Silver Jubilee Issue
Federal Minister for S&T, Pakistan, and Chairperson
COMSATS Consultative Committee
President of the Republic of Ghana and Chairperson COMSATS
President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan
Bangladesh China Colombia Egypt Gambia Ghana
Annual Report Iran Jamaica Jordan Kazakhstan Korea DPR 2019 Morocco Nigeria Pakistan Palestine Philippines
Senegal Somalia Sri Lanka Sudan
Commission on Science Syria Tanzania Tunisia Turkey and Technology for Sustainable
Development in the South (COMSATS) Uganda Yemen Zimbabwe
Silver Jubilee Issue
ANNUAL REPORT 2019
February 2020
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 in 2016. On 7th January 2017, he took charge as the President of Ghana (the country that holds COMSATS’ Chair), by virtue of which he is the 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 and stayed with Ghana after consensus in rd3 General Meeting.
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. Imran Khan Prime Minister of Pakistan Head of Government and Member of the Commission from the Host Country, Pakistan
H.E. Mr. Imran Khan became the 22nd Prime Minister of Pakistan on 18th August 2018. Before his political career, Mr. Khan was a well-known figure as a cricketer and a philanthropist. Educated from top institutions of Pakistan and England, Mr. Khan is the Chancellor of the University of Bradford and has also received an honorary fellowship by the Royal College of Physicians.
Mr. Khan aspires to make Pakistan a technologically advanced country whereby it reaps the dividends of most modern R&D outcomes for national prosperity and well-being. His resolve to lift the nation from backwardness and poverty is manifest in his government’s initiatives in health, education, judicial system reforms, science & technology and smart governance. Editors Ms. Farhana Saleem Ms. Isra Mahmood
Designing & Development Mr. Imran Chaudhry Table of Contents
COMSATS’ Profile i
Foreword iii
From the Chairperson COMSATS Consultative Committee v
From the Chairperson Coordinating Council vii
1. CORE ACTIVITIES OF COMSATS SECRETARIAT 01
2. STRENGTHENING SOUTH-SOUTH AND TRIANGULAR COOPERATION 17
3. COLLABORATIONS WITH NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS 23
4. SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY EVENTS ORGANISED 29
5. PARTICIPATION IN VARIOUS EVENTS AND MEETINGS 39
6. SOME ACTIVITIES OF CENTRES OF EXCELLENCE 45
7. INTERNATIONAL VISITS OF SECRETARIAT OFFICIALS 73
8. SPECIAL ASSIGNMENTS 83
9. PUBLICATIONS AND INFORMATION DISSEMINATION 95
10. FINANCIAL AFFAIRS 101 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 - Pro Chancellor - COMSATS Management COMSATS Internet COMSATS University Committee Services (CIS) Islamabad (CUI) COMSATS’ PROFILE
The Commission on Science and Technology one another and capable of providing a good for Sustainable Development in the South quality of life to their populations in a sustainable (COMSATS) was established in October 1994 as way, using modern scientific and technological an international/intergovernmental organization m e a n s’. to act as a global forum of developing countries for their sustainable socio-economic uplift OBJECTIVES through applications of science and technology. COMSATS’ current membership comprises of Major objectives and functions of COMSATS are: 27 countries located in the continents of Africa, Asia, Latin America (and Eurasia), representing • To sensitize the countries in the South to the a population of over one-third of the world’s total. centrality of science and technology in the development process, to the adequate resource These countries have diverse social, cultural, allocation for research and development, and economic, political, educational and religious to the integration of science and technology in backgrounds, and also differ greatly in their the national and regional development plans; scientific and technological potentials. Their • To support the functioning and activities common aspirations for development through of the Network of International Science cooperation in S&T was the main driver of them and Technology Centres for Sustainable coming together on the platform of COMSATS. Development in the South, established at the COMSATS’ major source of scientific and foundation meeting of the Commission; technological strength stems from its network of • To support other major initiatives designed international S&T Centres of Excellence, which to promote indigenous capacity in science comprises of 22 reputed R&D and S&T, as well as and technology for science-led sustainable universities. development, and to help mobilise long-term financial support from international donor As stipulated in the organization’s statutes, agencies and from Government/Institutions COMSATS Secretariat is permanently located in the North and the South to supplement the in Islamabad, Pakistan, with its operation and financing of international scientific projects in expenditures supported by generous grants from the South; the Government of Pakistan. The membership of • To provide leadership and support for COMSATS is open to all developing countries. North-South and South-South cooperative The organization also aspires to broaden its schemes in education, training and research, horizons to all countries and institutions, such as the proposal to set up programmes including those from the North. of scholarships for research at centres of excellence in the South; and MISSION • To support the relevant programmes and initiatives of major scientific organisations The mission of COMSATS is to ‘help create a working for the development and promotion world where all nations/states are at peace with of science and technology in the South. i
Dr. S.M. Junaid Zaidi Executive Director COMSATS
Dr. S. M. Junaid Zaidi assumed the charge as 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 University Islamabad (CUI), which has phenomenally grown both nationally and internationally. He is recipient of two prestigious national awards of Pakistan, Sitara-i-Imtiaz and Hilal-i-Imtiaz.
FOREWORD
The year 2019 has been significant for COMSATS in a in magnitude but also in scope to include new meaningful number of ways. The organization continued its operations, interventions. A number of such interventions, discussions expanded them and made headways with regard to the and opportunities came during the Annual Coordinating statutory bodies of COMSATS. The year also marked the Council meeting held in Tianjin, where participants Silver jubilee of COMSATS in October 2019. The landmark including 18 centres of excellence met. The continued of 25 years is really encouraging and humbling at the same operations, growth and appreciation of COMSATS’ flagship time. During the past two and half decades, there has been projects, the COMSATS University Islamabad, COMSATS a paradigm shift in the Organization’s character in that it Tele-Health Program and COMSATS Internet Service, has assumed an enhanced role in influencing development are not only satisfying but also a long standing reminders policies and economic planning in the South. Coming of of what COMSATS’ membership entails for current and age, COMSATS is not only growing in its operations with prospective members. A devoted chapter on activities of regard to its cardinal objective of South-South cooperation COMSATS Centres of Excellence showcases the technical but is also coming to terms with its greater role as a strong strength in a number of areas that COMSATS is equipped conduit between the North and the South. with to help jointly address developmental challenges.
