Annual Report 2017

Commission on Science and Technology for Sustainable Development in the South (COMSATS)

Annual Report 2017

The Gambia

Somalia

Turkey

ANNUAL REPORT 2017

Commission on Science and Technology for Sustainable Development in the South (COMSATS) Hon. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo President of Ghana Chairperson COMSATS

Hon. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo became the 13th President of the Republic of Ghana after winning the country’s Presidential Election 2016. On 7th January 2017, he took charge as the President of Ghana, by virtue of which he is an ex-officio Chairperson of COMSATS. The Chair of COMSATS was rotated in 2012 from Pakistan to Ghana through consensus among the members of COMSATS’ Commission at its 2nd General Meeting held in Islamabad. The Chair was later passed on to Mr. Akufo- Addo by his predecessor, Mr. John Dramani Mahama. As a lawyer, Mr. Akufo-Addo worked to champion the cause of human rights, rule of law, justice, freedom, and democracy in Ghana. H.E. Mr. Shahid Khaqan Abbasi Prime Minister of Pakistan Head of the Host Country, Pakistan

Mr. Shahid Khaqan Abbasi is the incumbent Prime Minister of Pakistan. He has been holding the office sincest 1 August 2017. Prime Minister Abbasi plans to bring reforms in the education, health, and developmental sector to help Pakistan progress socially and economically. His Excellency has taken steps for cementing bilateral relations with other countries as well as devised effective policies for the reinforcement of Pakistan’s economy. Editors Ms. Farhana Saleem Ms. Sameen Ruqia Imadi

Designing & Development Mr. Imran Chaudhry

Special Acknowledgement Mr. Tila Mohammed Ms. Huma Balouch Ms. Isra Mahmood Table of Contents

COMSATS Profile i

Foreword iii

Message from the Head of COMSATS’ Focal Ministry in the Host Country v

From the Chairperson Consultative Committee vii

From the Chairperson Coordinating Council ix

1. ACTIVITIES OF COMSATS’ STATUTORY BODIES 01

2. MAJOR SECRETARIAL ACTIVITIES 15

3. ACTIVITIES OF COMSATS CENTRES OF EXCELLENCE 21

4. STRENGTHENING TRIANGULAR COOPERATION: COLLABORATIONS WITH 53 NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

5. STRENGTHENING SOUTH-SOUTH COOPERATION: MEETINGS WITH OFFICIALS 65 FROM THE SOUTH

6. INTERNATIONAL VISITS OF SECRETARIAT OFFICIALS 77

7. S&T EVENTS ORGANIZED WITH COMSATS SUPPORT 87

8. SPECIAL ASSIGNMENTS 97

9. PUBLICATIONS AND INFORMATION DISSEMINATION 105

10. FINANCIAL AFFAIRS 111 ORGANOGRAM

CHAIRPERSON (President of the Republic of Ghana)

Secretariat/ COMMISSION Executive Director (Heads of Member States/Governments)

GENERAL MEETING

Network of Centres of Excellence Consultative Committee - Coordinating Council - Technical Advisory Committee

Board of Management - Board of Governors - COMSATS Management COMSATS Internet COMSATS Institute of Committee Services (CIS) Information Technology (CIIT) COMSATS’ PROFILE

The Commission on Science and Technology OBJECTIVES for Sustainable Development in the South (COMSATS) was established in October 1994 as The major objectives and functions of COMSATS an international/intergovernmental organization as given in its Statutes are: to act as a global forum of developing countries for their sustainable socio-economic uplift • To sensitize the countries in the South to the through the applications of science and centrality of science and technology in the technology. COMSATS’ current membership development process, to the adequate resource includes 26 countries located in the continents allocation for research and development, and of Africa, Asia, Latin America (and Eurasia), to the integration of science and technology in representing a population of over one-third of the the national and regional development plans; world’s total. • To support the functioning and activities of the Network of International Science These countries have diverse social, cultural, and Technology Centres for Sustainable economic, political, educational and religious Development in the South, established at the backgrounds, and also differ greatly in their foundation meeting of the Commission; scientific and technological potentials. Their • To support other major initiatives designed common aspirations for development through to promote indigenous capacity in science cooperation in S&T capacity-building is the and technology for science-led sustainable raison d’être of their membership of COMSATS. development, and to help mobilise long-term financial support from international donor The Secretariat of COMSATS is permanently agencies and from Government/Institutions located in Islamabad, Pakistan, which is in the North and the South to supplement the supported by the generous grants from the financing of international scientific projects in Government of Pakistan. The membership of the South; COMSATS is open to all developing countries. • To provide leadership and support for However, the organization now aspires to North-South and South-South cooperative broaden its horizons to all countries and schemes in education, training and research, institutions from the North. such as the proposal to set up programmes of scholarships for research at centres of MISSION excellence in the South; and • To support the relevant programmes and The mission of COMSATS is to ‘help create a initiatives of major scientific organisations world where all nations/states are at peace with working for the development and promotion one another and capable of providing a good of science and technology in the South. quality of life to their populations in a sustainable way, using modern scientific and technological m e a n s’.

Dr. S.M. Junaid Zaidi Executive Director COMSATS

Dr. S. M. Junaid Zaidi assumed the charge of Executive Director in February 2017, by virtue of which he is also the ex-officio Secretary to the Commission, Coordinating Council and the Consultative Committee. He has rich and diverse experience spanning over forty years, ranging from his work for international and national organizations, educational-institution building, and research and teaching to foreign collaborative ventures. He has been the founding Rector of a Centre of Excellence of COMSATS, the COMSATS Institute of Information Technology (CIIT), which has phenomenally grown in operations and reputation both nationally and internationally. He is a recipient of two prestigious national awards of Pakistan, Sitara-i-Imtiaz and Hilal-i-Imtiaz.

FOREWORD

The development gap between the North and the South agenda of spawning a positive change in the attitude is attributed to a variety of reasons. These, inter alia, and approach towards greater South-South and North include lack of scientific education and technological collaboration for sustainable development in line with expertise, and the resultant inability of the people in the United Nations agenda of diminishing the North- the South to benefit from the modern day scientific South Divide. While a good number of achievements advancements taking place around the world. The were made during the reporting year 2017, the situation calls for enhancing indigenous capacities of highlights of the year, inter alia, are the expansion the countries in the South and a greater integration and in the membership of the Network. We are happy to cooperative use of scientific and technological resources report that due to our persistent efforts, we were able to to accelerate their pace of economic development. persuade Somalia, Turkey and the Al-Quds University, Palestine, to join COMSATS. Other key achievements Evidently, the North has outpaced by gaining excellence include signing of MoUs for mutual collaboration with in science and technology and benefiting from their OCERT, UNESCAP, and IPD. Besides, breaking the appropriate application in the development process. The ground for incorporating the European Union and fact that the South has lagged far behind in this process institutions from the UK provided the Organization is the cause of concern for the world at large and which a renewed impetus. The good working relations with draws the focus of development agencies to narrowing existing partners like ISESCO and UNESCO were the development gap between the North and South. further strengthened through mutual consultations.

Realizing the need for sensitizing the countries of Be it financial constraints, dearth of human resources the South to the need for prioritizing and integrating or other pressures, we at COMSATS have not wavered science and technology in their development plans in our pursuit of science-led sustainable development in and allocating adequate resources to research the Member Countries. and development, COMSATS was conceived and established as an inter-governmental organization I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to all to serve as a catalyst in the process of South-South the member states for their continued patronage cooperation for sustainable development. and support that motivates us to work towards the achievement of the Organization’s objectives. It is a matter of great pride for COMSATS to have I am greatly indebted to the Chairpersons of the sustained its endeavors for over 23 years in line with the Coordinating Council and Consultative Committee, call of its mandate. The organization has so far achieved as well as the Heads of the Focal Ministries and the a number of milestones in terms of bringing together Centres of Excellence for their backing. I also thank all many developing countries to a common platform the partner organizations for their support and sharing for cooperative efforts to improve the lot of their of resources. I am extremely grateful to my colleagues at populations. Today, the membership of COMSATS COMSATS Secretariat for their devotion, diligence and stands at 26 member states from Africa, Asia (and commitment to their work for COMSATS. Needless to Eurasia), Latin America. This number in expected to say that without the hard work of the editorial team, the grow manifold, as a number of countries have shown publication of this report would have not been possible. their readiness to join the organization. We believe that the keen interest and increasing active support of I am confident that the readers will find the report member states will greatly help COMSATS bring about informative and useful. Suggestions for improvement in the desired upturn in the developing world. undertakings of the Organization as well as the contents During 2017, COMSATS continued to pursue its of this report are highly welcome. iii COMSATS’ Focal Ministry in Pakistan Ministry of Science & Technology, Government of Pakistan

The Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST) has been functioning since 1972. It is the national focal point and enabling arm of Government of Pakistan for planning, coordinating and directing efforts; to initiate and launch scientific and technological programs and projects as per national agenda for sound and sustainable S&TR base for the socio-economic development, to achieve the vision for a better Pakistan, in terms of the mandate contained in Schedule-II of the Federal Government Rules of Business 1973.

From the areas of industrial development to renewable energy and rural development, the Ministry suggests technological development for higher growth-rates and to improve standards of living. Its principal focus is on building Pakistan’s technological competence in the 21st century as we enter new markets, developing a larger pool of human resources to reverse brain drain, and for integrating the existing technological infrastructure for strengthening of technology institutions, effective governance of S&TR and enhancing the capacity of indigenous innovation systems.

URL: www.most.gov.pk H.E. Rana Tanveer Hussain Federal Minister for Science and Technology, Pakistan Head of COMSATS’ Focal Ministry in the Host Country

H.E. Mr. Rana Tanveer Hussain is the current Minister for Defence Production and the Minister for Science and Technology, Government of Pakistan. Mr. Hussain has been an elected member of the National Assembly of Pakistan since 1985. In addition to briefly holding the cabinet portfolio of Minister for Defence Production in 2008, he has previously served as Parliamentary Secretary to Ministry of Finance, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Finance, as well as Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister.

MESSAGE

In the current age of unprecedented scientific and on Science and Technology for Sustainable technological advancements, the world remains Development in the South (COMSATS). For over divided into the prosperous and struggling, to put 23 years now, the MoST prides itself in hosting the it simply. It makes one wonder as to why the far- Secretariat of a Head of State level International reaching nature of the benefits of the wonders of organization – working for something as important S&T does not actually reach as far as it should. As as S&T Cooperation. a government functionary of a developing country myself, I have seen up-close the challenges faced in MoST, Pakistan, appreciates the organization’s this regard. One truth remains undeniable amidst aspirations to augment the South-South all the relevant debates that serious consideration cooperation by triangulating it with the and pursuit of S&T for development at the highest involvement of the North during the year 2017. It levels of the governments is indispensible. is satisfying to note the new avenues of cooperation in this connection. Through COMSATS, the Functioning since 1972, the Ministry of Science Government of Pakistan is ready to play its due and Technology (MoST) has been conscious of role for international cooperation in S&T and urge such development needs. One of the ministry’s other Member States to make similar commitments mandates pertains to initiating and launching for helping to achieve the mission of COMSATS. S&T programmes and projects for socio-economic development. My best wishes to the organization and hope that it will succeed in its efforts of transforming the The Government of Pakistan went a step ahead in landscape of science and technology in the member this regard in 1994 when it hosted the International countries to help them prosper. meeting that led to founding of the Commission

v Focal Ministries in Member States

Bangladesh Pakistan Ministry of Science and Ministry of Science and Technology Technology

China Palestine Ministry of Science and Ministry of Education and Higher Technology Education

Colombia Philippines Departamento Administrativo de Ciencia, Department of Science and Tecnología e Innovación - COLCIENCIAS Technology

Egypt Senegal Ministry of Higher Education and Ministry of Higher Education, Universities, Regional Scientific Research University Centres and Scientific Research

The Gambia Somalia Ministry of Higher Education, Ministry of Education, Culture and Research, Science and Technology Higher Education

Ghana Sri Lanka Ministry of Environment, Science, Ministry of Science, Technology and Technology and Innovation Research

Iran Sudan Ministry of Science, Research and Ministry of Science and Technology Communications

Jamaica Syria Ministry of Science, Technology, Ministry of Higher Education Energy and Mining

Jordan Tanzania Higher Council for Science and Ministry of Communication, Science Technology and Technology

Kazakhstan Tunisia Ministry of Education and Ministry of Higher Education and Science Scientific Research

Korea DPR Turkey State Academy of Sciences The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TUBITAK)

Morocco Uganda Ministry of National Education, Vocational Training, Uganda National Council for Science Higher Education and ScientificResearch & Technology

Nigeria Zimbabwe Federal Ministry of Science & Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Technology Science and Technology Development Mrs. Yasmin Masood Federal Secretary, Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of Pakistan

By virtue of her current position, Mrs. Yasmin Masood has been the ex-officio Chairperson of COMSATS Consultative Committee since September 14, 2017. In the past, Mrs. Masood has held the office of Secretary of Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP).

FROM THE CHAIRPERSON CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE

The importance of consensus building in crucial The activities of the organization in the reporting affairs of national, regional and global levels is period are testimonials of commitment to its undeniable. Be it climate change or clean energy, mission. International collaborations that the water scarcity or food security, from novel solutions organization seeks to expand are now touching to important issues facing the masses, influencers the North, while enhanced interactions with the and decision-makers need to be brought to countries of the South are strengthening its long agreement for sustainable and durable fixes. haul efforts for South-South Cooperation.

The Government of Pakistan through its The organization is now gearing up for more generous support to COMSATS is making focused efforts for realizing achievement of its due contribution towards global advocacy Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in for cooperation in S&T for development. The member states. As the Chairperson of COMSATS organization is not only striving for its mission Consultative Committee, I would like to urge all the but also working to expand its scope, mandate COMSATS focal points to make available their due and membership. In 2017, Turkey and Somalia support to the organization in this regard. becoming the 25th and 26th member state, respectively, is a very welcome sign for the I wish the organization a fruitful 2018 and more expanding horizons of the organization. successes in the future.

vii Members of COMSATS Coordinating Council

Mr. Md. Faruque Ahmed Dr. Gustavo Ribeiro Xavier Prof. Lin Zhaohui Dr. Eduardo Posada F. Chairman, BCSIR, Bangladesh Director General Embrapa Director ICCES, China Director CIF, Colombia Agrobiologia, Brazil

Prof. Dr. Victor Agyeman Dr. Fathollah Moztarzadeh Mr. Charles N. Grant HRH Princess Sumaya bint El Hassan Director-General CSIR, Ghana President IROST, Iran Director General ICENS, Jamaica President RSS, Jordan

Prof. Dr. G. M. Mutanov Prof. Stephen E. Onah Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary Prof. Dr. Raheel Qamar Rector KazNU, Kazakhstan Director NMC, Nigeria Director ICCBS, Pakistan Rector CIIT, Pakistan

Prof. Dr. Imad F. S. Abukishek Dr. G.A.S. Premakumara Dr. Widad H. A. H. Hassan Prof. Ibrahima Thioub President AQU, Palestine Director General ITI, Sri Lanka Director General IRCC, Sudan Rector/President UCAD, Senegal

Dr. Maher Suleiman Prof. M. M.A. Mtambo Prof. Ahmed Ghrabi Dr. Orkun Hasekioglu Director HIAST, Syria Director General TIRDO, Tanzania Director General CERTE, Tunisia President TUBITAK MAM, Turkey Prof. Dr. Ashraf Shaalan President National Research Centre (NRC), Egypt.

Prof. Ashraf H. Shaalan is the President of Egypt’s prestigious research institution, the National Research Centre. He was elected as the Chairperson of COMSATS Coordinating Council, during its 19th Meeting held in Islamabad, Pakistan, in May 2016. As an academic, Prof. Shaalan has published his work mostly focused on child growth and development, child nutrition and assessment of nutritional status. He is also the Editor of the Egyptian Medical Journal of NRC (MJNRC) and member of scientific board of many other scientific journals.

FROM THE CHAIRPERSON COORDINATING COUNCIL

It is a matter of great pride and honour for me as outstanding activities. As the Chairman of Chairperson of COMSATS Coordinating Council COMSATS Coordinating Council, I pledge to to present to the readers COMSATS Annual continue the quest for greater cooperation among Report 2017, covering the organization’s main COMSATS Centres of Excellence by means of activities during the calendar year 2017. This report spreading knowledge, launching better programs, highlights many notable achievements which reflect and enhancing capacity. The accomplishments the organization’s continued progress in pursuit over the past year and the work ahead depend of improved programs and programmes, research on the support and contributions of the Centres activities, and knowledge-sharing for the millions of of Excellence and dedicated staff, for which I am our citizens. thankful.

As the year ends, we are pleased to share our Our aim for next year is to focus on scaling up achievements over the past 12 months or so of our work together, strengthening strategic with you. This year marked an incredibly active partnerships among our member states as well as period for COMSATS’ performance, including other entities. new affiliated centre of excellence in Palestine in early 2017. In December 2017, we celebrated We welcome and appreciate the continued support induction of Somalia as the 26th Member State of of COMSATS member states in helping us make our the Commission on Science and Technology for vision a reality. Sustainable Development in the South (COMSATS). Thank you and I look forward to another amazing As you read the report, I hope you will gain year with COMSATS. insight into the breadth and depth of COMSATS’

Section 1: Activities of COMSATS’ Statutory Bodies • 20th Meeting of COMSATS Coordinating Council 02

• Second Meeting of COMSATS Technical Advisory Committee 11

• 41st Meeting of COMSATS Management Committee 13

Annual Report 2017 1 20th Meeting of COMSATS Coordinating Council

The Coordinating Council of COMSATS comprises the Heads of its 21 International S&T Centres of Excellence. The Council meets once annually to decide on matters relating to the membership of the Network, in consultation with the Consultative Committee. The Council also approves the programmes and budget of the COMSATS’ Network, as well as makes rules for governing its own procedures.

The Coordinating Council, COMSATS’ Hassan, Executive Director TWAS. A H.E. Prof. Khaled Kassem opened the most active technical cooperation representative of UNESCO also attended two-day meeting with a warm welcome to forum, continued its tradition of annual the meeting as observer. The meeting was the participants. He considered COMSATS meetings to make decisions for smooth also attended by a two-member delegation a potent platform for facilitating functioning of the Network enabling it to of Al-Quds University (Palestine) led networking and scientific collaborations duly contribute towards the organization’s by its President, in connection with the among developing countries. Keeping in mandate. The Network presently has university’s request for induction in view the limited financial resources in 21 S&T, R&D, and higher education COMSATS’ Network of International S&T the developing countries, Prof. Kassem institutions from 20 developing countries. Centres of Excellence. stressed the need for determining In 2017, the Council met for the twentieth research priorities according to national time in Egypt on 14-15 May 2017. Inauguration developmental needs. Appreciating the ongoing programmes and activities of This meeting was generously hosted by The meeting was inaugurated on 14th May COMSATS, he urged the organization COMSATS’ Centre of Excellence in Egypt, 2017 by H.E. Prof. Khaled Kassem, Senior to continue providing opportunities for the National Research Centre (NRC) in Assistant Minister for Strategic Plans and exchange of human and technological Cairo. Supporting Systems, Ministry of Higher resources among the developing countries. Education and Scientific Research, Arab Prof. Kassem also updated the participants The meeting had representation from Republic of Egypt. In addition to the on the ongoing activities of his Ministry. 14 Centres of Excellence of COMSATS: senior officials of NRC and COMSATS, BCSIR-Bangladesh, ICCES-China, NRC- the ceremony was attended by senior In his inaugural message, Prof. Dr. Ashraf Egypt, CSIR-Ghana, KazNU-Kazakhstan, officials of the diplomatic missions of Shaalan, President NRC, Egypt, and NMC-Nigeria, ICCBS-Pakistan, CIIT- Jordan, Pakistan and Kazakhstan in Cairo; Chairperson of the Council, welcomed Pakistan, ITI-Sri Lanka, IRCC-Sudan, and representatives of universities, R&D the participants and congratulated Dr. UCAD-Senegal, TIRDO-Tanzania, institutions, ministries and government S. M. Junaid Zaidi on his appointment CERTE-Tunisia, and TUBITAK MAM- departments of Egypt. as the Executive Director COMSATS. Turkey, as well as the honorary life time He expressed pleasure over hosting this member of the Council, Prof. M.H.A. year’s Council meeting that made NRC

2 Annual Report 2017 the only Centre of Excellence to have etc. He hoped that the present meeting the most effective tool for improving the hosted three Council meetings. He stated would succeed in enhancing scientific socio-economic conditions of developing that in the present knowledge-based era, collaborations among the Network countries. Therefore, developing countries science and technology is the primary members for jointly addressing these must pay attention to devising effective factor of production and development, challenges. national policies and action plans for as the global competitiveness depends on development of adequate infrastructure the ability to create, develop, and practical Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Zaidi and facilities that are indispensable for utilization of new scientific discoveries expressed gratitude towards NRC for research and development. He believed and innovations. He stated that innovation its generous hospitality and excellent that these efforts could be catalyzed is at the heart of any country’s ability arrangements of the meeting. He thanked through international cooperation in to finding economically, socially, and the honourable Senior Assistant Minister, science and technology, particularly environmentally sustainable solutions to MHESR, for gracing the ceremony with his South-South cooperation. In this regard, the challenges faced by societies today, presence, which indicated the Government the Executive Director highlighted the such as climate change, energy crisis, of Egypt’s solidarity with COMSATS. past and ongoing programmes and health problems and shortage of water, He stated that science and technology is activities of COMSATS, including its

Annual Report 2017 3 “COMSATS is an effective platform “Our global competitiveness depends “Adequate investment for capacity for facilitating networking and on our ability to create, develop and building of scientific human resources scientific collaborations among the make practical use of new scientific is of paramount importance. The developing countries.” discoveries. In brief: our capacity developing countries must also to innovate… innovation is at the pay attention to devising effective H.E. Prof. Khaled Kassem, heart of our ability to find solutions national policies and action plans Senior Assistant Minister for Strategic that are economically, socially, and for development of adequate Plans and Supporting Systems, environmentally sustainable.” infrastructure and facilities for Ministry of Higher Education and productive research and development.” Scientific Research, Egypt Prof. Dr. Ashraf Shaalan, Chairperson Dr. S. M. Junaid Zaidi COMSATS Coordinating Council Executive Director COMSATS flagship projects in Pakistan. He also research efforts being made by various The participants deliberated on a 13-point announced the Turkish Parliament’s Member States/Centres of Excellence. agenda. then recent endorsement to ratification He expressed interest in developing of the Accession Agreement for joining collaboration between ASRT and Under one of the agenda items, the COMSATS, which was earlier signed by COMSATS in capacity-building and joint Advisor (Programmes) COMSATS the Ambassador of Turkey to Pakistan. research projects. presented COMSATS’ Annual Activity In his message, Prof. Mahmoud Sakr, Report (May 2016 – April 2017), while the President of the Academy of Scientific Technical Deliberations Executive Director presented the future Research and Technology (ASRT), Egypt, plans of the organization. Moreover, the stated that COMSATS is an excellent The technical sessions of the two-day heads/representatives of the Centres of platform for internationalization of meeting were chaired by Prof. Shaalan. Excellence presented scientific activities

4 Annual Report 2017 of their respective Centres since the last Council meeting, in order to identify Scholarships offered by COMSATS’ Centres of Excellence areas of potential cooperation among the Council members. The Advisor Students from COMSATS’ Member States are welcome to benefit from the following offers from COMSATS Centres of Excellence: (Programmes) COMSATS also briefed the

Council about the implementation status • Hundred scholarships for students/researchers for postgraduate studies and ten of the decisions taken by the Council scholarships for post-doctoral fellowships at all campuses of COMSATS Institute of in its previous meeting, while Director Information Technology (CIIT), Pakistan. (Finance and Accounts) presented the • Seven Ph.D scholarships [4 fully paid and 3 partially paid (50%)] and five-postdoctoral administrative and financial matters of fellowships at the Iranian Research Organization for Science and Technology (IROST), COMSATS. Iran. • Ten doctoral scholarships/post-doctoral fellowships at the International Center for The Council unanimously approved the Chemical and Biological Science (ICCBS), Pakistan. proposed induction of Al-Quds University, • Five post-doctoral fellowships at the National Research Centre (NRC), Egypt, and Palestine, in COMSATS’ Network as its International Centre for Climate and Environment Sciences (ICCES), China, each. 21st member. The approval was made in • One post-doctoral fellowship at Bangladesh Council for Scientific and Industrial response to the University’s application in Research (BCSIR), Bangladesh. this regard and a detailed presentation by the President of the University. Contact for more information: Mr. Tajammul Hussain, Advisor-Programmes (tajammul@ comsats.org) Under another agenda-item, progress reports of the International Thematic ten (10) PhD scholarships/postdoctoral Advisory Committee (TAC), as the Research Groups (ITRGs) on ‘Climate fellowships each, while NRC-Egypt offered existing members had completed their Change and Environmental Protection’, five (05) PhD scholarships/postdoctoral three-year tenures. It was agreed that ‘Information and Communication fellowships to COMSATS Member States. each Centre of Excellence would submit Technologies’, ‘Natural Products Sciences’, Other Centres of Excellence also expressed 2-3 nominations of renowned scientists/ ‘Mathematical Modeling’, and ‘Agriculture, readiness to offer such fellowships to experts from their respective countries Food Security and Biotechnology’ COMSATS Member States and agreed to COMSATS Secretariat. The decision were presented by the Group Leaders/ to send relevant details to COMSATS regarding induction of suitable candidates representatives of the Lead Centres. Secretariat soon. In this regard, ICCES- in TAC was later jointly made by the China offered 5, BCSIR-Bangladesh 1, and Chairperson Coordinating Council, During discussion on the possible offer KazNU-Kazakhstan 5 PhD scholarships/ Executive Director TWAS and Executive of PhD scholarships/post-doctoral post-doctoral fellowships. Director COMSATS, as authorized by the fellowships by each Centre of Excellence Coordinating Council. to COMSATS’ Member States, ICCBS- The Council also deliberated upon Pakistan and CIIT-Pakistan, offered reconstituting COMSATS’ Technical During discussions on the new initiatives

Annual Report 2017 5 for collaboration and the way forward, it enhance mutual networking to share their activities of existing ITRGs from their was agreed that COMSATS’ ministerial human and technical resources for mutual respective governments; Consultative Committee shall be activated benefit of the Member States. It was agreed • sensitize their respective governments to hold regular meetings at appropriate that opportunities of fellowships available regarding benefits of regularly making level, and their agenda would be prepared at TWAS shall be examined and availed Annual Membership Contributions for in consultation with the Coordinating by the Centres of Excellence. The Council financial sustainability of COMSATS; Council. desired to have representatives of Member • keep COMSATS Secretariat updated States/Centres of Excellence at COMSATS on new developments and major The Executive Director emphasized Secretariat for enhancing the efficacy and achievements of their organizations; the need for strengthening the existing impact of its programmes and activities. and Centres of Excellence with adequate • contribute scientific articles for human and technical resources, as well The meeting also issued a Communiqué publication in COMSATS’ bi-annual as inducting new state-of-the-art Centres that encourages the Centres of Excellence journal, ‘Science Vision’. in the Network. It was recommended to: that following the successful example of The meeting appreciated the efforts CIIT-Pakistan, COMSATS may establish a • enhance cooperation with other being made by COMSATS Secretariat in few new Centres of Excellence in Member Network members for launching new fulfilling the objectives of the organization. States. This proposal constituted a key projects and programmes for the The Coordinating Council also welcomed discussion point for the meetings held benefit of Member States; Dr. S. M. Junaid Zaidi as the new Executive with delegates and representatives of • become creators of knowledge in Director of COMSATS, and hoped that foreign missions of developing countries addition to being users; COMSATS would make further progress held during the year (Section 5). • launch the remaining two ITRGs on under his leadership, achieving the ‘Materials Science’ and ‘Construction objectives of the organization. The Council The Centres of Excellence were urged to Materials’, and arrange funds for the also expressed gratitude to all of the previous Executive Directors of COMSATS for their sincere efforts and contributions TAC Members Approved as Authorized by the Council in stewarding the programmes of the organization. • Prof. Huadong Guo, Professor, Institute of Remote Sensing and Digital Earth, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China. • Dr. Yin Li, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China Conclusion • Dr. Amal Al-Aboudi, Department of Chemistry, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan • Dr. Sabah AlMomin, Research Scientist, Biotechnology Program, Kuwait Institute for Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Scientific Research (KISR), Safat, Kuwait meeting held on the evening of 15th May • Dr. Sok Ching Cheong, Cancer Research Initiatives Foundation (CARIF), Selangor, 2017, the Executive Director COMSATS Malaysia. hoped that the decisions of the meeting • Prof. Sahalu B. Junaidu, Dept. of Computer Science, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, shall be actively followed-up by the Nigeria. concerned Centres of Excellence for • Prof. Talgat Inerbaev, Research Fellow, National University of Science and Technology enhancing meaningful collaborations (MISIS), Moscow, Russia • Prof. Mustafa Omar Nawari, Professor of Dynamical and Information Systems, Khartoum, within the Network. The President NRC Sudan thanked the foreign delegates for their • Dr. Jalila Ben Salah-Abbas, Higher Institute of Biotechnology of Monastir, Monastir, participation in the meeting. He also Tunisia. thanked the local organizing committee • Prof. Dr. Richard Catlow, Head of Department of Chemistry, University College London members for their efforts for organizing • London, United Kingdom. the meeting.

6 Annual Report 2017 The Al-Farabi Kazakh National University Participants of the 20th Coordinating Council Meeting, Cairo, Egypt (KazNU), Kazakhstan, was selected st • Prof. Dr. Ashraf Shaalan, National Research Centre (NRC), Egypt (Chairperson) as the host for the 21 Coordinating • Dr. S. M. Junaid Zaidi, Executive Director COMSATS (Secretary to the Council) Council Meeting scheduled for April • Dr. Md. Sarwar Jahan, Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR), 2018. Moreover, TUBITAK Marmara Bangladesh Research Centre (MAM), Turkey, and the • Prof. Lin Zhaohui, International Center for Climate and Environment Sciences (ICCES), International Center for Chemical and China Biological Sciences (ICCBS), Pakistan, • Ms. Wencheng Chen, International Center for Climate and Environment Sciences (ICCES), were selected as alternative venues. China • Prof. Hosam El-Sayed, National Research Centre, Egypt • Prof. Dr. Victor Kwame Agyeman, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Ghana • Dr. Eugene Atiemo, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Ghana • Prof. Tlekkabul Ramazanov , Al-Farabi Kazakh National University (KazNU), Kazakhstan • Prof. Ejugwu Stephen Onah, National Mathematical Centre (NMC), Nigeria • Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS), Pakistan • Prof. Dr. Farzana Shaheen, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS), Pakistan • Prof. Dr. Raheel Qamar, COMSATS Institute of Information Technology (CIIT), Pakistan. • Prof. Izhar Hussain, COMSATS Institute of Information Technology (CIIT), Pakistan • Prof. Dr. Imad F. S. Abukishek, Al-Quds University, Palestine • Prof. Dr. Radwan F. H. Qasrawi, Al-Quds University, Palestine • Dr. Sirimal Premakumara Galbada Arachchige, Industrial Technology Institute, Sri Lanka • Dr. Einas Elmughira Hamad Mohamed, Industrial Research & Consultancy Center (IRCC), Sudan • Prof. Ibrahima THIOUB, University Cheikh Anta Diop of Dakar (UCAD), Senegal • Prof. Mkumbukwa Madundo Angelo Mtambo, Tanzania Industrial Research and Development Organization (TIRDO), Tanzania • Mr. Mohamed Ben Amor, Water Researches and Technologies Centre of Borj-Cedria (CERTE), Tunisia • Dr. Orkun Hasekioglu, TUBITAK Marmara Research Centre (MAM), Turkey • Prof. Dr. Mohamed H. A. Hassan, The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS), Italy • Mr. Nazar Hassan, UNESCO Office, Egypt • Mr. Tajammul Hussain, COMSATS Secretariat, Pakistan • Mr. Amanullah Khattak, COMSATS Secretariat, Pakistan • Mr. Farhan Ansari, COMSATS Secretariat, Pakistan

Annual Report 2017 7 8 Annual Report 2017 Communiqué of the 20th Meeting of COMSATS Coordinating Council (14 – 15 May 2017, Cairo, Egypt)

The participants of the 20th meeting of COMSATS Coordinating Council, including the representatives of fourteen Centres of Excellence, deliberated upon the thirteen-point agenda of the meeting on 14-15 May 2017, and are pleased to unanimously adopt the following statement:

1. The Coordinating Council pays gratitude to the National Research Centre (NRC) for making excellent arrangements for the meeting and for providing warm hospitality to its participants. The administrative support of COMSATS Secretariat to NRC for the successful organization of the meeting, including active correspondence with the invitees and preparation of necessary documentation, is highly appreciated.

2. The excellent moderation of the discussions during various technical sessions of the meeting by the Chairperson Coordinating Council, Prof. Dr. Ashraf Shaalan, President NRC, is lauded.

3. The Coordinating Council is immensely pleased to welcome Dr. S. M. Junaid Zaidi as the new Executive Director of COMSATS, who has previously made outstanding contributions towards the organization as the founding Rector of COMSATS Institute of Information Technology (CIIT). It is hoped that under the leadership of Dr. Zaidi, the programmes of COMSATS will be further enhanced in order to achieve the objectives of the organization. The Council also expresses gratitude to all of the previous Executive Directors of COMSATS for their sincere efforts and contributions towards fostering the programmes and activities of the organization.

4. The Coordinating Council is pleased to welcome the Al-Quds University (Palestine) as a member of COMSATS’ Network of Centres of Excellence. It is hoped that Al-Quds University will actively participate in the programmes and activities of COMSATS and will establish strong collaborative ties with other members of the Network.

5. The Council is pleased to learn about the nomination of the National University of Science and Technology (Zimbabwe) for induction in COMSATS’ Network of Centres of Excellence. It is desirable that the necessary formalities for induction of the Mohamed V University (Morocco) and the National University of Science and Technology (Zimbabwe) in COMSATS’ Network are completed before the next Council meeting. COMSATS Secretariat is encouraged to continue its efforts to extend the membership of COMSATS’ Network to all Member States.

