herbs

Turkey April 29—May 04.2007

137,610

Ms. Shamaila Sadaf, PhD Scholar, D/o Chemistry, UET, Lahore

211th Meeting of the Electrochemical Society Chicago

USA 06-11.05.2007 141,840

Ms. Kiran Bano, PhD Scholar, D/o Chemistry, UET, Lahore

211th Meeting of the Electrochemical Society Chicago

USA 06-11.05.2007 141,840

Dr. Asad Ali, Lecturer, D/o Plant Pathology, NWFP Agri culture University, Peshawar

Annual Meeting of Phytopathological Society of Japan

Japan 28-30.03.2007 127,600

Mr. Zahir Ali, Lecturer, D/o Biotechnology, U/o Malakand

To Pursue PhD South Korea 28.02.2007 40,000

Prof. Dr. Nazir Ahmed Memon, Chairman, D/o Cardiology, LUMHS, Jamshoro

CIT 2007 China March 28 – April 01, 2007

75,970

Name & Address of Applicant Title of Conference VenueDate(s) of Conference

Recommended Grant in PKR

Mr. At taullah Shah, Lecturer, D/o Management Sciences, IMS, Peshawar

14th Annual Global Finance Conference

Australia 01-04.04.2007 168,100

Mr. Muhammad Adeel, Lecturer, College of Aeronautical Engineering, NUST, Risalpur

4th

International Conference on

Information Technology: New Generations

USA 02-04.04.2007 156,460

Ms. Amtul Hafeez, PhD Scholar, D/o Economics, QAU, Islamabad

Labour Market and Competitiveness

Poland 12-14.04.2007 74,090

Mr. Usman Ashraf, PhD Student, D/o Computer Science, INSA Toulouse, France

5th International Symposium on Modeling and Optimization

Cyprus 16-20.04.2007 70,000

Dr. Fateh Chand Oad, Associate Prof. D/o Agronomy, SAU, Tandojam

Soil Science Conference Malaysia 2007

Malaysia 17-19.04.2007 89,380

Mr. Muzzammil Hussain Siddiqui, Assistant Prof. (Agronomy), AJK University, Muzaffarabad

Soil Science Conference Malaysia 2007

Malaysia 17-19.04.2007 97,160

Mr. Narinder Parshad Chowdhry, Asst. Prof., D/o Biomedical Eng ineering, MUET, Jamshoro

Educational Programme of Med-e-Tel 2007

Luxembourg 18-20.4.2007 109,580

41

Mr. Nek Muhammad Shaikh, PhD Student, D/o Physics, QAU, Islamabad

15th International

Symposium "Spectroscopy in Theory and Practice"

Slovenia 18-21.04.2007 79,950

Dr. Naza r Hussain Soomro, Assistant Prof. D/o Psychological Testing, Guidance and Research, U/o Sindh, Jamshoro

9th International Conference of Practical Psychology

Ukraine 19-22.04.2007 77,115

Mr. Qamar Iqbal, PhD Student, D/o Mechanical Engineering, UET, Taxila

15th International Conference on Nuclear Engineering (ICONE15)

Japan 22-26.04.2007 155,570

Mr. Nadeem Ahmed Sheikh, Assist. Prof., D/o Mechanical Eng ineering, Air University, Rawalpindi

15th International Conference on Nuclear Engineering

(ICONE15)

Japan 22-26.04.2007 125,324

Ms. Zohra Jabeen, Assistant Prof. IMS, Peshawar

IIUM International

Conf. on Islamic Banking and Finance 2007 (IICIBF)

Malaysia 23-25.04.2007 80,310

Mr. Mansab Ali, MS Student, D/o Computer Science, PAF-KIET, Karachi

CISE 2007 Spain 25-27.04.2007 131,599

Mr. Rafiullah, PhD Student, D/o Computer and Information Sciences, PIEAS, Islamabad

4th International Conference on Machine Learning and Pattern Recognition

Spain 25-27.04.2007 118,200

Name & Address of Applicant Title of Conference VenueDate(s) of Conference

Recommended Grant in PKR

Prof. Dr. Zulfaqar Ali Chughtai, D/o International Relation, U/o Balochistan, Quetta

2nd Annual Conference,

International Association for the Study of Environment, Space and Place

USA 26-28.04.2007 132,610

Dr. Alam Khan, Meritorious Prof. D/o Human Nutrition, NWFP Agriculture University, Peshawar

Experimental Biology 2007 (IC/AM)

USA April 28-May 02 2007

176,840

Prof. Dr. Shad Khan Khalil, D/o Agronomy, NWFP Agriculture University, Peshawar

International Medicinal and Aromatic Conference on Culinary Herbs

Turkey April 29 – May 04 2007

139,770

Dr. Iqbal Munir, Asst. Prof., Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, NWFP Agriculture University, Peshawar