During 2019, I had the honour of twice calling on the COMSATS’ capacity-building activities during the year Chairperson COMSATS, H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo- pertained to a number of important issues, including Addo, who gave his advice on a number of matters including water resources, SDGs, peace and community building, COMSATS’ programmes and rendered his complete international cooperation, agriculture, biotechnology, support for convening and hosting the 4th General Meeting. and food security. These encouraged necessary debates While the culmination of the engagements with Ghanaian and helped producing a mass of talented researchers and Presidency, and Focal Point is expected soon in the form of professionals in these areas. the General Meeting that is scheduled to be held in April 2020, the visits and sojourns in Ghana per se provided an The joy of Silver Jubilee was enhanced thanks to the excellent opportunity with regard to understanding the Presidency and Focal Ministry in the host country, the international stature of the President and Ghana itself messages of facilitations received from COMSATS’ as the continental and perhaps regional leader of Africa. international fraternity, and the small celebrations at Twelve countries from Africa – deemed as ‘the continent COMSATS Secretariat. My special gratitude goes out to all of the future’ constitute a prominent part of COMSATS’ of them. membership. Under the able leadership of the President Akufo-Addo, COMSATS is hopeful to further enhance Looking forward, the deliberations of COMSATS’ three operations and membership in Africa. statutory bodies that are expected to meet during 2020 (the General Meeting to be convened by the President Akufo- COMSATS’ canvas of activities expands beyond Africa to Addo, the Consultative Committee meeting to be convened include two major continents, Asia and Latin America, by the His Excellency Chaudhary Fawad Hussain and the with a number of member states and partner organizations 23rd Council Meeting to be hosted by ICCBS, Karachi) in the North. Engagements with a number of these, would be a great source of operational inputs and policy including ISESCO, UN development arms, Commonwealth guidelines for COMSATS. Secretariat, EU, OWSD, AIPS, PIDF and TWAS, continued during the year. An MoU with the OIC was signed, while Like every year, we have had steadfast support of membership of the Alliance of International Science COMSATS’ host country that has been a source of great Organizations (ANSO) was endorsed. The cohort of partner strength for us locally and internationally, for which we are organizations thus strengthening brings for COMSATS truly grateful. My team at COMSATS Secretariat deserves vigor and support as well as helps COMSATS in being duly special acknowledgement, without their hard work the recognized as a keen advocate of S&T-led development. activities included in this report would not have been possible. Looking back, we see that our activities have not only grown iii Focal Ministries in Member States
Bangladesh Palestine Ministry of Science and Ministry of Higher Education and Technology Scientific Research
China Philippines Ministry of Science and Department of Science and Technology Technology
Colombia Senegal Ministry of Science, Technology and Ministère de l’Enseignement Supérieur Innovation
Egypt Somalia The Academy of Scientific Research and Ministry of Education, Culture and Technology Higher Education
The Gambia Sri Lanka Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Ministry of Higher Education & Science and Technology Technology and Innovation
Ghana Sudan Ministry of Environment, Science, Ministry of Higher Education and Technology and Innovation Scientific Research
Iran Syria Ministry of Science, Research and Ministry of Higher Education Technology
Jamaica Tanzania Ministry of Science, Energy and Ministry of Education, Science & Technology Technology
Jordan Tunisia Higher Council for Science and Ministry of Higher Education and Technology Scientific Research
Turkey Kazakhstan The Scientific and Technological Research Ministry of Education and Science Council of Turkey (TUBITAK)
Uganda Korea DPR Uganda National Council for Science & State Academy of Sciences Technology
Morocco Yemen Ministry of National Education, Vocational Ministry of Higher Education and Training, Higher Education and Scientific Scientific Research Research
Nigeria Zimbabwe Federal Ministry of Science & Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Technology Science and Technology Development
Pakistan Ministry of Science and Technology H.E. Mr. Chaudhry Fawad Hussain Chairperson of COMSATS Consultative Committee
H.E. Mr. Chaudhry Fawad Hussain is the Federal Minister for Science and Technology of COMSATS host country, Pakistan. Mr. Hussain assumed the Charge as Pakistan’s Federal Ministry for Science and Technology on 19th April 2019, by virtue of which he is the Chairperson of COMSATS’ Consultative Committee. Under his leadership, the Ministry of Science and Technology has constituted three task forces on technology relating to Agriculture, Education and Renewable Energy Technologies (RETs) to help promote scientific innovation, R&D for development, science and skill based education in the country.
FROM THE CHAIRPERSON COMSATS CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE
It is indeed a matter of great pleasure for me to Undoubtedly, the level of success and the congratulate all the member states of COMSATS standards of COMSATS’ achievements are due on the 25th Anniversary of COMSATS (the to the continuous patronage of the Organization landmark achieved during the reporting period by the Member States. Pakistan, specifically, has of this Annual Report). It is highly satisfying that done its best to live up to the honour of hosting during this period COMSATS has remained at the Secretariat of COMSATS since 1994. I urge the forefront to promote science and technology the Member States to continue their support to for sustainable development in the Global COMSATS’ programmes aimed at bringing peace South. The role of COMSATS’ focal ministries and prosperity to the developing world. and Centres of Excellence in promotion of COMSATS’ mission is commendable. They Pakistan is a keen supporter of scientific have always played a vital part in expanding the and technical cooperation in the fields of frontiers of STI in developing the South within education, health, communication, research the framework of United Nations 2030 Global and development for the benefit of the people Development Agenda. in developing countries. Therefore, we greatly appreciate the Commission’s focus on education, I highly appreciate COMSATS’ flagship health and capacity building at the national, initiatives, COMSATS University Islamabad regional and global level as well as its efforts (CUI), COMSATS Internet Services (CIS) and for strengthening South-South and Triangular COMSATS Tele-health programme that have Cooperation. greatly contributed to the host country in their relevant niches. These have the potential to be I would like to extend my compliments to my replicated as models in the developing world. counterparts in member states and network CUI has attained the status of a full-fledged members for their contribution to COMSATS’ university and is actively contributing in the mission. In the end, my greatest appreciation goes fields of education, research, innovation and to the human resource of COMSATS Secretariat capacity building. CIS, Pakistan’s pioneer Internet that is the operational driving force behind the Service Provider (ISP), is operating in 19 cities success of the organization. of the country, whereas, the Tele-Health project is effectively extending healthcare to rural I wish COMSATS continued success for many populations in remote areas of Pakistan. These decades to come. programmes have received huge appreciation, which reflects COMSATS’ recognition as a highly useful body contributing to socio-economic well- being of the masses in the developing countries.
v Members of COMSATS Coordinating Council
Mr. Md. Faruque Ahmed Dr. Gustavo Ribeiro Xavier Prof. Lin Zhaohui Prof. Dr. Yanhe Ma Chairman BCSIR, Bangladesh DG Embrapa Agrobiologia, Brazil Director ICCES, China Director General TIB, China
Dr. Eduardo Posada F. Prof. Mohamed Hashem Prof. Dr. Victor Agyeman Dr. Alireza Ashori Director CIF, Colombia President NRC, Egypt Director-General CSIR, Ghana President IROST, Iran
Mr. Charles N. Grant HRH Princess Sumaya bint El Hassan Prof. Dr. G. M. Mutanov Prof. Stephen E. Onah Director General ICENS, Jamaica President RSS, Jordan Rector KazNU, Kazakhstan Director NMC, Nigeria
Prof. Dr. Raheel Qamar Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary Prof. Dr. Imad F. S. Abukishek Prof. Ibrahima Thioub Rector CUI, Pakistan Director ICCBS, Pakistan President AQU, Palestine Rector/President UCAD, Senegal
Dr. Radhika Samarasekera Dr. Widad H. A. H. Hassan Dr. Maher Suleiman Prof. M. M.A. Mtambo Director General ITI, Sri Lanka Director General IRCC, Sudan Director HIAST, Syria Director General TIRDO, Tanzania
Prof. Ahmed Ghrabi H.E. Prof. Hasan Mandal Director General CERTE, Tunisia President TUBITAK, Turkey Prof. Dr. Ashraf Shaalan, Ph.D. Chairperson of COMSATS Coordinating Council
Prof. Ashraf Shaalan was elected as the Chairperson of COMSATS Coordinating Council during its 19th Meeting held in May 2016, in Islamabad, Pakistan, when he was the President of COMSATS Centre of Excellence in Egypt, National Research Centre (NRC). Later, the Council approved his life-time membership during its 22nd Meeting. Also, he was made the Chairperson for another term by unanimous approval.