6. The Council highly appreciates the contributions made by the members of COMSATS’ Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) who have served the organization on voluntary basis during the period 2014-17. The Technical Advisory Committee shall be reconstituted since the three-year tenure of its members has been completed. The decision regarding the induction of new members shall be taken jointly by the Chairperson Coordinating Council, Executive Director TWAS and Executive Director COMSATS. The Council looks forward to the valuable advice and guidance of the new members of the Technical Advisory Committee regarding various programmes and activities of the organization.

7. The Council gratefully acknowledges the financial and in-kind contributions by the Member Countries towards COMSATS’ activities. The payment of Annual Membership Contribution (AMC) by China, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Sudan, is noted with appreciation.

Annual Report 2017 9 8. The Council is pleased to learn about the high quality of research and academic activities being undertaken at the Centres of Excellence, including NRC. The offers of collaboration and exchange of scientific and technological resources made by various Centres of Excellence are highly appreciated. The Network members are encouraged to make the best utilization of these offers with a view to contribute towards the socio- economic development of the South.

9. The offer of scholarships and post-doctoral fellowships to COMSATS’ Member States by various Centres of Excellence is a welcome step, which is acknowledged with appreciation. The Member States are encouraged to make the best use of these offers for capacity building of their scientific workforce.

10. The proposals for new initiatives presented by ICCES-China, ICCBS-Pakistan and TIRDO-Tanzania, for the socio-economic uplift of COMSATS’ Member States are gratefully acknowledged.

11. The Council appreciates the efforts of COMSATS Secretariat to fulfill the objectives of the organization, and acknowledges the following achievements:

i. Organization of 12 capacity-building events, in collaboration with other international organizations and Centres of Excellence, which benefited various scientists, engineers and technicians belonging to Member States; ii. Launching of the sixth International Thematic Research Group (ITRG); iii. Steady growth of the Flagship Projects in Pakistan, i.e. the COMSATS Institute of Information Technology (CIIT) and COMSATS Internet Services (CIS). iv. Increased utilization of postgraduate scholarships at CIIT, Pakistan, by Member Countries; v. Continuous expansion of membership of COMSATS’ Network of Centres of Excellence; vi. Increase in the Annual Membership Contributions by Member States; and vii. Regular publication of COMSATS’ Newsletter, journal ‘Science Vision’ and other information material about the organization.

12. The Council encourages the Network members to make efforts for the following:

i. Enhancing cooperation with other Network members for launching new projects and programmes for the benefit of Member States; ii. Examining and availing the opportunities of fellowships available with TWAS; iii. Exploring the possibility of becoming Category-2 Centres of UNESCO; iv. Launching the remaining two ITRGs on ‘Materials Science’ and ‘Construction Materials’; v. Sensitizing their respective governments regarding the benefits of regularly making AMC for the financial sustainability of COMSATS; and vi. Keeping COMSATS Secretariat aware of new developments and major achievements of their organizations.

13. The Coordinating Council reiterates that every country must strive to build S&T capacity, as we cannot simply be the users of technology but have to generate new knowledge.

14. Lead Centres of ITRGs are encouraged to approach their respective governments in order to obtain funds for the activities of the groups.

15. The Coordinating Council reiterates its recommendation for the Member States to increase their Gross Expenditure on Research and Development to a level of 2% of GDP.

10 Annual Report 2017 Second Meeting of COMSATS Technical Advisory Committee

The Technical Advisory Committee deliberates on matters affecting technical programmes and international collaborations of COMSATS with a special focus on improving the efficacy of COMSATS’ Network.

COMSATS held the second meeting Centres of Excellence in Egypt and Turkey. very place where the idea of establishing of its International Technical Advisory Representatives from other International COMSATS had been conceived by Prof. Committee on 15th November 2017, in organizations based in Italy, i.e. the Dr. Abdus Salam in the early 1990s. Italy. The meeting was hosted by The International Centre for Theoretical He stated that COMSATS and TWAS World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) in the Physics (ICTP) and the International share common goals to work towards scenic city of Trieste. Centre for Genetic Engineering and building scientific strength for sustainable Biotechnology (ICGEB and TWAS) also development in the South. He stated that During the meeting, the Committee attended the meeting. scientific expertise is the key to tackling Members gave their intellectual inputs various challenges that humanity is facing for the future direction and technical Speaking for the host organization, Prof. today. Therefore, it is therefore all the more programmes of COMSATS based on a Dr. Romain Murenzi, Executive Director necessary to establish effective networks proposed agenda circulated by COMSATS TWAS, recalled that Trieste was the for exchange of ideas and collaborations. Secretariat prior to the meeting.

It was the first meeting after the reconstitution of TAC. The TAC members that attended the meeting were: Dr. Sabah AlMomin, Kuwait; Prof. Huadong Guo, China; Dr. Jalila Ben Salah Abbes, Tunisia; Prof. Dr. Yin Li, China; Prof. Sahalu B. Junaidu, Nigeria; and Prof. Dr. Amal Al- Aboudi, Jordan; while Dr. Richard Catlow, United Kingdom; and Prof. Dr. Sok Ching Cheong, Malaysia, participated through video conferencing. The meeting was also attended by the Heads of COMSATS’

Annual Report 2017 11 The agenda of the meeting, inter alia, nd List of Participants of 2 Meeting of COMSATS’ Technical Advisory Committee included introducing COMSATS and th (15 November 2017, Trieste, Italy) its International Network of Centers of Excellence, Role of TAC in developing • Dr. Sabah AlMomin, Research Scientist, Biotechnology Program, Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR), Safat, Kuwait. policy framework, Enhancing South- • Prof. Huadong Guo, Professor, Institute of Remote Sensing and Digital Earth, Chinese South-North Triangular Cooperation, Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China. Challenges in Achieving Sustainable • Dr. Jalila Ben Salah-Abbes, Laboratory of Genetic, Biodiversity and Bio-Resources Development Goals, and Expanding Valorization, Higher Institute of Biotechnology of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia. COMSATS membership and enhancing • Prof. Dr. Yin Li, Deputy Director-General, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, the Network of International S&T Centers Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, China of Excellence. • Prof. Sahalu B. Junaidu, Director, Institute of Computing & ICT, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria. During the discussions, the Committee • Prof. Dr. Amal Al-Aboudi,Vice Dean, School of Science, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan members were pleased to note that the • Prof. Dr. Richard Catlow, Head of Department of Chemistry, University College London, membership of the organization was London, United Kingdom. increasing, with Federal Republic of • Prof. Dr. Sok Ching Cheong , Senior Group Leader, Head and Neck Cancer Research, Somalia and Republic of Turkey being Cancer Research Initiatives Foundation (CARIF), Selangor, Malaysia. the latest to join as Member States. They • Prof. Dr. Ashraf Shaalan, President, National Research Centre (NRC), Cairo, Arab Republic encouraged COMSATS Secretariat to of Egypt. facilitate the expansion of the Network • Dr. Orkun Hasekioglu, President, TUBITAK Marmara Research Centre (MAM), Republic through induction of renowned R&D of Turkey. Centres from the South and the North. • Prof. Sandro Scandolo, Head, Scientific Programmes and Outreach, International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP), Trieste, Italy. • Dr. Oscar Burrone, Group Leader of Molecular Immunology Laboratory, International TAC also advised COMSATS to facilitate Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy. upgradation of existing Centres of • Prof. Romain Murenzi, Executive Director TWAS, Trieste, Italy Excellence through financial and technical • Dr. Massimo Paoli, Programme Coordinator, TWAS, Trieste, Italy support from international donor and • Ms. Helen Martin, TWAS General Meetings development organizations, besides • Dr. Syed Muhammed Junaid Zaidi, Executive Director, COMSATS, Islamabad, Pakistan establishing new Centres of Excellence to • Mr. Tajammul Hussain, Advisor (Programmes), COMSATS, Islamabad, Pakistan promote research, education and training • Dr. Kamran Jahangir, Advisor , COMSATS Headquarters, Islamabad, Pakistan in cutting-edge themes of science and • Mr. Farhan Ansari, Sr. Assistant Director (Programmes), COMSATS Headquarters, Islamabad, Pakistan technology.

The TAC members encouraged COMSATS To this end, Prof. Murenzi hoped that technical capacities to attain research, to initiate new programmes and projects, COMSATS and TWAS would continue to innovation and technological progress. which are of significance in achieving the collaborate for building scientific capacity In this regard, Dr. Zaidi highlighted the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), in developing countries, focusing on issues fact that COMSATS and UN are the only for the benefit of the Member States. and challenges related to sustainable future inter-governmental organizations having The Centres of Excellence were urged of human kind. their own universities. He informed to prepare joint research proposals for the participants regarding scientific possible funding by international donor The Executive Director COMSATS, Dr. capacity and human resources available and development agencies. S. M. Junaid Zaidi, dubbed the Technical at COMSATS Institute of Information Advisory Committee as the brain of Technology (CIIT), which is one of the In view of the emerging trends in global COMSATS, and considered the meeting finest universities in Pakistan. He also partnerships, COMSATS was advised instrumental in determining the way highlighted the key role played by TWAS to facilitate the South-South-North forward for the organization. He urged the in establishment of COMSATS, and Triangular Cooperation in science and countries of the South to improve their considered its advice highly important. technology. institutional arrangements, build critical mass of human capital, and enhance

12 Annual Report 2017 41st Meeting of COMSATS Management Committee

The COMSATS Management Committee assists the Executive Director’s Secretariat in implementation of policy decisions taken by the Coordinating Council and other organs of COMSATS; recommends programmes and budget of COMSATS; monitors financial activities of COMSATS; evaluates rules and regulations of COMSATS Secretariat; and deliberates upon other administrative issues.

During the reporting period, COMSATS Khattak, Director (F&A), COMSATS. A major decision of the Management Management Committee held its 41st Committee meeting was the unanimous meeting on 2nd March 2017 under the The three major agenda items of the nomination of four members of Board Chairmanship of Dr. S. M. Junaid Zaidi, meeting, which needed immediate of Governors of CIIT for a term of 3 Executive Director COMSATS. The attention of the members, were: years. These included Prof. Dr. Khalid participants of the meeting included Mahmood Khan, Former Vice Chancellor, Mr. Tajammul Hussain, Advisor • defining proper structure of the Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi; (Programmes), COMSATS; Dr. Arshad organization, Dr. Samar Mubarakmand (N.T., H. I., Saleem Malik, Advisor, COMSATS • enhancement of annual budget, and S. I.), Former Chairman, NESCOM/ Institute of Information Technology; Dr. • induction of new staff members to Member Planning Commission of Tariq-ur-Rehman, former Chairman, strengthen the Secretariat. Pakistan; Prof. Dr. S. M. Qureshi, Professor Pakistan Council for Science and Emeritus/Director, Mehran University Technology (PCST); Mr. Jamshed Another agenda-item was to deliberate of Engineering and Technology; and Mr. Masood, Chief Executive Officer, on inducting foreign students of CIIT in Syed Masood Hashmi, President, Orient COMSATS Internet Services; Mr. Sabih ur COMSATS Secretariat. Later, 17 students McCann Pakistan, Karachi, Pakistan. Rahman, Advisor (Host Country Affairs) were inducted at COMSATS during 2017. COMSATS; Mr. M. Bilal Chohan, Director (Section 8) (A&E), COMSATS; and Mr. Amanullah

Annual Report 2017 13 14 Annual Report 2017 Section 2: Major Secretarial Activities • Enhancement of Membership of COMSATS’ Commission 16

• Enhancement of Membership of COMSATS’ Network of International S&T Centres of Excellence 17

• Follow-up of the Decisions of the 20th Meeting of the Coordinating Council 18

• Disbursement of Annual Membership Contribution (AMC) 20

Annual Report 2017 15 Major Secretarial Activities

COMSATS Secretariat performs Secretarial functions for both the Commission and the Network of Centres of Excellence. It is responsible for holding regular meetings of the statutory bodies and following up their deliberations and decisions. The Secretariat also executes COMSATS’ programmes and activities in partnership with other intergovernmental agencies, national S&T institutions, R&D organizations and members of academia and scientific community across the world. Other core activities of the Secretariat relate to: pooling and managing financial resources; enhancing membership of COMSATS and its Network; and disseminating information to the stakeholders.

th Enhancement of Membership of Countries Approached for Expansion Government of Turkey on 29 May 2017, COMSATS’ Commission COMSATS’ Membership which was intimated through a letter received from the Turkish Embassy on 17th In line with emerging trends in August 2017. global partnerships and development Afghanistan Argentina Azerbaijan Belarus Bosnia Herzegovina cooperation, COMSATS has been In addition to the country’s already expanding its horizons to the North in existing participation in COMSATS addition to its focus on the South. During Brazil Cuba Indonesia Iraq Kenya Coordinating Council, Turkey now has 2017, efforts were made to establish the representation in the Heads-of-State contacts with the North American level Commission and the ministerial Consultative Committee of COMSATS by and European countries with a view to Malaysia Maldives Mauritius Myanmar Nepal expanding COMSATS’ membership virtue of its State membership. beyond Asia, Africa and Latin America. In The Scientific and Technological Research a series of meetings with relevant officials, Oman Qatar Romania South Africa Tajikistan offers of membership were extended to Council of Turkey (TÜBİTAK) now serves various countries/states in the North and as the Focal Point of COMSATS and will the South. be represented in COMSATS Consultative Thailand Turkmenistan Uzbekistan Vietnam Yemen Committee. The Council is also the parent Turkey’s State Membership to organization of COMSATS’ Centre of to join COMSATS as Member State’ was Excellence in Turkey, TÜBİTAK Marmara COMSATS signed by the Ambassador of Turkey to Research Center (MAM). Pakistan, His Excellency Mr. Babür Hızlan. st Earlier on 31 August 2012, the ‘Agreement The said agreement was ratified by the

16 Annual Report 2017 and Higher Education, Somalia is the designated focal point of COMSATS in Somalia.

On 8th December 2017, a reception was hosted by the Executive Director COMSATS to celebrate Somalia’s accession to COMSATS. The event was attended by foreign diplomats in Pakistan including representatives from the Ministries of S&T and Foreign Affairs, Pakistan; representatives from Pakistan-based and international organizations; and officials from COMSATS were also present during the ceremony. Ms. Khadija represented Somalia on the occasion.

Apart from remarks from the Executive Director COMSATS and Her Excellency Ms. Khadija, the reception ceremony was marked with the ceremonious exchange of flags of Somalia and COMSATS between Ambassador of Somalia and Executive Director COMSATS.

Enhancement of Membership of COMSATS’ Network of International S&T Centres of Excellence

Somalia’s State Membership to H.E. Mrs. Khadija Mohamed The efforts for inducting more scientific COMSATS Almakhzoumi played an important role institutions in COMSATS’ Network were in realizing the accession of Somalia made during 2017 The Federal Republic of Somalia joined to COMSATS. Her Excellency visited COMSATS as its 26th Member State on COMSATS Secretariat on 2nd October Accession of Al -Quds University, 9th November 2017 when the accession 2017 where she was handed over a letter Palestine agreement was signed by His Excellency of accession for onward submission to the th Mr. Abdi Dahir Osman, Minister for Minister of Education, Culture and Higher During 20 Coordinating Council Education, Ministry of Education, Culture, Education, Somalia. meeting (14-15 May 2017, Cairo, Egypt), and Higher Education, Somalia, and Dr. COMSATS welcomed Al-Quds University, st S. M. Junaid Zaidi, Executive Director After due process, the relevant officials Palestine to its Network as the 21 COMSATS. of Somalia showed interest in joining member. The Certificate of Membership COMSATS that led to the signing of the was issued from COMSATS to University st The signing ceremony was witnessed by accession agreement, which was intimated on 31 May 2017. Ambassador of Somalia to Islamabad, by the embassy of Somalia on 20th Pakistan, Her Excellency Ms. Khadija September 2017 Other Efforts for Enhancement of Almakhzoumi; First Secretary, Embassy COMSATS’ Network of Somalia, Mr. Ali Sheikh; Advisor to The membership entitles, Somalia to the Ministry of Education, Culture, and be represented at the Heads-of-State One of the recent outcomes of the Higher Education, Mr. Mohammed A. level Commission of COMSATS and continuous efforts for expansion of Nur; and senior officials from COMSATS. ministerial-level Consultative Committee. COMSATS’ Network is the nomination The Ministry of Education, Culture, of another Chinese institution, Tianjin

Annual Report 2017 17 Follow-up of the Decisions of the About Al-Quds University 20th Meeting of the Coordinating Established in 1984, the Al-Quds University, Council Palestine, houses four campuses in Jerusalem, th Sheikh Jarrah, Beit Hanina and Ramallah (al The 20 meeting of the Coordinating th th Bireh), apart from the main campus in Abu Dis. It Council was held on 14 -15 May 2017 in is one of the leading universities of Palestine that Cairo, Egypt. The meeting was hosted by holds numerous research laboratories and fifteen COMSATS’ Centre of Excellence in Egypt, academic faculties in diverse disciplines, including the National Research Centre (NRC). The arts, humanities, applied sciences, engineering, and summary of decisions of made during medicine. There are more than 130 PhDs working the meeting was circulated among the th in 83 research groups at the University. Moreover, participants on 9 June 2017 while the th almost 192 research assistants and 58 project-based detailed minutes were circulated on 8 employees are serving in different Research Centres January 2018 for feedback. of the University. A number of decisions were taken by Institute of Industrial Biotechnology (TIB), induction in COMSATS’ Network. the Council regarding expansion of for induction in COMSATS’ Network. The induction process of Makerere the Commission and the Network of The nomination was made by the Chinese University, Kampala, Uganda is also Centres of Excellence, facilitating real- Ministry of Science & Technology during underway. time networking among all Centres the visit of COMSATS’ delegation to China of Excellence and implementation of in December 2017 (section 6). In connection with the regarding the COMSATS’ programmes and activities induction process of Mohamed V in Member States. These decisions were As a result of active correspondence University, Rabat, Morocco, a formal vigorously followed up by COMSATS between COMSATS and its focal point in invitation of the 21st COMSATS Secretariat by way of correspondence Zimbabwe, the Zimbabwean Ministry of Coordinating Council meeting has already and interactions with Heads and Liaison Higher and Tertiary Education, Science been extended to the President of the Officers of Centres of Excellence. and Technology Department nominated University. Following are some key follow-ups. National University of Science and Technology (NUST), Zimbabwe for

18 Annual Report 2017 To extend the membership contacts this regard, TWAS has been requested to The Council encouraged the prospect of were made and formal invitation provide relevant information and details representation of Member States/Centres letters sent to governments of potential for PhD scholarships/post-doctoral of Excellence at COMSATS Secretariat member states from Asia Africa, North fellowships. As per the offer made by on secondment. In this connection, the America and Europe. As a result of active TWAS for COMSATS’ Member States Executive Director COMSATS has started correspondence between Executive and Centres of Excellence to participate liaison with the relevant officials. Director COMSATS and the government in training courses in Science-policy- officials of prospective member states, diplomacy for scientists and diplomats, Another noteworthy follow-up was the the Somali Republic joined COMSATS. COMSATS Secretariat is encouraging signing of “Protocol of Cooperation Moreover, the Accession Agreement Member Countries and Centres of (POC)” between COMSATS and The signed by the Republic of Turkey earlier Excellence to benefit from the offer. Oman National Computer Emergency was ratified on 29th May 2017 (reported Readiness Team (OCERT) for cooperation earlier in this chapter). COMSATS Secretariat also invited the in the areas of cyber security and Member States and Centres of Excellence computer emergency response program. The Coordinating Council advised to benefit from the offers of scholarships The POC was signed at OCERT, Oman, on COMSATS Secretariat to continue with made by the Centres of Excellence enlisted 2nd November 2017 by Executive Director the efforts for inducting more Centres of below. COMSATS, Dr. S. M. Junaid Zaidi and Excellence in order to expand and enhance Eng. Badar Al Salehi, Director General, the technical and scientific activities of i. CIIT-Pakistan: 100 Postgraduates OCERT. COMSATS’ Network. In this regard, the scholarships & 10 postdoctoral Mohammed V University (Morocco) was fellowships annually; Upon the recommendation of ICCES- engaged. Moreover, the Tianjin Institute ii. ICCBS-Pakistan: 10 PhD scholarships/ China, a four-member delegation of of Industrial Biotechnology (China) postdoctoral fellowships annually; COMSATS visited China with the view to has been nominated by the Chinese iii. NRC-Egypt: 05 PhD scholarships/ exploring funding opportunities for the Ministry of Science and Technology for postdoctoral fellowships annually; initiation of new projects under China’s induction in COMSATS’ Network of iv. ICCES-China: 05 PhD scholarships/ One Belt and One Road (OBOR) Initiative. Centers of Excellence. A major decision postdoctoral fellowships; The meetings with Chinese officials of Coordinating Council was induction v. BCSIR-Bangladesh: 01 postdoctoral proved fruitful for strengthening close of Al-Quds University (Palestine) in fellowship; cooperation in different areas of science COMSATS’ Network as a Centre of vi. KazNU-Kazakhstan: 05 PhD and technology for mutual benefit. Excellence. COMSATS Secretariat issued scholarships/postdoctoral fellowships the certificate of membership to Al-Quds annually. An important outcome of the meeting University on 30th May 2017 (reported was a consensus on regularly organizing earlier). The Coordinating Council advised workshops on repair and maintenance of COMSATS Secretariat to establish new scientific instruments to enhance Science Furthermore, the Coordinating Council Centres of Excellence to promote research and Technology capacity. The latest effort desired to activate and strengthen other and training in cutting-edge areas of made in this regard was organization of organs of COMSATS, i.e., the Consultative Science and Technology and to devise National Training Workshop on Repair Committee and Technical Advisory strategies for supporting S&T national and Maintenance of Scientific Engineering Committee by holding regular meetings development plans (NDPs) of COMSATS’ Equipment on 2nd-6th October 2017 at to facilitate networking and collaboration Member States to accelerate the pace KazNU, Almaty, Kazakhstan. About 60 among different Member States and of socio-economic development in the individuals, including senior scientists, Centres of Excellence. Accordingly, the South. COMSATS’ officials also held a engineers and technicians from various 2nd meeting of TAC was held in Trieste, number of meetings with senior officials research and academic institutions of Italy, on 15th November 2017. The next of various International organizations Kazakhstan, including Almaty, were Consultative Committee meeting is such as European Union, British Council, trained during the Workshop. expected to be held during 2018 to be The World Academy of Sciences and hosted by COMSATS’ focal point in International Centre for Theoretical The Coordinating Council urged Member Turkey. Physics, to work together for strengthening States and Centres of Excellence to the existing Centres of Excellence and enhance collaboration and facilitate real The Council encouraged all Centres of upgrading them to meet international networking among Centres of Excellence. Excellence to benefit from the scholarship/ standards. The Council recommended increasing fellowship programmes of TWAS. In the pace of efforts to improve the S&T

Annual Report 2017 19 capacity and the international status of International Thematic Research Groups knowledge to address their development COMSATS affiliated Centres of Excellence. (ITRGs). CSIR-Ghana and TIRDO- challenges in accordance with their values As a follow-up, COMSATS Secretariat Tanzania expressed their willingness to and needs. One of the key challenges for encouraged and facilitated visits including join COMSATS’ ITRG on ‘Climate Change COMSATS is ensuring financial stability that of Prof. Dr. Moiz-ud-Din Khan, and Environmental Protection’ for which for technical activities and programmes Chairperson of Mathematics Department, they were requested to nominate suitable in member countries and ensure CIIT, to NMC, Nigeria (10th-14th scientists to join the respective ITRG. timely receipt of annual membership September 2017). Moreover, UCAD-Senegal offered to lead contributions. COMSATS relies on the the proposed ITRG on ‘Public Health’. In voluntary contributions by governments Moreover, the following visits are being this regard, UCAD has been requested to of the member countries, which are planned: share a concept paper on ‘Public Health maintained as country-wise Trust Fund. ITRG’. • Visit of Prof. Dr. Iqbal Choudhary, During the year 2017, COMSATS Director, ICCBS to ICCES, China (in As a result of strong pursuit of the matter Secretariat pursued the requests to the first week of January 2018); at COMSATS Secretariat, COMSATS’ member countries for regularizing their • Visit of Prof. Dr. G. M. Mutanov, Centres of Excellence identified various Annual Membership Contributions Rector KazNU to CIIT (February areas of common interest and offered through correspondence and interactions 2018); to collaborate with other Centres of with the focal points in member countries. • Visit of Dr. S. M. Junaid Zaidi, Excellence. COMSATS Secretariat has The countries approached in this regard Executive Director COMSATS to taken up the matter with the Heads and included: Egypt, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Iran, KazNU (February-March 2018); Liaison Officers of respective Centres of Nigeria, Tunisia, Tanzania, and Sudan. • Visit of NRC delegation to CIIT, Excellence. Moreover, during the visits of COMSATS’ ICCBS and COMSATS Secretariat officials to Ghana, Nigeria, and (March 2018); and Disbursement of Annual Kazakhstan, COMSATS’ Focal Points in • Visit of Dr. G.A.S. Premakumara, Membership Contribution (AMC) these countries were urged to make their Director ITI to CIIT and ICCBS AMC. As a result, COMSATS received (February 2018). COMSATS Trust Fund was created to AMC from four Member States: China foster self-reliance of its member countries (US $ 20,000), Pakistan (US $ 20,000), The Coordinating Council appreciated the through enhancing their capacity and Kazakhstan (US $ 20,000) and Sudan (US progress reports presented by the Group exchange of scientific and technical $ 3,000) (Section 10). Leaders/representatives of Lead Centres of

20 Annual Report 2017 Section 3: Activities of COMSATS Centres of Excellence

• Al-Farabi Kazakh National University (KazNU), Kazakhstan 22

• Al Quds University (AQU), Palestine 24

• Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR), Bangladesh 25

• COMSATS Institute of Information Technology (CIIT), Pakistan 27

• Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Ghana 29

• EMBRAPA Agrobiologia, Brazil 30

• Industrial Research and Consultancy Centre (IRCC), Sudan 31

• Industrial Technology Institute (ITI), Sri Lanka 32

• International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS), Pakistan 34

• International Center for Climate and Environment Sciences (ICCES), China 37

• National Mathematical Centre (NMC), Nigeria 41

• National Research Centre (NRC), Egypt 42

• Royal Scientific Society (RSS), Jordan 43

• Tanzania Industrial Research and Development Organization (TIRDO), Tanzania 45

• TUBITAK Marmara Research Centre (MAM), Turkey 47

• University Cheikh Anta Diop (UCAD), Senegal 50

• Water Research and Technologies Centre (CERTE), Tunisia 50

Annual Report 2017 21 Activities of COMSATS’ Centres of Excellence

A group of twenty-one R&D institutions from different developing countries, predominantly COMSATS’ Member States, is affiliated with COMSATS constituting its Network of International S&T Centres of Excellence. The Network Members serve as COMSATS’ technical resources for South-South cooperation, in line with their mandates for programmes of scientific research and development.

This section presents an overview of These reports are from: Al-Farabi KazNU, Pakistan; ICCES, China; RSS, Jordan; various undertakings of COMSATS’ Kazakhstan, Al-Quds University, Palestine; TIRDO, Tanzania; TUBITAK MAM, Centres of Excellence during 2017, which BCSIR, Bangladesh; CIIT, Pakistan; CSIR, Turkey; UCAD, Senegal; and CERTE, provides an insight into their potential Ghana; Embrapa Agrobiologia, Brazil; Tunisia. in respective fields of specialization. IRCC, Sudan; ITI, Sri Lanka; ICCBS,

Prof. Dr. Tlekkabul Ramazanov It is a matter of honor for Al-Farabi Kazakh National University (KazNU) to be Vice-Rector for Research & able to round up our practices as a COMSATS Center of Excellence. Innovations Al-Farabi KazNU In the past year, Al-Farabi KazNU’s cooperation with COMSATS has strengthened significantly. In October 2017, we jointly organized a workshop on Repair and Maintenance of Scientific Equipment. In December, with the help of ISESCO and INIT, KazNU and COMSATS, we were able to organize an international workshop on Internet Security. Moreover, our scientists were granted scholarships, a rare opportunity that led to strengthening and reaffirming our fruitful partnership. Cooperative efforts are now underway to strengthen collaboration of the scientific research structures with foreign partners, and of researchers that are already associated with COMSATS with new people and expose them to new ways of learning. These steps in turn hold great significance for further cultural and economic development of the countries of the South.

Pending the 21st meeting of COMSATS Coordinating Council and 3rd TAC Meeting in KazNU in April 2018, we are looking forward to future successful partnerships under the overarching goal.

Al-Farabi Kazakh National Capacity Building Events (Egypt); UNISZA (Malaysia); Al-Arish University (KazNU), Kazakhstan University (Egypt); and the Islamic Culture Online Conference on International Nur-Mubarak University (Kazakhstan). Being the oldest Scientific-Methodical Apart from KazNU, the event also had classical university participation from Ablai Khan University in Kazakhstan, On February 28, 2017, an International of International Relations and L.N. the Al-Farabi Scientific Methodical Online conference Gumilyov Eurasian National University. Kazakh National was held at Department of the Faculty of University (KazNU) Oriental Studies, Al-Farabi Kazakhstan Collaborations with International has a mission to National University (KazNU), Kazakhstan. Organizations integrate basic and The conference was entitled “New applied research for involvement in global Trends in the Development of Arabic Cooperation Agreement with CERN educational space. Studies”. The conference was attended by professors from Al-Azhar University A working session with the delegation of

22 Annual Report 2017 the University into a research University of international level, which carries out fundamental and applied research in the field of nuclear science and technology.

An outcome of the meeting was signing of a cooperation agreement aimed at joint activities in educational, scientific, and technical fields.

Treaty ‘Green Bridge through Generations’ with Russian Universities

The Universities of Russia and Kazakhstan signed a treaty titled ‘Green bridge th November the European Organization for Nuclear physics, astrophysics, nuclear medicine, through generations’ on 9 2017. From Kazakhstan the agreement Research (CERN) took place at Al-Farabi energy, and geology. More recently, was signed by al-Farabi KazNU, while KazNU, on 13th September 2017. Earlier, young scientists from the University from Russia, B. N. Yeltsin Ural Federal the delegation of KazNU scientists had were awarded fellowships at CERN who University signed. With the signing of visited CERN and following this meeting participated in the summer school and this treaty, all universities of Russia and an agreement was reached on matters of learned programming in accelerator Kazakhstan have agreed on development mutual collaboration. physics. of green technologies and training of highly qualified specialists, and conducting During the meeting, Prof. Galym Mutanov, Mr. Tadeusz Kurtyka of CERN said that scientific research. The treaty will help Rector KazNU, noted that the University the organization is interested in joint combine efforts of the universities of the has great potential to further expand areas activities with KazNU as it has been two countries. of cooperation in the fields of nuclear implementing a programme to transform

Annual Report 2017 23 Prof. Imad Abu Kishek We would like to acknowledge COMSATS’ efforts that have been President AQU invested in the development of science and research in the world. We are very proud to be a part of COMSATS and all the countries that are participating. The fact that we are representing Palestine in COMSATS is an accomplishment we hope will be fruitful.

We at Al-Quds University here in Jerusalem would like to recognise COMSATS and greet the efforts of everyone in supporting us here in Palestine and in Jerusalem. We look forward to making Jerusalem a lighthouse for knowledge and science with the help of COMSATS.

Please accept our kindest regards and gratitude.

Al-Quds University (AQU), Palestine

Al-Quds University, Palestine, joined COMSATS Network of Centres of Excellence as its 21st member during the 20th Coordinating Council Meeting. Founded in 1984, the main campus of the University is located in Abu Dis with four other campuses in different cities. The University provides higher education and community services. economic situation of the university. For Thirdly, the programs that are being At Al-Quds University in recent years has this reason a financial plan was planned designed will also help provide job been working hard towards improving to achieve stability in the university in the opportunities for the university students, the concept of a modern university, face of obstacles that higher education which will eventually help the economic one that is picking up speed with ever- institutions all over the region are empowerment of the Palestinian people. growing knowledge, scientific research and struggling with. Most of the Palestinian population is technology. The University believes that young -- under 30 years old. This is academic programs must be redesigned For the second step, a concept developed the reason why Al-Quds University has and redeveloped to match this very rapid that matches the needs of the market constructed a network of 120 cells that knowledge production. with academic programs and courses work on the commercialization of medical was developed through workshops that and scientific research. To accomplish Over the past three years the University enable students to develop skills and this mission, the Al-Quds Incubator for has been working on three steps. The expertise that are needed in the Palestinian technology and entrepreneurship has been first step was focused on coping with the workplace. built. The incubator will translate the ideas

24 Annual Report 2017 and research developed by the research international conference titled “Bridging Several prominent figures from the centers into productive projects and will the future: the Women’s perspective” on Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Italy, also catalyse researchers and students to 2nd December 2017 in Naples, Italy. The Tunisia, Greece, Lebanon, Morocco, find funding to complete their creations. conference, which was a culmination of a and Jordan attended the conference. strategic partnership agreement signed last President Abu Kishek’s expressed Al- Joint Conference with eCampus month between the two universities, was Quds University’s desire to host the next University-Italy opened by Abu Kishek, President Al-Quds conference at the university in Jerusalem, University, and Prof. Imad Abu Kishek, to continue the dialogue on issues of global Al-Quds University, and eCampus President eCampus. concern. University, Italy, co-organized the first

Mr. Md. Faruque Ahmed It gives me great pleasure to present COMSATS’ Annual Report Chairman BCSIR 2017. As a member of COMSATS Coordinating Council, I am humbled to read through the activities and achievement of COMSATS and its Centres of Excellence. BCSIR is being benefited from COMSATS support through training, conferences and research collaboration.

I am grateful to be a part of the Network of 21 Centres of Excellences and I assure that my major task is to strengthen the bond with these centres.

I look forward to the coming year and continued success of COMSATS.