International Medicinal and Aromatic Conference on Culinary Herbs

Turkey April 29-May 04 2007

137,610

Prof. Dr. Ahmad Khan Baloch, Eminent Scholar, D/o Food Sc ience and Technology, Gomal University, D. I. Khan

4th Symposium on

Date Palm in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia

5-8.05.2007 48,210

Prof. Dr. Ghulam Sarwar Markhand, Prof. & PD, D/o Botany, SALU, Khairpur

4th Symposium on

Date Palm in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia

5-8.05.2007 52,690

42

Dr. Faheem ul Islam, Faculty Member, D/o Business Management, LUMS, Lahore

Annual Conference on Corporate Strategy

Germany 11-12.05.2007 108,045

Dr. Mona Lisa, Assistant Professor, D/o Earth Sciences, QAU, Islamabad

5th International

Conference on Seismology and Earthquake Engineering

Iran 13-16.05.2007 93,700

Prof. Dr. Muhammad Yousaf Anwar, D/o Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, UET, Lahore

PowderMet 2007 International Conference and Exhibition on Powder Metallurgy

USA 13-16.05.2007 207,745

Dr. Muhammad Abdul Qadir, Professor, D/o Computer Science, MAJU, Islamabad

2nd

International Conference on Internet and Web Applications

Mauritius 13-19.05.2007 170,920

Mr. Javed Ahmed Mahar, Lecturer, D/o Computer Sciences, SALU, Khairpur

2007 ACM/IEEE International Conference on Computer Sciences and Applications

Jordan 13-16.05.2007 109,590

Name & Address of Applicant Title of Conference VenueDate(s) of Conference

Recommended Grant in PKR

Mr. Saqib Rehan Ayyubi, PhD Scholar, D/o Computer Science, National U/o CES, Lahore

Software Measurement European Forum

Rome, Italy 09-11.05.2007 102,510

Dr. Ali Khan Khuwaja, Asst. Prof., D/o Family Medicine, Aga Khan University, Karachi

International Conference of the Journal Public Health

Portugal 9-11.05.2007 98,810

Syed Tufail Hussain Shah, Asst. Prof., NCE in Analytical Chemistry, U/o Sindh Jamshoro

98th

AOCS Annual Meeting and Expo

Canada 13-16.05.2007 170,765

Prof. Syed Makhdoom Hussain , C/o Excellence in Mrine Biology, U/o Karachi

5th

International

Fisheries Observe Conference

Canada

15-18.05.2007

169,290

Mr. Nazar Abbas Shah, PhD Scholar, D/o Physics, QAU, Islamabad

14th Semiconducting

and Insulating Material Conference

USA

15-20.05.2007

171,640

Mr. Abid Ali, PhD student, D/o Physics, QAU, Islamabad

14th

Semiconducting

and Insulating Material Conference

USA

15-20.05.2007

183,640

Ms. Sobia Khurram, Lecturer, I/o Administrative Sciences, U/o the Punjab, Lahore

44th

Annual

Conference of Eastern Academy

USA

16-19.05.2007

139,800

Prof. Dr. Tasneem Kazi, Prof., NCE in Analytical Chemistry, U/o Sindh Jomshror

3rd

International

Symposium Federation of European Societies

Spain

16-19.05.2007

150,815

Ms Shazia Akhtar, Lecturer, D/o Soil Science and Humanities, Air University, Islamabad

2007 Academy for Global Business Advancement World Congress

Malaysia

21-25.05.2007

93,330

Mr. Babar Zaheer Butt, PhD Scholar, D/o Management Sciences, Foundation University, Rawalpindi

AGBA 4th

Annual World

Conference

Malaysia

21-25.05.2007

93,330

43

Mr. Muhammad Shafiq Shahid, PhD Scholar, NIBGE, QAU, Islamabad

5th International Germinivirus Symposium and 3rd

International ssDNA Workshop

Brazil 20-26.05.2007 146,180

Mr. Muhammad Tahir, PhD Scholar, D/o School of Biological Sciences, U/o the Punjab, Lahore

5th International Germinivirus Symposium and 3 International ssDNA Workshop

Brazil 20-26.05.2007 150,400

Prof. Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan Rajput, VC, D/o Computer Sciences and Software Engineering, MUET, Jamshoro

A forthcoming annual International R&D Summit on beyond third generation wireless

USA

21-23.05.2007

208,430

Mr. Jawed Qureshi, Laboratory Lecturer, D/o Civil Engineering, MUET, Jamshoro

NAFEMS World Congress 2007 Engineering Simulation

Canada

22-25.05.2007

169,230

Name & Address of Applicant Title of Conference VenueDate(s) of Conference

Recommended Grant in PKR

Dr. Mulazim Hussain Bukhari, Assistant Prof. D/o Pathology, King Edward Medical University, Lahore