A widely published academician, Prof. Shaalan is member of the Egypt’s Presidential Specialized Council for Education and Scientific Research of Egypt and has previously served as the Vice-President of the Academy of Scientific Research and Technology.
FROM THE CHAIRPERSON COORDINATING COUNCIL
Since the first meeting of COMSATS solutions based on the integrative win-win Coordinating Council in 1995, great efforts have concept. been made towards amalgamation of the human resources and infrastructure in COMSATS’ This Report outlines COMSATS’ activities main Centres of Excellence affiliated. Within the last accomplishments through its secretariat and its few years, the Council worked on strengthening technical resource represented by the esteemed scientific capacity in the South by building Centres of Excellence. It also represents a network of centres of excellence and thematic platform for moving ahead to achieve the goal research groups that are the backbone for that COMSATS aims at, and furthermore, to collaboration between the member states. build peaceful and prosperous societies.
Although many success stories have been I am indebted to the Executive Director of reported over time of the collaboration among COMSATS, Dr. Syed Muhammed Junaid Zaidi, member states, but it would be a mistake to think and his fellow colleagues in the Secretariat for all that COMSATS has achieved all it can. Much their efforts during the last year, and for devoting more is being and needs to be done towards themselves for better COMSATS’ future. recognizing our real and powerful resources, diagnosis of our problems, and suggesting
vii
1. CORE ACTIVITIES OF COMSATS SECRETARIAT
• 22nd COMSATS Coordinating Council Meeting 02
• Follow-up of the Decisions of the 22nd Coordinating Council Meeting of COMSATS 06
• Preparations for the Fourth General Meeting of the Commission 11
• COMSATS’ Silver Jubilee 13
• Enhancement of Membership of COMSATS’ Commission 15
• Enhancement of Membership of COMSATS’ Network of International S&T Centres of Excellence 15
• Interactions with Host Country, Pakistan 15
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 1 CORE ACTIVITIES OF COMSATS SECRETARIAT
COMSATS Secretariat provides secretarial assistance to both the Commission and the Network of Centres of Excellence. It is responsible for regularly holding statutory body meetings as well as following up on their deliberations and decisions. The Secretariat also executes COMSATS’ programmes and activities in partnership with other inter- governmental agencies, national S&T institutions, R&D organizations, members of academia and scientific community across the world. Other core activities of the Secretariat relate to: pooling and management of financial resources; enhancing the membership of COMSATS and its Network; and special liaison with the host country, apart from regular engagement with all Member States
22nd COMSATS Coordinating Council Meeting
The Coordinating Council is an important organ of COMSATS’ Network of International S&T Centres of Excellence, which comprises the Heads of 22 Centres of Excellence. The Council is an effective platform for South-South and Triangular technical cooperation aiming at building and sustaining a critical mass of scientists and technologists in areas that are most relevant to the needs of developing countries for realizing the overall objective of achieving sustainable socio-economic development in the South. The Council meets once annually to take decisions COMSATS’ most recently inducted Centre Sudan, Syria, Tanzania, and Turkey. on matters relating to the ongoing and of Excellence, the Tianjin Institute of future programmes and activities of the Industrial Biotechnology (TIB), China. Two officials belonging to COMSATS’ organization. international partner organizations, The meeting was attended by the Council i.e., TWAS and UNESCO, as well as a The 22nd Meeting of COMSATS members or their representatives from 18 representative of diplomatic mission Coordinating Council was successfully Centres in Bangladesh, China, Colombia, of Pakistan in China also attended the held on 16th - 17th April 2019 in Tianjin, Egypt, Ghana, Iran, Jamaica, Kazakhstan, meeting as observers. China. The meeting was hosted by Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Sri Lanka,
2 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 Inauguration socio-economic uplift In his opening remarks, of developing Prof. Dr. Yanhe Ma, The event was inaugurated on the morning countries. Director General, of 16th April 2019 by H.E. Laiying Speaking about TIB, warmly Yao, Vice Mayor of Tianjin Municipal his own Centre welcomed the Government, China. In addition to of Excellence, participants the Council members, representatives the National of the meeting of international partner organizations Research and expressed and COMSATS’ officials, the inaugural Centre (NRC), his pleasure over ceremony was attended by the senior Egypt, Prof. Shaalan hosting the Council officials of Chinese Ministry of Science and informed that the Centre is meeting. He considered Technology (MoST), Chinese Academy actively working to implement the MoUs COMSATS as a facilitating platform for of Sciences (CAS), other Chinese R&D with other Centres of Excellence signed networking and scientific collaborations organizations and universities, etc. during the last Council meeting. among developing countries and stated that the member countries could greatly Mr. Laiying Yao stated that Innovation was Welcoming the participants, Dr. S. benefit from COMSATS in achieving the most important and M. Junaid Zaidi, the UN 2030 Agenda. He informed that lasting driving force Executive Director TIB had established a COMSATS’ office for economic COMSATS, to strengthen its links with Member growth. Mr. Yao thanked TIB States/ Centres of Excellence and for the commended for making promotion of COMSATS’ mission in COMSATS’ excellent China. Prof. Ma further informed that TIB outstanding arrangements was developing the Technology Innovation contributions for the meeting Centre for Synthetic Biology to serve as a towards South- and extending platform for COMSATS’ member states South cooperation generous hospitality to and Centres of Excellence to engage in and scientific and foreign participants. Dr. Zaidi considered bilateral and multilateral collaboration in technological development since its the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) by the relevant fields. He offered initiating inception in 1994. China an extremely important enterprise joint research projects to other Centres and advised the Centres of Excellence to of Excellence in synthetic biology for In his keynote address, Prof. Dr. Ashraf benefit from its vast opportunities. He industrial bio-production, advanced Shaalan, Chairperson COMSATS believed that effective South-South and microbial manufacturing and advanced Coordinating Council, recalled the essence Triangular Cooperation in the fields of bioprocess engineering. of COMSATS’ foundation and activities, science and technology could greatly help which is the promotion of South-South achieve Sustainable Development Goals cooperation in S&T for facilitating (SDGs).