Bangladesh Council of Scientific Research has been carried out in different SL Name of project Number areas. A summary of the ongoing research and Industrial Research (BCSIR), 1 R&D project 172 projects is given in the table below. Bangladesh 2 Annual Development 3 During the reporting period, BCSIR Program Bangladesh Council published 121 research papers in different 3 Special Allocation Project 9 of Scientific journals. For commercialization, 21 4 Technical Assistance 1 and Industrial technologies were developed and 11 Project Research (BCSIR) patents obtained. is a non-profit 5 Climate Change Project 1 multidisciplinary technical sessions, was also arranged. public-sector Events research organization. The main task of During 2017, BCSIR organized 72 national Other events held during 2017 include: BCSIR is to foster the R&D sector in the and international seminars, symposia country. and conferences on R&D. Eight day-long • Symposium on ‘Environmental workshops in collaboration with relevant Chemistry for Securing Water In 2017, BCSIR made progress on th stakeholders were organized by different Quality’ (30 July 2017). The event various fronts including development of institutes of BCSIR. A science fair, with was attended by 200 local and foreign laboratories, and induction of scientists.

Annual Report 2017 25 experts. Eighty-nine research articles Laboratories, Dhaka. The exhibition Training and Academic Activity on water pollution and purification was attended by entrepreneurs from were presented. pulp, paper and allied industries of BCSIR provided training to 423 • Exhibition on Science and Technology Bangladesh. Participants of the event professionals on different scientific and a seminar on “Biomass for deliberated on current research and equipments. In 2017, scientists of BCSIR Greener World” (19th-21st January development in related fields, as well supervised 182 M.Sc theses of students 2017) was organized by Pulp and as its applications and contributions from different universities. Paper Research Division of BCSIR towards the industries.

26 Annual Report 2017 Prof. Dr. Raheel Qamar World-class enterprises consist of some fundamental characteristics: a Rector CIIT strategic focus, continuous improvement and a collaborative ethos, to name a few. These words aptly define COMSATS, a distinguished nexus of the Centres of Excellence, of which CIIT is proud to be a leading example.

This reporting period has special meaning as it is now a year since the helmsmanship of CIIT was passed on from the ablest hands of Dr. S. M. Junaid Zaidi (H.I, S.I) to me. And thanks to the Almighty, we have adeptly sustained the tremendous growth that remains a hallmark of CIIT.

By progressively moving up the international rankings, CIIT continues to remain Pakistan’s leading provider of higher education. In the rankings released by Times Higher Education, CIIT sits among the 601- 800 World Universities; top 200 Young Universities and at number 125 in Asia, the last one having been released on 7th February 2018.

Success brings joy but also a desire to set higher goals. Reflective of the vision of the Executive Director COMSATS, CIIT now resolves to enhance its cooperation with all other COMSATS Centres of Excellence to create synergies for sustainable development and remain true to the fundamental nature of this world-class enterprise.

th COMSATS Institute of Key Statistics of CIIT 2017 been placed 137 in the prestigious TIMES Higher Education (THE) BRICS Information Technology (CIIT) Students 34, 825 & Emerging Economies Rankings for Graduates 49,300 2017, while in 2018 ranking by the Times COMSATS Produced Institute of Higher Education Engineering and Faculty 3,200 including 1,125 Information Technology, CIIT is among the best 300- PhD (27% females 73% 400 universities of the world. Technology (CIIT) male) has achieved Staff 3,383 phenomenal In 2017, a total of 127 research projects, growth since its Departments 19 117 travel grant applications and 7 inception in 1998. CIIT is dedicated to Laboratories 270 seminar/ workshops were approved. CIIT filed 11 US, one UK and four Pakistani advancement of learning and extending Impact factor 1,860 the frontiers of knowledge. Its mission Publications patents based on applied research by its supports and promotes knowledge faculty while four patents (3 US and 1 creation in academically diverse disciplines According to the 2016 rankings by the Pakistani) have been accepted. and to the application of this knowledge to Higher Education Commission (HEC), benefit the people. Pakistan, CIIT stands at number three International Students in General Category and sixth among all universities in Pakistan. CIIT has During 2017, a total of 45 international students (including 26 Ph.Ds, 10

Annual Report 2017 27 Postdoctoral, 6 MS, 2 Undergraduate and 1 Senior Visiting Researcher) were enrolled. The foreign students belonged to 12 countries, i.e., Afghanistan, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Iraq, Iran, Jordan, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Syria, Tanzania and USA. They were enrolled in academic programmes on Software Engineering, Mathematics, Chemistry, Computer Science, Meteorology, Environmental Sciences, Physics, Pharmacy, International Relations and Bio-sciences.

Interactions with Institutions from the North and the South

As an active collaborator with foreign institutions, CIIT had a number of interactions with foreign institutions and organizations. As a result of visit by various delegations, 15 national and 5 international Memoranda of Understanding were signed.

Some important visitors to CIIT include:

• H.E. Mr. Suchart Liengsaengthong, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand in Pakistan and Ms. Marisa, Counselor at Royal Thai Embassy in • A delegation from Information • Prof. Dr. Ali Mohammed B. Hawsawi, Pakistan ( January 5, 2017) Technology Industry of Japan (July 24, Cultural Attaché, Kingdom of Saudi • Five Vice Chancellors from Afghani 2017) Arabia in Pakistan and Director Universities, namely Kabul Medical • Mr. Mehmet Mert Kaleci, Specialist/ (Academic Departments) Lafi Snehat University, Herat University, Balkh Coordinator, International Office, AlMutairi, and Officer University University, Nangarhar University, and Duzce University, Turkey (July 4-10, Relations, Abdul Waheed Mirza Kandahar University (February 9, 2017) (November 8, 2017) 2017) • A delegation from China Association • A delegation of Tsinghua-Berkeley • A delegation from France visited CIIT of Higher Education (CAHE) (July 18, Shenzhen Institute (TBSI) (November (March 15, 2017) 2017) 28, 2017) • A delegation from China University • A delegation led by Mr. Yaya Sireh • The Ambassador of Yemen, H.E of Petroleum Beijing (CUPB) ( April Jallow, Vice Minister/Permanent Mohammed Alashabi (November 29, 20, 2017) Secretary, Ministry of Higher 2017) • A delegation from Macquarie Education, Research, Science and University, Australia (April 25, 2017) Technology from The Gambia Visitors from international organizations • A delegation from higher education (September 14, 2017) included: institutions of the UK (April 24-26, • The Ambassador of the Federal 2017) Republic of Somalia, H.E. Khadija • The Head of World Learning (WL), • Mr. Mahmoud Oglah Baniata, Mohamed Almakhzoumi (October 2, Ms. Nadya Karim Shaw (January 12, Jordanian Cultural Counsellor (May 2017) 2017) 23, 2017) • A delegation of from University of • The Country Representative of • A delegation from Hainan Tropical Western Australia (UWA) (October the World Bank in Pakistan, Mr. Ocean University, China (May 9, 26, 2017) Patchamuthu Illangovan (May 11, 2017)

28 Annual Report 2017 IT’ (October 13, 2017) • Seminar on ‘Role of Leadership in the Development of Youth’ (December 7, 2017) • 15th Frontiers of Information Technology Conference (FIT-2017) (December 17-22, 2017)

Activities of Office of Research Innovation and Commercialization (ORIC)

In 2017, the Professional Development department of CIIT’s Office of Research 2017) Capacity Building Events Innovation and Commercialization, • Eng. Wassfi Hassan El-Sreihin, successfully organized 10 workshops and Secretary General, African – Asian Some events that took place at CIIT during trained more than 150 professionals from Rural Development Organization the reporting period are as follows: universities and well reputed organizations (AARDO) (December 11, 2017) across Pakistan. • Workshop on ‘Building High Impact Awards and Achievements Communication Skills’ (January 23- 24, 2017); Council for Scientific and • A Poster Presentation made by the • Workshop on ‘How to write a Industrial Research (CSIR), students of Department of Physics, Research Proposal’ (February 23, Ghana CIIT, at the International Conference 2017); on Mathematics and Physics • Talk on ‘How to Lead a Successful The Council for (February 14-16, 2017) won first prize. Career’, by Vice President and Chief Scientific and • Dr. Syed M Nurulain, Associate Human Resources Officer Telenor Industrial Research Professor, Department of Biosciences, (February 17, 2017); (CSIR) focuses was selected as Science Mentor/ • Webinar on ‘Simulating the on accelerating Supervisor in April 2017 for STFS optimization of energy consumption socio-economic Students under the project “Science in homes’ in Collaboration with development in Talent Farming Scheme of Pakistan Belarus State University of Informatics Ghana through utilization of science and Science Foundation (STFS) for 1800 and Radioelectronics (BSUIR) technology. The Council formulates and Young Students, Phase-I. (February 15, 2017); implements government policies regarding • A paper by Dr. Farzana Ashraf, • International Seminar on S&T based research and development. Assistant Professor, Department ‘Environmental and Climate Change’ of Humanities, CIIT, was awarded (May 9, 2017); Research and Development 3rd prize among 35 papers in • 10th Technomoot consisting of International Conference on Health seminars, symposia, and exhibitions Four New Yam Varieties Psychology: Issues and Challenges (May 9-10, 2017) (May 14, 2017). • Seminar on Robotics (May 12, 2017); The Crops Research Institute (CRI) of • Dr. Abdul Jawad, Assistant • 9th South Asian International the Council for Scientific and Industrial Professor, and Dr. Shamaila Rani, Conference on ‘Today’s vision, Research (CSIR) released four new yam Assistant Professor, Department of tomorrow’s reality’ (August 23- 25, varieties, namely Afaase Adepa, Afaase Mathematics, CIIT, secured 6th and 2017) Hoodenfoo, Afaase Biri and Afaase 16th positions, respectively in the • International conference on Soanyinto. The new varieties, which have category of Best Young Researchers/ Environmentally Sustainable been tried and evaluated for over 10 years, Scientists (under 40 years of age) in Development 2017 (August 26-27, are said to be very nutritious, high yielding Mathematical Sciences announced in 2017) and pest resistant, can be used for ice- June 2017 by the Pakistan Council for • Sustainable Urban Development-SUD cream and noodles and safe for diabetic Science and Technology. 2017 (October 25-26, 2017) patients. During an event held in Kumasi • Seminar on ‘The changing world of on April 18, 2017, the new varieties were

Annual Report 2017 29 EMBRAPA Agrobiologia, Brazil

The research in EMBRAPA Agrobiologia during 2017 focused on recovery of degraded land, generation of new crop varieties, and enhancement of inoculation methods.

Capacity-Building Events

EMBRAPA Agrobiologia organized a officially introduced by Dr. Emmanuel Boateng, inaugurated the Governing number of capacity-building activities Otoo, who led the 11-member team that Council for Scientific and Industrial during the year 2017. These include: worked on these varieties of yam. Research (CSIR), Accra, Ghana, on 18th July 2017. On the occasion, the Minister • A field day on cowpea for the farmers Dr. Otoo said that the research conducted said that the Government of Ghana of Paty do Alferes was organized on new varieties had shown that they is committed to developing scientific in collaboration with Pesagro-Rio, could be used as substitute for white yam, research. Emater-Rio, the Cedro Institute, which is widely consumed in the country. Institute for Community Development Moreover, these could also be used in Prof. Frimpong Boateng expressed that and Action (Idaco), the Rio de Janeiro other food products, such as ice-cream and the Government consider the scientific Biological Farmers Association noodles, and even in the cosmetic industry research sector as an integral part of the (Abio), and the Rio Rural Program of for body cream. According to him, there is plans for technologically-driven Ghana the City Hall of Paty do Alferes. The a high market- demand for these varieties beyond aid vision. He underscored the day was organized to educate the local in the sub-region including Burkina Faso, need for all stakeholders, particularly, the farmers about benefits of inoculated Mali, Niger and Cote d’Ivoire . CSIR, to position themselves for helping varieties of cowpea. the country to take its economy beyond • EMBRAPA Academic Hackathon Institutional Capacity Building dependence on aid. He also announced was held in Seropédica, Rio de setting up of a science innovation center at Janeiro on 19th October 2017. During Inauguration of Governing Council of CSIR with super computers. this event, researchers produced CSIR a mobile application that could The center would be made accessible to all guide farmers in choosing species, The Minister of Environment, Science, universities and research institutions. suitable for environment restoration. Technology and Innovation (MESTI), Another mobile application having Ghana, Professor Kwabena Frimpong an encyclopedia of medicinal plants

30 Annual Report 2017 and their respective uses was also 10, 2017, which besides gathering farmers. The researchers were briefed on prepared. A third team of scientists microorganisms of recognized industrial value of inoculant production prepared a system, which can indicate agricultural importance, offer various in the country, through visits to inoculant native and exotic species of a certain services and activities related to production industries in Brazil. region. bioprocesses, such as production and • 5th Global meeting of Alliance for analysis of microbial inoculants. Industrial Research and Mountains at the United Nations • A research group of EMBRAPA Consultancy Centre (IRCC), Headquarters for Agriculture was Agrobiologia on food security held on 12th December 2017 in Rome. was founded on 1st July 2017. The Sudan During the meeting, the Mountains group aims to initiate process of 2018 was launched for protection of documentation of technical videos, IRCC, Sudan, land. knowledge and forms of organization being the major • Two courses were conducted on that facilitate agro-ecological research institution collection and management of forest transition. in Sudan, caters to seeds in conservation units. As a result the needs of the country’s industrial of these courses, 31 technicians were South-South Cooperation received training to support work on sector. The centre is involved in research, forest seeds. Researchers from Ghana visited technology, and consultancy; including EMBRAPA Agrobiologia, Brazil on industrial information, industrial process Research and Development November 27, 2017, to learn about modeling, product design, economic the process of inoculant production and feasibility studies, technology and Some of the research activities carried out and benefits of Rhizobium inoculant production line design, and quality in the reporting period were: technology for small-holding vegetable assurance. • A study on the use of material as cheap as cardboard to control weeds by crowning, pizza boxes were used for recovery of pastures. • Development of bacterial inoculant that promotes biological, nitrogen fixation resulting increase in cowpea productivity by up to 33 percent. This is much higher than the productivity using commercial inoculants. With this inoculant, farmers can produce their own nodulated roots. • The EMBARAPA Agrobiologia’s Johanna Döbereiner Biological Resource Center (CRB-JD) was inaugurated in Rio de Janeiro on May

Annual Report 2017 31 Research and Development Cleaner Production in Sudan. IRCC had Development Complex at Malabe submitted a proposal for establishing resumed their operations in January Soybean Processing Pilot Plant Sudan Centre for Cleaner Production 2017. (SCCP) in December 2014 to ensure • A joint research project with the IRCC established and operationalized continuous implementation of an Medical Faculty of University of a Soybean Processing Pilot Plant at integrated preventive environmental Sri Jayawardanepura, Sri Lanka, on its premises in collaboration with the strategy for processing products and bioactivity studies of Eclipta prostrate United Nations Industrial Development services. The aim of the cooperation is to and another project carrying out Organization (UNIDO), the Government increase eco-efficiency and reduce risks to clinical trials on Coccinia grandis of Japan and Sudan’s Ministry of Industry. human and environment. with Medical Faculty, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka, also commenced The plant is a part of a project ‘Supporting The visit concluded with an Agreement during the year. Food and Nutrition Security in Sudan on the Resource of Efficiency and Cleaner • A project to develop a National through Soybean’. The project addresses Production in the Republic of Sudan. Mercury Release Inventory for local production and processing of the industrial sector was also soybean in Sudan, and is in line with Industrial Technology Institute initiated during January 2017 with the national priorities reflected in the (ITI), Sri Lanka an awareness programme for the ongoing Country Program implemented Industry. by UNIDO. The project selected and The Industrial • Discussions were held with the supported up to 30 small-holding farmers Technology Ministry of Health, Nutrition and to cultivate and produce local soybean Institute (ITI), Sri Indigenous Medicine, Sri Lanka, on varieties. Lanka, comprises developing specialized nutritious food of research and for the management of Moderately Moreover, IRCC prepared economic development Acute Malnutrition (MAM) in feasibility studies for soybean products divisions, and children between 6 -59 months of age. in the Sudanese Market. The Centre is technical services • A study on air quality and noise also interested in looking forward to divisions. The Institute conducts & vibration impacts for an cooperating with COMSATS for the multidisciplinary scientific and industrial environmental impact assessment programme. research on technology-transfer for rapid in development activities and industrial development. infrastructure facilities at the International Collaborations reclaimed land area for the proposed Colombo Port City was submitted to Research and Development New Partnership Programme between relevant authorities. • Fourteen research articles were IRCC-Sudan and UNIDO • The two major research sections of published in refereed journals and a the ITI, Sri Lanka, Food Technology patent application was submitted. A delegation from the UNIDO, Vienna, Section and Herbal Technology visited IRCC on 16th December 2017 Section, which shifted from Colombo in connection with R&D cooperation in premises to Modern Research and

32 Annual Report 2017 Technical Services Capacity-Building Events ITI scientists/engineers and technologists participated in a number of events to • On the request of the Ministry of Following workshop and seminars were enhance their knowledge and share their Education, ITI tested and issued a conducted during the reporting period: experience and expertise. These events report on quality of the paper and pertaining to relevant areas of research printing ink used in text books issued • Total Solution for Trace Level were held in Japan, Iran, Italy, Pakistan, by the Ministry to students. Analysis: using AAS, GC, GC-MS, LC, Indonesia, China, Egypt, South Korea, • On the request of Consumer Affairs LC-MS/MS and ICP-MS (15th – 17th Singapore, Philippines, Vietnam, and Authority of Sri Lanka, ITI tested the February 2017); Thailand. rice samples for possible toxic plastic • Certificate course on Herbal Drugs & consumption, and issued a test report. Cosmetic Value Addition Techniques • Sakura programme for government • A Sri Lanka Accreditation Board audit (February – April 2017); officials organized by Japan Science & was conducted to obtain accreditation • Training program on Dehydration of Technology Agency, Japan (19th - 25th for analysis of pesticides residues, Fruits, Vegetables, Culinary Herbs and February 2017); Sudan dyes, Histamine and antibiotic Spices (29th March 2017); • Seminar on chemical weapons residues by GCMS-MS techniques • Workshop on Troubleshooting convention and chemical safety & and heavy metals in water and in Cottage based Herbal Drugs & security management for member inorganic fertilizers by ICP/MS at the Cosmetics Industries (18th May 2017); states of the OPCW in the Asian newly established Residual Analysis • Exhibition and Sale to Empower Region organized by National Laboratory. Cottage Level Entrepreneurs (18th May committee for the prohibition of • ITI was awarded a project to monitor 2017); weapons, Iran (21st – 23rd February noise, vibration, air and water quality • Hands-on Training on Advanced 2017); during the expansion of Bandaranaike Scientific Instruments for Material • Application Training workshop on International Airport and design the Characterization (18th-19th May 2017); Milestone Neos - GR Microwave central express way noise barriers • Awareness Programme for the System organized by M/S Milestone, • Collaboration with Bandarawela Stakeholders on Residue Analysis (30th Italy (27th – 29th March 2017); Agricultural Research Centre and May 2017); • 3rd International conference on Subaragamuwa University was • Awareness programme on “Disposing Agriculture, Food Security and Bio initiated to carry out a Market Basket Industrial and commercial garbage” Technology organized by Commission Survey on vegetables and fruits. (26th September 2017); on Science and Technology for • A study to investigate the presence of • The 3rd ITI Biennial Research Sustainable Development in the South heavy metal in rice was initiated with Symposium under the theme (COMSATS), Pakistan (26th – 27th Rice Research Institute in Batalagoda. “Energizing Economic Growth April 2017); through Science, Technology and • 5th National Laboratory Equipment Innovation (16th-17th November 2017). & chemical Exhibition Iran Lab Expo

Annual Report 2017 33 projects during the year.

i. A collaborative research with Korean Food Research Institute on Biological activity evaluation system assistant project for nutraceutical applications of Sri Lankan native plants and ii. An Indo – Sri Lanka Research Programme on Studies in surface sterilization of spices using non- thermal processes.

A project in collaboration with Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstait, Germany, and other institutes of National Quality Infrastructure in Sri Lanka (SLS, SLAB) was initiated. The aim of the collaboration was to improve the quality of 2017, Iran (24th – 27th April 2017); Biotechnology : Driving value infrastructure in the country and enhance • 3rd Meeting of Medicinal Plants addition and beneficiation” (22nd -24th the use of quality assurance services based focal points of Indian Ocean Rim August 2017); on international practices in the Short and Association (IORA) member states, • International workshop on Medium Enterprises (SME) located in the the IORA Regional Centre for Science “Development and Application of Northern region of the Island. and Technology Transfer (IORA Solar Technologies and Products”, th th th th RCSTT), Indonesia (10 – 12 May China (28 August – 16 September International Center for Chemical 2017); 2017); • International Training Workshop • 2017 International Laboratory and Biological Sciences (ICCBS), on Advanced Technology of Herbal Designing Conference, Spain (20th – Pakistan Medicine for South and South East 22nd September 2017); Asia, China (11th – 30th June 2017); • IAEA/RCA Regional Coordination The International • 20th Meeting of COMSATS Meeting, Philippines (2nd – 6th October Center for Chemical Coordinating Council, Cairo, Egypt 2017); and Biological (14th – 15th May 2017); • Seminar on Sustainable Development Sciences (ICCBS), • 2017 South and Southeast Asia & Management of Rattan resources Pakistan, is one Technology Transfer Matchmaking for “Belt and Road Countries, China of the leading Conference, Kunming, China (12th – (11th – 13th October 2017); academic research 16th June 2017); • Programme to Develop Human institutions in • 2017 Seminar on B and R Governance Resources for enhancing Collaborative Pakistan with a strong international Corporation for China, Southeast Science & Technology Research with standing. ICCBS has been a UNESCO Asia, China (5th - 18th June 2017); Japan, Japan (4th – 11th November Category II institution since 2015. • WIPO Regional Conference for 2017); The Center also serves as the Centre Presidents/ Vice Presidents and • Program on “Working with Pathogen of Excellence of COMSATS, TWAS, Technology Transfer Officers of Genoms”, Vietnam (12th – 17th WAITRO, OIC and UNCSTD. University & Research Institutions November 2017); on creating and enabling intellectual • 11th International Olympaid on ICCBS focuses on: research and training property environment for technology Astronomy ad Astrophysics, Thailand for producing high quality human development, management and (12th–21st November 2017). resource; and extending diagnostic, commercialization, South Korea (21st analytical and clinical testing services to – 23rd June 2017); Collaborations with International local and regional clients from private and • Workshop on Production of Certified Organizations public sectors. Reference Materials, Singapore (2nd – th 25 August 2017); The R&D sections initiated two nd • 2 Training workshop on “Industrial international collaborative research

34 Annual Report 2017 Awards and Achievements R&D Centre in Pharmaceuticals South-South Cooperation

• Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary, A Research and Development Centre MoU with SKLCMEMR, China Director ICCBS, was appointed as a of the pharmaceutical company, The ICCBS inked a Memorandum of member of the National Commission Searle Company Limited (TSCL) was Understanding (MoU) with the State for Science and Technology (NCST) inaugurated at ICCBS Technology Park Key Laboratory for Chemistry and for a period of three years in and Technology Incubation Centre. The Molecular Engineering of Medicinal recognition of his scientific research center will help accelerate the development Resources (SKLCMEMR), Guangxi and services in the field of chemistry. and release of national innovative Normal University, China in a ceremony NCST, the highest scientific advisory pharmaceuticals to the market. held at Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular commission to Pakistan, focuses on Medicine and Drug Research (PCMD) of promoting scientific and technological Accreditations and Certifications ICCBS, on 27th November 2017. Through capacity building for sustainable this agreement, the signing institutions economic growth of Pakistan. ISO 17043:2010 Accreditation for would make joint efforts for establishment • The American Heart Association IAC, ICCBS: The Industrial Analytical of a Sino-Pakistan Joint International (AHA), United States, awarded Center (IAC), ICCBS, Karachi, has been Laboratory for Chemistry and Molecular “Paul Dudley White International awarded the ‘certificate of accreditation’ by Engineering of Medicinal Resources at Science Team Award” to five Pakistani Pakistan National Accreditation Council ICCBS. scientists for their poster presentation (PNAC), Federal Ministry of Science and in a scientific session 2017 held in Technology, on June 10, 2017, whereby the MoU with Beijing Institute of Genomics California from 11 to 15 November Centre was granted the ISO 17043:2010 2017. Three of these scientists belong accreditation. The IAC offers a range of During the reporting period, ICCBS to ICCBS. professional analytical and consultancy signed an MoU with Beijing Institute of services to the industrial, private and Genomics (BIG) of Chinese Academy Institutional Capacity-Building public sectors. More than 500 industries in of Sciences (CAS), China. Both the Pakistan are benefiting from the analytical institutions aim to work together in the Sino-Pakistan Ethno-medicine Research and consultancy services of the IAC. fields of Life Sciences, and strengthen Center their relationship for the benefit of their ISO 9001:2015 Standard Certification: students and researchers. Pakistan’s first Sino-Pakistan ICCBS acquired the ISO 9001:2015 for its Ethnomedicine Research Center, all five research units, according to which Cooperation Agreement with National established at ICCBS, was inaugurated on Bureau Veritas Certification Pakistan Economic and Technical Development 10th February 2017. It is a joint venture to Branch has certified the management Zone, Liuyang (NETDZLY), China serve the people of Pakistan and China. system of the ICCBS in accordance with Chinese and Unani (Greek) are ancient the requirements of the management ICCBS and National Economic and medicine systems for holistic and natural system standards of ISO 9001:2015. Technical Development Zone, Liuyang healing. (NETDZLY), China signed an MoU, on

Annual Report 2017 35 June 21, 2017 for cooperation in Research Analytical Center, ICCBS. Prof. Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman and Director and Development (R&D) in the fields ICCBS Prof. Dr. Muhammad Iqbal of drug, health food, including efficacy MoU with Hamdard University Choudhary. and safety evaluation, quality control, as well as registration both in Pakistan and ICCBS also signed an MoU with the The importance of conducting research China. Director ICCBS, Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Hamdard University (HU), Pakistan, on developing new high yielding, disease Choudhary and Chairman Administrative according to which HU offered land resistant and high quality varieties of rice Committee of NETDZLY, Mr. Guo to grow mutually agreed medicinal was highlighted during the meeting. The Lifu, signed the MoU on behalf of their plants leading to drug development. delegates explained that the setup of Sino- institutions. Both the institutions aim to initiate Pakistan Hybrid Rice Research Center formal coordination between the two is linked to the objective of mutually Intent of Cooperation with Al-Quds organizations especially in the field of conducting research for the development University, Palestine chemical, toxicological, bioassays and of new high-yielding and high quality rice pharmacological studies on Unani/ species. The ICCBS signed an Intent of Eastern medicine and nutraceuticals. Cooperation with the Al-Quds University, Both the organizations have agreed to Capacity Building Events Palestine, to collaborative promote encourage, promote, and facilitate mutual scientific and educational activities collaboration and also with the interested The capacity building events organized by between the two institutions. Director research groups within the institutional ICCBS in 2017 include: ICCBS and President Al-Quds University set-up of both the parties. Prof. Imad Abu Kishek signed the • Three-day workshop on ‘Next agreement on behalf of their institutions. Cooperation with the National Rice Generation DNA Sequencing Data Research Institute, Hangzhou, China Analysis’ (March 27-29, 2017); MoU with South African Authority on • 6th International Symposium- Halal affairs A delegation of China National Rice cum-Training Course on Molecular Research Institute (CNRRI) of Hangzhou, Medicine and Drug Research An agreement was reached with the China, called on scientists at ICCBS to (November, 6-9, 2017); South African National Halaal Authority discuss matters relating to development of • Workshop on Scientific Writing (SANHA) - Halal Associates Pakistan to new varieties of high quality rice. Director (November 15, 2017); extend the scope of Halaal testing services General CNRRI, Prof. Dr. Cheng Shihua, • Public awareness seminar on thyroid all over the country. Both the institutions along with six delegates visited the ICCBS problems among women (December agreed to develop linkages for testing and met the former Federal Minister for 13, 2017). and R&D activities at Halaal Testing Science & Technology and ex Chairman Laboratory (HTL) at the Industrial and Higher Education Commission Pakistan,

36 Annual Report 2017 Prof. Zhaohui Lin The year 2017 has witnessed comprehensive progress and Director ICCES achievements in various undertakings of COMSATS in its member countries. Bearing in mind its mission and goals, COMSATS has joined hands with governmental departments and scientific organizations, vigorously imparting the scientific spirit to developing countries and regions, and boosted the exemplary role of COMSATS Network as a forceful advocate for developing countries.

ICCES, the COMSATS Centre of Excellence in climate and environment sciences, is deeply concerned about the challenges related to climate change and climate-related disasters faced by developing countries. With the support from COMSATS Secretariat, ICCES has been working together closely with COMSATS’ member countries through varied collaboration forums, affirming its commitment to reducing the climatic and environmental risks, and improving sustainable environmental management.

While gaining great progress and high respect from the society, we still have a long way to go in catching up with the most advanced scientific and technological frontiers in the world in many disciplines. I believe that all COMSATS CoEs will continue to make more contributions to the scientific progress as well as thier national economic and social progress. On behalf of ICCES, I wish COMSATS a very successful year ahead.

International Center for Climate and Environment Sciences (ICCES), China

The International Center for Climate and Environment Sciences (ICCES), China, originated from the former Center for Climate and Environmental Prediction Research (CCEPRE). Since its establishment, ICCES has been supported by the Institute of Atmospheric Physics (IAP), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), and the As a part of COMSATS Network, ICCES CAS Earth System Model and Climate Ministry of Science and Technology is committed to conducting basic and Forecast system to help find solutions to (MoST), Government of China. applied research, such as development of climatic and environmental challenges

Annual Report 2017 37 confronting developing countries. Besides, capacity-building activities. These include: Symposium on ‘Advances in Seasonal the centre conducts high-level research to Decadal Prediction’, (18th-20th and training activities for building a • China-Sri Lanka 3rd joint workshop September 2017). critical mass of highly-qualified personnel on ‘Monsoon Climate and Marine in the field of climate and environment Environment Change’ Sri Lanka (May South-South Cooperation sciences. ICCES made the following 24th-25th 2017); achievements in 2017: • CAS-CSIRO (Chinese Academy of South-South Cooperation was facilitated Sciences-Commonwealth Scientific with visits to and from institutions from The Director of ICCES, Prof. Zhaohui and Industrial Research Organization) the South, which include the following: Lin, made a presentation during the 20th Climate Theme Workshop (27th-28th Coordinating Council Meeting as the June 2017) ICCES, China; Delegation from CIIT, Pakistan Council member from China. As the • Workshop on ‘US-China coupled group leader of the International Thematic Model Inter-comparison’ in On April 18, 2017, ICCES facilitated a visit Research Groups (ITRGs) on ‘Climate collaboration with National Oceanic of a delegation from COMSATS Institute Change and Environmental Protection’, and Atmospheric Administration of Information Technology (CIIT), Prof. Lin presented the progress report (NOAA) (23rd-25th August 2017); Pakistan. During the visit, discussions on joint-applied international projects, • China-ASEAN Forum on Disaster were carried out on joint research projects, capacity building activities, and Prevention and Reduction and data-sharing and capacity-building. It international cooperation activities among Sustainable Development (13th-14th was agreed that both sides would apply the ITRG group members. He highlighted September 2017); for international collaborative projects the “Belt and Road Science, Technology • 16th International Conference of CAS- under the “Belt and Road” initiative, and and Innovation Cooperation Action TWAS-WMO Forum on Climate conduct joint research on extreme events, Plan”, which consisted of People to People Science (CTWF), International dust-storms and flood. Prof. Zhaohui Lin Exchange Initiative, Joint Laboratory Initiative, Science Park Cooperation Initiative, Technology Transfer Initiative, and the funds for developing countries and international organizations. This Action Plan will provide support to COMSATS and its network in seeking opportunities for international collaboration.