Workshop/PostgraduateCourse and Symposium on the Clinicopathological Aspect of Hepatobiliary

Lahore

10-13.03.2007

70,000

Prof. Dr. Razia Musarrat, Chairperson, D/o Political Science, Islamia University, Bahawalpur

Nuclearization of South Asia: Consequences, Challenges and Peace Prospects

Bahawalpur

11-13.03.2007

390,000

Dr. Pervez Zamurrad Janjua, Foreign Professor, IIIE, Intel. I nstitute of Islamic Economics, IIU, Islamabad

Policy Framework for Public Utility Management

Islamabad 14.03.2007 195,000

Dr. Asmat Ullah Khan, Vice Chancellor, U/o Science & Technology, Bannu

National Level Seminar on Information and Communication

Bannu 15.03.2007

125,000

Prof. Dr. Qibla Ayaz, Dean, F/o Islamic and Oriental Studies, U/o Peshawar

Seminar on Hudood Ordinance and Women's Right Protection Act

Peshawar

15.03.2007

75,000

Prof. Mahmood Shaukat, D/o Paediatric Surgery, King Edward Medical University, Lahore

International

Conference of Paediatric surgery and Symposium on Cleft Lip & Palate

Lahore

22-29.03.2007

805,000

Prof. Dr. Abdul Hameed, Chairman, D/o Special Education, U/o the Punjab, Lahore

Literacy Among Children with Disabilities. A New Imperative

Lahore

26-27.03.2007

200,000

Prof. Riazuddin, Director General, National Centre for Physics, QAU, Islamabad

International Symposium on Contemporary Physics

Islamabad

26-30.03.2007

700,000

rd

Grants to Organize Seminars/Conferences

44

This is with reference to the news item 'HEC Scholar Gets PhD Degree in Physics' published in May 2007 issue of HEC News and Views. It is clarified that Dr. Nasir Amin is actually the scholar from HEC Scheme titled "Development of S&T Manpower through Indigenous PhD (300 Scholars)" instead of “Indigenous 5000 PhD Fellowship Scheme”. The error is deeply regretted.

Corrigendum

Prof. Dr. Samar Fatima, Dean, F/o Islamic Studies, U/o the Punjab, Lahore

Exigencies of Research in the Changing Modern World: Some Aspects

Lahore 20-21.03.2007 240,000

Mr. Muhammad Asif, Assistant Professor, D/o Physics, CIIT, Islamabad

6th International Workshop-cum-Training Course on Microelectronics

Islamabad 9-13.04.2007 700,000

Prof. Dr. Khushi Muhammad, Director, WTO Quality Control Laboratory, UVAS, Lahore

Extraction & Purification of AFLA toxin from Food/Animal Feed & its Quantitative Detection through HPLC…..

Lahore 2nd Week of April, 2007

90,000

Mr. Abdul Sattar Khan, Asst. Prof., D/o Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Islamia University, Bahawalpur

Development of Sports Nurseries in Educational Institutions

Bahawalpur 11.04.2007 45,000

Prof. Dr. Qibla Ayaz, Dean, F/o Islamic and Oriental Studies, U/o Peshawar

Seminar on Ruiat-Hilal Peshawar 15.04.2007 50,000

Dr. Hafiz Muhammad Iqbal, Director, Institute of Education and Research, U/o the Punjab, Lahore

Changing Role of Teacher in the Era of Globalization

Lahore 16-17.04.2007 400,000

Name & Address of Applicant Title of Conference VenueDate(s) of Conference

Recommended Grant in PKR

Prof. Dr. Nosheen Rahman, Director, Centre for Clinical Psychology, U/o the Punjab, Lahore

National Conference on Gender Issues in 21st Century

Lahore 23.04.2007 91,684

Dr. Muhammad Hafeez, Dr. Andera Fleschenberg, Ms. Riffat Munawar, Director HEC Prof., Asst. Prof. Institute of Social Cultural Studies, U/o the Punjab

Conference on Women's Empowerment and Social Transformation

Lahore 23-24.04.2007 780,000

Prof. Dr. Habib Ahmad Dean, Prof. Dr. Imtiaz Ahmad, FFP., F/o Science, D/o Genetics, Hazara University, Mansehra

Utilization of DNA Technology, in Plant Improvement

Mansehra 23-27.04.2007 232,000

Dr. Rubina Tareen, Chairperson, D/o Urdu, B.Z. University, Multan

Evaluation of Three Major Literary Movements in Urdu in the Context of Global Changes

Multan rd3 Week of

April, 2007 98,900

Prof. Dr. Muhammad Aslam Pervez, Institute of Horticulture Sciences, U/o Agriculture, Faisalabad

Prospects of Horticulture Industry in Pakistan

Faisalabad

28-30.03.2007

1,040,000