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 3 Technical Deliberations The Coordinating Council expressed were encouraged to continue their research satisfaction on the implementation status activities for the benefit of COMSATS’ The technical deliberations comprising of the decisions of last Council meeting, Member States and may jointly submit of a 15-point agenda spanning over three annual activity report (2018-19) and future project proposals to international donor sessions and two days were presided over plans. agencies for seeking financial support for by the Chairperson of the Council, Prof. the projects. Ashraf Shaalan. The Heads/representatives of the Centres of Excellence made presentations on their The representatives of TWAS and After the approval of the previous activities related to South-South and UNESCO also made presentations, in meeting of the Coordinating Council, Triangular Cooperation during last one which they highlighted the ongoing Mr. Farhan Ansari, Sr. Assistant Director year, including the ongoing interaction programmes and activities of their (Programmes) COMSATS, briefed the and collaboration with other Centres respective organizations as well as Council on the implementation status of of Excellence, as well as future plans for possibilities of support and collaboration the decisions taken by the Council in its COMSATS’ Network. The progress reports with COMSATS. previous meeting, while Dr. S. M. Junaid on COMSATS’ International Thematic Zaidi, Executive Director COMSATS Research Groups were also shared by the A key decision taken during the meeting presented COMSATS’ Annual Activity respective Lead Centres. The Lead Centres was the induction of Prof. Dr. Ashraf Report (April 2018 – March 2019). and collaborating institutions of ITRGs Shaalan (Egypt) as Honorary Lifetime
4 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 Member of Coordinating Council, and his Ashraf Shaalan had a productive meeting to participate in the COMSATS Centre re-election as Chairperson Coordinating with the honourable Chairperson of for Climate and Sustainability (CCCS) Council for another term of three years COMSATS, President of Ghana, during network and extend support for the (2019 - 2022). Furthermore, the Scientific which His Excellency’s guidance was success of this important initiative. and Technological Research Council of sought regarding the ongoing and future Turkey (TUBITAK) was designated as activities of the organization. Subsequently, Mr. Bilal Chohan, Director COMSATS’ Centre of Excellence in place (A&E) COMSATS, presented the of TUBITAK Marmara Research Centre The Council members also deliberated Administrative and Financial Matters (MAM), Turkey. Due to this development, upon the ongoing programmes of of COMSATS, which were endorsed by all of the institutions under TUBITAK COMSATS, including Scholarships, the Coordinating Council. Moreover, have come under the ambit of the Postdoctoral Fellowships, Telehealth the Council discussed matters related to Coordinating Council. Programme, capacity building activities, financial sustainability of the organization publications, etc. and encouraged all Network members The Council also appreciated nomination to sensitize their respective governments of the Food and Nutrition Research The Council appreciated the efforts being regarding the importance of regularly Institute (FNRI) and Philippines made by COMSATS to establish new making annual membership contribution. Textile Research Institute (PTRI) by Centres of Excellence and Universities The next meeting of the Coordinating the Government of the Philippines for in the Member States in the cutting- Council will be hosted by the International induction in COMSATS Network. edge fields of science and technology for Centre for Chemical and Biological addressing their socioeconomic needs. Sciences (ICCBS), Karachi, Pakistan, The Council was pleased to learn that They were especially pleased to learn that during the first half of 2020. The meeting COMSATS’ delegation led by Prof. Dr. eleven Member States have so far agreed Communiqué (Page 7) encapsulates the
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 5 morning of 18th April 2019. Prof. Jibin Sun gave introduction on the laboratories Members of the Council or their Representatives and other Participants and facilities of the institute, which • Prof. Dr. Ashraf Shaalan, Chairperson Coordinating Council include: • Dr. Md Sarwar Jahan, Chief Scientific Officer, Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR), Bangladesh • National Engineering Laboratory for • Prof. Lin Zhaohui, Director, International Center for Climate and Environment Industrial Enzymes; Sciences (ICCES), China • Laboratory of Systems Microbial • Prof. Dr. Yanhe Ma, Director General, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology Biotechnology; (TIB), China • Laboratory for Industrial Biological • Prof. Jibin Sun, Deputy Director-General, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology Systems and Bioprocessing (TIB), China Engineering; and • Ms. Qianqian Chai, Officer of Foreign Affairs and Academic Exchange, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology (TIB), China • Tianjin Engineering Center for • Dr. Eduardo Posada F., Director, Centro Internacional de Fisica, Colombia Biocatalytic Technology. • Prof. Hosam El-Sayed, Assistant Vice President for Research, Head of Proteinic and Man-Made Fibres Department, Professor of Textile Chemistry and Technology, Faculty members at TIB made National Research Centre (NRC), Egypt presentations to show the impact made by • Prof. Dr. Victor Agyeman, Director-General, Council for Scientific and Industrial the Institute for sustainable development Research (CSIR), Ghana of China. The visitors took great interest in • Dr. Foad Farhani, Acting President for International Cooperation, Iranian Research the technologies and products developed Organization for Science & Technology (IROST), Iran by TIB, and had in-depth exchanges with • Mrs. Sandra Hunter, Director of Finance and Administration, International Centre for Environmental and Nuclear Sciences (ICENS), Jamaica the scientists of the Institute. • Prof. Dr. Tlekkabul Ramazanov, Vice-Rector for Research & Innovations, Al Farabi The visit encouraged the Council Members Kazakh National University (KazNU), Kazakhstan to further strengthen communication and • Prof. Stephen E. Onah, Director/Chief Executive, National Mathematical Centre exchanges with TIB and help promote (NMC) Nigeria bilateral and multilateral cooperation • Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary, Director, International Center for Chemical and among COMSATS’ member states in the Biological Sciences (ICCBS), Pakistan field of biotechnology. • Prof. Dr. Raheel Qamar, Rector, COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI), Pakistan • Prof. Dr. Imad F. S. Abukishek, President, Al-Quds University, Palestine • Dr. J. K. R. R. Samarasekara, Director General, Industrial Technology Institute (ITI), Follow-up of the Decisions of Sri Lanka the 22nd Coordinating Council • Dr. Widad Hassan Abdel Halim Hassan, Director General, Industrial Research and Meeting of COMSATS Consultancy Centre (IRCC), Sudan • Dr. Maher Suleiman, Director, Higher Institute for Applied Science and Technology (HIAST), Syria The Council took a number of decisions • Dr. Lugano Wilson, Director of Engineering Development and Head, Energy during the 22nd meeting, which are being Technologies Division, Tanzania Industrial Research and Development Organization followed-up by COMSATS Secretariat. (TIRDO), Tanzania As per the Council’s advice to continue • Dr. Murat MAKARACI, Acting Vice President, Strategy, Technology & Corporate building capacity of the Member States Development, TUBITAK Marmara Research Center (MAM), Turkey and Centres of Excellence in the fields • Dr. Max Paoli, Programme Coordinator, The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS), of science and technology, COMSATS Italy Secretariat conducted a number of • Ms. Marielza Oliveira, Director, UNESCO’s Office, China capacity building events (Chapter 4). These • Dr. Ata ur Rahman, Counsellor of Scientific & Technical Affairs, Embassy of Islamic Republic of Pakistan in Beijing, China events were in line with the needs and • Dr. S. M. Junaid Zaidi, Executive Director COMSATS Secretariat priorities of the scientific workforce of the • Mr. Bilal Chohan, Director (A&E), COMSATS Secretariat Centres of Excellence and Member States • Mr. Farhan Ansari, Sr. Assistant Director (Programmes), COMSATS Secretariat for the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). resolve of the Council with regard to Visit to TIB Laboratories In this connection, COMSATS in COMSATS’ activities in the preceding and collaboration with The World Academy proceeding months. The participants of the Council meeting of Sciences (TWAS), organized an visited the laboratories of TIB on the International Workshop titled ‘Learning
6 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 Communiqué of the 22nd Meeting of COMSATS Coordinating Council (16-17 April 2019, Tianjin, China)
The participants of the 22nd meeting of COMSATS Coordinating Council, including the representatives of eighteen Centres of Excellence, deliberated upon the fifteen-point agenda of the meeting during 16-17 April 2019, and are pleased to unanimously adopt the following:
• The Coordinating Council appreciates the excellent arrangements made by the Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology (TIB) for the 22nd Council meeting and for providing generous hospitality to its participants. The preparation of necessary documentation by COMSATS Secretariat and the administrative support provided to TIB for the successful organization of the meeting is praiseworthy.