Capacity-Building Events

During 2017, ICCES organized/co- organized and participated in various

38 Annual Report 2017 from ICCES and other CAS Institutes ICCES Open Research Programme visited Tajikistan Academy of Science and Meteorological observation stations ICCES is committed to promoting joint scientific research in the field of climate change and in Khujand, Tajikistan, from 1st to 9th July environment sciences, facilitating academic exchanges with other countries involved in the “Belt 2017. and Road” Initiative, contributing to the capacity building activities for all the developing countries, providing avenues for international cooperation and to enhance links between ICCES and institutes from other developing countries. Bearing this in mind, after much deliberation, the ICCES Open The ICCES scientists visited several Research Program for Climate and Environment Sciences will be officially launched in year 2018. research laboratories and interacted with ICCES Open Research Program will support researchers from developing countries engaged in scientists working there. basic and applied research activities, focusing on the key scientific problems in global climate and environmental changes. Delegation from International Centre ff Physics (CIF), Colombia Key research fields:

• meteorological and environmental forecast and related disaster assessment theory and Dr. Jamie Erazo from the International technique Centre of Physics (CIF), Colombia, visited • data assimilation theory and methodology ICCES, China, on December 6, 2017 to • earth system theory and natural cybernetics foster a long-term cooperative mechanism Interdisciplinary studies based on the existing links between these two COMSATS’ Centres of Excellence. ICCES Open Research Program funds joint research activities conducted by foreign scientists from He also aimed at exploring collaborative developing countries with their ICCES counterparts in the areas of mutual interests. The duration potential by seeking international support of funding is generally 2 to 5 months. The fund will cover international travel costs and living costs from COMSATS, TWAS, and other for 2-5 months in China for foreign researchers, and the total funding for each foreign researcher funding sources from their countries. will not exceed 50,000 Chinese Yuan. Each year, there will be 3-5 applications granted by the ICCES Open Research Program to enhance and broaden experiences of scientists from developing countries and to create a favorable environment regarding cooperative channels, funding and The two sides agreed to cooperate for operational mechanism for researchers. climate change and disaster modelling in Colombia, and research on satellite and ICCES Open Research Program will offer researchers more opportunities to conduct joint research meteorological observation data. in climate and environment related fields, and help develop stronger links between ICCES and other developing countries under the support of CAS, TWAS and COMSATS network. Memorandum of Understanding with NRC, Egypt also invited more students from CIIT Prof. Gamini Senanayake, Vice-Chancellor to avail for the CAS-TWAS President’s of University of Ruhuna, and Prof. Tilak Prof. Zhaohui Lin, Director of ICCES, Fellowship and other scholarships offered Priyadarshana, Director of China-Sri visited the National Research Center by the University of Chinese Academy of Lanka Joint Center for Education and (NRC), Egypt, from May 16-17, 2017 and Sciences. Research (CSL-CER), visited ICCES signed a Memorandum of Understanding on June 29, 2017. Considering the two between ICCES and NRC, which paves Delegates from Sri Lanka Sri Lankan institutions outstanding way for cooperation in: partners, Prof. Lin proposed stronger H.E. Lakshman Senewiratne, State scientific collaborations with both • exchange of scientists, scientific and Minister for Science, Technology and focusing on training of young scientists. technical information for the purpose Research, Sri Lanka, visited ICCES on The Sri Lankan officials thanked ICCES of research, training and consultation; April 20, 2017. Prof. Lin Zhaohui briefed for its efforts for bilateral cooperation • organizing bilateral scientific and him on the cooperation activities between and expressed their determination to technical seminars, workshops and ICCES and Sri Lanka for the last 3 years strengthening it further. conferences; with particular emphasis on joint research • identifying scientific and technical on the extreme hydrological events over Delegation from ICCES-China at problems, formulation and the Mahaweli river basin of Sri Lanka. His Tajikistan Academy of Sciences implementation of a joint research Excellence sought bilateral cooperation program in the areas of climate, to meet the local challenges relating to Under the Belt and Road Initiative environment and water issues; extreme meteorological and hydrological programme on Climate Change Research including hydrological processes and events, including rainstorms and floods. and Observation, supported by Chinese modelling, hydrological risks and Academy of Sciences (CAS), a delegation management, climate variation and

Annual Report 2017 39 studied the forest ecosystem’s response to climate change, and completed the simulation for global fire model comparison project and relevant analysis. • On May 16, 2017, World Meteorological Organization (WMO) awarded its 61st International Meteorological Prize (IMO) to Prof. Qing-Cun Zeng, founding director and member of ICCES and an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. The award was given for his contributions to satellite meteorological remote-sensing theory, its modelling and prediction, wind AGCM4 models output. The findings of numerical weather prediction theory, modelling, weather forecasts and air her research will help public and private meteorological disaster prevention pollution modeling. institutions in economic, planning. It will and the earth system model. also facilitate in adopting and promoting • The Chinese Academy of Sciences Graduate Students and Postdoc the CAS System Model in Africa. developed an Eartlab under the lead of Programme the Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Research and Development, and Chinese Academy of Sciences. Prof. Based on the existing international Major Achievements Qingcun Zeng, founder of ICCES, is collaboration network, ICCES continued the principal scientist at the Earthlab. The CAS Earth System Model (CAS- to attract students and young scientists During the reporting period, from developing countries to enroll in ESM) is a vital component of the EarthLab, with ICCES playing a major Ph.D. or Post-Doctoral studies through • ICCES completed thirty-year role in its development. In September the CAS-TWAS PIFI Programme. In 2017, numerical experiments on ensemble 2017, the EarthLab made debut at students from Iran, Pakistan, Thailand, hind casting of IAP-AGCM 4.1, Hong Kong InnoTech Expo 2017, Nigeria and Sri Lanka continued with their evaluated (Preliminary) the model’s which is a showcase of achievements PhD programs in ICCES. An awardee forecasting ability of summer climate in science and technology of the of the CAS “Belt and Road” Master anomaly and days of extreme high Chinese mainland and Hong Kong. At Fellowship Programme would also join temperature in China, besides the booth of EarthLab, visitors could ICCES. analyzing the model biases. The observe and even “touch” simulation simulation and evaluation of cloud of dust/pollutant transportation, solar Dr. Bushra Khalid from Pakistan, who and its short wave radiation effect activities, land surface change, ocean had joined ICCES as a Post-Doctoral in East Asia by CAS-ESM, and circulation and other earth systems. researcher under PIFI program in 2015, simulation and prediction of Eurasia During his visit to Hong Kong completed her research report on the snow water equivalent by CMIP5 were InnoTech Expo 2017, Prof. Minghua relationship between climate change also executed. Zhang also visited the City University and dengue transmission in Pakistan in • The Centre made headway towards of Hong Kong and the Chinese February 2017. Dr. Worachat Wannawong improving real-time numerical University of Hong Kong, and made from Thailand also finished his Post- climate prediction system and a presentation on CAS-ESM. About a Doctoral research on coupled data research on predictability and 100 researchers and students attended assimilation in June 2017, and joined the forecasting methodology. this seminar. The two universities Sun Yat-Sen University in Guangzhou, • The Center also made progress on the took keen interest in the EarthLab China, as lecturer. development of ocean circulation and and expressed their desire to enhance land surface models, and interaction collaboration with IAP. Dr. Mojisola Adeniyi from University of between land and atmosphere. Ibadan, Nigeria, continued her research at • ICCES developed a new module for the ICCES from September to November plant establishment in the dynamic 2017 on improvement in forecast of global vegetation model IAP-DGVM, MJO, monsoon phases by using IAP-

40 Annual Report 2017 Prof. Stephen E. Onah On behalf of Management of National Mathematical Centre, I will like to use this medium to appreciate the Management and the entire Staff of COMSATS Director NMC Secretariat and COMSATS Institute of Information Technology (CIIT) Islamabad, Pakistan, for the warm reception accorded me during my visit from January 18 – 20, 2018.

The visit and interactions with like minds, great scientists and researchers have provided me the opportunity of on-the-spot overview of core activities of COMSATS and possible areas of collaborations with this highly esteemed organization.

This has spurred me to improve on the already established research activities of the Centre (National Mathematical Centre, Abuja, Nigeria), towards the achievements of its mandate and goal of COMSATS in the area of high level quality research most especially, the International Thematic Research Groups (ITRGs) of COMSATS.

In order to strengthen and deepen quality research in the area of Mathematical modeling following new Research Groups have been formed among members of academic staff of the Centre. These include:

i. Research Group on computational mathematics and scientific computing; ii. Research Group on mathematical modelling and simulation; iii. Research Group on stochastic modelling and numerical computing; iv. Research Group on artificial intelligence and computer human interactions; v. Research Group on Ethno-Mathematics.

Let me at this juncture assure the Management of COMSATS that Nigeria will continue to contribute her quota to the goal of the organization for the advancement of mathematical sciences and, by extension, development of Science and Technology in the South.

National Mathematical Centre, enhancing students’ performance in Association’ of Nigerian Tertiary th st Nigeria Mathematics and Mathematical Sciences at Institutions (17 -21 April, 2017). all levels of Nigerian education system. The National The selection process for the 2017 Mathematical Capacity-Building Events International Olympiad started in Centre (NMC), February 2017 and the Centre selected Nigeria, is an During the period under review NMC candidates to represent Nigeria in the inter-university organized a few capacity-building activities following Olympiads competitions: Pan organization that that include: African Mathematics Olympiad (PAMO) promotes research in Morocco; International Mathematics and capacity-building in mathematical • A competition for Mathematics Olympiad (IMO); International Physics sciences. It was established, inter alia, to students from Universities across the Olympiad (IPHO) in Indonesia; and st th train and develop high quality human Nigeria (1 to 6 April 2017); International Olympiad on Informatics resource in Mathematical Sciences, for • A three-day Conference of (IOI), Iran. ‘Mathematical Sciences Students

Annual Report 2017 41 Under the nationwide States Development in the field of Mathematical Sciences. in the soil that attack wheat and increase Goals of NMC, a project for training plant resistance to disease. students and teachers on Mental During his visit, Prof. Khan also had Arithmetic and Mathematics was held extensive discussions and interactions The research team treated the seeds with from January to May 2017, wherein with the Management and Coordinators of the compound before they were planted different methods of teaching and learning Academic Programmes at NMC. to get the maximum possible benefit. Mathematics with the use of teaching aids The plants were also sprayed with the were demonstrated. National Research Centre (NRC), compound after germination to form Egypt a layer on the leaves, which improved Collaborations with International growth and protected the plants against Organizations The largest R&D the effects of climate change and other Institution in Egypt, environmental stresses. During the period under review, NMC National Research initiated collaboration with Professor Centre (NRC), is Experiments to test the compound were Nkechi Agwu, Carnegie and an African devoted to research conducted during two agricultural seasons Diaspora Fellow on Ethno-Mathematics in science and on two of Egypt’s wheat types grown in under a capacity building framework in technology. The the Sinai Peninsula and in the Beheira Science, Technology, Engineering and centre is affiliated with the Ministry of governorate North of Cairo. These places Mathematics (STEM). Scientific Research, Egypt. The mission of are known for their drought conditions. NRC is to foster research in public health, The outcome of this joint project will agriculture and industry. Cooperation Protocol for Environmental be reflected in improved students’ Conservation with Environmental Affair performance in mathematical sciences, Research on Genetic Crop Modification Agency especially participation of women in th STEM related fields and development of Egypt is sometimes cited as the world’s On 8 January 2017, Mr. Ahmed Soud, a better teaching methodology for the largest wheat importer. NRC researchers Chief Executive, Egyptian Environmental teachers. made advances that could increase the Affair Agency; and Dr. Ashraf Shaalan, national production of wheat. One of the President, National Research Center South-South Cooperation advances involves a new compound that signed a cooperation protocol for would be used to treat wheat seeds. The conservation of Environment. The protocol Visit of Chairperson Mathematics other involves the genetic manipulation of targets promotion of technical and applied Department, CIIT the wheat seeds themselves. research capacity in conservation and protection of environment. The National Mathematical Centre, The researchers obtained a patent for the Nigeria, hosted Prof. Dr. Moiz-ud-din new compound, which includes micro- Under the protocol, both protocols Khan, Chairperson of the Department organisms that could increase wheat would work on new areas of scientific of Mathematics, COMSATS Institute yields in arid and semi-arid regions by as research to help address issues relating of Information Technology (CIIT), much as 68 percent. The new compound to development and environmental Islamabad, Pakistan, during his three day would contribute to increasing wheat sustainability. Specifically, the protocol visit to the Centre from 11-13 September, productivity by making it possible to stipulates cooperation on environmental 2017. The visit coincided with a two- plant wheat in completely arid lands. The issues pertaining to solid and liquid day National Stakeholder’s Meeting of compound will increase production by wastes; climate change; preservation Professors and Heads of Departments of reducing stresses on wheat as it grows, of biodiversity; preservation of natural Mathematics and Mathematical Sciences. and increasing the concentration of raw reserves; and studies of environmental This visit also helped explore more avenues protein and carbohydrates in wheat grains. impact assessment. of collaboration between CIIT and NMC It would also inhibit bacteria and viruses

42 Annual Report 2017 HRH Princess Sumaya The Royal Scientific Society (RSS) has been a proud member of the bint El Hassan COMSATS’ network for over 20 years. Our organisations have grown President RSS together and made cooperation between our institutions, and our professionals, a priority that we are delighted to share.

In 2017, RSS was honoured to organise the 8th World Science Forum (WSF), the largest ever gathering of scientists and policymakers in the Middle East. Our theme of ‘Science for Peace’ resonated so well with the mission statement of COMSATS. Our discussions brought together representatives from the Global South and beyond and gave them a voice on the world stage. We proudly facilitated conversations on the power of science to change lives and to make a lasting impact on our region and our world. I know that these discussions will resonate in our region and around the world.

We were delighted to welcome the Executive Director of COMSATS to WSF 2017, and so many other talented members of the COMSATS family. I hope that in 2018, and the years to follow, we may continue these conversations and do all that we can to give our talented scientists a voice in the global discourse of development and change.

Royal Scientific Society (RSS), Ms. Irina Bokova, honored Princess countries together and contribute to Jordan Sumaya bint Hassan of Jordan positive changes in society, as well as (President RSS) with the title of for her commitment to strengthening The Research ‘UNESCO Special Envoy for Science the development of scientific thinking Scientific Society for Peace’ (2017-2019) in a ceremony in her country and dedication to the (RSS) is the largest at the Organization’s Headquarters ideals and aims of the Organization. nd applied research on 2 October 2017. The recognition • During her visit to the University institution in came as a result of her efforts to of California, Berkeley, Her Royal Jordan. It, inter promote science as a power to bring Highness Princess Sumaya bint El alia, provides consultancy and technical support services for scientific capacity-building. The Society serves as the local as well as regional reference point of knowledge for science and technology.

Awards And Achievements

During 2017, the RSS officials received a number of international awards and recognitions, including.

• The Director-General of UNESCO,

Annual Report 2017 43 Hassan of Jordan, was awarded a of science. The World Science Forum International Cooperation Chancellor’s Citation by Chancellor was organised by the Royal Scientific Nicholas Dirks. The Chancellor’s Society of Jordan (RSS), in collaboration Under the Patronage of H.R.H Princess Citation is awarded to distinguished with the United Nations Educational, Sumaya Bint El-hassan, the Royal Scientific visitors, alumni and friends whose Scientific, and Cultural Organization Society/National energy research Center great achievements the university (UNESCO); Hungarian Academy of organized the inaugural meeting workshop salutes and whose presence honors Sciences (MTA); American Association of “the MENA Region Initiative as a model and benefits the campus. for the Advancement of Science (AAAS); of NEXUS Approach and Renewable • For fostering cooperation between World Academy of Sciences (TWAS); Energy Technologies” regional project. Germany and Jordan in research and European Academies Science Advisory This project is being implemented by the education, H.R.H Princess Sumaya Council (EASAC); International Council RSS’ National Energy Research Center bint El Hassan was honored with for Science (ICSU); Inter-Academy in cooperation with the International Order of Merit of Federal Republic Partnership (IAP); International Social Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) of Germany on 6th February 2017. Science Council (ISSC); and Science and Future Pioneers for Empowering H.R.H Prince El Hassan bin Talal Counsellor representatives of the G77. Communities (FPEC) with support from and Princess Sarvath El Hassan the Swedish International Development also graced the ceremony with their There were 15 thematic sessions, 150 Cooperation Agency (Sida). The project’s presence. organisations represented, 22 special overall objective is to strengthen regional • Dr. Muhammad Saidam, Chief sessions, and a number of side events. The cooperation within the MENA region Scientist, RSS, is among 15 eminent forum outcomes pertained to: through implementing NEXUS approach scientists and experts to work as duly integrated with renewable energy ‘Team of Global Experts to Serve 1. Equitable and sustainable technologies at municipality level to UN’, with the various branches management of natural resources mitigate climate change impacts. of the United Nations to compile is essential to avoid conflicts and to comprehensive reports with the aim promote peaceful development. During 2017, RSS signed Memoranda of giving policy-makers necessary 2. The preservation of scientific of Understanding and Agreements with data and information on sustainable capacities, threatened by global different International organizations. development. migration trends, is key to peace, These include: sustainable development, resilience World Science Forum 2017 Hosted and recovery. • Agreement with MERCY CORPS, By RSS-Jordan 3. Diversity is a key enabler of excellence to provide support for the program in science, technology and innovation “Water Innovation Technologies More than 3,000 science leaders from and is essential to optimize its (WIT)” (August 22nd 2017). The over 140 countries gathered at the World relevance and impact. strategic objective of the agreement Science Forum 2017 in Jordan from 4. We commit to the fulfillment of the is to save 18.5 million m3 of water November 7 to 10, to call for a more universal right to science. during the 5-year project, through responsible and ethical use of innovation, 5. We support the launch of a regional use of different water innovation and to address the social and economic science forum for the Arab World. technologies and market based relevance, influence, and responsibilities approach.

44 Annual Report 2017 • MoU with Naif Arab University Capacity-Building Events Research and Development for Security Sciences (NAUSS) (November 7th 2017) to contribute Coal Resource Quality Assessment Greener Cassava Processing System to the promotion of scientific and Leading to Zero Waste research cooperation in the fields of The TIRDO Energy Division acquired security. state-of-the-art equipment (including A Greener Casava processing system has • Agreement with United Nations CHS Analyzer and Bomb Calorimeter been developed by TIRDO, which consists Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) Parr 6400) for analyzing the quality of of a grating machine with a pressing unit, (December 12th 2017)to provide coal (and other energy materials). The a hybrid solar-biogas tunnel drying system consultancy services in engineering energy Division’s Coal Laboratory is now for cassava grits, yeast fermentation system for implementing PV Solar System capable of analyzing materials with respect for bioethanol production and bacteria Project at UNRWA Installation. to proximate, ultimate and heating value fermentation system for production of • MoU with ENEX Energy Expert in parameters. It can also analyze inorganic oligosaccharides, and anaerobic digester Saudi Arabia (December 13th 2017) to content (trace metals) in materials. To for biogas production. The project aims share RSS services and expertise in of date, the laboratory has analyzed over 60 at improving income and welfare of small Energy and Renewable Energy. coal samples from mining companies in and medium entrepreneurs in cassava Tanzania. sub-sector in Tanzania through innovative Researchers from RSS published 15 papers processing technology. in International Journals during 2017. In recognition of this capacity, the Minister for Energy and Minerals declared the Publications Tanzania Industrial Research TIRDO Coal Laboratory as the National and Development Organization backstop reference laboratory for coal The following publications were brought quality assessment to Tanzania. out during the period: (TIRDO), Tanzania 1. Anselem P. Moshi and Ivy Matoju. The mission of National Capacity Building The status of research on application Tanzania Industrial TIRDO ICT Department plans to of bio-pesticides in Tanzania. Review. Research and soon launch an e-learning platform for Crop Protection 92 (2017) 16 – 28; Development practicals of science subjects for secondary 2. Anselem P. Moshi and Nges Ivo Achu. Organization school students who have access to Sustainable Management of Cassava (TIRDO) is to educational materials as compared to Processing Waste for Promoting perform research urban schools. Rural Development in Cassava: and development, Production, Consumption and and provide technical services for Potential Uses for Nova Publishers industrial processes and products. Inc. USA (In Handbook on Cassava Production, Potential Uses and Recent

Annual Report 2017 45 Advances, Chapter 7, Ed. Clarissa and David Oslon. Scalling –Up the use Volume 178, (2017), pp 154 – 164. Klein, ISBN: 978-1-53610-291-8); of Chilli Fences for Reducing Human DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j. 3. Mihayo Musabila Maguta, – Elephant Conflict across Landscape chemosphere.2017.03.036; YngveStenstrom and Claus J. in Tanzania. Open Access Journal - 11. Mbwana Suleiman Ndaro, Josephat Nielsen. Kinetic and Theoretical Tropical Conservation Science Journal Igadwa Mwasiagi, Lodrick Makokha

Study of the Nitrate (NO3) Radical vol.9 (2) 921 – 930, 2016; Wangatia. Tearing Strength of Gas Phase Reactions with N – 7. George S. Oreku and Fredrick J. hydro entangled non-woven fabrics. Nitrosodimethylamine and N Mtenzi. Book Chapter “Cybercrime: Material Science, An Indian Journal –Nitrosodiethylamine. Journal of concerns, Challenges and MSAIJ,14(12) 2016 (509 – 513); Physical Chemistry A (2016), 120, Opportunities”. Published by Springer 12. George S. Oreku and Fredrick J. 6970 – 6977. DOI: 10: 1021/acs. in the Book Titled “Information Mtenzi. Book Chapter “Cybercrime: jpca.6b05440; Fusion for Cyber-Security Analytics: concerns, Challenges and 4. Cecilia China & Mbwana Suleiman Pages: 129 – 153; Opportunities”. Published by Springer Ndaro. A review Status on Tanzania 8. William Gomera, George S. Oreku. in the Book Titled “Information Leather value chain – A review. Published Journal Article in Fusion for Cyber-Security Analytics: African Journal of Science and International Journal of ICT Research Pages: 129 – 153; Research, 2016, (5)4: 55 – 60: ISSN: in Africa and the Middle East 13. Lugano Wilson, Contributor 2306-5877; (IJICTRAME). “Mobile Technology (Tanzania) for the first edition of 5. Cecilia Rolence China. Adsorption in Training Micro Businesses: User’s the East African Community (EAC) studies on water hardness removal Requirements and Architectural Renewable Energy and Energy by using cashew-nut shell activated Design” Pages: 25 – 40; Efficiency Status Report. Supported carbon as an adsorbent. African 9. Anselem P. Moshi. Characterization by the United Nations Industrial Journal of Science and Research, 2016, of Spent Bleaching Earth and Development Organization (UNIDO) (5)4:78 – 81, ISSN:2306 – 5877; Improvement of biogas through and implemented by the Renewable 6. Alex Chang, Nick De Souza, supplementation of manure Energy Policy Network for the 21st John Muya, Julius Keyyu, Angela Biotechnology Journal International Century (REN21). Available online Mwakatobe, Lucas Malugu, 17(4): 1-13, 2017; at http://www.ren21.net/status- Humphrey Ndossi, Jonathan Konuche, 10. Raheli Elibariki and Mihayo Musabila ofrenewables/regional-status-reports/. Raphael Omondi, Aloyce Mpinge, Maguta. Status of pesticides pollution Nathan Hahn, Suzanne Palminteri in Tanzania –A review, Chemosphere,

46 Annual Report 2017 Dr. Orkun Hasekioglu TUBITAK (Turkish Scientific and Technological Research Council), President TUBITAK MAM with its research support award programmes, scholarships for international researchers, many research institutions covering a wide range of fields, wholeheartedly supports COMSATS’ activities for the benefit of member countries.

We believe such collaborations in science and technology are a very powerful instrument to eliminate hatred and mischief among nations, replacing them with the positive feelings of respect, empathy, concern for others and altruism. When we get to know each other through a common purpose of bringing science and technology to the benefit and service of humanity, valuable friendships arise and we approach one step further towards the peace worldwide.

TUBITAK Marmara Research Delegation from Pakistan Meteorological • conversion of seismological data into Centre (MAM), Turkey Department useful information for government institutions. TÜBITAK Marmara TUBITAK MAM received a delegation Research Centre from Pakistan Meteorological Department Consul General of the Slovak Republic (MAM), Turkey, is (PMD) in May 2017 to follow up on an internationally developments in the joint ‘Reverse Linkage Consul General of the Slovak Republic recognized Project between Pakistan and Turkey on in Istanbul, Dr. Jozef ŠESTÁK, visited organization Earthquake Seismological Research’ in TUBITAK MAM. Discussions involved in research collaboration with Turkish Cooperation held on the occasion touched upon on conventional and Coordination Agency (TİKA); and developments in the existing projects technologies for enhancing Turkish Islamic Development Bank (IDB). The between TUBITAK MAM and Slovak industry and solving technological project aims at eliminating three main Academy of Sciences (SAS) and emerging problems. deficiencies in the field: cooperation potentials, based on relations established under an earlier Protocol During the 20th Meeting of COMSATS • data collection on seismic activities in dated 02 February 2002 and joint support Coordinating Council held in Cairo, Pakistan; programmes since 2003. Egypt, the President of TUBITAK MAM • analysis of seismological data; and made a presentation on the structure and activities of TUBITAK and explored possibilities of cooperation with COMSATS’ Member States.

South-South and North-South Cooperations

TUBITAK MAM continued its efforts for South-South and North-South Cooperation in 2017. Some interactions in this regard are as follows:

Annual Report 2017 47 Chief Scientific Advisor, British Foreign Information Security Research Center officials from the Consulate General of the Ministry, visited TUBITAK MAM (BİLGEM) and National Metrology United Kingdom in Istanbul were received Institute (UME) in the Gebze Campus of by the President of TÜBITAK MAM, on On 27 September 2017, the Chief Scientific TÜBİTAK on 4 August 2017. 27 September 2017. The delegation was Adviser of British Foreign Ministry, Prof. briefed on the general structure, and fields Robin GRIMES, and other officials from The delegation received detailed of activities of TÜBİTAK MAM, as well as the Consulate General of the United information on the current activities possible areas of mutual cooperation. Kingdom in Istanbul visited TÜBITAK of TUBITAK MAM and exchanged MAM. The delegation was briefed on the information on cooperation potentials. The Country Consultants of Turkey general structure of TÜBİTAK MAM, The program was completed with a visit to its activities under various Institutes and TUBITAK MAM’s laboratories. TÜBİTAK MAM hosted a meeting of possible areas of cooperation. the Country Consultants of The Republic Visit of Consulate General of the United of Turkey Prime Ministry Investment President, Palestinian Higher Council Kingdom in Istanbul Support and Promotion Agency (ISPAT) for Innovation and Excellence (HCIE) in countries, including USA, Germany, Prof. Robin GRIMES, Chief Scientific United Arab Emirates, China, France, The President of the Palestinian Higher Adviser, British Foreign Ministry, and Spain, Japan, Korea, United Kingdom and Council for Innovation and Excellence (HCIE), H. E. Mr. Adnan SAMARA met the President MAM on 27 September 2017. During the meeting attended by the officials of the Environment and Cleaner Production Institute and Energy Institute, it was planned to hold a workshop on water and energy.

Delegation from Qatar

A delegation from comprising of Mr. Nada Al Olaqi, Director, Qatar National Research Fund (QNRF) and Dr. Abdul Sattar Al-Taie, Director, Qatar Foundation (QF) visited MAM, Informatics and

48 Annual Report 2017 Relations, Prof. Slim CHOURA. After A delegation from TUBITAK MAM presentations by the Tunisian delegation, headed by its President visited CERN to they were briefed by the TÜBİTAK discuss the infrastructure and workforce officials on the activities and projects potentials at CERN and TUBITAK of BİLGEM and MAM. The officials and negotiated the route for Turkey discussed the opportunities of cooperation to attain of the accelerator technology between Tunisia and TÜBİTAK. infrastructure and become a technology leader in the region. Within this scope, Collaborations with International both sides explored the possibility of Organizations creation of new support programmes for increasing the number of Turkish Netherlands Organization for Applied students and researchers at CERN along Scientific Research with establishing a hadron therapy center and development of electronic systems Officials from the Netherlands and new software. The agreement would Organization for Applied Scientific help in knowledge-sharing and furthering Saudi Arabia on 28th November 2017. The Research (TNO) and TUBITAK MAM cooperation between TUBITAK and delegation was briefed on the activities, held a meeting on opportunities for CERN in strategic areas. R&D projects and industrial services of scientific and technological cooperation TÜBİTAK MAM and TÜBİTAK BİLGEM. and joint events as part of the 2017 Turkey- Capacity-Building Events Netherlands Science Year. The meeting was Delegation from Indonesian Institutions attended by the President of TUBITAK During 2017, TUBITAK MAM MAM, Dr. Orkun HASEKİOĞLU, and the participated in and organized a number of A delegation from Indonesia comprising of Business Development Director of TNO, activities for capacity-building of human senior officials from the National Nuclear Dr. Sühendan ADIGÜZEL. resource in science and technology. Some Energy Agency of Indonesia (BATAN), of these events are as below: Indonesian Institute of Sciences (LIPI), European Organization for Nuclear Institute for Research and Community Research (CERN) • Workshop on ‘Solutions to Water Services (LPPM), Diponegoro University Challenges in MENA Region’, and Islamic Development Bank (IDB) TUBITAK and CERN signed a Mansoura University, Egypt (25th-30th visited TÜBITAK MAM and TÜBITAK “Cooperation Framework Agreement” April 2017); Marmara Technopolis (MARTEK) on in Switzerland in order to facilitate the • Ministerial Conference on 8th November 2017. The meeting at Turkish research community in making ‘Strengthening Euro-Mediterranean MARTEK was attended by business better use of the resources at CERN. Cooperation through Research and development officials. The delegation was briefed with presentations on the activities of TÜBITAK MAM and MARTEK and the opportunities of cooperation between Indonesia and TÜBİTAK were discussed They explored the possibilities of collaborating in nuclear technologies, nanotechnology and coal and biogas combustion and gasification.

Ministerial Delegation from Tunisia

A Tunisian delegation comprising of senior officials from the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research and the Ministry of Agriculture visited the campus of TÜBİTAK in Gebze on 31st October 2017. The delegation was headed by the General Director in charge of International

Annual Report 2017 49 Innovation - PRIMA Initiative’, increasing rates of obesity and diabetes in this software, users can do analysis, linear Valletta, Malta (3rd-4th May 2017); Turkey. The new products “Starch-added algebra, Groebners bases, number theory, • 4th International Nuclear Power Plants Diet Flour” and “Starch-added Diabetic 2D and 3D graphs, probability, statistics, Summit, Istanbul, Turkey, (8th-9th Flour” were introduced at Halal Expo arithmetic networks and correction codes. March 2017); 2017, Turkey. This software has nearly 120,000 lines of • Expo Turkey by Qatar Exhibition, code. Doha, Qatar, (19th-21st April 2017); This starch cannot be digested in small during the exhibition, TUBITAK was intestine but is fermented in the large Water Research and Technologies awarded the “Innovation Prize of the intestine. It resembles dietary fibers in Centre (CERTE), Tunisia Ye a r ”. terms of health effects. In addition to • 13th International Defence Industry having prebiotic properties, the products th th The Water Research Fair 2017, Istanbul, Turkey (9 -12 affect bowel health positively owing to and Technologies May 2017). TUBITAK MAM was their production of butyrate and other Centre (CERTE) represented in the Fair through the short-chain fatty acids. The products has five laboratories: product and project exhibitions by containing resistant starch with 50% lower Geo-resources; the Center’s Energy, Materials and energy than regular starch give a feeling of Natural Waters Chemical Technology Institutes. satiety, and thereby control appetite. This Treatment; • Heritage Istanbul 2017: Restoration, helps balance the blood sugar. Resistant Wastewaters and Archeology, Museum Technologies starch products can be consumed by Environment; Water, Membranes and Fair and Conference, Istanbul, Turkey everyone as they do not have any side- th th Environmental Biotechnology; and (27 -29 April 2017); effects. Valorization of the effluents. • Joint workshop with Slovak Academy of Sciences (SAS) (12th-13th November University Cheikh Anta Diop Research and Development 2017); (UCAD), Senegal • South Korea-Turkey Renewable During 2017, CERTE conducted research Energy Seminar held in Istanbul (7th Established in 1959, in the fields of hydro-geophysics and geo- September 2017). the University statistics; hydrology and hydrogeology Cheikh Anta modeling; geology, geochemistry and Technical Services Diop is one of the mineralogy; water resources modeling largest science and and climate change impact; improving the After having catered to requests from technology institute quality of drinking water; desalination of China, TUBITAK MAM is now providing in Dakar, Senegal. brackish and marine water; wastewater test and analysis services to the United The research (urban, industrial, rural)/treatment and States of America. The number of programmes offered in the university focus innovative technologies; reuse/recycling; the countries served has reached 17, on Medicine, Physics, Chemistry, and water pollution, sanitary engineering, subsequent to the “implantation and Biology. toxicity, corrosion, lCA, GIS, diagnosis / sub-acute toxicity test” requests from the evaluation, local water management; new private sector of the USA. Research and Development approaches, and techniques; application of membranes ; phyto-remediation; The list of the comprehensive R&D Software Assisting Mathematics disinfection of wastewater; and rural and test & analysis services offered by Education sanitation. TUBITAK MAM can be found at the institution’s website on the following page: On 4th December 2017, Michel Seck, Capacity-Building Events “http://mam.tubitak.gov.tr/en/content/ a PhD student at the Department of test-analysis-services”. Mathematics and Computer Science, CERTE organized two international events UCAD, developed a software named in 2017 Research and Development ‘Simula’. The software helps the teachers of secondary and higher level education • The 1st Atlas Geo-resources Development of Resistant Starch against in preparing lessons and correcting the International Congress ‘AGIC’ Obesity and Diabetes exercises. Students can also use it to do 2017 was held from 20th to 22nd exercises and check corrections. The tool March 2017. The topics covered TÜBİTAK MAM developed a starch- simplifies mathematics teaching. With during the congress included: Basin added flour to help check the ever

50 Annual Report 2017 Geo-exploration, Geo-modeling, (AOP’TUNISIA) was held from 2nd to participated in the following exhibitions: Geomatics and Geo-statistics, Geo- 4th November 2017, in collaboration materials and Mines, Water Resources with COMSATS. The conference had • International exhibition on and Modeling, Energy, Environment an attendance of 120 hailing from ENVIROTEC & ENERGIE EXPO and Climatic Change, Geo-hazards 11 countries from Africa, Asia and 2017, Tunis, Tunisia, 23-25 May, 2017; and Vulnerability, Soil sciences and Europe. • The Water Forum 2017, Sfax, Tunisia, Modeling. 11-14 October, 2017; • The 3rd International Conference To promote technology transfer and water • National Valorisation Days 2017 on Advanced Oxidation Process sector related know-how to economic, organised by the Ministry of Higher for Sustainable Water Management industrial and social partners, CERTE Education and Scientific Research and

Annual Report 2017 51 UTICA (Tunisian Union of Industries, drinking with PHC-UTIQUE, France. (ii) Multilateral Cooperation Trade and Crafts), 13-14 December, 2. Sustainable Olive Mill Wastewater 2017. management coupled with biofuel 1. ERANET-MED Water farming production and water recovery with Improvement of water and nutrient Collaborations with International PHC-UTIQUE, France. retention and use efficiency in Organizations 3. Development of polyoxometalate/ arable farming systems from field polymer composites for photocatalytic to catchment scale in Europe and CERTE is a partner organization in several treatment of emerging pollutants with North Africa, under Horizon 2020 of internationally funded bilateral and PHC-UTIQUE, France. European Union. multilateral projects, which include: 4. Technological Transfer and 2. ERANET MED WASA, under Innovation on TN Research Centres Horizon 2020 of European Union. (i) Bilateral Cooperation with TRIFOLD, Germany. 3. Salt in Transformation with German 5. Development of solar photo-nano- Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), 1. Depollution of natural water reactor for POPs degradation, Germany. loaded with minerals using the CMPTM, Morocco. electrocoagulation technique for

52 Annual Report 2017 Section 4: Strengthening Triangular Cooperation: Collaborations with National and International Organizations

• Institutions in the United Kingdom 54

• United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) 57

• Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ISESCO) 57

• International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) 58

• Oman National Computer Emergency Readiness Team (OCERT) 59

• Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies (IPD) 59

• The European Union 60

• Interactions with the Host Country, Pakistan 60

Annual Report 2017 53 Strengthening Triangular Cooperation: Collaborations with National and International Organizations

COMSATS has been endeavouring to expand its cohort of national and international partners to foster broader and more effective collaborations in Science and Technology and launch new programmes and activities through its Centres of Excellence for sustainable socio-economic development of the Member States. These partnerships aim at complementing COMSATS’ programmes focusing on capacity-building of S&T community in developing countries. The horizons of the cooperation in this regard are being broadened to the North to augment the organization’s efforts for strengthening triangular cooperation.