• The Council is grateful to the representatives of the Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology as well as Chinese Academy of Sciences for briefing on the key activities and action plan of the Chinese government under Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The Centres of Excellence are urged to benefit from the opportunities of collaboration and funding available under this initiative.
• The Council pays gratitude to the Government of China for increasing its Annual Membership Contribution (AMC) to COMSATS from US$ 20,000/- to US$ 50,000/-.
• The outstanding leadership provided by Prof. Dr. Ashraf Shaalan as the Chairperson of the Council during the period (2016 – 2019) and his services for the cause of COMSATS are duly acknowledged and highly applauded.
• The Coordinating Council is pleased to elect Prof. Dr. Ashraf Shaalan, as its Chairperson for another term of three years (2019 - 2022), and hopes that he will be able to provide a new thrust to the COMSATS’ Network with regard to achieving its objectives.
• The Council is delighted to learn that a delegation of COMSATS Headquarters led by Prof. Dr. Ashraf Shaalan, Chairperson Coordinating Council, had a very productive meeting with the honourable Chairperson of COMSATS, President of Ghana. The guidance of the honourable Chairperson would enable the organization to achieve its mission and objectives. The COMSATS Secretariat is advised to keep close contact with the office of the Chairperson to receive guidance regarding the on-going and future programmes of COMSATS, from time to time.
• The Council warmly welcomes the Republic of Yemen as the 27th Member State of COMSATS. It is hoped that Yemen will actively participate in the programmes and activities of the organization. In this regard, request will be made on behalf of the Council to the Government of Yemen to nominate one of its renowned R&D organizations, for induction in COMSATS’ Network of Centres of Excellence. The consistent efforts being made by COMSATS Secretariat for extending COMSATS’ membership to other developing countries is noted with approbation.
• The Council welcomes the designation of the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TUBITAK) as COMSATS’ Centre of Excellence. The addition of TUBITAK and its 15 research institutes has further added strength to COMSATS’ Network. TUBITAK is expected to play a significant role in the achievement of COMSATS’ objectives.
• The Council appreciates the nomination of the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI) and Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI) by the Government of the Philippines for induction in COMSATS Network. The endeavour would now be to complete the necessary formalities for induction of the nominated institutes in COMSATS’ Network before the next Council meeting. COMSATS Secretariat is encouraged to continue its efforts to extend the membership of COMSATS’ Network to all Member States.
• The Council appreciates the efforts being made by COMSATS to establish new Centres of Excellence and Universities in the
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 7 Member States in the cutting-edge fields of science and technology for addressing their socio-economic needs. The Centres of Excellence and international partner organizations are requested to play a facilitative role in this regard.
• The activities undertaken by Centres of Excellence during the period since the last Council meeting are highly appreciated.
• The Council while recognizing the significance of the linkages between climate change and sustainable development is pleased to note with appreciation the progress made with regard to the establishment of COMSATS Centre for Climate and Sustainability (CCCS). The Council expressed appreciation that eleven Member States have so far agreed to participate in the CCCS network and urges other Member States to join COMSATS Centre for Climate and Sustainability and extend support for the success of this important initiative.
• The Council recognizes that South-South cooperation and triangular cooperation enable developing countries to achieve sustainable development through close cooperation. It is heartening to note that the work and activities of the Centres of Excellence are aligned with the SDGs. The Centres of Excellence are encouraged to strengthen collaboration and partnership for the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the framework of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
• The Council is pleased to learn that COMSATS Secretariat is making preparations to hold the 4th Consultative Committee Meeting (June 2019, Turkey) and 4th General Meeting of the Commission (August 2019, Ghana). The Centres of Excellence are requested to provide inputs for the afore-mentioned meetings, as well as to share joint proposals for projects and programmes to be considered during these meetings for support/funding.
• The Council appreciates the standing offer of 100 postgraduate scholarships made by CUI-Pakistan; and the post-doctoral fellowships offered by NRC-Egypt, ICCBS-Pakistan and BCSIR-Bangladesh. While this effort should be continued, other Centres of Excellence may beneficially make use of these opportunities.
• The Lead Centres and collaborating institutions of ITRGs are encouraged to continue their research activities for the benefit of COMSATS’ Member States. They may jointly submit project proposals to international donor agencies for seeking financial support for the joint research projects.
• The payment of AMC by Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Jamaica during the period since the last Council meeting is also noted with appreciation. The Council encourages all other Network members to sensitize their respective governments regarding the importance of regularly making AMC for the financial sustainability of COMSATS.
• The Council appreciates the following efforts/achievements of COMSATS Secretariat with regard to fulfilling the objectives of the organization:
i. Continuous expansion of COMSATS Member States and Centres of Excellence; ii. Steady growth of COMSATS flagship projects, i.e., COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI), COMSATS Internet Services (CIS) and COMSATS Telehealth Programme; iii. Organization of six (06) capacity building events in collaboration with Centres of Excellence and international partner organizations, which benefited the scientists, researchers, academicians, engineers and technicians belonging to the Member States; iv. Increased interaction and collaboration among the Centres of Excellence for the exchange of human and technological resources; v. Outreach to the institutions of the North and conclusion of various MoUs/Agreements; vi. Regular publication of COMSATS’ Annual Report, Newsletter and other information material. The inputs and support of the Centres of Excellence in this regard is highly appreciated.
• The Council accepts and highly appreciates the offer made by ICCBS-Pakistan to host the next (23rd) Meeting of COMSATS Coordinating Council in Karachi, Pakistan, during March/April 2020.
8 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 about Sustainability, SDGs and Global Challenges’ which was held on 3 – 5 December 2019, in Gebze, Turkey. The aim of the workshop was to provide an overview and training on the concept of sustainable development; the rationale of SDGs; importance of targets set as benchmarks for monitoring the progress of the implementation processes; and on the planetary boundaries. The workshop was hosted by TUBITAK, Turkey.