Institutions in the United Information Technology with UK-based Pro-Vice Chancellor International, Kingdom funding bodies, academic institutes and Professor Steve Bradley. There was a individual organizations. The Executive general consensus on the need to seek COMSATS actively promoted South- Director COMSATS, Dr. S.M. Junaid funding opportunities by exploring areas South-Cooperation to achieve excellence Zaidi, accompanied by Ambassador (R) of interest in alignment with the SDGs in the field of Science and Technology Shahid Kamal, and Dr. Arshad Saleem and considering problem-based research for sustainable development. COMSATS Malik, Advisor, International Relations, to tackle with developmental challenges in seeks to pursue the South-South-North CIIT, Pakistan, visited the United the member states. (Triangular) Cooperation as a means of Kingdom for official meetings from th th expansion on its programmes through 5 - 13 August 2017. He held meetings Another meeting was held with the establishment of a strong network and with officials of Lancaster University, Universities UK International’s (UUKi) prominent presence of the organizations in Universities UK International (UUKi), Head of International Engagement (Non- the United Kingdom (UK). The expansion Commonwealth Secretariat, Association of EU), Mr. Sean O’Connor, and Mr. Joseph would enable effective outreach in the Commonwealth Universities (ACU), and Taylor, Policy Manager Asia. The concept South as well as the North for successfully British Council, to explore potential areas of South-South-North was discussed in attaining the Sustainable Development of collaboration and to express interest in the meeting and was received with great Goals (SDGs). partnership. interest, and UUKi was requested to assist COMSATS in enhancing the capacity and The cooperation provides a platform for The participants of the meeting at quality of human resource in the member collaboration in areas of mutual interest, Lancaster University included the Vice states. such as Education, Health, Energy and Chancellor, Professor Mark Smith and

54 Annual Report 2017 also discussed. The meetings successfully concluded and highlighted a number of possible areas where COMSATS could collaborate with the respective institutions.

As a follow-up, delegates from the British Council comprising of Mr. John McGovern, Consultant at British Council UK; Ms. Liz Dempsey, Advisor at British Council Manchester; and Mr. Hamza Salim, Project Manager at British Council Pakistan, visited COMSATS Secretariat on 11 December 2017. The purpose of these delegates’ visit was to conduct an interview for the ‘Going Global’ Initiative of the The Executive Director also had a meeting Dr. Junaid Zaidi held a meeting with British Council reflecting the Executive with Dr. Nabeel Goheer, Assistant Dr. John Kirkland, Deputy Secretary Director’s contributions towards the Secretary General of the Commonwealth General, Ms. Liberty Oberlander, Director higher education sector in Pakistan. They Secretariat, a central, intergovernmental Membership Development and Ben Halls, appreciated the quality of education being agency, where views were shared regarding Director Programs at the Association provided by CIIT at its campuses across themes of mutual interest, including of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) the country. There was great emphasis by Environment, which was highlighted as Office. ACU expressed keen interest in the delegates on the need for enhancing a high priority for the Commonwealth. increasing its network of membership communication and promoting the The Secretariat assured COMSATS of its through COMSATS and desired to assist organization’s vision globally. In addition, support in enhancing membership and in putting together advisory groups, a potential area of collaboration between suggested its presence on the sidelines fellowships to lend technical advice, and the North and the South discussed during of the upcoming Commonwealth Heads develop blue prints for the Organisation. the meeting was the mobility of students. of Government Meeting (CHOGM) to be held on 16-18 April, 2018, in London, A meeting was also held at British Council On the invitation of the Commission, United Kingdom. London with Dr. Shaun Holmes, Science Dr. John Kirkland, former Head of Adviser; and Mr. Daniel Korbel, Acting the Association of Commonwealth Additionally, Dr. Junaid Zaidi also called Global Director, who expressed their Universities (ACU) visited COMSATS on Pakistan’s High Commissioner to support for setting up a specialized Centre Secretariat on a four-day visit on UK, Mr. Syed Ibne Abbas and held a of Excellence (CoE). The possibility of December 11, 2017. He held several separate meeting with Mr. Zahid Hafeez endorsing a COMSATS-based project and meetings with the officials in order to Chaudhri, Deputy High Commissioner signing an MoU with the Organisation was assist COMSATS in forging partnerships and Mr. Muazam Ali, First Secretary at Pakistan High Commission in the UK. The High Commissioner and officials assured COMSATS’ officials of their support and assistance in securing collaboration between the Commonwealth and COMSATS through engagement and interaction.

COMSATS officials shall represent the Organization and present its mandate through active presence at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) as a platform to explore further opportunities by showcasing its achievements and activities.

Annual Report 2017 55 with organisations in the UK as well as General, Commonwealth Secretariat; directions in light of the new and to support in expansion of COMSATS’ • Dr. Ihtesham ur Rehman, Reader emerging trends in the field of Science and membership. Dr. Kirkland emphasized in Biomedical Materials at Sheffield Technology, especially pertaining to the the need of increasing COMSATS’ global University; Energy sector. presence and expressed his willingness • Dr. Saeed Akber, Head of Accounting to contribute to the ongoing expansion. and Finance at University of Hull; In order to build a network of systematic The visit successfully ended with an • Dr. Jawwad Darr, Professor of partnerships and develop new synergies understanding between COMSATS and Materials Chemistry, University with sustainable outcomes, possible areas Dr. John Kirkland to officially take him College London (UCL); and of collaborations were discussed with the on board as an International Consultant • Dr. Kamran Jahangir, Advisor afore-mentioned organisations. to assist COMSATS in promoting its Technical Advisory Committee cooperative activities. (TAC), COMSATS Secretariat. The meetings and discussions held shall pave way for COMSATS to build Following the chain of events, the The meeting ended with an emphasis on a strong presence in the North, by Executive Director requested the Minister the need for a more pro-active approach by collaborating with the institutions in the for Science and Technology, H. E. Mr. COMSATS to broaden its activities. United Kingdom, and promoting S&T- Rana Tanveer Hussain, to participate in A Science Conference was also proposed led sustainable development by sharing the networking activity with researchers and agreed to reflect and provide expertise and resources. and implementers in the UK. On the kind agreement of the Honourable Minister for Science and Technology, an official meeting was held on 29th December 2017 in London.

The participants of the meeting comprised of the following:

• H. E. Rana Tanveer Hussain (Chair), Federal Minister for Science and Technology, Pakistan; • Mr. Richard Middleton, Head of Commonwealth Scholarship Commission; • Dr. Nabeel Goheer, Assistant Secretary

56 Annual Report 2017 United Nations Economic and The agreement aims to promote science, joint activities in different fields of science Social Commission for Asia and technology and innovation (STI) as the key and technology for socio-economic the Pacific (UNESCAP) means of implementation of due measures development. These collaborative activities for achieving Sustainable Development have proved to be productive for both Goals (SDGs). The MoU was signed in a organizations and have contributed to COMSATS established contacts with ceremony witnessed by foreign diplomats the socio-economic development of their United Nations Economic and Social and representatives of various government member countries. The collaboration is Commission for Asia and the Pacific officials of Pakistan. Dr. Zaidi and Dr. periodically reviewed and revived through (UNESCAP) as a part of COMSATS 2017 Akhtar signed the agreement on behalf signing of agreements between the two strategy to explore ways of benefitting of their Commissions. The Minister for organizations. from the scientific and related knowledge Science and Technology, Government of generated in the North and other global Pakistan, H.E. Mr. Rana Tanveer Hussain, During 2017, COMSATS and ISESCO institutions. These resources could and the Federal Secretary of the Ministry, jointly organized the following capacity- prove useful in meeting the sustainable Ms. Yasmeen Masood, also graced the building events (details are given in section development challenges confronted by ceremony with their presence. 7): the South. With this in view, a delegation of COMSATS called on the Executive The MoU entails collaboration in joint 1. 3rd International Conference on Secretary, ESCAP, Dr. Shamshad Akhtar, research, events, capacity-building, and Agriculture, Food Security and at her office in October 2017 in Thailand strengthening the COMSATS Network of Biotechnology (26th-27th April 2017, and briefed her on the aims, objectives, Centres of Excellence. The cooperation Islamabad, Pakistan) structure and functions of COMSATS. also involves exchanging comprehensive 2. 4th International Workshop on Exploratory views were exchanged on the thought leadership, cooperation platforms ‘Applications of ICTs in Education, possible areas of collaboration. as well as technical and advisory services; Healthcare and Agriculture’ (25th- 27th to support member countries in exploiting July 2017, Abuja, Nigeria) As a follow-up to this process, more the potential of STI for sustainable 3. 10th National Workshop on ‘Repair in-depth discussions were held during development. and Maintenance of Scientific, a meeting held on 20th December 2017 Engineering Equipment in between Dr. Shamshad Akhtar and Universities, Research Institutions Executive Director COMSATS, Dr. S. M. Islamic Educational, Scientific and Small Scale Industries’ (2nd-6th Junaid Zaidi, which culminated in signing and Cultural Organization October 2017, Almaty, Kazakhstan) of an MoU between COMSATS and (ISESCO) 4. 1st International Congress on Viruses UNESCAP. and Vaccines in Tropical Areas (11th- Since 2004, COMSATS and ISESCO have 12th October 2017, Sere Kunda, The been collaborating for executing various Gambia)

Annual Report 2017 57 5. 7th International Workshop on delegates about the activities of ICGEB Town, the three components of ICGEB. ‘Internet Security: Enhancing and its six main instruments of operation Dr. Viviani further talked about the health Information Exchange Safeguards’ viz. Research; Long- and Short-Term bio-economy production lines pursued (19th-23rd December 2017, Almaty, Fellowships; Annual Meetings and by the Centre, including bio-similars Kazakhstan) Courses; Competitive grants; Technology (new age biopharmaceuticals), diagnostic Transfer; and Scientific and Advisory kits and recombinant vaccines, including Around 580 scientists, engineers, Services. During his presentation, Dr. one against Dengue. The future plans for technicians and industry professionals Banks informed that the Centre comprises developing biosimilars by the Group in benefitted from these events. of almost about fifty (50) active groups Trieste and their model for the transfer of which are conducting research in six know-how to industries were elucidated International Centre for Genetic macro-areas. Dr. Banks also mentioned the by Dr. Natasa Skoko, Research Scientist, Engineering and Biotechnology fellowships awarded by ICGEB to twenty Biotechnology Development. Ms. Suzanne eight (28) scientists from COMSATS’ Kerbavcic, Head, Communications & (ICGEB), Italy Member States in 2016. Outreach, External Relations noted with satisfaction that ICGEB and COMSATS Led by Executive Director COMSATS, Subsequently, Dr. Zaidi, acquainted the share 16 Member States and that ICGEB Dr. S. M. Junaid Zaidi, a delegation of officials of ICGEB with mandate and has recently pursued membership of 06 COMSATS visited the International mission of COMSATS, its statutory bodies, non-ICGEB Member States. She informed Centre for Genetic Engineering and Member Countries and its Network of that ICGEB would finalize membership Biotechnology (ICGEB) Headquarters, th International S&T Centres of Excellence with Ghana, whose President is also the Trieste, Italy on 16 November 2017. as well as flagship projects. Dr. Zaidi Chairperson of COMSATS, and sought The visit to ICGEB was held with the informed that COMSATS has organized COMSATS’ support in this regard. purpose to identify joint initiatives in line 255 scientific events since 1997 and signed with the MoU effective between the two 56 MoUs with Ministries, Governments, After meaningful discussions between organizations since 2009. Other members other IGOs and academic institutions. the two sides, a proposition was made of the delegation included Mr. Tajammul He further informed that COMSATS to set up more centres of excellence in Hussain, Advisor (Programmes); Dr. aspires to expand its Network and extend COMSATS Member States akin to ICGEB Kamran Jahangir, Advisor (TAC); and Mr. its outreach in pursuit of South-North- Regional Research Centre (RRC) initiative. Farhan Ansari, Senior Assistant Director South (triangular) cooperation. Dr. Zaidi (Programmes). also solicited ICGEB’s technical support The participation of scientists from ICGEB for setting-up high quality biotechnology in COMSATS’ International Thematic The delegation held a meeting with ICGEB institutes in COMSATS’ Member States. Research Group (ITRG) on ‘Agriculture, Scientific Coordinator, Dr. Lawrence Food Security and Biotechnology’ Banks and other senior officials/scientists In her presentation, Dr. Martina Viviani, and ITRG on ‘Renewable Energy’ was of ICGEB. Head, Fundraising, Technology Transfer encouraged by COMSATS’ officials. & Innovation, ICGEB briefed about the After a brief introduction of the host biotechnology and technology-transfer The two sides agreed on initiating Joint group, Dr. Banks apprised COMSATS’ activities in Trieste, New Delhi and Cape Fellowship Programmes in respective Member States. It was agreed that the calendar of scientific events and annual meetings would be shared by the two Organizations and sponsorship and/ or travel grants would be provided to scientists belonging to common Member States. The officials also nominated reference personnel to identify areas of collaboration and possibilities for joint programmes and agreements as well as follow-up the initiatives taken in this regard.

58 Annual Report 2017 Oman National Computer Emergency Readiness Team (OCERT)

On 2nd November 2017, a Protocol of Cooperation was signed between COMSATS and the Oman National Computer Emergency Readiness Team (OCERT) for cooperation in areas of cyber security and computer emergency response.

The OCERT is one of the divisions of the Information Technology Authority (ITA), Government of Oman. It was established to serve as a trusted focal point of contact a. Joint research and development dialogue and diplomacy by sharing for any ICT security incidents in the projects; knowledge, research, analysis and policy Sultanate of Oman. It caters to cyber b. International conferences, training advise. safety and security, capacity building, and workshops; and promoting cyber security awareness c. Exchange of experts and researchers; Senior officials from both organizations public and private sector organizations. and participated in the signing ceremony. The Besides, OCERT is playing a regional-level d. Exchange of information and MoU signed paves way for cooperation role in cyber security by hosting the ITU technical expertise. in organizing various events for Arab Regional Cyber Security Center, and promoting South-South and North- chairing the OIC-CERT. Institute of Peace and Diplomatic South cooperation. The broad areas of Studies (IPD) cooperation stipulated in the agreement This said protocol, inter alia, provides for a include: framework and assurance that the research nd and capacity building activities at both the On 22 June 2017, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between • Exchange of expertise and intellectual organizations would be enhanced through resources; mutual cooperation. COMSATS and the Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies (IPD), Islamabad, • Capacity-building in various areas Pakistan. IPD is an independent, non- relating to sustainable development; As agreed in the Protocol, both sides will • Policy Advice and Strategy collaborate for the following activities: governmental and not-for-profit think- tank, which is working to strengthen Formulation. global peace and development through Since the agreement, IPD has been involved in arranging meetings between Executive Director COMSATS and a number of foreign diplomats. These belong to Afghanistan, Argentina, Australia, Azerbaijan, Cuba, Kenya, Kyrgyz Republic, Morocco, Nepal, Oman, Somalia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Tunisia, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Vietnam and Yemen, as well as the European Union. I

IPD supported the efforts of COMSATS towards enhancing cooperation with countries of the North and the South.

A notable development under the said cooperation was Somalia’s accession to

Annual Report 2017 59 COMSATS (Section 3). development. the COMSATS Secretariat located in Islamabad. The Ministry of Science and As part of their networking activity, Ms. Marchal opined that some avenues Technology, Pakistan, acts as the focal COMSATS and IPD organized a farewell of cooperation with EU already exist and point of COMSATS. The officials of the reception in honor of H.E. Dr. Nedim utilized by COMSATS forthwith, e.g., organization make regular interactions Makarevic, outgoing Ambassador of Horizon 2020. She noted three pillars and consultations with the focal ministry Bosnia and Herzegovina to Pakistan. that constitute this mega cooperation as well as other government and non- Held on 27th September 2017, programme: industrial leadership, governmental institutions in the country. the reception was attended by foreign excellence in science, and societal change. Some major interactions with the host diplomats from Algeria, Azerbaijan, Cuba, She informed that Pakistan Science country during the year are given below. Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Nigeria, Foundation (PSF) is the focal point for Pakistan, Palestine, Somalia, Sri Lanka, promoting Horizon 2020 in Pakistan. A Dinner and the Visited by the Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Tunisia, Ukraine, Another cooperative project readily Minister for Science and Technology, Uzbekistan, and Yemen. available for all the partners is noted by Pakistan to Welcome the New Ms. Marchal is Erasmus programme. Executive Director Organization of an event on UN’s Day on It was noted that there is no limit on South-South Cooperation (Section 7) was collaborative proposals from partner On March 15, 2017, the Federal Minister also facilitated by IPD. countries and organizations. for Science and Technology, Government of Pakistan, H.E. Rana Tanveer Hussain, The European Union Ms. Marchal suggested to have hosted a dinner to introduce the newly consultations and high-level meetings with appointed Executive Director COMSATS In line with COMSATS’ efforts to senior officials of EU to further explore to the diplomatic community of expand the scope of its programmes and avenues of cooperation between the two Member and potential member states in international partnerships, a delegation organizations. She believed that EU- Islamabad, as well as senior government from European Union (EU), Pakistan, COMSATS partnership could be useful, functionaries of Pakistan. The dinner was invited by the Executive Director given the due channels are utilized and had an impressive attendance of 75, COMSATS, Dr. S. M. Junaid Zaidi, to visit right resources mobilized in the regional including ambassadors and representatives COMSATS Secretariat. Ms. Anne Marchal, office and EU HQ in Brussels. from 22 foreign missions in Islamabad. Charge d’Affaires, EU, Pakistan, and Mr. The foreign missions from COMSATS’ Husnain Iftakhar, Senior Economist, Interactions with the Host Member States represent on the occasion visited COMSATS Secretariat, Islamabad, Country, Pakistan belonged to Bangladesh, China, Egypt, th on 28 August 2017. The main purpose of Iran, Kazakhstan, Morocco, Nigeria, the engagement with EU was to explore COMSATS has established strong working Palestine, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, the possibility of expanding COMSATS’ relations with the Governments of the and Turkey, while those from non- membership to European countries and host country, Pakistan, and other member member states belonged to Afghanistan, scientific organizations to strengthen the states. The Government of Pakistan Azerbaijan, Brunei, Mauritius, Oman, North-South dynamic of COMSATS’ is generously funding the expenses of Tajikistan, Thailand, Turkmenistan, and efforts for S&T-led socio-economic

60 Annual Report 2017 Uzbekistan. Senior officials from hosted During his interaction with COMSATS on for senior scientists and experts from country represented, the Ministries the occasion, he considered it important different institutions related to science of S&T, Foreign Affairs, and Planning for the relevant institutions to make more and technology on 29th March 2017. The and Development. Senior officials from efforts and execute effective projects of purpose of the informal sitting was to brief COMSATS Secretariat; COMSATS applied nature that would have a positive the experts on different ongoing activities Institute of Information Technology; and effect on development. In this regard, he of COMSATS and seek their inputs with COMSATS Internet Services also attended especially mentioned COMSATS’ project, a view to further improving the future the dinner. the COMSATS Institute of Information projects and programmes of COMSATS. Technology, which is a government sector Later Mr. Hussain, visited COMSATS degree awarding institution soon to be The hi-tea had a participation of Secretariat, on June 21, 2017 and reiterated upgraded to a ‘University’. some renowned scientists of Pakistan, his support to COMSATS’ operations including Dr. Yousaf Zafar, Chairman and efforts to expand the organization’s Brainstorming Session with S&T Pakistan Agriculture Research Council membership. He also offered to write to Organizations (PARC); Prof. Dr. Anwar-ul-Hassan his counterparts in member states for Gilani, Chairman Pakistan Council for expansion of COMSATS’ membership. The Executive Director COMSATS, Science and Technology (PCST); Dr. Dr. S. M. Junaid Zaidi, hosted a hi-tea Muhammad Ashraf, Chairman Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources (PCRWR); Dr. Zabta Khan Shinwari, President Pakistan Academy of Sciences; and Dr. Aslam Baig distinguished Scientist of National Centre for Physics (NCP). Mr. Tajammul Hussain, Advisor Programmes; Mr. Bilal Chouhan, Director Administration and Establishment; Mr. Nisar Ahmad, Deputy Director (Systems); and Mr. Akif Sattar, Coordination Officer from COMSATS Secretariat were also present on the occasion.

The deliberations of the meeting focused on ways and means to enhance COMSATS’ activities and its role in

Annual Report 2017 61 degree awarding institution in rural areas, like Vehari and Sahiwal, was a great achievement and valuable contribution in developing skilled and highly educated youth.

Meeting with Vice Chancellors of Pakistani Universities

On July 18, 2017, the Executive Director COMSATS hosted a luncheon for the leadership of the Pakistani Universities at the premises of COMSATS Secretariat. The purpose was to involve education sector of Pakistan in COMSATS’ efforts for S&T led S&T-led development of the South. Other COMSATS Secretariat. In the past, Ms. development. discussions pertained to replicating Daultana has served as Federal Minister international projects like SESAME for Science and Technology from March The lunch was attended by the following (Synchrotron-light for Experimental 2008 to May 2008. VCs/Rectors: Prof. Dr. Shahid Siddiqui, Science and Applications in the Middle Allama Iqbal Open University; Maj Gen East) in Pakistan to facilitate the scientists Ms. Daultana congratulated Dr. S. M. (Retd.) Khadim Hussain, Foundation of member states. Similarly, it was Junaid Zaidi on his then new appointment University Islamabad; Mr. Imran Rahman, suggested that COMSATS, in collaboration as the Executive Director of COMSATS, Institute of Space Technology; Dr. with international organizations like and commended him for his dedicated Amir Muhammed, National University UNESCO, can help develop international and selfless services as the Founding of Computer and Emerging Sciences; R&D collaborations on the lines of CERN Rector of the COMSATS Institute of Dr. M. Latif Virk, National University (European Organization for Nuclear Information Technology. She considered of Computer and Emerging Sciences Research). his appointment as a recognition of (Registrar); Dr. Javed Ashraf, Quaid-i- his tireless services for promotion and Azam University; Prof. Dr. Javed Akram, Visit by Honorable Member National development of science and technology in Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Medical University (SZABMU), PIMS; Prof. Dr. Assembly Mrs. Tehmina Daultana Pakistan. She noted CIIT’s phenomenal growth in the country with an outreach Rai Niaz Ahmad, PMAS-Arid Agriculture University; and Prof. Dr. Zia ul Qayyum, On April 21, 2017, an honorable Member to the rural areas of the country under University of Gujrat. of National Assembly, Government of the visionary leadership of Dr. Zaidi. She Pakistan, Ms. Tehmina Daultana, visited opined that establishment of a high-quality Also present were Dr. Arshad Ali, Executive Director Higher Education Commission of Pakistan; Capt. U.A.G. Isani, Former Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister of Pakistan; Engr. Dr. Nasir Mahmood Khan, Additional Registrar (HoD), Pakistan Engineering Council; Dr. Izhar Hussain, Registrar, CIIT; and Dr. Arshad S. Malik, Head International Office, CIIT, Islamabad. In addition, senior officials of COMSATS Secretariat also attended the lunch.

The participants expressed keen interest and explored to ways of collaboration particularly in setting up campuses of Pakistani universities in COMSATS’ Member States. A special focus of this

62 Annual Report 2017 discussion remained on Sri Lanka, in response to which the Executive Director pledged that COMSATS would earnestly help these universities in setting up campuses in COMSATS’ Member Countries.

Visit of Minister of State for Science and Technology, Government of Pakistan

On 3rd October 2017, H. E. Mr. Dostain Khan Domki, the Honorable Minister of State for Science and Technology and Ms. Yasmin Masood, Federal Secretary, Ministry of Science and Technology, visited COMSATS Secretariat. and North-South cooperation. He sought the need for enhancing the international the Ministry’s support for COMSATS’ character of the organization to achieve The Executive Director COMSATS shared present and future endeavours. its objectives. In this regard, she suggested with the esteemed guests his aspirations Federal Secretary MoST made some devising necessary policies comparable for COMSATS to further strengthen ties pertinent queries with regard to various to those of other organizations of similar with international organizations, enhance aspects of the organization and stressed mandate, such as UNESCO and ISESCO. its membership, and expand South-South

Annual Report 2017 63 Some other Distinguished Visitors to COMSATS Secretariat

Designation Name Date

Secretary, Ministry of Science and Mr. Fazal Abbas Maken Technology, Government of Pakistan 28th March 2017

Director, International Center for Chemical Mr. M. Iqbal Chaudhry and Biological Sciences 9th May 2017

Member National Assembly Mr. Parvez Hassan 10th May 2017

Additional Secretary, Ministry of Science and Mr. Muhammad Ashraf Technology, Government of Pakistan 14th June 2017

Global Head BroadPeak Technologies Mr. Jeffrey Thomas 26th July 2017

Chairman PCST Mr. Tariq Mehmood 31st July 2017

Ex Executive Director COMSATS Dr. Pervez Ahmed Butt 31st July 2017

President, ECO Science Foundation (ECOSF) Dr. Manzoor Hassan Soomro 2nd August 2017

Director, German Academic Exchange 15th September Mr. Lars Bergmeyer Service (DAAD) 2017

President, International Islamic University, Dr. Ahmed Yousif Ahmed Al 21st September Islamabad Draiweesh 2017

23rd September Ms. Zareena Salamat Vice President Council of Social Sciences 2017 Former Minister of Science and Technology Mr. Azam Sawati 4th October 2017

64 Annual Report 2017 Section 5: Strengthening South-South Cooperation: Meetings with Officials from the South

• Meetings with the Diplomats of Member States 66

• Meetings with the Diplomats of Potential Member States 72

Annual Report 2017 65 Strengthening South-South Cooperation: Meetings with Officials from the South

One of the functions of COMSATS is to support major initiatives designed to promote indigenous S&T capacities of the Member States through synergies among relevant Governments/Institutions in the North and the South. Dignitaries, officials and delegations from a number of developing countries are engaged on regular basis to establish and promote linkages to strengthen South-South cooperation in a number of fields, including education, training and research.

Meetings with the Diplomats of Ambassador of Palestine, H. E. Mr. between the two countries. He expressed Member States Walid Abu Ali (27th March 2017) his desire to send Palestinian students to Pakistan for post-graduate and During 2017, meetings were arranged The Ambassador assured of his Embassy’s undergraduate studies on scholarships. with the foreign diplomats in Islamabad full support to COMSATS Secretariat. to sensitized them on COMSATS’ He informed about his close contact The Executive Director COMSATS undertakings and future aspirations. The with the Federal Minister for Science welcomed the idea and expressed foreign diplomats were briefed about and Technology and Federal Minister of COMSATS’ readiness to accommodate the scope, mission and mandate of the State for Education, Pakistan, for seeking more than 100 students in undergraduate Organization. relevant opportunities of cooperation and post-graduate programmes being offered by CIIT. His Excellency and the Executive Director also agreed to seek financial support from Islamic Development Bank (IDB), Jeddah, to sponsor more students from Palestine in higher education institutions of Pakistan. He hoped for a better mobility of researchers, scholars and scientists traveling from Palestine to Pakistan and vice-versa to share their knowledge and explore new avenues in R&D cooperation.

66 Annual Report 2017 Ambassador of Syria, H. E. Mr. Cyber Security. Dr. Murat apprised that that possibilities will be explored to benefit Radwan Loutfi (3rd April 2017) TUBITAK houses 19 research facilities from the funds available under the China- in Turkey, nine of which are working Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The Ambassador expressed confidence in different fields of Information and The potential areas of collaboration in Dr. Zaidi’s leadership that would help Communication Technologies (ICTs) include: setting-up of joint laboratories COMSATS in achieving its goals. He and electronics. It was desired that and establishment of S&T Park in committed that Syria as a Member State of COMSATS should enhance collaboration Pakistan. COMSATS would try to induct COMSATS will render all possible support with TUBITAK on long-term basis for more Chinese R&D organizations in its to COMSATS. His Excellency apprised the creation of critical mass of I.T experts. Dr. Network of International S&T Centres of Executive Director about the prevailing Murat was requested to identify relevant Excellence. situation in his country with hope for a experts from their institutes in the field better future. With regard to the education of Cyber Security. Mr. Murat assured to Ambassador of Jordan, H. E. Mr. sector of Syria, H. E. Mr. Loutfi informed mobilize relevant resource from TUBITAK Nawaf Khalifa Ibrahim Saraireh (14th that all the educational institutions were Informatics and Information Security June 2017) functional and the country is doing well Research Center (BİLGEM) and one of in higher education, despite political and MAM’s R&D supporting unit – National During the meeting, Dr. Zaidi expressed regional instability. The Ambassador Academic Network and Information COMSATS’ desire for developing showed keen interest in securing some Center (ULAKBİM). good working relations with Jordanian scholarships being offered by COMSATS institutions to carry out a number of Institute of Information Technology The First Secretary, Chinese Embassy events and capacity-building activities in (CIIT) for Syrian students. in Islamabad, Mr. Jia Wei (12th June Jordan. 2017) Dr. Zaidi welcomed the idea and offered His Excellency was urged to write to the COMSATS’ help to accommodate During the meeting with Mr. Wei, Secretary General of the Higher Council more Syrian students in undergraduate the Executive Director admired the for Science and Technology, Jordan, Dr. and post-graduate studies at CIIT. He Chinese R&D organizations and Khaled Elshuraydeh, to seek his help stressed the need for greater intellectual universities for their excellent research in identifying the country’s national exchange among Syria, Pakistan and other work and achievements, and informed priorities for possible collaborations with COMSATS’ Member Countries. that COMSATS wishes to enhance COMSATS. It was further informed that a collaboration with such organizations few Centres of Excellence of COMSATS, Vice President, TUBITAK MAM, of China in various fields of science and including the COMSATS Institute of Turkey, Dr. Murat Makaraci (29th technology. In this regard, the officials Information Technology (CIIT) and May 2017) of the two organizations discussed International Center for Chemical and avenues of COMSATS’ collaboration Biological Sciences (ICCBS), Pakistan, During the meeting, the two sides with R&D organizations working under offer several scholarships to the students discussed ways to enhance cooperation the Chinese Ministry of Science and from Member States. It was emphasized between COMSATS and TUBITAK Technology (MoST) as well as the Chinese that students of Jordan should take Marmara Research Centre in the areas of Academy of Sciences (CAS). With regard full benefit of these opportunities. The mutual interest, particularly in the field of to COMSATS’ S&T collaboration with possibilities regarding Jordanian students’ Chinese S&T organizations, it was agreed in other institutions of Pakistan were

Annual Report 2017 67 also discussed and it was assured that Tunisia to cater to the relevant needs best practices and carry out research in the COMSATS would extend all possible help of Tunisia. All possible technical and CIIT. He also affirmed that the Professors to the students in this respect. financial support from COMSATS was would only need to bear their travel pledged. expense while other expenses will be borne Ambassador of Tunisia, H. E. Mr. by the host institution. Adel Elarbi (15th June 2017) His Excellency informed that there is already a strong political will in Tunisia for The Ambassador expressed the willingness Dr. Zaidi and H.E. Mr. Elarbi shared views purposeful international cooperation and of Sudan enhance cooperation and work on developing further cooperation and urged COMSATS to maintain high-level with the partner organizations. He showed partnerships between COMSATS and engagements with the country. He believed keen interest in the Professor Exchange Tunisia, particularly in boosting academic that the existing opportunities could be Programme and collaborations. cooperation between Tunisian S&T fully tapped through practical steps and institutions and members of COMSATS’ coordination of the joint activities. Ambassador of Palestine, H. E. Mr. Network of International S&T Centres Walid Abu Ali (7th July 2017) of Excellence. The two sides discussed a Ambassador of Sudan, H. E. Mr. number of matters of mutual interests, Tageldin Elhadi Eltahir (19th June Dr. Zaidi called on the Palestinian such as a proposal for establishing R&D 2017) Ambassador at his office in Islamabad. Centre in Tunisia, financial cooperation, Also present during the meeting were the faculty and student exchange, and In the meeting with H. E. Mr. Eltahir, the First Secretary/Cultural and Educational cooperation for establishing technology Executive Director expressed his desire to Attaché of the Palestine Embassy, Mr. parks. further strengthen COMSATS’ working Husni Muhammad Mustafa; and Admin relations with Sudan. He appreciated the Attaché, Mr. Khalil Abu Ghalyoun. Dr. Zaidi sought the Tunisian active participation of Industrial Research Ambassador’s support for inviting the and Consultancy Centre (IRCC), Sudan, His Excellency expressed his Government’s international students of Tunisia for short- in COMSATS’ programmes. He also support towards participation in term student exchange at two Centres appreciated the Annual Membership international fora. He appreciated the of Excellence of COMSATS in Pakistan, Contribution made by Sudan on regular induction of Al-Quds University as Centre

COMSATS Institute of Information basis. Dr. Zaidi expressed COMSATS’ of Excellence in COMSATS Network. Dr. Technology (CIIT) and the International desire to replicate the institution building Zaidi proposed that a visit maybe arranged Center for Chemical and Biological experience in the form of CIIT in Sudan for a ten-member delegation comprising Sciences (ICCBS). The Executive Director by establishing a university under the of faculty members from Pakistan’s leading assured that the student exchange umbrella of COMSATS. He emphasized universities to Al-Quds University and programme offered by CIIT will most the need for a state-of-the-art facility to other relevant academic institutions of likely be fully covered except for the air impart quality education to the people of Palestine to explore avenues of mutual travel and daily allowance. Sudan. cooperation.