Similarly, COMSATS in collaboration with the Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ISESCO), the Inter Islamic Network on Information Technology (INIT), and TWAS Young commemoration of the Earth Day for Innovation in Natural Products Affiliates Network (TYAN), organized 2019 (22nd April 2019 Islamabad, Research and Development’ at ICCBS, 5th COMSATS-ISESCO-INIT Pakistan). Pakistan. International Conference on ‘Agriculture, iv. One scientist from China was Biotechnology and Food Security: Role The aforementioned events played a key sponsored by COMSATS to of ICTs’, in Monastir, Tunisia, from 4th role in building the capacity of participants participate in the 4th TYAN to 6th November 2019. The Conference belonging to Centres of Excellence and International Thematic Workshop and provided an interactive platform to Member States as well as facilitated 1st African Symposium on “Big Data, academicians, scientists and researchers in promoting national, regional and Analytics and Machine Intelligence for to deliberate upon the burning issues international partnerships. Financial, Health and Environmental related to Agriculture, Food Security and Inclusion in Developing Countries Biotechnology, and applications of ICTs in Moreover, in order to enhance capacity (10-14 June 2019, Akure, Nigeria). this regard. of the researchers / scientists from v. Two (02) experts from Kazakhstan Member Countries as well as to facilitate and Sri Lanka were sponsored by Other local events held during the period collaboration, COMSATS provided COMSATS to participate in the include: sponsorship to the following scientists / 7th International Symposium- experts: cum-training course on molecular i. Seminar on Science Diplomacy at medicine and drug research (MMDR- COMSTECH Secretariat Islamabad, i. One official from CUI was sponsored 7) (4 - 7 November, 2019 Karachi, (27th November 2019, Islamabad, by COMSATS to visit KazNU Pakistan). Pakistan); (11-15 November 2019) to explore vi. One expert from CUI was sponsored ii. Seminar on ‘Pakistan China Industrial the opportunities of academic by COMSATS to participate in ‘Geo- Cooperation’, (9th October 2019 collaboration between CUI and engineering the Climate: Impacts and Islamabad, Pakistan); KazNU. the Developing World’ (12-16 August iii. Talk on “Community Building in ii. Three (03) experts from IROST, 2019, Beijing, China). ASEAN” organized at COMSATS KazNU, and ITI were sponsored vii. One expert from CUI (Abbottabad Secretariat (July 2019 Islamabad, by COMSATS to participate in Campus) was sponsored by Pakistan); the 5th COMSATS-ISESCO- COMSATS to participate in the iv. Seminar on “Second Belt and Road INIT International Workshop on ‘Symposium (PP19) on Purine and Forum: Achievements and Prospects” ‘Biotechnology, Agriculture and Food Pyrimidine Metabolism in Man’ (12- held at COMSATS (3rd May 2019 Security: the Role of ICTs’ which was 14 June, 2019 Lyon, France). Islamabad, Pakistan); held in Tunisia in November 2019. viii. Three experts belonging to Iran and v. Seminar on ‘The Role of Youth in the iii. Two eminent scientists from KazNU one expert from ICCBS (Pakistan) Implementation of the SDGs’ (24th were sponsored by COMSATS to were sponsored by COMSATS to April 2019 Islamabad, Pakistan); and participate in the inaugural ceremony participate in the International vi. Consultative dialogue on of ‘Pak-Kazakh Joint Laboratory Workshop on ‘Challenges and “Air Pollution in Pakistan” in
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 9 Innovations in Nano-science (18– 19 December 2019, Damascus, Syria).
Furthermore, on recommendation of COMSATS, 19 candidates belonging to COMSATS member states (Bangladesh, Iran, Egypt, Kazakhstan, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Syria, and Turkey), were fully sponsored by TIB for their participation in the International Training Course on Industrial Synthetic Biotechnology (October 2019 hosted by TIB). Apart, 7 scientists belonging to Pakistan were sponsored by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs (BIOMA), China, to participate in various training programmes, particularly in the fields of rural wastewater treatment, agricultural waste, biogas, biomass energies, feed iii. The ‘Al-Farabi Corner’ has been Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP), formula promotion, new fertilizers, established at the Junaid Zaidi Library, Italy, has offered five (05) additional ecological governance and ecotourism COMSATS University Islamabad post-graduate scholarships (Masters development. (CUI), following the partnership of Science in Mathematic) to the arrangements reached during the students belonging to COMSATS’ The Council had advised the Centres of 21st and 22nd Coordinating Council member countries. Four (04) Excellence to benefit from the programmes meetings. nominations received from Nigeria and activities of COMSATS’ international iv. The “Pak-Kazakh Joint Laboratory and Tanzania are under consideration. partner organizations in order to achieve for Innovation in Natural Products • The Al-Farabi Kazakh National common objectives. In this connection, Research and Development” has University (KazNU), Kazakhstan, had COMSATS Secretariat has been regularly been inaugurated at ICCBS-Pakistan offered 05 postgraduate scholarships circulating information regarding the in collaboration with KazNU- for COMSATS Member States. In this partner organizations’ research grant Kazakhstan. regard, one student from Pakistan is programmes, capacity-building activities availing this opportunity, while two and other funding opportunities among During the last Council meeting, a more candidates belonging to Syria its Centres of Excellence and Member few Centres of Excellence had offered and Iran have been accepted during Countries. postgraduate scholarships/postdoctoral the reporting period. fellowships to the students/researchers • The Bangladesh Council of Scientific In light of the decisions made during belonging to COMSATS’ Member States. and Industrial Research (BCSIR), 22nd Council meeting, COMSATS has In this connection: Bangladesh had offered one (01) been facilitating collaborations among postdoctoral fellowship, which the Centres of Excellence enabling them • COMSATS University Islamabad has been availed by a researcher to collectively address the common (CUI), Pakistan, has a long standing belonging to Nigeria. Similarly, the challenges. In this connection, the offer of 100 postgraduate scholarships. National Research Centre (NRC), collaborative undertakings among the Recently, CUI has reviewed the term Egypt, had offered 05 short-term (1-2 Centres of Excellence are listed below: and conditions for the aforementioned months) postdoctoral fellowships. scholarships (provided complete A nomination received from IRCC- i. TIB-China is providing support fee waiver), which has made it Sudan is under consideration. to ITI-Sri Lanka in establishing an more convenient for the qualifying • ICCBS-Pakistan has also offered Industrial Biotechnology Center. candidates. In this regard, currently, five (05) scholarships per year to the ii. TIB-China and ICCBS-Pakistan are twelve (12) students are availing these member states, for which the call for interacting to initiate collaboration scholarships and are enrolled in MS nominations has been disseminated in the form of joint projects on and PhD programmes. among the Centres of Excellence and natural products sciences, traditional • CUI (Lahore Campus), in Focal Points. medicines and bio-transformation. collaboration with the International