During the meeting, Dr. Zaidi also Dr. Zaidi also invited the Sudanese proposed the establishment of a Professors to visit Pakistan to share their COMSATS-Tunisian R&D Centre in

68 Annual Report 2017 Minister for Science and Technology, last few years. • Jointly organizing trainings for China, H.E. Prof. Wan Gang (8th July developing countries; 2017) Dr. Wan Gang expressed pleasure • Hosting seminars and forums; on visiting Pakistan and having the • Supporting Chinese researchers to A meeting was held between the opportunity to discuss possibilities of participate in COMSATS’ activities; delegations of COMSATS and the collaboration with COMSATS. He stated and Government of China on 8th July 2017, in that COMSATS has been playing an • Participating in international research Islamabad. The Chinese delegation was effective role for South-South cooperation, projects. led by H.E. Dr. Wan Gang, Minister for which includes establishment of CIIT, Science and Technology. Other members setting-up of Network of Centres of The meeting paved the way for future of Chinese delegation were H.E. Mr. Excellence, as well as capacity building and collaboration between China and Sun Weidong, Ambassador of China talent cultivation activities. He informed COMSATS for facilitating S&T-led socio- to Pakistan; Mr. Ye Dongbai, Director that ICCES, China, is actively collaborating economic development in the South. General, International Cooperation, with other members of COMSATS’ Ministry of Science and Technology, Network, and will continue to receive High Commissioner of Bangladesh, China; Ms. Lyu Jia, Deputy Director, support of Chinese Ministry of Science H. E. Mr. Tarik Ahsan (11th July 2017) Ministry of Science and Technology, and Technology for its participation in China; Mr. Zhao Lijian, DCM/Political COMSATS’ activities. He informed that During the meeting, with the High Counsellor, Embassy of China in prediction, monitoring and mitigation Commissioner of Bangladesh in Pakistan, Islamabad; and Mr. Jia Wei, First Secretary of extreme weather events as well as discussions were held to enhance and (S&T), Embassy of China in Islamabad. environmental protection are among the further strengthen the existing cooperation priority areas of Government of China, between COMSATS and Bangladesh. Dr. The Executive Director informed that and therefore considered the activities Zaidi stated that COMSATS highly valued COMSATS would like to participate in of COMSATS’ International Thematic its ties with Bangladesh and appreciated China’s mega programme, One Belt One Research Group on ‘Climate Change and the active participation of Bangladesh Road (OBOR), as majority of COMSATS’ Environmental Protection’ (led by ICCES, Council for Scientific and Industrial Member States were en route. He informed China) highly important and beneficial. Research (BCSIR) in the programmes that CIIT is actively participating in and activities of the Organization. Dr. China-Pakistan Economic Corridor It was informed that China plans to Zaidi requested Mr. Ahsan to encourage (CPEC) program. He also informed His collaborate with COMSATS in the students from Bangladesh to avail the Excellency about the Pak-China Business following areas: offers of post-graduate and post-doctoral Forum organized annually by CIIT for the scholarships by CIIT, Pakistan, and other

Annual Report 2017 69 COMSATS’ objectives and assured him of full support from Tunisia for induction of more Member States to COMSATS. The Ambassador urged the Executive Director to facilitate Tunisian students in receiving graduate and post-graduate scholarships in African and European institutions. Further, he solicited support of COMSATS for strengthening scientific research in Tunisia. He expressed willingness to help in execution of research projects/ establishment of a Centre of Excellence in Africa or Europe.

Centres of Excellence. Dr. Zaidi assured The Vice Chancellor UTG appreciated the The Ambassador informed that Tunisia the High Commissioner of COMSATS’ efforts and support of COMSATS since places special emphasis on education, of continued assistance in strengthening The Gambia joined the Organization. health and women empowerment. the Member States’ S&T capacity. He The Vice Chancellor showed interest He apprised that human resource further apprised the High Commissioner in using COMSATS’ platform for development, S&T, environment and about the COMSATS’ efforts for initiating improvement of education and human research are the strengths of Tunisia. The collaborative programmes between BCSIR resource development in The Gambia Ambassador proposed that a meeting and other members of the COMSATS’ through capacity building and scholarships should be held between Dr. Zaidi and Network of Centres of Excellence. programmes. the Minister for Higher Education and Scientific Research, Tunisia, to consider matters of mutual interest. Permanent Secretary, Ministry of The Permanent Secretary thanked the Higher Education, Research, Science Executive Director for inviting them to COMSATS Secretariat. He sought The Tunisian Ambassador also encouraged and Technology (MHERST), The the Somali Ambassador to avail the Gambia, H.E. Mr. Yaya Sireh Jallow COMSATS’ support for the development of Centres of Excellence in The Gambia. opportunity of joining COMSATS. The (14th September 2017) Ambassador of Somalia was presented a Ambassadors of Tunisia, H. E. Mr. Adel formal letter inviting the government of On his visit to COMSATS Secretariat, Mr. Elarabi, and Somalia, H. E. Mrs. Khadija the Federal Republic of Somalia to join Jallow was also accompanied by Prof. Faqir Mohamed Almakhzoumi (2nd October COMSATS. The Membership of Somalia Muhammad Anjum, Vice Chancellor, 2017) was realized later in November 2017 University of the Gambia (UTG); Prof. (Section 3). Ousman Nayan, Deputy Vice Chancellor The Ambassador of Tunisia appreciated and Provost, School of Medicine and Dr. Zaidi’s efforts towards achieving Applied Health Sciences, UTG; and Mr. Samba Sowe, Senior. Science, Technology and Innovation Officer at MHERST.

Briefing the guests, Dr. Zaidi appreciated the active role played by The Gambia in COMSATS’ activities. He informed the delegates about the organization’s strength with respect to Member Countries and Centres of Excellence, as well as its various present and past projects benefiting the Member States. He encouraged The Gambia, relatively new Member State, to duly benefit from COMSATS’ programmes to the fullest through participation and Annual Membership Contributions.

70 Annual Report 2017 Ambassador of Morocco, H. E. Mr. President, Scientific and TUBITAK’s willingness to offer more Mohamed Karmoune (27th November Technological Research Council of scholarships and fellowships to students 2017) Turkey (TUBITAK), H. E. Prof. Dr. and researchers from COMSATS’ Member Ahmet Arig Ergin (12th December States. Morocco joined the organization as a 2017) Member State during mid-2015. During Prof. Ahmet assured of all possible support for facilitating networking between his visit to COMSATS Secretariat, the A Turkish delegation comprising of COMSATS and General Manager of Ambassador of Morocco was requested to the President of the Scientific and TUBITAK’s Technology Park. He also help ensure Morocco’s participation in the Technological Research Council of Turkey st offered support in the form of technology 21 Coordinating Council Meeting to be (TUBITAK), Turkey, Prof. Dr. Ahmet Arif transfer from TUBITAK to COMSATS’ held in Kazakhstan during 2018. Ergin; President of TUBITAK Marmara Network. He expressed willingness to Research Centre (MAM), Turkey, accommodate researchers belonging to Mr. Karmoune opined that developing Dr. Orkun Hasekioglu; Chief of Staff, other Centres of Excellence at TUBITAK countries could make good progress TUBITAK, Dr. I. Soner Karaca; and Head MAM for trainings/research. without collaboration in education and of Bilateral and Multilateral Relations science, countries cannot progress, and, Department, TUBITAK, Ms. Zeynep th therefore, he considered it important Arziman Buyukboduk, visited COMSATS Meeting with Somali Officials (8 for Morocco to have good ties with Secretariat, on December 12, 2017. December 2017) COMSATS’ Member States and Network of Centres of Excellence. His Excellency Dr. Zaidi sought the delegation’s support An informal meeting with the Ambassador hoped to explore further avenues of for establishing new and up-grading the of Somalia to Pakistan and Board Member, mutual cooperation between COMSATS existing Centres of Excellence, as well as Somali-Swedish Researchers Association and Morocco. He pledged his support for instituting a state-of-the-art university in was held on the sidelines of the reception improving the participation of Morocco COMSATS’ Member States. He further ceremony to celebrate Somalia’s accession in the programmes and activities of solicited support for dispatching officials of to COMSATS’ Network. During the COMSATS. TUBITAK at COMSATS on secondment meeting Dr. Zaidi expressed desire to as well as experts to provide consultancy buttress relations between Somalia and Discussing the possible avenues of and advice in execution of projects in COMSATS. He offered support and cooperation between COMSATS COMSATS’ Member States. expertise for projects in education and and Morocco, Dr. Zaidi suggested health sector in Somalia. Mr. Khalif establishment of a high-quality R&D In response to Dr. Zaidi’s relevant views, Bile, Board Member, Somali-Swedish institute in Morocco, for which due Prof. Ergin made offer of providing Researchers Association endorsed Dr. support and expertise can be harnessed. consultancy to COMSATS’ Member States Zaidi’s suggestions, particularly regarding He also considered it important to have on cyber-security. He also suggested e-health services. more frequent exchanges and interactions setting-up an institute similar in operation of scientists between Morocco and other to ICTP, Italy, and proposed to replicate Mr. Abdullahi Haji Daud Warsame, member states of COMSATS. the project in COMSATS’ Member States. Councilor of the Embassy of Somalia He also pledged to facilitate the process and Mr. Nisar Ahmad, Deputy Director of establishing of a varsity in one of the (Systems) were designated as focal persons Member States by providing technical of Somalia and COMSATS, respectively. support. Further, Dr. Hasekioglu indicated

Annual Report 2017 71 Meetings with the Diplomats of as establishing a ministerial focal point invitation for the Republic of Uzbekistan Potential Member States in Malaysia and nomination of a suitable to join COMSATS with all necessary Malaysian institution to become the documents may be provided to him for Meetings were also held with organization’s Centre of Excellence, if the onward submission to the Chairman of the representatives of foreign missions of country were to join the Organization. Council for Coordination of Science and non-member states throughout the year Possibility of further collaborations Technology, Uzbekistan. with a view to exploring their potential between COMSATS Institute of for becoming COMSATS member Information Technology (CIIT) and The Ambassador assured to personally states. Among other things, the officials Malaysian universities was also discussed follow-up the case of Uzbekistan’s and diplomats were apprised about the to promote cultural and academic membership to COMSATS. mandate, scope and international projects exchanges. of COMSATS. They were also sensitized Ambassador of Turkmenistan, H.E. about the benefits and obligations of Dr. Mujtabar affirmed all possible support Mr. Movlamov Atajan Nurlyevich joining COMSATS as a member state. of the High Commission of Malaysia (2nd August 2017) To encourage the officials of respective towards COMSATS and assured to once countries for joining the organization, they again take up the accession proposal with Mr. Nurlyevich assured that the proposal were acquainted with the programmes his authorities. He also offered to facilitate of Turkmenistan’s accession to COMSATS of COMSATS that have benefited the meetings of COMSATS’ delegation will be taken up with the Government member states. Other aspects related to with officials of relevant Government of Turkmenistan. He also suggested that finances of the organization like Annual departments in Malaysia. He praised the proposal should be forwarded to the Membership Contribution were also the Executive Director’s efforts for Foreign Office in Turkmenistan. The highlighted during the meetings. consolidating ties between the universities Ambassador added that the Academy of Malaysia and Pakistan and his interest of Sciences and Ministry of Education, High Commissioner of Malaysia, in cultural exchanges. Turkmenistan, could be contacted for H.E. Dato’ Dr. Hasrul Sani Mujtabar collaborations. It was further informed Ambassador of Uzbekistan, H. E. Mr. (19th June 2017) that the Academy of Sciences in Furkat A. Sidikov (2nd August 2017) Turkmenistan is most suited to help The Executive Director COMSATS COMSATS in identifying institutions as During a meeting at COMSATS with other officials of COMSATS called potential Network Members. Secretariat, the Ambassador expressed on His Excellency Dato’ Dr. Hasrul keen interest in the programmes of the Sani Mujtabar, High Commissioner Ambassador of Kyrgyz Republic, organization, especially in the area of th of Malaysia in Pakistan, at his office in H. E. Erik Beishembiev (4 August agriculture. He highlighted the potential Islamabad. Other officials from COMSATS 2017) of cooperation between Uzbekistan were Ambassador (R) Fauzia Nasreen; and COMSATS Member States, such as Mr. Laeeq Jaswal, Manager Strategic During the meeting, Dr. Zaidi informed Pakistan. He considered COMSATS an Partnerships; and Mr. Shahzad Ahmed, the Ambassador that COMSATS would effective platform to enhance cooperation Manager International Relations. The send the membership proposal along with between developing countries. Regarding meeting was primarily held to follow-up relevant documents for consideration COMSATS’ offer of membership, H. the matter of Malaysia’s membership to of Kyrgyz Embassy and the Ministry E. Mr. Sidikov proposed that a letter of COMSATS, as well as related issues, such of Science and Technology in Kyrgyz

72 Annual Report 2017 Republic. Dr. Zaidi also expressed that Government of Yemen. Highlighting the the recent initiatives of the Government of COMSATS is willing to provide every benefits and obligations of COMSATS’ Azerbaijan for strengthening S&T sector support for establishing new universities membership, Dr. Zaidi told that Yemen in the country, including the establishment in member countries. The experience and could greatly benefit from COMSATS’ of S&T Parks and Research Institutions. progress of CIIT as a model of academic projects and programmes. Underscoring He took special interest in the scholarships excellence for the member states was the success of CIIT, Dr. Zaidi informed the offered by COMSATS’ Centres of shared. The Ambassador praised the Ambassador that COMSATS could help Excellence and requested for further facilities offered by CIIT to the students Yemen establish similar higher education details in this regard. He also invited and showed his interest in visiting the institutions in the country. Mr. Alashabi delegations from COMSATS’ Member institute. welcomed the opportunities offered by States to visit Azerbaijan to explore COMSATS. He recalled COMSATS’ possibilities of collaboration in the areas of Ambassador of Vietnam, H. E. Mr. efforts for reaching out to the Government mutual interest. Nguyen Xuan Luu (18th August 2017) of Yemen. He welcomed the renewed invitation to Yemen to join COMSATS and The Ambassador pledged to follow The Vietnamese Ambassador shared promised to raise the matter at relevant up COMSATS’ requests at relevant his Government’s interest in building fora. organizations in Azerbaijan. universities in collaboration with countries like Australia, Russia, and Germany. The Ambassador of Azerbaijan, H. E. Mr. High Commissioner of South Africa, Ambassador highlighted the cooperative Ali Alizada (21st August 2017) H. E. Mr. Mpendulo Jele Kumalo relationship between Vietnam and (24th August 2017) Pakistan, spanning over 45 years. The The Ambassador considered COMSATS Ambassador was requested to forward the an effective platform for promoting South- The High Commissioner was accompanied offer of COMSATS’ membership, through South cooperation for achieving S&T led by Ms. M. S. Mkhwebane, First Secretary a formal invitation presented to him by the socio-economic progress in developing (Corporate Services). He was informed Executive Director, to relevant government countries. He thanked COMSATS for about the benefits that the Republic officials. It was decided that COMSATS the offer of membership to Azerbaijan, of South Africa could avail by joining would later follow-up the matter with the and pledged to convey the feedback of COMSATS, which include: post-graduate, Ministry of Education and Academy of Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry in due doctoral and post-doctoral scholarships Sciences in Vietnam. The Ambassador course of time. He also informed about assured to take up the matter with the Ministry.

Ambassador of Yemen, H. E. Mr. Mohammed Motahar Alashabi (18th August 2017)

Referring to COMSATS’ earlier invitations to Yemen to join COMSATS, Dr. Zaidi urged the Ambassador to take up the matter with relevant officials of the

Annual Report 2017 73 at COMSATS’ Centres of Excellence in actions in this regard. South-South cooperation. His Excellency China, Egypt, Bangladesh, and Pakistan; noted COMSATS’ potential for sharing participation in technology-transfer and Ambassador of Cuba, H. E. Mr. knowledge and helping Kenya overcome Collaborative Research Programmes Gabriel Tiel Capote (22nd September the challenges in achieving science and (CRP) in partnership with COMSATS’ 2017) technology excellence. Dr. Zaidi shared partner international donor/development his intent to send a letter to the Kenyan agencies; training programmes at selected The honourable Ambassador expressed Ministry of Science and Technology CoEs; participation in International pleasure on learning about the ongoing with regard to accession of Kenya as Thematic Research Groups (ITRGs); help activities of COMSATS. He considered COMSATS’ Member State. and advice by experts on ST&I policy; and COMSATS an important platform exchange visits of scientists for exploring for the promotion of South-South Deputy Head of Mission, bilateral cooperation avenues between cooperation towards instituting S&T led Afghanistan, H. E. Mr. Zardasht institutions having common research socio-economic progress in developing Shams (31st October 2017) interests. countries. He thanked COMSATS for the offer of membership to Cuba, and pledged His Excellency was accompanied by Mr. His Excellency appreciated COMSATS’ to take up the matter with the Cuban Daud Mohseni (First Secretary), and Mr. programmes aimed at South-South government. He informed about the recent Hamayun Ali (Education Attaché). The cooperation and scientific capacity- initiatives taken by the Cuban government Ambassador thanked Dr. Zaidi for his building of its Member States, and pledged for strengthening the S&T sector in the invitation and appreciated COMSATS’ to approach the South African Ministry of country. efforts to enhance South-South Science and Technology. collaboration. He explained the transition High Commissioner of Kenya, H. E. period of development that Afghanistan Ambassador of Tajikistan, H. E. Mr. th was undergoing and hoped that the th Prof. Julius K. Bitok (27 September Sherali S. Jononov (30 August 2017) 2017) country would continue to grow in future.

During the meeting, the Ambassador His Excellency was accompanied by Mr. Dr. Zaidi suggested to the Ambassador noted with concern the huge gap in Abdikadir Doyo Wario, Second Counselor that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs technical cooperation between Pakistan at the Kenyan High Commission. The may be appointed as a focal point for and Tajikistan, which he had been trying meeting was also attended by Ms. correspondence and collaboration between to address by meeting with relevant Tehmina Doultana, Member National Afghanistan and COMSATS. Pakistani officials recently. He proposed Assembly, Pakistan, and senior officials of holding high level meeting between COMSATS. His Excellency was keen to share all officials of COMSATS and government the information with relevant officials officials at relevant Ministries of Tajikistan, The High Commissioner called Kenya of Afghanistan to open new doors for such as Ministry of Education. He also an engine of East and Central Africa and collaboration between the two sides. proposed ground level interactivity and showed interest Kenya being a part of the cultural exchange, e.g., through exhibitions Commission. He pledged to take up the Ambassador of Azerbaijan, H. E. Mr. in Tajikistan. Appreciating the worthy matter with concerned departments in Ali Alizada (3rd November 2017) inputs from the Ambassador, the Executive Nairobi for further consultation. The High Director assured him of taking necessary Commissioner pledged his support for The Ambassador showed interest in some

74 Annual Report 2017 collaborative activities of cultural nature Chemical Society, the Ambassador regarding possible collaborations with and desired to provide sponsorship for pledged to sensitize the Government of Australian universities and institutions, small projects of COMSATS. He also Nepal and the concerned authorities about United Nations Sustainable Development showed keen interest in the scholarship the importance of Nepal’s accession to Goals, scholarship programmes, offers by CIIT and hoped to encourage COMSATS, during her visit to Kathmandu and brain drain. She mentioned that Azerbaijani students to benefit from in December 2017. COMSATS could collaborate with the quality education at CIIT. Dr. Zaidi Australian universities for bilateral suggested some useful options to facilitate Ambassador of Argentina, H. E. Mr. exchange programmes and scholarships admissions of Azerbaijani students which Ivan Ivanissevich (24th November for the students, for which she pledged to could include a panel of admission officials 2017) support COMSATS through her office. from CIIT visiting Azerbaijan for on-the- She also discussed the Memoranda of spot admissions. During a short discussion session with Understanding signed by CIIT and H.E. Mr. Ivanissevich, Dr. Zaidi apprised the Australian universities, which she Ambassador of Nepal, H. E. Ms. Sewa him about the tele-health project of considered a way forward for exchange of Lamsal Adhikari (24th November COMSATS, which caters to the healthcare information and resources. Her Excellency 2017) needs of people in far-flung areas of pledged to facilitate implementation of the Pakistan. It was informed that the project MoUs on the other side. Her Excellency Ms. Adhikari lauded provides tele-consultations in cardiology, the vision of Prof. Dr. Abdus Salam and radiology, dermatology, and urology. His The High Commissioner agreed to take appreciated the expansion of COMSATS’ Excellency opined that Argentina, with the request from the Executive Director membership as well as the R&D at vast agricultural land, could employ such COMSATS to Pacific Islands Development COMSATS’ Centres of Excellence. technologies in agriculture. Forum (PIDF) seeking collaboration based between the two organizations in Ms. Adhikari stressed the need for The Ambassador said that new important areas of common interests. developing and promoting small technologies are fast getting cheaper technologies to benefit the masses, in and more sophisticated with time and Ambassador of Brazil, H. E. Mr. developing countries. She expressed COMSATS’ projects are a due utilization Claudio Raja Gabagli (12th April keen interest in COMSATS’ tele-health of that. Dr. Zaidi presented him an 2017) services and expressed her desire to invitation letter in connection with launch a similar project for the people of Argentina’s accession to COMSATS. The His Excellency Claudio Raja Gabaglia Lins, remote areas of Nepal. She opined that Ambassador pledged to take up the matter Ambassador of Brazil in Islamabad, visited meaningful research could accelerate the with the Ministries of Finance, and Science COMSATS Secretariat, on April 12, 2017, development process in a number of fields. and Technology for due consideration and and delivered a lecture on ‘Pak-Brazil She informed that solar energy and micro- political support. Relations’ which was attended by officials hydel power has mitigated electricity crisis of COMSATS Secretariat and CIIT. in less privileged areas of Nepal. High Commissioner of Pakistan to Australia, H. E. Mrs. Naela Chohan In his opening remarks before the lecture, Taking note of the prior correspondence (29th December 2017) Dr. Zaidi underscored the social and between COMSATS and the Ministry of cultural strengths of Brazil and also noted S&T, Government of Nepal, and Nepal’s The High Commissioner shared her views the country’s contribution to Science and

Annual Report 2017 75 Technology. in Latin America. He informed that in this regard, he apprised that Brazil EMBRAPA, Brazil, is undertaking very had 2,300 higher education institutions, In the wake of the expanding agro- interesting work of both practical and produced 16,700 PhDs and Brazilian business of Brazil, the Ambassador shared theoretical significance. He informed scientists published 40,500 papers during growing concerns of environmental that research at the Agrobiology centre 2016. protection, as he considered it Brazil’s of EMBRAPA, is helping to increase duty to protect environment, especially agricultural productivity, as well as At the end of his informative presentation, in the Amazon. Brazil, he noted, was in research capacity of Brazilian scientists in the Ambassador responded to a number transition, politically and economically, related fields. of questions from the audience relating to owing to its fight against corruption and BRICS block, education sector of Brazil, recovery from recession. The Ambassador informed that his cultural and academic exchanges, and country’s R&D has gained a lot of common socio-political aspects. He noted that Brazil is the 9th largest international prominence during the economy in the World with highest GDP last few decades. Sharing some statistics,

76 Annual Report 2017 Section 6: International Visits of Secretariat Officials • Ghana (21st to 24th May 2017) 78

• Thailand (16th to 23rd July 2017) 79

• Malaysia and Thailand (3rd to 11th October 2017) 79

• Nigeria (24th to 28th July 2017) 80

• The United Kingdom (5th to 13th August 2017) 82

• The Gambia (10th to 12th October 2017) 82

• Oman (31st October to 2nd November 2017) 83

• Italy (12th to 17th November 2017) 84

• China (16th to 22nd December 2017) 85

• Kazakhstan (19th to 23rd December 2017) 86

Annual Report 2017 77 International Visits of Secretariat Officials

The senior officials of COMSATS Secretariat undertake international visits from time-to-time to strengthen and expand the membership of COMSATS and its Network of S&T Centres of Excellence, participate in international meetings, and develop partnerships and cooperative mechanisms with relevant institutions in different countries.

Ghana (21st to 24th May 2017)

A three-member delegation of COMSATS headed by Ambassador (R) Fauzia Nasreen and comprising of Mr. Nisar Ahmad and Mr. Basit Rehman visited Accra, Ghana from 21st to 24th May 2017. The purpose of the visit was to strengthen relations with the country hosting the Chair of COMSATS through interactions with its partner institutions within the country. In this regard, meetings were held at COMSATS’ focal point, Ministry for Environment, Science, Technology and th Innovation (MESTI) and COMSATS 24 May 2017 and held detailed meetings has benefitted from two such events in Centre of Excellence in the country, the with the Centre’s Director General, Dr. 2013 and 2015, respectively. Council for Scientific and Industrial Victor Agyeman. Discussions on scientific Research (CSIR). The summary of the activities that COMSATS intended to hold Meeting with Minister of meetings is given below: in collaboration with CSIR in the near Environment, Science, Technology future were made. The matter of number and Innovation (MESTI) Meeting with Director General, of faulty and un-installed expensive Council for Scientific and Industrial equipment in the different research labs of On May 23rd 2017, the delegation visited CSIR was discussed in detail in connection Research (CSIR) MESTI, Ghana, to call on Prof. Kwabena with holding another event on repair and Frimpong Baoteng, Hon. Minister for maintenance of scientific equipment, in The delegation visited CSIR on 22nd and Environment, Science, Technology and response to CSIR’s request. In past, Ghana

78 Annual Report 2017 The delegation also visited other institutions in Ghana, including the Water Research Institute, Food Research Institute, Policy Research Institute, and Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, to get better insights into Ghana’s scientific and research infrastructure.

The meetings of the delegation in Ghana remained by and large successful in terms of the progress made for sensitization of the Ghanaian institutions and senior officials about COMSATS and the country’s role in the programmes and leadership of the organization, as well Innovation (MESTI). The Minister was achieving COMSATS’ objectives. paving ways for the meeting between the apprised about activities and future plans President of Ghana and Executive Director of COMSATS, chaired by the Ghanaian Meeting with Chief Director, COMSATS. President. A number of queries of Prof. Ministry of Foreign Affairs and th rd Baoteng with regard to COMSATS’ Regional Integration Thailand (16 -23 July 2017) past activities for Ghana and surgical instrument industry in Pakistan were also On the same date, the delegation also A three-member delegation of addressed by COMSATS’ officials. met the Chief Director of the Ministry of COMSATS comprising of Mr. Bilal Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Chouhan, Director (A&E); Mr. Laeeq In view of the importance of interaction at Ambassador Albert Yankey at the Hassan Jaswal, Assistant Professor; and the highest level of Ghana and COMSATS Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Mr. Shahzad Ahmed, Manager (IR) for achieving the organization’s objectives Integration, Accra, Ghana, in order to brief visited Bangkok, Thailand, from 16 to and fulfilling its international obligations, the official about COMSATS and its multi- 23 July 2017. The visit was undertaken the likelihood and arrangement of a layer relationship with Ghana. The meeting to attend training on “Excellence in meeting between the Chairperson of was held in view of the important role Change and Impact Evaluation” jointly COMSATS, the Hon. President of Ghana, of the foreign office in the international organized by International Development Hon. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, affairs of the country, including the Research Centre (IDRC) and Sustainable and the Executive Director COMSATS was country’s engagements with COMSATS’ Development Policy Institute (SDPI) discussed. Moreover, MESTI’s support as Member States. and United Nation Economic and Social a focal ministry in Ghana was pledged for Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP). The training was meant for productive learning experience and interaction with technical experts, speakers and participants from other think tanks and policy institutions. The workshop had also extended an opportunity to build synergies and to develop a pool of MEAL professionals under the MEAL leadership programme.

The training facilities were provided by UNESCAP office in Bangkok.

Malaysia and Thailand (3rd-11th October 2017)

A delegation of COMSATS comprising of

Annual Report 2017 79 supervising PhD scholars between the institutions.

Meeting at Ministry of Science and Technology and Innovation, Malaysia During the meeting, a proposal of membership of Malaysia to COMSATS addressed to the honorable Minister of Science Technology and Innovation of Malaysia from the Executive Director COMSATS along with other relevant documents was presented. The meeting ended on a cordial note of commitment to engage people from both sides for the development of Science and Technology and to process the case of Membership of Prof. Dr. Qaisar Abbas, Director, CIIT- rapidly changing global environment. The Malaysia of COMSATS. Lahore; Dr. Abdus Sattar Abbasi, Head, learning made during the event would help Centre of Islamic Finance, CIIT-Lahore; enhance the organization of COMSATS Meetings with Officials of UNESCAP and Mr. Shahzad Ahmed, Manager Institute’s similar forum, Global Forum on (International Relations), CIIT, Islamabad, Islamic Finance. A meeting was held with Executive visited Malaysia and Thailand from rd3 to Secretary UNESCAP, Dr. Shamshad 11th October 2017. Meeting with High Commissioner of Akhtar, and heads of ICT and disaster Pakistan to Malaysia management at UNESCAP, Thailand. The The purpose of the visit included follow- Executive Secretary UNESCAP showed up of the matter accession of Malaysia Meetings with H.E. Syed Hassan Raza, interest in cementing ties with COMSATS and Thailand to COMSATS as member High Commissioner, Pakistan to Malaysia, through various means. states; attending Kuala Lumpur Islamic and Deputy Secretary General, Ministry of Finance Forum (KLIFF-2017); meetings Science, Technology and Innovation, Prof. As a result of the understanding reached at International Centre for Education in Madya Dr. Ramzah Dambul, were held to during this visit, an agreement was reached Islamic Finance (INCEIF), International sensitize these officials about the benefits with UNESCAP later in December Islamic University Malaysia, University of Malaysia’s accession to COMSATS. A (Section 4). Putra Malaysia, High Commission of proposal for the membership of Malaysia Pakistan in Malaysia, and Ministry of to COMSATS in the name of honorable Meeting at Ministry of Science and Science Technology and Innovation Minister of Science Technology and Technology, Thailand in Malaysia; participation in Disaster Innovation, Malaysia, along with other Resilience Week at United Nations relevant documents, was presented during For inclusion of Thailand as member Economic and Social Commission for the meeting. state of COMSATS, a formal proposal of Asia Pacific (UNESCAP), Bangkok; COMSATS’ membership to Thailand was and meeting at Ministry of Science and Meetings at Academic Institutions in presented during meeting with Director Technology, Bangkok, Thailand. Malaysia (Office of International Cooperation), Ministry of Science and Technology, Kuala Lumpur Islamic Finance During the visit to various academic Bangkok. Forum (KLIFF-2017) institutions in Malaysia the delegates th th met officials to discuss and explore Nigeria (24 - 28 July 2017) The delegates participated in various opportunities for cementing collaborative events of KLIFF, which offered an ties in areas of mutual interest. The Mr. Farhan Ansari, Sr. Assistant Director integrated basis for promoting Islamic purpose of visiting institutions in (Programmes), COMSATS Secretariat, Financial system dialogue among speakers Malaysia was to further strengthen the visited Abuja, Nigeria, from 24th to 28th July and delegates to foster the orderly relationships in different fields by initiating 2017, in order to perform the following development of an efficient, competitive, joint research and study programmes, tasks: sound and innovative Islamic finance in a exchanging technical expertise and

80 Annual Report 2017 It was learnt that Nigeria houses 157 varsities and leads S&T sector in the African continent, therefore, the country can set a benchmark for other African countries by establishing top-notch universities and upgrading the established ones.

In this regard, Mr. Asim Ali Khan offered the help of Pakistani High Commission in Nigeria to play a facilitative role between COMSATS and FMST. The proposal for the launching of joint tele-medicine programme in Nigeria was also discussed during the meeting. Regarding the 1. To represent COMSATS while COMSATS and Nigeria as well as on progress of COMSATS’ International jointly organize the 4th International the participation of the country in Thematic Research Group (ITRG) on Workshop on ‘Applications of COMSATS’ programmes and activities. ‘Mathematical Modeling’ that has been ICTs in Education, Healthcare and It was noted that Nigeria, being the working since 2014, it was requested to Agriculture’ (25th to 27th July 2017, founding member, has been actively consider supporting the research project Abuja, Nigeria) (Section 7); participating in COMSATS Coordinating by matching the grants provided by 2. To hold a meeting with the Federal Council meetings and recently, in 2016- COMSATS-ISESCO. Minister for Science and Technology, 17, has initiated the payment of Annual Government of Nigeria; Membership Contribution (AMC) to The honourable Minister was also 3. To hold a meeting with the Director, COMSATS. The honourable Minister informed about the postgraduate National Mathematical Centre was pleased to learn that COMSATS has scholarships and postdoctoral fellowship (NMC), Nigeria. jointly organized 05 capacity-building offers made by different Centers of events in Nigeria, issued travel grants to 22 Excellence of COMSATS for all the The summary of the activities other than Nigerian researchers/students in addition member countries of COMSATS. the workshop is given below: to providing postgraduate scholarship to Moreover, Mr. Ansari elucidated some of 13 Nigerian students at CIIT. the upcoming capacity-building events and stated that COMSATS’ capacity-building Meeting with Honourable Federal In order to strengthen the education sector in Nigeria for achieving S&T-led events have a great impact on development Minister for Science and Technology, of its Member States in terms of practical Federal Republic of Nigeria sustainable development, the possibilities for jointly establishing a university and usefulness. The minister was pleased to know about COMSATS’ contribution in Mr. Farhan Ansari held a meeting with setting-up of S&T Park in Nigeria were discussed during the meeting. the scientific capacity-building events and H.E. Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, Federal assured to nominate Nigerian scientists in Minister for Science and Technology, Federal Republic of Nigeria, at his office on 27th July 2017. The Director, Bioresources Technology Research & Development, FMST, Abuja, Nigeria (COMSATS Liaison Officer), Mr. Abayomi Oguntunde; Head of Chancery, High Commission of Pakistan in Abuja, Nigeria, Mr. Asim Ali Khan; and Associate Professor, COMSATS Institute of Information Technology (CIIT), Dr. Khalid Latif, were also present during the meeting.