10 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 Following the decisions made during the • A three-member delegation of Under a relevant decision on tapping 22nd Coordinating Council meeting, COMSATS visited Colombia during potential of Belt & Road Initiative (BRI) and in light of the requests received from September 2019. During the visit, for COMSATS Member States and Centres some of the Member States, COMSATS the delegation held meetings at of Excellence, COMSATS became a is collaborating with its Centres for the Colombian Association for the member to the Alliance of International acquiring technical support in establishing Advancement of Science (CAAS), and Science Organizations (ANSO). The top-class universities / research centres / the International Centre of Physics membership has been endorsed and will S&T Parks in the member states. In this (CIF). Moreover, the delegation soon be ratified. The membership shall regard, consultations are being made visited the COLCIENCIAS (former enable COMSATS’ Member States and with TIB (China), IROST (Iran), and COMSATS’ Focal Point), and held Centres of Excellence to participate in TUBITAK (Turkey). During the period, meeting with the officials of its ANSO’s activities including fellowship and the Executive Director COMSATS held International Office. During these scholarships; prize and awards; training meetings with the Honourable Minister meetings, the delegation, inter alia, program; collaborative research; and for Higher Education, Technology & discussed the avenues of future professional associations. Innovation, Sri Lanka, and Director collaboration in the areas of tele- General ITI in Colombo, regarding health, climate sciences, education Preparations for the Fourth the possibility of establishing an S&T and curricula development, General Meeting of the University in Sri Lanka. establishment of a regional office of COMSATS for Latin America. Commission As another follow-up of the 22nd • Following the decision regarding Coordinating Council meeting, a two- CUI scholarships opportunities, a The Commission is the highest forum member delegation of COMSATS two-member CUI visited Sri Lanka of COMSATS, with 27 Heads of State/ visited China from 14th – 18th July and held meeting with Director Government of COMSATS’ Member States 2019 to participate in the 18th CTWF General of ITI on 20th January 2020. as members. The first General Meeting of International Symposium on Aerosol and The delegation discussed the study the Commission was held in 1994 that led Climate Change: Observations, Modeling opportunities / scholarships at CUI to the establishment of COMSATS. The & Interactions (July 15-17, 2019, Beijing, available to the researchers/students 2nd General Meeting of the Commission China) and International Training of ITI. was held in April 2012 (Islamabad, Workshop on Atmospheric Aerosol: Pakistan) while 3rd General Meeting was Observation, Modelling and Impact (July In light of the decisions made during held in October 2015 (Accra, Ghana). 18-20, 2019, Beijing, China). the recent meetings of the Coordinating Council, the COMSATS Centre for As stipulated in the COMSATS’ Statutes, In connection with fostering collaborations Climate and Sustainability (CCCS) was the Commission Meeting is to be at the end of COMSATS’ Centres of further strengthened with the addition convened by its Chairperson at least once Excellence, the following developments of three new members, increasing the every three years. To fulfill the obligations took place: number of affiliated organizations to of Statutes, COMSATS Secretariat made fifteen. efforts during the reported period (2019) • Prof. Jibin Sun, Deputy Director General, TIB, visited Pakistan during September 2019, in order to strengthen the ongoing cooperation as well as to explore the possibilities of future joint ventures in the fields of mutual interest, with CUI, ICCBS and other institutions including NUMS, Nextar Pharma Plant etc, in Pakistan. During the visit, an Intent of Cooperation (IoC) was signed between CUI and TIB aiming to establish and develop partnership in order to promote academic exchanges between the two institutions through cooperation.
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 11 for convening the 4th General Meeting (Assistant Director, Ministry of Foreign as a large 2-day event. The Chairman also of the Commission of COMSATS in Affairs & Regional Integration, Ghana), agreed to provide finances for the mega Ghana. The efforts included two visits were also present during the meeting. event. of the Executive Director to Accra in January 2019 and September 2019, to seek Prof. Boateng, COMSATS’ focal person The budget and other administrative guidance from the incumbent Chairperson in Ghana, introduced the COMSATS’ arrangements for the meetings were of COMSATS, Hon. Nana Addo Dankwa delegation to the Honorable President, discussed. It was agreed that necessary Akufo-Addo, President of Ghana. Another who also received comprehensive actions will be taken to follow-up the visit to Ghana was made by senior briefings by the Executive Director and invitation letters sent to the Commission COMSATS’ officials in October 2019. other members of the delegation on the members by the relevant departments achievements of COMSATS with a special of the government of Ghana as well as The meeting was postponed due to focus on last three years’ activities and its COMSATS Secretariat. unavoidable circumstances. However, future plans, introduction of COMSATS, engagements with the Chairperson the composition and role of its statutory In connection with the preparations of the COMSATS, Ghanaian Focal Ministry, and bodies, and its programmes and activities 4th General Meeting of the Commission, relevant government institutions helped for S&T uplift of 27-Member Countries the Executive Director, handed-over make major headways in organization of through a Network of 22 Centres of relevant documents including; the draft the highest level statutory body meeting Excellence (CoEs). invitation letters to be sent to Commission of COMSATS. While some aspects of Members from the Chairperson’s office, the meetings held during these visits are On the matter of the General meeting, the detailed Checklists. covered in Chapter 7, discussions relevant President gave his consent to convene the to the organization of 4th General Meeting meeting as the Chairperson in the second After the said meeting, four sub- and Accra Forum on S&T for Sustainable half of 2019. committees were constituted to finalize the Development are summarized below. arrangements for the event, shown in the Appreciative of a prominent number of table below. In January 2019, Dr. Zaidi called on COMSATS’ member states being from the Chairperson COMSATS and senior Africa, the President showed intent to In the third week of October, a COMSATS’ officials of Ghanaian government to help expand the membership further with delegation visited Ghana to seek guidance sensitize them on COMSATS’ programmes inclusion of more member states. on the organizational matters related to the and furthering the plan of holding the 4th General Meeting. However, the meeting General Meeting. Accompanied by senior Another visit that took place in September was inevitably postponed. officials from Turkey, Egypt and Pakistan 2019 was undertaken to further materialize associated with COMSATS in different the arrangements for General Meeting. Sensitization Activities and capacities, the purpose of the Executive Among the discussion points with the Consultations Director’s visit was to mobilise the President was holding of “Accra Forum on machinery in Ghana under the guidance of Science and Technology for Sustainable Throughout the year, COMSATS the President to help fulfill the country its Development” in conjunction with the Secretariat remained engaged with obligation of holding the summit meeting 4th General Meeting of the Commission, sensitization activity, consultations, of COMSATS as the chair holder. Sub-Committees for Organization of the 4th General Meeting of COMSATS The meeting with the President on this visit was held on January 8, 2019, at Name of sub-committees Names of chairpersons Jubilee House (Flag Staff House) in Accra, Ghana, that lasted for over an hour. Prof. Protocol and Security Mr. Kwabena Appiah Kwabena Frimpong Boateng (Minister Director, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration – MESTI); Mr. Nana Bediatuo Asante Logistics and Accommodation Ms. Adelaide Asante (Secretary to the President); Mr. R. Kwame Ag. Director STI, Ministry of Environment, Science, Nartey (Consulate General for Pakistan Technology and Innovation in Ghana); Dr. Franics Danti Kotia Materials and Papers Ing. Daniel Asenso – Gyambibi (Director International Affairs, Ministry (Director CSIR-BRRI) of Foreign Affairs & Regional Integration, Strategic Communication Mr. Nasir Ahmed Yartey Ghana); Dr. Agyeman Victor (Director Head Public Relations, Ministry of Environment, Science, General-CSIR) and Ms. Ayishetu Abdullah Technology and Innovation (MESTI)
12 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 alongside correspondence with the organizers, stakeholders and other international organizations. Some of these activities include the following sessions, during which not only the participants were sensitized about the 4th General Meeting and Accra Forum, but also advice was sought to improve the expected outcome of these events.