Mr. Ansari gave a briefing to the Minister on the past collaborations between

Annual Report 2017 81 order to strengthen the personal capacities. Secretariat; High Commission of Pakistan Republic of the Gambia. Ms. Balouch in UK; Association of Commonwealth briefed Her Excellency about the current Meeting with the Director, National Universities; and British Council London. programmes of COMSATS and its Mathematical Centre (NMC), Nigeria The officials met, pledged to provide future initiatives, such as seminars and support to COMSATS for its projects symposia on cutting-edge technologies; Another meeting was held between and activities in Member States. They post-graduate scholarships for students Mr. Ansari and Prof. Stephen E. Onah, also agreed to work with COMSATS from member countries, including the Director/Chief Executive, National for providing support in setting up the Gambia; and the International Thematic Mathematical Centre (NMC), Nigeria. Centres of Excellence in member states. Research Groups. She informed Her The Director NMC was accompanied Details of the meetings are given in Excellency about the nominations received by Mr. Olutunji Oladejo (COMSATS- Section 4. from University of The Gambia to benefit NMC Liaison Officer), Prof. Benjamin O. from COMSATS’ scholarship offers. Oyelami (Leader of COMSATS’ ITRG on The Gambia (10th to 12th October Her Excellency appreciated the efforts Mathematical Modeling) and two other 2017) of COMSATS regarding the capacity- officials of NMC. Mr. Farhan Ansari briefly building event in The Gambia, which overviewed NMC’s past participation in Ms. Huma Balouch, Senior Assistant she considered highly relevant to the COMSATS’ programmes and meetings, Director (Programmes) COMSATS, priorities of her country. She was pleased and encouraged to do the same in the undertook a visit to Sere Kunda, the to learn about the ongoing activities and future. Gambia, from 10th-12th October 2017 expressed keen interest in COMSATS’ with an objective to represent COMSATS capacity-building programmes and offers Mr. Ansari invited Prof. Stephen E. Onah and make necessary organizational of scholarships. The meeting ended on a to visit COMSATS Secretariat as well as arrangements for the first International pledge of mutual support for increased COMSATS’ other Centres of Excellence to Congress on Viruses and Vaccines in cooperation and support for the Gambia. strengthen ties with these institutions for Tropical Areas (Section 7). A summary of science-led socio-economic development. the engagements other than the Congress Meetings with the Higher Officials of is given below. Medical Research Council (UK) Unit The progress of COMSATS’ ITRG on in The Gambia Mathematical Modeling, led by NMC was Meeting with the Vice-President of also discussed. The future visit of Prof. the Republic of the Gambia Ms. Balouch also had a brief meeting Dr. Moiz-ud-din Khan, Chairperson, with Prof. Dr. Umberto D’Alessandro, the Department of Mathematics, COMSATS On the sideline of the International Director of Medical Research Council Institute of Information Technology Congress, a meeting was held with Her (MRC-UK), in The Gambia to explore the (CIIT), Islamabad, was also discussed and Excellency, Ms. Aja Fatoumata C.M. avenues of mutual cooperation. The MRC both sides were optimistic that the visit Jallow-Tambajang, Vice-President of the unit, The Gambia is an internationally would open new doors of collaboration and facilitate the real-time networking among NMC and CIIT.

The United Kingdom (5th to 13th August 2017)

A delegation from COMSATS Secretariat led by the Executive Director COMSATS, Dr. S. M. Junaid Zaidi, visited the United Kingdom from 5th to 13th August 2017. The Executive Director was accompanied by Ambassador (R) Shahid Kamal, and Dr. Arshad Malik, Advisor, International Office, CIIT. During this visit, the delegates held successful meetings with officials from Universities UK International; Lancaster University; Commonwealth

82 Annual Report 2017 recognized Center of Excellence for COMSATS Institute of Information Ishaque, Counselor Trade and Education, medical research, contributing knowledge Technology (CIIT); Dr. Manzoor Ilahi Pakistan Embassy. on the evolving epidemic, the evaluation Tamimi, Associate Professor, CIIT; Mr. of innovative healthcare options, treatment Jamshed Masood, CEO, COMSATS The Ambassador warmly welcomed the and prevention, and the development of Internet Services (CIS); and Mr. Nisar delegation and gave a comprehensive health policy and practice in West Africa. Ahmad, Deputy Director (Systems), briefing on the status of bilateral relations COMSATS Secretariat. The delegation between Pakistan and Oman. The Another meeting was held with Dr. Assan held a number of meetings during this delegation was informed about the new Jaye, Head of Research Training and period in different institutes. initiatives being taken by the Pakistani Career Development at Medical Research Mission for enhanced outreach. Council Unit, The Gambia. Ms. Baloch Meeting with Ambassador of congratulated him on winning the OIC Pakistan in Oman Dr. Zaidi shed light on the organization S&T Achievement Award during the first and functions of COMSATS and its OIC Summit. The officials of MRC UK in On 1st November 2017, the delegation flagship projects, and expressed desire Gambia were pleased to learn about the called upon H.E. Mr. Ali Javed, Pakistani to establish formal linkages between COMSATS platform and the activities Ambassador in Oman at Pakistan Embassy COMSATS and relevant institutions being organized under the umbrella of in Muscat, Oman. The meeting was also in Oman. Oman’s membership to COMSATS. attended by Mr. Salman Athar, Deputy COMSATS was also discussed in detail Head of Mission and Mr. Muhammad and it was adjudicated that the event Both the sides were optimistic about enhanced cooperation between the two international organizations.

Oman (31st October to 2nd November 2017)

A five-member delegation of COMSATS Secretariat visited the Sultanate of Oman from 31st October, 2017 to 2nd November, 2017 in connection with signing a “Protocol of Cooperation” with Oman National Computer Emergency Readiness Team (OCERT) (Section 4). The delegation was led by Dr. S. M. Junaid Zaidi, Executive Director COMSATS, and included: Dr. Sohail Asghar, Professor,

Annual Report 2017 83 will be brought up at the appropriate like ‘British Petroleum Fund’ for energy Signing of a Protocol of Cooperation forum and will be followed-up through sustainability projects, etc. The potential with OCERT, Oman the Embassy of Pakistan. Appreciative areas of future collaboration were explored of COMSATS’ efforts for South-South in great detail. On 2nd November 2017, the delegation Cooperation, the Ambassador assured the was welcomed at ITA by Ms. Roqaya Al- Executive Director that he will sensitize The delegation visited different labs of Tobi, OCERT and other senior officials the concerned officials of Oman, in SQU, including Electrical & Computer of the ITA that followed a detailed parliamentary procedure to accomplish Engineering (ECE) labs, Advanced presentation on ITA activities entitled the aims of COMSATS. Networking lab, Digital Design lab, ‘e. Oman Strategy’. Ms. Azhaar Abdullah etc. During the course of these visits, a Ambusa’idi of ITA gave a presentation on Visit to Sultan Qaboos University, number of Pakistani faculty members in OCERT. Dr. Zaidi introduced COMSATS Oman SQU joined the delegation and had useful by giving a presentation highlighting the discussions apart from exchange of ideas goals and achievements of COMSATS. Later, the delegation visited the Sultan for future collaboration. During these Later, the delegation visited different labs Qaboos University (SQU). The university discussions, the programmes and activities of ITA, including SAS-Mobile, SAS Virtual was established in 1986 and is the biggest of COMSATS were highlighted and Reality and SAS Entrepreneurship. The and the oldest Public Sector University collaborations sought wherever feasible. delegation also visited the OCERT, where in the Sultanate of Oman. Mr. Ishaq of senior OCERT officials welcomed the Embassy of Pakistan also accompanied the Participation in Young Leaders delegates and Ms. Roqaya gave a detailed delegation during this visit. The meeting Forum presentation on OCERT functions that with Dr. Talal Khamis Al-Wahaibi, followed a technical briefing with live Assistant Dean (Research) was held in his Afterwards in the evening, COMSATS’ demos of applications and tools being used office. delegation, on the invitation of Pakistan by OCERT against cyber threats. Social Club (Pakistani Community forum Welcoming the delegation, Dr. Talal in Oman) participated in the Young A “Protocol of Cooperation” was signed expressed his pleasure to receive the Leaders Forum (YLF) organized by the between COMSATS and The Oman guests and hoped that the visit will open Embassy. The participants welcomed Dr. National Computer Emergency Readiness new areas of collaborations. Dr. Zaidi Zaidi’s announcement for fully-funded Team (OCERT) to cooperate in the areas briefed about COMSATS and its flagship scholarships to qualifying Pakistani of cyber security and computer emergency projects with special focus on CIIT. Dr. students in Oman who wished to pursue response program (Section 4). Talal informed the delegates about the their careers in the fields of Science & organizational structure of SQU and Technology and IT at CIIT. Dr. Zaidi Italy (12th to 17th November 2017) shared the activities and roles of his also expressed full support for the online Research Department. It was informed platform of www.ypfo.pk, including IT A four-member delegation of COMSATS that SQU currently has more than 17,000 support and participation through lectures headed by Dr. S. M. Junaid Zaidi, students and 9 colleges. SQU has different and internships. Executive Director COMSATS, and types of grants for students, including comprising of Mr. Tajammul Hussain, ‘His Majesty Grant’, while different Advisor (Programmes); Dr. Kamran collaborative grants are also available Jahangir, Advisor (TAC); and Mr.

84 Annual Report 2017 Farhan Ansari, Senior Assistant Director Biotechnology (TIB). The delegation of Science and Technology, Mr. Ye (Programmes) visited Trieste, Italy in was headed by the Executive Director Dongbai, was held on 18th December order to participate in the 2nd Meeting COMSATS, Dr. S. M. Junaid Zaidi, and 2017 at his office. The Director General of COMSATS’ Technical Advisory included Ambassador Shahid Kamal, welcomed COMSATS’ delegation and Committee (Section 1). On the sidelines Head of CCRD-COMSATS Institute appreciated the role of COMSATS in the of the TAC meeting the delegates visited of Information Technology; Major promotion of Science and Technology ICGEB Headquarters in Italy (Section 4). General (R) Muhammad Tahir, Advisor; for sustainable science-led development. and Mr. Tajammul Hussain, Advisor During the meeting, Dr. Zaidi shed China (16th to 22nd December (Programmes). The delegation met light on the historical background, 2017) Chinese authorities and Heads of various mission, structure, and statutory bodies scientific institutions with the agenda of COMSATS. The Director General A four-member delegation of COMSATS to further strengthen the relationship in MoST ensured due consideration on visited People’s Republic of China from research and innovation between China increase of China’s Annual Membership 16th-22nd December 2017. The purpose and COMSATS. Contribution to COMSATS, on request of the visit was to meet the senior from the COMSATS’ delegation. officials of Chinese Ministry of Science Meeting with Director General, Highlighting the capacity-building and and Technology (MoST); Ministry of International Cooperation, Ministry training programmes of MoST, China, the Commerce; Chinese Academy of Sciences of Science and Technology Director General sought 5-8 nomination (CAS); International Center for Climate of scientists from the member states to and Environmental Sciences (ICCES); A meeting with Director General of participate in the workshops at ICCES. and Tianjin Institute of Industrial International Cooperation, Ministry

Annual Report 2017 85 Meeting with Director, International Meeting with Deputy Director, Tianjin held between Prof. Galimkair Mutanov, Centre for Climate and Institute of Industrial Biotechnology (TIB) the Rector of Al-Farabi Kazakh National Environmental Sciences (ICCES) COMSATS’ delegation met with Prof. Sun University (KazNU), Kazakhstan, and Jibin, Deputy Director, Tianjin Institute Mr. Farhan Ansari, Senior Assistant st Another meeting during the day was held of Industrial Biotechnology (TIB), on 21 Director (Programmes), COMSATS; and with Prof. Lin Zhou, Director, ICCES. December 2017, to discuss the prospective Mr. Muhammad Atiq-ur-Rehman, Senior The agenda of the meeting was to discuss induction of Tianjin Institute of Industrial Programme Officer (P&D and HRD), future collaborations to step forward Biotechnology (TIB) as a Centre of INIT. for socio-economic improvements and Excellence in COMSATS’ Network. augmenting the efforts for South-South During the meeting, Prof. Mutanov th rd cooperation. Dr. Zaidi mentioned the Kazakhstan (19 to 23 December stressed the need to introduce new remarkable efforts by Prof. Lin for 2017) technologies, develop digitalization and the work ICCES has been doing for competence centers to be based in research collaborations with COMSATS’ member Mr. Farhan Ansari, Sr. Assistant Director universities, as well as to implement the countries since its genesis. (Programmes), COMSATS Secretariat, “Digital Kazakhstan” programme. He also visited Almaty, Kazakhstan, from 19th to highlighted that these technologies are Meeting with Officials of the Chinese 23rd December 2017, in order to perform designed to allow Kazakhstani scientists Academy of Sciences the following tasks: to use nanotechnologies for increasing cyber security in information exchange, conducting advanced research, creating COMSATS’ officials met with the 1. To represent COMSATS in a co- th more accurate models of complex authorities of Chinese Academy of organized event, 7 International processes, and analyzing the increasing Sciences (CAS) on 19th December 2017 Workshop on ‘Internet Security: amounts of data obtained as a result to discuss the matters of mutual interest. Enhancing Information Exchange of experiments. He also informed that A presentation was made by Ms. Feng Safeguards’ (Section 7), and the techno-park is being established by Kai briefing the delegation about CAS’ 2. To hold a meeting with the Rector creating a center of super-computer and international programmes and activities, and Vice Rector, Al-Farabi Kazakh cloud computing in KazNU under the its international mandate, structure, and National University (KazNU), New Silk Road Alliance of Universities. on-going projects. CAS officials informed Kazakhstan the delegation about the plans of setting- The COMSATS’ officials also discussed the up a technology centre in Islamabad. Meeting with the Rector, Al- details of the arrangements with regard to CAS ensured COMSATS’ officials about Farabi Kazakh National University 21st meeting of COMSATS Coordinating providing financial and technical support (KazNU), Kazakhstan Council, which is to be held in KazNU in to one of the Centres of Excellence of April 2018. COMSATS. On December 19, 2017, a meeting was

Meeting with Officials of Ministry of Commerce, China, and Institute of Remote Sensing and Digital Earth

The meeting with the officials of Ministry of Commerce, China, and department of SSC were held on 20th December 2017 at the Ministry of Commerce, China and Institute of Remote Sensing and Digital Earth (RADI), respectively. The Head of Department of South-South cooperation, Ministry of Commerce, pledged to work with COMSATS in order to harness bilateral and multilateral collaborations with COMSATS’ member states.

86 Annual Report 2017 Section 7: S&T Events Organized with COMSATS Support

• Conference on Agriculture, Food Security and Biotechnology, Islamabad, Pakistan 88 (26th-27th April 2017)

• International Workshop on Applications of ICTs in Education, Healthcare and Agriculture, 89 Abuja, Nigeria (25th-27th July 2017)

• Forum on 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda for Sustainable Development, 91 Islamabad, Pakistan (12th September 2017)

• National Workshop on Repair and Maintenance of Scientific, Engineering Equipment in 93 Universities, Research Institutions and Small Scale Industries, Almaty, Kazakhstan (2nd-6th October 2017)

• International Congress on Viruses and Vaccines in Tropical Areas, Sere Kunda, Gambia 94 (11th-12th October 2017)

• International Workshop on Internet Security: Enhancing Information Exchange Safeguards, 95 Almaty, Kazakhstan (19th-23rd December 2017)

Annual Report 2017 87 S&T Events Organized with COMSATS Support

Capacity-building activities are an important feature of COMSATS’ programmes aimed at strengthening South- South Cooperation. The organization has been regularly organizing scientific events in areas of crucial importance to strengthen scientific linkages; build indigenous capacities; and promote S&T as a tool for development. These events provide a useful platform to the members of the scientific community, development experts, donor and development agencies, and the decision-makers in particular from Member States, to share their views and experiences on contemporary issues of importance for S&T-led socio-economic development.

Conference on Agriculture, Food The inaugural ceremony was attended by with his presence as the Chief Guest. Security and Biotechnology, more than 130 national and international Apart from the inaugural remarks from Islamabad, Pakistan (26th-27th academicians, and scientists from the Chief Guest, the inaugural session different countries, including Egypt, included messages and remarks from Dr. April 2017) Turkey, Tunisia, Sudan, Iran, Sri Lanka, S. M. Junaid Zaidi, Executive Director and Uzbekistan. The Federal Minister for COMSATS; His Excellency Dr. Abdulaziz rd The 3 International Conference National Food Security and Research, Othman Altwaijri, Director General on Agriculture, Food Security and Government of Pakistan, Mr. Sikandar ISESCO; Dr. Yusuf Zafar, Chairman PARC; th Biotechnology was held from 26 April to Hayat Khan Bosan, graced the ceremony and Dr. Ghulam Muhammad Ali, Member 27th April 2017, at the National Agriculture Research Centre (NARC), Islamabad, Pakistan. The two-day conference was jointly organized by COMSATS, the Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ISESCO), and Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC). The conference underscored the importance of agricultural biotechnologies for achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to hunger and nutrition.

88 Annual Report 2017 Coordination and Monitoring, PARC, of transgenic plants; and impact of of subjects in agricultural biotechnology Islamabad. development of agri-biotechnology were displayed throughout the event. research on food and economic security. The prizes for three best posters, based There was a keynote speech at the on novelty and potential for practical Inaugural session by Dr. Kauser A. Malik, Presentations were made on research applications, were awarded at the Department of Biological Sciences, FC initiatives by scientists from various concluding session on 27th April 2017. College Lahore. He opined that the fear of academic and research organizations, unknown keeps the human beings hesitant including the COMSATS Institute The Conference ended on the same date to adopt new technologies. He advocated of Information Technology (CIIT), with closing remarks and vote of thanks the use of genetically modified crops to Islamabad; National Institute for Genomics by the representatives of the co-organizers of the event, Dr. Yusuf Zafar (PARC) and Mr. Tajammul Hussain (COMSATS). The international speakers, Dr. Zihni Demirbag, Karadeniz Technical University (Turkey), and Dr. Majid Javanmard Dakheli, Iranian Research Organization for Science and Technology (Iran) also spoke at the concluding session.

International Workshop on Applications of ICTs in Education, Healthcare and Agriculture, Abuja, Nigeria (25th- 27th July 2017)

The 4th International Workshop on address hunger. and Advanced Biotechnology (NIGAB), ‘Applications of ICTs in Education, Islamabad; Centre of Agricultural Healthcare and Agriculture’ was held The technical sessions of the conference Biochemistry and Biotechnology (CABB), from 25th to 27th July 2017, in Abuja, constituted 32 lectures in total and took a Faisalabad; University of Gujrat; National Nigeria. It was hosted by the National multi-sectoral approach, encompassing the Institute for Biotechnology and Genetic Space Research and Development Agency crop, livestock, forestry and fishery sectors, Engineering (NIBGE), Faisalabad; (NASRDA), Federal Ministry of Science as well as use of microorganisms within Punjab University, Lahore; Institute for and Technology (FMST), Nigeria. The these sectors. The programme covered Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering event was jointly organized by COMSATS, a wide range of topics, such as genome- (IBGE), Peshawar; Agricultural the Islamic Educational, Scientific and sequencing methods; marker-assisted Biotechnology Research Institute (ABRI), Cultural Organization (ISESCO), and breeding for crop improvement; microbial Faisalabad; Institute of Biomedical And Inter Islamic Network on Information bio-pesticides and bio-stimulants; Genetic Engineering, Islamabad; and Technology (INIT). The workshop was antimicrobial treatment for food safety; Centre for Agriculture and Bioscience attended by around 250 participants bio-products in plant protection; International, Rawalpindi. belonging to Egypt, Jordan, Nigeria, technologies of the agro-food products Pakistan, Palestine, Sudan and Sri Lanka. processing; environmental risk assessment Around 35 posters covering a wide range The workshop helped disseminate

Annual Report 2017 89 knowledge and enhance capabilities of the CIIT, Pakistan also spoke on the occasion. Member States of COMSATS and OIC to participants regarding the cutting-edge Mr. Ansari and Dr. Latif were speaking on employ ICTs as a tool to strengthen the innovative ICT-based technologies and behalf of Executive Director COMSATS afore-mentioned sectors. techniques used in Education, Healthcare and President INIT, respectively. and Agriculture. Recommendations of the International The ceremony was concluded with the Workshop on ICTs: The workshop was inaugurated by H.E. Goodwill Messages delivered by the Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, Federal Minister representatives of Nigerian Federal • An integrated framework for for Science and Technology, FMST, Ministry of Education, Federal Ministry application of ICTs in distance Government of Nigeria, on 25th July 2017. of Health, and Federal Ministry of learning, and off-site teaching should The inaugural ceremony was attended Agriculture, while the vote of thanks was be developed and implemented. by distinguished guests belonging to delivered by Pharm. A. Oguntunde, FMST • Sensitization and capacity-building universities, R&D organizations and (COMSATS-Nigeria Liaison Officer). should be intensified for leaders, government departments of Nigeria. Mr. Asim Ali Khan, Head of Chancery, High The technical Commission of Pakistan in Abuja, was deliberations of the amongst the distinguished guests at the three-day event included ceremony. three technical sessions, one each on the During his keynote address, the applications of ICTs in honourable Minister thanked COMSATS, Education, Agriculture, ISESCO, and INIT for selecting Nigeria to and Healthcare. There host such an important event. He pledged were 16 technical that the Nigerian Federal Ministry of presentations and invited Science and Technology would continue lectures. Each of the collaborating with these organizations in three technical sessions future. included a discussion session for assessing Earlier, Mrs. Belema Wakama, the present state of the Permanent Secretary, FMST, Nigeria; use of ICTs as well as Mr. Farhan Ansari, Sr. Assistant Director to formulate specific (Programmes), COMSATS Secretariat; recommendations for and Dr. Khalid Latif, Associate Professor, the governments of the

90 Annual Report 2017 of South-South Cooperation and was attended by Foreign missions of Embassy of China, European Union, and Palestine and delegates from UNIDO and UNDP and CIIT, Pakistan. They endorsed the importance of South-South Cooperation for exchange of resources, technology, as well as knowledge between the developing countries of the global.

Held in Islamabad, the event had a strong attendance of over 110 from foreign missions in Islamabad, academia, R&D institutions, and government representatives of Pakistan, as well as think-tanks and international policy makers and educators. The event successfully facilitated the organizations, and media. • All educational institutions should exchange of knowledge and expertise have Education Management among the participants belonging to The Executive Director COMSATS, Dr. S. Information Systems (EMIS). various developing countries related to M. Junaid Zaidi, in his welcome address, • ICT infrastructure development and emerging ICT applications as a tool to informed that, taking its efforts of South- sustainability should be given priority attain socio-economic progress. South cooperation forward, COMSATS for improvement in the educational is trying to establish new Centres of sector. Excellence in COMSATS member Forum on 2030 Sustainable countries, as well as working to expand the • Strategies for adopting ICTs in health Development Agenda for management system should be Network’s horizons to the North. developed. Sustainable Development, th • The three components of healthcare Islamabad, Pakistan (12 Mr. Zhao Lijian, Deputy Head of Mission, system, i.e., research, therapy and September 2017) Embassy of People’s Republic of China prevention should be promoted. to Pakistan, noted that China is on the • A system of education of farmers COMSATS with the support from the mission to eradicate poverty and attributed through short videos about the use Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies its development to the efforts made in of technology and farm inputs and (IPD) organized a forum on ‘2030 this regard and has planned to eliminate techniques should be put in place and Agenda for Sustainable Development’ poverty by 2020. Mr. Lijian stated that sustained. on 12th September 2017. The forum the Chinese government has provided • Farmers should be equipped with was organized to celebrate UN’s Day subsidies for education as well as health. Android phones with Long Term Evolution (LTE) applications to enable them to follow the trend of e-agriculture in a relatively cheaper and easier manner. • There must be a deliberate plan towards reducing the cost of technology (GPS, RFID, Sensors, Satellite Systems, etc.) through local production and manufacturing. • Monitoring of the environment through air quality, weather, geo- hazard and waste management, etc. should be institutionalized and made obligatory for the industrial and manufacturing sector.

Annual Report 2017 91 public sector but also private sector and NGOs. He looked forward to having effective collaborations with COMSATS for reaching out to its member states with relevant initiatives.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Shakeel Ahmad, Assistant Country Director (Development Policy Unit), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), believed that despite fewer opportunities than challenges, the global South is emerging, but the transition from under developed state to developed state H.E. Mr. Walid Abu Ali, Ambassador of towards climate change concerns of all will take time. State of Palestine to Pakistan, also spoke on the countries striving for and trying the occasion. He expressed his country’s to sustain development. Mentioning Ambassador (R) Shahid Kamal, Advisor, commitment to South-South Cooperation. Horizon 2020 (an EU project providing Centre for Climate Research and He also highlighted the need to prioritize research and development opportunities in Development (CCRD), CIIT, Islamabad, Africa while making such efforts and developing countries) in this perspective, who also moderated the Forum, shared enhance the continent’s representation in she expressed that the goal is to produce his thoughts regarding the growing Science and technology-led platforms, like world class scientists who work for the importance of the South, relevance and COMSATS. development of countries of the South as increasing involvement of North, role well as the North. of Science and Technology in South- Speaking at the Forum, Ms. Anne Marchal, South Cooperation, and collaborative Deputy Head of Mission, Delegation of the Mr. Esam Alqararah, Country Head, partnerships and programmes. European Union to Pakistan, noted that United Nations Industrial Development Science, Technology and Innovation are Organization (UNIDO), stated that his The discussion and Q&A session at the powerful tools for achieving sustainable organization is working to promote South- end of the event touched upon the themes development with due consideration South Cooperation not only through of: sustenance of S&T facilities and

92 Annual Report 2017 resources in the South for it to be able to Equipment in Universities, Research universities of Almaty and other cities of exploit them for sustainable development; Institutions and Small Scale Industries’ was Kazakhstan, benefited from the training resilience of the traditional base in held from October 02-06, 2017, at KazNU, provided by the COMSATS’ international countries that have greatly alleviated Almaty, Kazakhstan. The workshop experts. poverty; and the narrative of brain drain was jointly organized by COMSATS, vs. brain gain. ISESCO, and KazNU, Kazakhstan The event was inaugurated on October 02, under ISESCO-COMSATS biennium 2017 by Prof. Dr. Tlekkabul Ramazanov, Ms. Farhat Asif, President, Institute of Cooperation Programme for 2016-2017. Vice-Rector for Research & Innovations, Peace and Diplomatic Studies, concluded The event was hosted by Al Farabi Kazakh Al Farabi Kazakh National University the event with a vote of thanks. National University (KazNU), Republic (KazNU), Kazakhstan. The inaugural of Kazakhstan, COMSATS’ Centre of ceremony was co-chaired by Mr. Tajammul National Workshop on Repair Excellence in Kazakhstan. Hussain, Advisor (Programmes), and Maintenance of Scientific, COMSATS. The ceremony was attended The aim of the of this serial workshop by a number of senior officials of KazNU, Engineering Equipment in is to build indigenous capacity of the Ministry of Education and Science, Universities, Research Institutions local scientists and institutions in the Kazakhstan and other organizations. and Small Scale Industries, developing countries and promoting Almaty, Kazakhstan (2nd-6th self-reliance for the upkeep of scientific The distinguished guests included Dr. October 2017) equipment being used in research labs. Zayadan Bolatkhan, Dean of Faculty of More than 60 participants including senior the Biology and Biotechnology; Dr. Yerdos The 10th National Workshop on ‘Repair scientists, engineers and technicians Ongarbayev, Dean Faculty of Chemistry and Maintenance of Scientific, Engineering from various research institutions and and Chemical technology; Dr. Vitaly Salnikov, Dean Faculty of Geography and Environmental Sciences; Dr. Serik Muhambet Zhanov, Head Department of Science and Innovation; Dr. Askar Davletov, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology; Dr. Bisenbaev Amangeldy, Director, SRI of Biology and Biotechnology Problems; Dr. Skakova Aizhan, SRI of Ecological Problems; Dr. Kalugin Sergei, SRI for New Chemical Technologies and Materials; Dr. Kenesov Bulat, Center of Physico- Chemical Methods of Research and Analysis; Dr. Muratov Mukhit, National Nanotechnology Open Laboratory; Dr.Temirbaev Amirhan, Scientific

Annual Report 2017 93 Technology Park; and Dr. Batyrshev Didar, demonstrations were conducted to in Sere Kunda, The Gambia. This is the Laboratory of engineering profile Al- consolidate the participant’s learning. first event in The Gambia since it became Farabi KazNU. Mr. Nisar Ahmad, Deputy COMSATS’ Member State in 2016. Director (Systems), COMSATS; and the Using the knowledge and techniques two experts from the Pakistan Council for learnt during the workshop, the experts The congress attracted more than 100 Scientific and Industrial Research (PCSIR), and participants successfully repaired participants consisting of scientists, Mr. Arif Karim and Mr. PirBuksh Khan a number of expensive and important experts on infectious diseases, were also present on the occasion. equipments in various labs. Moreover, academicians, public health professionals interactions with professionals working and postgraduate students from a number The ten technical sessions of the workshop in these labs further added to the trainees’ of countries around the world involved comprised of lectures and hands-on experience. in treatment, research, discovery and training, and troubleshooting and development of drugs and vaccines in the repairing the scientific equipment in Prof. Dr. Ramazanov and Mr. Hussain field of emerging viruses. different labs of KazNU. First half of the delivered votes of thanks at the Concluding day was reserved for lectures/theoretical Ceremony held on 6th October, 2017. The countries represented included part of the workshop while in second half Both thanked the Organizing Committee Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Ghana, Nigeria, of the day, hands-on training and practical members from ISESCO, COMSATS, Pakistan, and Sudan. and KazNU for their hard work to make the event a success. They hoped that the interactions and networking during the workshop will continue in future.

International Congress on Viruses and Vaccines in Tropical Areas, Sere Kunda, Gambia (11th-12th October 2017)

COMSATS, in collaboration with The University of The Gambia (UTG) and Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ISESCO), organized the first International Congress on ‘Viruses and Vaccines in Tropical Areas’, from 11th – 12th October 2017,

94 Annual Report 2017 Her Excellency, Ms. Aja Fatoumata C.M. The Congress programme also featured International Workshop on Jallow-Tambajang, Vice-President of the a keynote presentation by Dr. Assan Internet Security: Enhancing Republic of The Gambia, inaugurated the Jaye, Head of Research Training and Information Exchange event. Career Development at Medical Research Council Unit Gambia, on HIV Immune- Safeguards, Almaty, Kazakhstan The ceremony also featured speeches Pathogenesis and Anti-HIV Vaccines. (19th-23rd December 2017) by Prof. Dr. Faqir Muhammad Anjum, Another riveting keynote presentation was Chairman of the Organizing Committee delivered by Prof. Dr. Javed Akram, Vice The 7th International Workshop on at UTG; Dr. S. M. Junaid Zaidi, Executive Chancellor, Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto ‘Internet Security: Enhancing Information Director COMSATS; Prof. Dr. Umberto Medical University, on Dengue via video- Exchange Safeguards’ was held from D’Alessandro, Director Medical Research conference. 19th to 23rd December 2017, in Almaty, Council (UK) Unit in The Gambia; and Dr. Kazakhstan. The event was jointly Chemo Omar Barry, Permanent Secretary, The event helped in strengthening organized by COMSATS, ISESCO, and Ministry of Health and Social Welfare of the Gambian research community INIT, and was hosted by the Al-Farabi The Gambia, through dissemination of findings and Kazakh National University (KazNU), cross-disciplinary collaboration and Kazakhstan. The proceedings of the event focused communication among novice and on three major themes prediction and experienced researchers, at regional and The workshop was inaugurated on 19th prevention; management; and control international levels. December 2017 by Prof. Dr. Tlekkabul of viruses. Under these themes, the Ramazanov, Vice-Rector for Research participants explored the topics such as emergence, epidemiology and surveillance, animals as hosts for human disease pathogens, historical reports based on research analysis of emerging viral diseases, immune and host responses, genomics and evolution. The event resulted in robust discussions on the most effective strategies related to diagnosis, prevention and management of viral diseases as well as exploring new ideas and concepts related to vaccinations and control.

Annual Report 2017 95 Dr. Haider Abbas, King Saud University, Saudi Arabia, imparted training on Organizational Security. Mr. M. M. Waseem, NUST, Pakistan, covered various aspects of digital forensics apart from conducting detailed training on using Master Boot Record-MBR/VBR/Partition Tables, as well as using Master File Tables – MFT (Scenarios/ Experimentation). Mr. Asad Raza, Institute of Applied Technology, Abu Dhabi, UAE, conducted training on Ethical Hacking. Mr. Muhammad Faheem Qureshi, Institute of Applied Technology, Abu Dhabi, UAE, covered aspects related to incident & Innovations, KazNU, who expressed thanked ISESCO, COMSATS and INIT handling and response. Mr. Zafar Iqbal pleasure on hosting the workshop at for joining hands for this activity, and Mir, Deputy Head, Information Security KazNU, and thanked ISESCO, COMSATS, hoped for further enhanced cooperation Risk, MENA – HSBC, UAE, covered topics and INIT for their collaboration. in future. related to Dissecting a Cyber Attack. The technical sessions of the five-day Messages from the Executive Director workshop were attended by 40 young The workshop concluded with the COMSATS, Dr. S. M. Junaid Zaidi, and researchers, academicians, system distribution of certificates among the Director General of ISESCO, Dr. Abdulaziz administrators and cyber-security resource persons, local and foreign Othman Altwaijri, were also read-out at professionals, belonging to Kazakhstan, participants, and organizing committee the inaugural ceremony. Bangladesh, Jordan, Mauritania, Iran, members, by the representatives of KazNU, Pakistan and Sudan. COMSATS and INIT. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Atiq-ur- Rahman, Sr. Programme Officer, INIT,

96 Annual Report 2017 Section 8: Special Assignments • COMSATS Tele-Health Programme (CTH) 98

• COMSATS Internet Services (CIS) 100

• COMSATS Graduate Scholarship Programme 102

• COMSATS Foreign Interns Programme 103

Annual Report 2017 97 Special Assignments

For the benefit of its Member States, COMSATS undertakes special assignments, such as conducting scientific studies, undertaking pilot projects, or implementing educational programmes. Two of the COMSATS’ flagship projects have been successfully transformed into full-fledged institutions i.e., COMSATS Institute of Information Technology (covered in earlier section) and COMSATS Internet Services (CIS), while a third project on tele-health is being expanded. The administration related to graduate students from Member States studying at CIIT is also one of the special assignments of the Secretariat. Some of the foreign students after thorough evaluation have been engaged to facilitate in COMSATS’ operations.

COMSATS Tele-Health COMSATS and SZABMU-PIMS Collaboration between the two Programme (CTH) Joint Tele-Health Set-up organizations materialized after a meeting held between the honourable Executive There is a need to integrate tele-health In connection with the expansion of tele- Director COMSATS and Vice Chancellor in the conventional healthcare delivery health programme, steps were taken to Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Medical system in order to provide healthcare approach hospitals and medical institutes University (SZABMU-PIMS) at SZABMU. access to the people who live far and for joint collaboration. In the meeting, both the officials were beyond. In 2017, COMSATS continued accompanied by the relevant officers from its efforts to broaden the horizons As a result these efforts COMSATS joined their organizations, including Advisor of COMSATS Tele-Health (CTH) hands with Shaheed Programme, within and beyond Pakistan, Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto under the new leadership. Medical University (SZABMU), Pakistan In the reporting year, COMSATS has, Institute of Medical inter alia, initiated efforts to reach out to Sciences (PIMS) for its member states for joint collaborations establishing an e-health in tele-health. In order to share the system at PIMS experiences and lessons, and to seek hospital, Islamabad, collaborations in the field of tele-health, linking patients at far mapping of tele-health and related projects flung areas with medical of COMSATS’ Centres of Excellence and practitioners at the relevant organizations has been initiated. hospital.

98 Annual Report 2017 in the event enabled the COMSATS representative to meet various stakeholders who are either directly linked to tele-health program or indirectly involved in the manufacturing or distribution of digital equipment that can be used for tele-health purposes.

CTH Tele-Health Centre at CIS

One of the components of COMSATS Tele-Health is being executed at COMSATS Internet Services (CIS) as a project titled “Establishment of Tele- Health (CIIT), Principal Medical Officer approached the Government of AJK Health Clinics Network”. The project (COMSATS Secretariat) and Assistant seeking support for the establishment of comprises of a network of 13 rural tele- Professor Public Health Department 20 tele-health centres in different areas of health clinics, that are functional and (SZABMU). AJK, with help from COMSATS Internet successfully operating at rural Basic Health Services and AJK IT Board. Units (BHUs) located in the vicinity Under this collaboration, a tele-health of Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Peshawar, system will be set-up at PIMS linking Efforts for Capacity-Building Swabi, Lahore, Multan, Khairpur, Quetta, tele-health clinics to be established in Musakhail, and Gwadar. various parts of Pakistan, especially Gilgit Since tele-health is all about provision & Baltistan, and Azad Jammu & Kashmir of healthcare at a distance through All of the clinics are fully equipped with region, from where PIMS has the greatest best possible and feasible technologies the latest digital diagnostic equipment influx of patients seeking healthcare. available, this year COMSATS focused on including vital sign monitor, digital searching for new and better tele-health stethoscope, examination camera, The preliminary work for the solutions in the market. ultrasound probe, and ENT scope. These establishment of the Centre at PIMS has clinics are further linked with Tele-health been started, including the technical and Demonstrations of tele-medicine Center at CIS, Islamabad through live civil surveys to chalk out the requirements equipment by the vendors and meetings video conferencing for medical/specialist for a set-up of the kind. The surveys will with the relevant stakeholders were held. consultation. More than 55,000 patients lead to budgeting as well as planning the Two such companies were identified in have been examined and advised through finances of the project. Islamabad and meetings were held with this system. their relevant technical persons. The Collaboration with Midlands meetings helped identify new trends and Doctors Medical Institute (MDMI) possible solutions for future tele-health ventures. During the reporting period, COMSATS agreed to join hands with a medical In order to keep up-to-date with regard to facility at Muzaffarabad, Midlands Doctors tele-health practices and find availability of Medical Institute (MDMI), in order to new technologies in the market, Principal establish a tele-health set-up at MDMI Medical Officer of COMSATS tele-health health facility and link it to overseas team attended a premier international medical specialists. This facility will be health event “Health Asia” held in Karachi the first of its kind in Azad Jammu and from 22nd to 24th August 2017. This event Kashmir (AJK). A team from COMSATS included workshops and seminars on visited MDMI Muzaffarabad twice during health and also showcased vendors, the 2017. First visit aimed to assess the products and services like Hospitals & existing health and IT facilities at the Dental Clinics, Medical & Dental Colleges, institute and later to test the dedicated Software Houses / MT Companies, VoIP link with the videoconferencing Pharmaceutical Companies and e-Health equipment. COMSATS has also & Consultancy Companies. Participation

Annual Report 2017 99 software and business companies; foreign missions; consulate and embassies; non-governmental organizations; and universities, as well as social development and research organizations.

Board of Management

CIS’ affairs are managed by a Board of Management (BOM) Chaired by the Executive Director COMSATS.

During the year 2017, six meetings of BOM of CIS were held under the chairmanship of Dr. S.M. Junaid Zaidi, Executive Director COMSATS. The board discussed various issues including general performance, financial performance During the year 2017, CIS has signed an COMSATS Internet Services and legal status of CIS. The Executive agreement with the Punjab Information (CIS) Director emphasized the need for making Technology Board (PITB) and Khyber developments in the field of IT and design Pakhtunkhwa Information Technology Established in 1996, COMSATS Internet new projects. The main decisions of the board (KPITB) Peshawar, for the Services (CIS) is a pioneer Internet Service meetings are as under: establishment and maintenance of tele- Provider in Pakistan offering diversified health facilities at selected BHUs in their services like Wireless broadband, Domain i. Executive Director advised CIS to respective areas. The facility has been & web hosting, On-demand broadband, make focused efforts on revenue introduced under the title of E-ilaj. At Data Center Services, Video conferencing, generation, which is only possible present this facility is available at BHU Website designing and development, with the introduction of new products Bahali, Mansehra whereas four more Search Engine Optimization, Virtual and value-added services according BHUs in Swabi, Mardan, Nowshera, etc are Private Servers, Networking, IT training, to the market requirement. In this in the pipeline. and Internet-related research facilities. regard, he proposed ‘consultancy services’ with the help of experts from Distinguished Visitors of CTH Currently, CIS is operating in 17 cities CIS, CIIT, LUMS and IBA. It was and has more than 10,000 customers suggested that software development Throughout the year representatives of organizations from public and and data centre facilities should from various government and semi private sector; well-known national be expanded to meet the national government organizations as well as NGOs and international companies and firms; needs as well as those of COMSATS’ visited Tele Heath Clinic Islamabad and appreciated the efforts made by CTH at CIS in provision of specialist healthcare in rural, and under developed areas of Pakistan. The visitors included dignitaries from Pakistani ministries (Ministry of Finance, Planning & Development and Health, AJK; Ministry of Information Technology, Islamabad), senior executives from national corporations (OGDCL, PSO, PAEC, WAPDA, etc.), and medical specialists from hospitals (Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital & Research Centre).

100 Annual Report 2017 member countries. Virtual Private Servers, Domain and semi-Government institutions, NGOs, ii. It was suggested that there should be Registration, Website Hosting, Co-location and private organizations. a study to find out technology trends of Servers, and rack space to its customers. in USA, UK and Europe so that These data centers provide hosting services Training governments of Member States can be on both Windows and Linux platforms. advised on strategic planning for the CIS data Centers are located in Islamabad, CIS offers a wide range of training courses future of IT sector. Lahore and Faisalabad. A data center at on topics including Cisco®, CCNA and CIS Peshawar is planned to be established CCNP, Linux Administration, Windows® An important decision of the Board was in the near future. Administration, Microsoft Office®, appointment of Mr. Jamshed Masood as Oracle® database administration, Web the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) who In order to capture emerging opportunities development, Graphics design, and ITIL® joined CIS on January 03, 2017. The in the data center services space for its V3 Foundation. incumbent CEO has made substantial existing and potential customers, CIS contribution in the business growth of CIS. has expanded its infrastructure with the Video Conferencing latest state-of-the-art technologies at CIS CIS Core and Value-Added Services Technology Park building Islamabad. Two video-conferencing centers, one in Salient features of the new data center are Islamabad and another in Peshawar are CIS offers eight brands of core services, mentioned below: being used by CIS’ customers for video- which form ‘The Colors of CIS’. These conferencing within the country and for are Tornado® (Wireless broadband), • Capacity of 1,526 Sq. ft.; communicating abroad. Hawaii™ (Domain, hosting, and VPS), and • Precision cooling system with COMSpeed™ (Optical Fiber Connectivity). humidity controller; Bandwidth Growth The value added services include • Fire suppression along with four stage Hurricane™ (On-demand broadband), fire alarm; To ensure high uplink and downlink Prism™ (Website development), Viacon™ • N + 1 electric system including UPS speeds for its customers, CIS gets (Video conferencing), and COM meeting™ and backup electric generators. bandwidth from multiple providers. (web Conferencing Service). CIS also During the reporting period, CIS offers social services in the form of Software Development bandwidth grew from 1.7 GBPs in 2016 ComClinic™ (Tele-health service). All to 2.5 GBPs (approximately current processes and procedures at CIS are Software development section consists of bandwidth) in 2017. ISO9001:2008 certified. dedicated experts in JAVA, .NET, and PHP platform who utilize latest technology and Tele-Health Clinics (ComClinic) Data Centers best practices for website performance optimization and security. This section CIS Tele-Health clinic network comprising CIS has well-equipped data centers has successfully developed upgraded of 13 rural Tele-Health clinics has been offering a variety of services including applications and websites for Government operating successfully at Rural Basic Health Units (BHUs) located in the remote areas of Pakistan.

All these clinics are linked via Internet with CIS Tele-Health Center, Islamabad, where a panel of experienced doctors is available to provide consultation to the patients visiting the connected clinics. More than 55,000 patients have been examined so far.

CIS E-Education Project

COMSATS Internet Services (CIS), Islamabad has initiated and demonstrated an e-education project in collaboration

Annual Report 2017 101 industrial heads and educational institutes, graced the ceremony with their presence.

COMSATS Graduate Scholarship Programme

The principle of education for sustainability is reflected in COMSATS’ mission to provide leadership and support for North-South and South-South cooperative schemes in education, training and research, by setting up programmes of scholarships for research at its Centres of Excellence. During the 20th Coordinating Council meeting, COMSATS Secretariat urged its Centres of Excellence to offer with Universal Service Fund (USF), established by CIS, Faisalabad. scholarships for the students from Islamabad. USF was established by the • CIS has also expanded its services COMSATS member countries to pursue Ministry of Information Technology, from Lahore to Okara and Hasilpur. education in other countries leading them Government of Pakistan, to spread the to achieve more sustainable and inclusive benefits of the telecom revolution to Punjab Information Technology research excellence for their respective all corners of Pakistan. USF promotes Board Project countries. the development of telecommunication A few Centres of Excellence agreed to services in un-served and under-served PITB project won last year by CIS is provide an opportunity of doctoral and areas throughout the country. Federal being executed successfully in Attock, post-doctoral scholarships for prospective Government Girls School Sihala, Bahawalpur, Jehlum, Sargodha, and Okara students in different fields of S&T to Islamabad, has been connected via (50 BHUs connectivity and support). Internet with CIS building, Islamabad, acquire high-level competence in both academic studies and practical research where a trained IT/computer teacher Events delivers lectures to the school students. knowledge. Ten doctoral/post-doctoral scholarship are available for international i. CIS participated in ITCN-ASIA students from COMSATS’ member Achievements During 2017 16th International and Exhibition countries at the International Centre for Conferences at Expo Center Karachi Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS), Establishment of Tele Health Clinic at in September 2017, where stalls were Karachi, while Bangladesh Council BHU Bahali, Mansehra (KPK) set up for marketing, exhibiting CIS for Scientific and Industrial Research CIS Tele Health Islamabad in an agreement products, and tele-health facilities. (BCSIR), Bangladesh; International Centre with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Information ii. CIS participated in PAKMEDICA for Climate and Environmental Sciences Technology Board (KPITB), Peshawar, Medical Expo (A Pakistan-Turkey (ICCES), China; and National Research has launched E-ilaj facility at BHU Bahali, Health Cooperation Forum) for Centre (NRC), Egypt, have also agreed to Mansehra, as a pilot project. Four more developing cooperation between the provide access to their labs and facilities BHUs in Swabi, Mardan, Nowshera, etc are authorities of Turkey and Pakistani and engage researchers from other in pipeline. Ministry of Health with the aim to member countries through post-doctoral share information and experiences fellowships. Expansion of Operations to be saved in the scope of Health Transformation Movement. COMSATS Secretariat also invited • CIS have been expanded its operations iii. Inauguration ceremony of CIS its Member Countries and Centres of in Rawalpindi/Islamabad area by Gujranwala office was held Excellence to make use of the standing establishing base stations/CIS offices on December 27, 2017 where offer of CIIT’s 100 post-graduate at Tarnol, BaraKahu, and PWD many renowned and honorable scholarships and five post-doctoral Colony. personalities, including President of fellowships to researchers/scientists • CIS Node at Toba Tek Singh has been Gujranwala Chamber of Commerce,

102 Annual Report 2017 On November 1, 2017, another batch of foreign interns joined COMSATS, who received orientation from senior officials of COMSATS who made presentations to acquaint them with COMSATS’ organizational structure, mandate, and involvement with other /international organizations.

During this time, they had identified new research institutions for collaborations, suggested improvements in the working of International Thematic Research Groups (ITRGs), and created new inroads through highlighting the work being done by various Centres of Excellence (CoEs) belonging to COMSATS Member States. In Abdul Aziz Khan, Coordinator of the under the umbrella of COMSATS. this regard, 16 nominations were received Programme. Initially (March 2017), eight and upon completion of necessary pre- foreign students from CIIT were inducted Also, contacts were established in the requisites, scholarships were awarded to as the first batch of interns. top universities/institutions of the 11 nominees, who belong to The Gambia selected countries in areas of Science and (4), Nigeria (4), Palestine (2), and Ghana Later in June 3, 2017, their progress was Technology for possible collaboration (1) for their MS and doctoral studies in reviewed to assess the outcomes of the on scientific research activities with various departments of CIIT, including efforts made by them for establishing COMSATS and its Centres of Excellence. Environmental Sciences, Biosciences, links between various member countries Other tasks the interns worked on Molecular Biology, Computer Science of COMSATS and its Secretariat. The included: and Management Sciences (Fall & Spring meeting was chaired by the Executive 2017). Director COMSATS, Dr. S.M. Junaid • Making profiles of selected countries Zaidi. Among others, the meeting was to highlight their strengths and COMSATS Foreign Interns attended by Advisor (International possible areas for cooperation; Programme Coordination), Dr. Abdul Aziz Khan, and • Searching for possible funding Advisor (Programmes), Mr. Tajammul opportunities at the institutions/ During 2017, 18 foreign students served Hussain. The amount of work done by the organizations of the North for various at COMSATS Secretariat under the interns during a short period of just two projects and programmes; new Foreign Interns Programmes of months was appreciated during the review • Disseminating information regarding COMSATS under the mentorship of Dr. meeting. call for participants for workshops and events organized by COMSATS; • Exploring collaborations with top world ranking universities/ institutes in the North as well as with COMSATS ITRGs in relevant areas of research; • Presentations on the UN SDGs, analysis and the importance of science and technology in the SDGs together with current research trends.

Progress

Various responses were received from the universities, research institutes and government ministries contacted by the interns, and most of the

Annual Report 2017 103 universities/institutes indicated interest opportunities are being further explored. enhance the achievement of their aims and in collaborating with COMSATS and objectives. The review was submitted to its Centres of Excellence. Some of the Another key task carried out was the the concerned authorities, which pledged responses have led to possibilities of review of the activities of different to pass on the recommendations to the institutionalizing collaborations through ITRGs like the ones on Mathematical respective leaders of the Group. MOUs in different areas of science and Modelling, Climate Change, Food and technology, like exchange programs, Agriculture Security. The aim of this Progress made on other fronts includes: climate change and environment. was to suggest some ways in which the Groups can improve on their aims and • Generation of articles for COMSATS’ Some institutions have shown interest objectives and further engage in more publications. in becoming COMSATS Centers of innovative research activities. In this • Assistance provided to various Excellence and joining the ITRGs. In regard, the interns highlighted the Group’s departments of the COMSATS addition, some have begun initiating achievements and possible difficulties Secretariat for day to day operations moves for their countries to become that may be encountered, and suggested of the organization. member states of COMSATS. These some ways in which the Groups can

From an Outgoing Foreign Intern

Abdullahi Muhammad Labbo a citizen of Nigeria, working as Lecturer at Department of Biochemistry Sokoto State University, Sokoto Nigeria.

I completed MS Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at COMSATS Institute of Information Technology (CIIT) Islamabad, Pakistan, under Commonwealth fellowship program. During my MS studies at CIIT, I undertook a one-year research thesis where I explored and analyzed a super family group of genes (Transcription factors) that enable plants to cope with different environmental stresses, including drought. In my research, I used different Bioinformatics tools and techniques used in gene expiration analysis, under supervision of Dr. Irfan Sadiq.

In my opinion, CIIT is a world class university with hardworking teachers and excellent research output. I can compare CIIT with other Ivy League Universities across the world. CIIT is Pakistan’s top varsity by Times Higher Education Ranking for 2018.

During my studies at CIIT, I enrolled in internship program at the Commission on Science and Technology for Sustainable Development in the South (COMSATS). COMSATS is an international intergovernmental organization with a focus on bringing about development of countries in the South (developing and under develop countries). COMSATS has exposed me to experience of working in an international organization with a workforce comprising of men and women of intellect, from whom I learned idea development and philosophy of life.

Contact Information: [email protected]; [email protected]

104 Annual Report 2017 Section 9: Publications and Information Dissemination • COMSATS Newsletter 106

• Annual Report 2016 107

• Mid-Year Report 2017 (January to June 2017) 108

• COMSATS’ Journal, ‘Science Vision’ (Volume 21) 108

• COMSATS’ Series of Publications on Science and Technology (16): 108 International Symposium on Light and Life – Proceedings

• Profiles of COMSATS Centres of Excellence 109

• COMSATS’ Website and other Informational Material 109

Annual Report 2017 105 Publications and Information Dissemination

Information dissemination through publications is an important mechanism of outreach for COMSATS, which is done through four major tools: bimonthly Newsletter, bi-annual journal ‘Science Vision’, COMSATS’ Series of S&T Publi- cations and COMSATS’ official website, apart from other promotional material. From time to time, COMSATS also collaborates with different institutions to bring out joint publications.

In 2017, COMSATS continued its 12 information dissemination through Vol. 9 Vol. 8 publications and official website. 10

8 COMSATS Newsletter 6

th During 2017, the 8 Volume of COMSATS 4 Newsletter was completed and 5 issues of the 9 volume were brought out, thus 2 completing 53 issues of this important 0 information dissemination tool.

The following reports were covered in the the last issue of volume 8, a brief profile Special section of the 9th Volume: of Sudan was included. In the five issues of the 9th volume, the following countries • 3rd International Conference on were covered: the Philippines, The Agriculture, Food Security and Gambia, Egypt, Turkey, and Tunisia. Biotechnology, Islamabad; • 20th Meeting of the Coordinating The section regarding news on COMSATS’ Council, Cairo, Egypt; Centres of Excellence, described the • 4th International Workshop on activities and achievements of the centres ‘Applications of ICTs in Education, during the year 2017. The information Healthcare and Agriculture, Abuja, for this section was collected from the Nigeria’; material shared by the respective centres • COMSATS’ Forum on 2030 and from websites. The news covered Sustainable Development Agenda. during the period related to important collaborations; events organized; The special section in the last issue establishment and enhancement of of volume 8 covered COMSATS’ facilities; services provided; appointments, International Capacity Building Events in awards and achievements; important visits The prominent sections of the Newsletter Morocco, Malaysia, and Iran. and exchanges; research undertakings; and include an editorial by the Executive work on important projects. Director COMSATS, and updates on ‘Science and Technology Indicators of the activities of COMSATS Secretariat Member States/Member Country in The Opinion Articles by different authors and COMSATS Centres of Excellence. Spectrum’ highlights the social, economic presented meaningful views on various Other sections included science and as well as scientific standings of member issues, including: technology indicators of Member States; countries of COMSATS. The data is opinion articles; Science, Technology obtained from credible sources, which • ‘Potentials of Biomass and Biofuels in and Development news; and profiles of include World Bank, World Fact Book, the Developing Countries: Prospects the members of COMSATS Technical United Nations Development Program and Challenges’ authored by Dr. Advisory Committee. (UNDP), and official governmental Abdulrahim K. Saad; websites of the respective countries. In • ‘Recent Advances in Enhanced

106 Annual Report 2017 Production of Value-Added Compounds from Medicinal Plants’ authored by Ms. Asma Nasib; • ‘Moving Forward with Science and Technology’ authored by Mr. Abdul Majid Qureshi; • ‘Water Crisis and Depleting Aquifers Characterization in the Middle Indus Basin, Rawalpindi city, Pakistan’ authored by Prof. Dr. Zulfiqar Ahmad; • ‘Promoting Innovation Economy through Industry-Academia Linkages’ authored by Dr. Fahim Qureshi; and • ‘Sustainable Development Imperatives and Responses to SDGs’ authored by Ambassador Fauzia Nasreen.

The news covered in the section ‘Science, on the organization’s programmes and Biotechnology; Renewable Energy Technology and Development’, inter alia, and pursuit of its mission. Sections on Technologies; Natural Products Sciences; covered breakthroughs and developments COMSATS statutory bodies and activities Information and Communication in biofuel production, developments in on COMSATS Secretariat delineated Technologies (ICTs). agriculture, drug discovery, recycling, COMSATS important statutory body X-ray imaging, climate change research, meetings (19th Coordinating Council and Cooperation with ISESCO, UNESCO, nanotechnology, and innovations. 39th and 40th Management Committee TWAS, NCP, and interactions with the Meetings), as well as progress made with Host Country, Pakistan, were presented The last issue of volume 8 and the five regard to follow-up of the meetings’ in the section on Collaborations with issues of volume 9 featured profiles decisions. Efforts for Enhancing National and International Organizations’. of Members of COMSATS Technical Membership of COMSATS’ Commission COMSATS Secretariat officials approached Advisory Committee, i.e., Prof. Dr. Seyed and COMSATS’ Network, as well as officials of a number of countries to Habib Firouzabadi, Shiraz University, Iran; efforts to mobilize Annual Membership advocate COMSATS’ mission; and seek Dr. Moctar Toure, National Academy of Contribution (AMC) were also presented and strengthen partnerships. The visits Sciences, Senegal; Prof. Stephen E. Onah, made in this regard to Morocco, Malaysia, Director/CE NMC, Nigeria; Late Dr. COMSATS’ capacity building event in Iran, Sudan, China, Jordan, Nigeria were Ishfaq Ahmad (former TAC member), Morocco, Malaysia, Pakistan, Iran, Sudan covered. National Centre for Physics, Pakistan; and China were duly projected in a Prof. Sahalu Junaidu Balarabe, Ahmadu relevant section presenting the full scope of The activities of COMSATS’ most Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria; and Prof. these events that covered different themes. important technical resource, i.e. Huadong Guo, Chinese Academy of These events bore important themes Network of Centres of Excellence, were Sciences, Beijing, China. relevant to the needs of Member States, covered in a dedicated section. The such as Internet Security, Nanotechnology, reports on special assignments gave the The Newsletter is distributed to COMSATS Science Museums, Renewable Energy readers information on the progress of focal points and Centres of Excellence as Technologies, Agriculture, Food Security COMSATS Internet Services, COMSATS well as other related organizations. and Biotechnology, environment and graduate scholarships, COMSATS Science Sustainable Development Goals, ICTs, Diplomacy, and COMSATS Telehealth. Annual Report 2016 Repair and Maintenance of Scientific, Engineering Equipment, Biosafety and COMSATS financial affairs are presented COMSATS Annual Report 2016 was Biosecurity. to the readers for transparency. This covers finalized in April 2017 with a completely Accounts and Audit reports of COMSATS, new outlook duly covering COMSATS’ Reports on COMSATS’ International Summary of Contributions of Member activities, including those of its Centres of Thematic Research Groups covered States, and developments with regard to Excellence. The Report comprehensively activities of relevant groups on COMSATS’ Endowment Fund, as well as covered the undertakings of COMSATS Climate Change and Environmental Auditor’s report for the most recent fiscal and its Network, updating the readers Protection; Agriculture, Food Security year.

Annual Report 2017 107 and sustainable development goals. Science and Technology, Government of A concise version of the report, entitled Pakistan; Higher Education Commission, ‘An Overview of COMSATS Activities Efforts are underway to realign Islamabad; Pakistan Academy of Sciences, in 2016’, was also brought out for quick COMSATS’ focus on S&T and Islamabad; National Testing Services reference. development policies to suitably cover (NTS), Islamabad; National Center subjects of inter-disciplinary nature. The for Physics (NCP), Islamabad; and The Annual Report 2017 is being purpose is to disseminate important COMSTECH Secretariat, Islamabad. compiled. findings and research to developing countries to help them contribute to their The event resulted in generating content Mid-Year Report 2017 (January to national development more efficiently. of great intellectual worth relating to June 2017) The journal is being prepared to meet various topics covered in the symposium. international standards and have impact The book helps the readers engage in The activities of COMSATS Secretariat and factor. specialized fields of study and topical its Network of International Science and research work that was presented during Technology Centres of Excellence in the COMSATS’ Series of Publications the symposium. first half of year 2017 were documented on Science and Technology (16): in a Mid-Year report, encompassing the activities of the Centres of Excellence International Symposium on from January to June 2017, other than Light and Life – Proceedings the highlights of the Secretariat. The publication provided an overview of The 16th book of the series after extensive COMSATS’ activities. editing and composing was finalized, published and distributed during 2017, in The report is available online. collaboration with COMSATS Institute of Information Technology (CIIT). The book COMSATS’ Journal, ‘Science covers the proceedings of the International Symposium on ‘Light and Life’ held to Vision’ (Volume 21) observe UNESCO’s International Year of Light and Light-based Technologies, Volume 21 (1&2) of Science Vision was organized jointly with COMSATS also published during the reporting Institute of Information Technology period. The composite Volume included (CIIT, the Abdus Salam International 7 papers on different themes like Center for Theoretical Physics (AS- environment, innovation, material science, ICTP), Trieste (Italy); Ministry of

108 Annual Report 2017 The book contains material on eleven COMSATS’ Website and other plenary and invited lectures and two Informational Material contributed talks, in addition to abstracts of all the papers presented at the As an important repository of all symposium. A listing of titles of the poster information on COMSATS, the official presentations along with the names of the website of COMSATS was updated with authors is also included to present the full fresh information on various undertakings spectrum of scientific activities during the and related aspects of the organization. symposium. In this regard, announcements about the events, informational material, contact Profiles of COMSATS Centres of information and reports of various Excellence (Brief) activities were regularly uploaded on the website. Moreover, PDF versions of all COMSATS Centres of Excellence the publications of COMSATS including constitute the most important resource the Newsletter, Annual Report, Mid-Year for COMSATS’ technical activities. In Report, Proceedings of International order to provide ready information on the Symposium on Light and Life, and Science Network, to stimulate important relevant Vision were added on the website for collaborations, profiles of the network of wider access. profiles was created. It provides a quick COMSATS’ Centres of Excellence were and easy glance at the scope, strengths and developed. To further add to ease of expertise of various nodes of COMSATS’ reading, this year, a brief version of these Network.

Annual Report 2017 109 110 Annual Report 2017 Section 10: Financial Affairs • Contributions from Member States 112

• COMSATS’ Endowment Fund 112

• Accounts and Audit 112

Annual Report 2017 111 Financial Affairs

COMSATS Secretariat manages annual grant by the Government of Pakistan for meeting the recurring expenditure of the Secretariat besides Annual Membership Contributions received from COMSATS’ Member States, as well as COM- SATS Endowment Fund.

The Government of Pakistan, being the COMSATS’ Endowment Fund The financial year of COMSATS host country of COMSATS Secretariat, is Secretariat begins from 1st July and ends meeting the running costs of COMSATS COMSATS Endowment Fund was created on 30th June of the succeeding year. On Secretariat under an international by the COMSATS’ Commission during its closing of the accounts on 30th June every agreement. Currently, the Government 2nd General Meeting held on 16-17 April year, the accounts are voluntarily subjected of Pakistan annually contributes PKR 2012 in Islamabad, Pakistan, on proposal to external audit by a reputed chartered 40.00 million towards the running cost of by the then Prime Minister of Pakistan accountancy firm. The audited accounts, COMSATS Secretariat. In addition, the (Ex-Chairperson of COMSATS). The along with Auditors’ Report, are submitted Government of Pakistan is also making proposal called for an amount of US$ 10M to COMSATS Management Committee US$ 20,000 as an Annual Membership with a commitment of US$ 1.00M as seed for endorsement and the Coordinating Contribution (AMC). money from the Government of Pakistan. Council for approval.

Contributions from Member The Ministry of Finance, Government of M/s. HLB IJAZ TABUSSUM & CO., States Pakistan, has since issued US$ 0.1 million Chartered Accountants, were engaged equivalent to PKR 10 million out of the to conduct audit of accounts for the The voluntary contributions from Member total commitment of US$ one million financial year ending on June 30, 2016. States are kept as a trust fund and utilized (PKR 100.00 million). The balance amount The Auditors’ Report and Audited to support technical activities and of US$ 0.90 million (PKR 90.00 million) is Financial Statements for the said year were programmes of the contributing country. expected to be released soon. approved by the Coordinating Council of During the year 2017, COMSATS received COMSATS during its 20th meeting held Annual Membership Contributions After receipt of the seed money from on 14-15 May 2017 in Cairo, Egypt. (AMC) from four Member States as shown the Government of Pakistan, other below: Member States will be requested to make their contributions towards COMSATS’ Endowment Fund. Annual Membership Contribution - 2017 Accounts and Audit Country Amount (US$) Pakistan 20,000 The accounts of COMSATS Secretariat China 20,007 are managed and maintained as per international practices and according to Kazakhstan 20,000 International Accounting & Financial Sudan 3,000 Standards. Total 63,000

112 Annual Report 2017 Annual Report 2017 113 114 Annual Report 2017 Annual Report 2017 115 116 Annual Report 2017 LIST OF FOCAL POINTS IN COMSATS’ MEMBER STATES

H.E. Mr. Yeafesh Osman Hon. Dr. Andrew Wheatley Minister Minister Ministry of Science and Technology Ministry of Science, Technology, Energy and Mining Dhaka, Bangladesh. Jamaica, West Indies.

H.E. Prof. Wan Gang Dr. Khaled Elshuraydeh Minister Secretary General Ministry of Science and Technology, Higher Council for Science and Technology (HCST) Beijing, China. Amman, Jordan.

Dr. César Ocampo H.E. Mr. Sagada Yerlan Kenzhegalievich Director General Minister The Administrative Department of Science, Ministry of Education and Science Technology and Innovation - COLCIENCIAS Astana, Kazakhstan. Bogotá D.C., Colombia. Mr. Jang Chol H.E. Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar President Minister State Academy of Sciences Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research Pyongyang, Korea, D.P.R. Cairo, Egypt. H. E. Mr. Mohamed Hassad H.E. Dr. Badara Joof Minister Minister National Education, Vocational Training, Higher Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Education and Scientific Research Technology Rabat, Morocco. Kotu, The Gambia. Dr. (Mrs.) Amina M.B. Shamaki H.E. Prof. Dr. Kwabena Frimpong Boateng Permanent Secretary Minister Federal Ministry of Science & Technology Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Abuja, Nigeria. Innovation Accra, Ghana. Ms. Yasmin Masood Federal Secretary H.E. Dr. Syed Zia Hashemi Ministry of Science and Technology Minister Islamabad, Pakistan. Ministry of Science, Research and Technology Tehran, Iran.

Annual Report 2017 117 H.E. Dr. Sabri Saidam H.E. Dr. Atef Nadav Minister Minister Ministry of Education and Higher Education Ministry of Higher Education Ramallah, Palestine Damascus, Syria.

Hon. Fortunato T. De La Peña H.E Prof. Makame M. Mbarawa Secretary Minister Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Ministry of Communication, Science and Technology Manila, Philippines. Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

Hon. Mary Teuw Niane H.E. Prof. Slim Khalbous Minister Minister Ministère de l’Enseignement Supérieur, des Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research Universités, des Centres Universitaires Tunis, Tunisia. Dakar, Senegal. H.E. Prof. Hasan Mandal H.E. Mr. Abdi Dahir Osman President Minister of Education The Scientific and Technological Research Ministry of Education, Culture and Higher Education Council of Turkey (TUBITAK) Somalia Ankara, Turkey

Hon. Susil Premajayantha Dr. Peter Ndemere Minister Executive Secretary Ministry of Science, Technology and Research Uganda National Council for S&T Battaramulla, Sri Lanka. Kampala, Uganda.

H. E. Dr. Tahani Abd Allah Atia Hon. Prof. Jonathan Moyo Minister Minister Ministry of Science and Communications Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Science Khartoum, Sudan. and Technology Development Harare, Zimbabwe.

118 Annual Report 2017

Embrapa Agrobiologia-Brazil

AQU-Palestine

COMSATS Secretariat Shahrah-e-Jamhuriat, Sector G-5/2, Islamabad - Pakistan Ph: (+92-51) 9214515-7, Fax: (+92-51) 9216539 URL: www.comsats.org, Email: [email protected]