A hi-tea was arranged in honor of the Ambassadors/High Commissioners and other members of the diplomatic community of COMSATS’ member countries on 20th September 2019, in Islamabad. The objective of the graceful gathering was to brief them about Secretariat on 4th COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI) the forthcoming high-profile events October 2019, and COMSATS Internet Services (CIS). of COMSATS to be held in Ghana in the celebrations The Rector of COMSATS University October 2019. The gathering comprised culminated in a Islamabad, Dr. Raheel Qamar, was also of Ambassadors/High Commissioners of graceful celebration present on the occasion. Azerbaijan, Morocco, Nigeria, Palestine, at Host country, Sri Lanka, Tunisia and Yemen; Political Pakistan’s President The event featured curtain-raiser of a Secretary of UAE, and Romania, as well House and an COMSATS Silver Jubilee commemorative as other officials from US Embassy and online medical postal stamp issued by the Government German companies in Pakistan. The camp to mark the silver jubilee. of Pakistan that has graciously hosted the delegates were apprised about the Heads organization’s secretariat since inception. of State-level General Meeting and Accra Celebration at COMSATS Secretariat Forum. Executive Director COMSATS, Dr. S.M. COMSATS celebrated its 25th Anniversary Junaid Zaidi, lauded the efforts of the Other activities in this respect included: in a simple ceremony held at its Secretariat. present and past leaders of COMSATS Mr. Parvez Ahmed Butt, Founding Statutory bodies and COMSATS • Consultative Meeting with Dr. Akram Executive Director of COMSATS, graced Secretariat, who have contributed Sheikh, Co-Chair and Distinguished the occasion with his presence as the Chief to COMSATS’ consistent pursuit of Senior Fellow at Global Think Tank Guest. Also present during the ceremony its mission of S&T-led sustainable Network were officials from COMSATS Secretariat, development in the South. • Consultative Meeting with Pakistani universities’ Vice Chancellors
On December 24, 2019 it was conveyed by the office of the Chairperson COMSATS that the Hon. Chairperson COMSATS and President of Ghana has convened the Accra Forum on Science and Technology for Sustainable Development and 4th General Meeting of the Commission, on 14th – 15th April 2020, in Accra, Ghana.
COMSATS’ Silver Jubilee
COMSATS celebrated the completion of 25 years of its inception early October 2019. After a small ceremony at COMSATS
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 13 Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Butt The ceremony had an impressive able minds and strong cooperation, the highlighted a major flagship project of attendance, including Islamabad based Global South can address present day COMSATS, COMSATS Internet Services, diplomatic missions from Embassies of challenges to help achieve Sustainable founded in 1996. This project, he noted Bosnia and Herzegovina, Belarus, Egypt, Development Goals. He urged the member had further enabled ICTs application in France, Hungary, Jordan, Kazakhstan, states to support COMSATS’ initiatives in the country in the fields of IT, education Kenya, Libya, Morocco, Nepal, Nigeria, this direction and more countries to join and health. Portugal, Palestine, Romania, Sudan, the organization as member states. Sri Lanka, Turkey, Turkmenistan and In his remarks on the occasion, Prof. Yemen. A number of government officials, Speaking on the occasion, H.E. Mr. Fawad Dr. Raheel Qamar, Rector CUI, greatly including senior officials from Ministry Hussain Chaudhry, Federal Minister for acknowledged the hard work and efforts of of Science and Technology, Ministry of Science and Technology emphasized Dr. Zaidi in taking COMSATS University Foreign Affairs, as well as officials from the importance of multilateralism in Islamabad (CUI) forward as its Founding COMSATS Secretariat, COMSATS S&T and considered initiatives taken by Rector. University Islamabad, COMSATS COMSATS an excellent example of Science Internet Services, and representatives of Diplomacy. Reiterating his office’s support Also on the occasion, Dr. Arshad Saleem international organizations attended the to COMSATS, he urged the foreign Bhatti (Dean Faculty of Sciences of CUI), ceremony. missions and international organizations considered organizations like COMSATS, to help further the organization’s cause of ICTP and TWAS important in bringing In his congratulatory remarks on the bringing peace through S&T in the region. developing countries together for occasion, Dr. Arif Alvi was of the view that important S&T linkages. with education, skilled human resource, Dr. S. M. Junaid Zaidi, Executive Director
Silver Jubilee Ceremony at Aiwan-E- Sadr, Islamabad, Pakistan
As part of COMSATS Silver Jubilee celebrations, a graceful ceremony marking the landmark was held at Aiwan-e-Sadr, Islamabad, on 10th December 2019. The ceremony was graciously hosted by the Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of Pakistan. Dr. Arif Alvi, President of Pakistan, and Mr. Fawad Hussain Chaudhry, Federal Minister for Science and Technology, graced the ceremony with their presence.
14 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 Enhancement of Membership of COMSATS’ Network of International S&T Centres of Excellence
COMSATS Secretariat makes constant efforts to enhance membership of COMSATS Network of Excellence to expand its collaboration potential, global outreach and diversity of scientific areas for greater good. Currently, COMSATS Secretariat is interacting with renowned COMSATS communicated greetings of Enhancement of Membership of research centres and universities in Hon. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, COMSATS’ Commission Indonesia, Malaysia, Zimbabwe, Gambia, President of Ghana and the Chairperson of Malawi, and Morocco and Tunisia for COMSATS, to the Honourable President During 2019, significant inroads were possible inclusion in the Network of and the Minister. He lauded long-haul made with regard to enhancement of Centres of Excellence. patronage of Government of Pakistan COMSATS’ membership. In this regard, a and Ministry of S&T towards COMSATS’ number of ambassadors and dignitaries in Interactions with Host Country, operations. Pakistan were engaged from a number of Pakistan countries. Some other Celebratory Activities Chairperson Consultative The officials of Secretariat along with the Committee The celebrations include extensive print Executive Director COMSATS visited and social media engagement by means foreign missions and paid courtesy calls The new Chairperson of COMSATS of syndicate articles and important upon the ambassador of Hungary, Royal Consultative Committee, H.E. Chaudhry information material, and souvenirs. Danish Embassy, Embassy of Portugal, Fawad Hussain, the Federal Minister for A commemorative postal stamp was Embassy of Russia and United Arab Science and Technology, Government of issued by the government of Pakistan. Emirates (UAE) and apprised them about Pakistan, visited COMSATS Secretariat The visually pleasing stamp bears the COMSATS and the ongoing work in on 19th June 2019, for the first time after flags of 27 member states, to mark the different member states and made a case assuming the charge of his Ministry. organization’s membership at the time of for them to encourage their governments During the meeting that was held the 25th anniversary. to join COMSATS as member states. Some in the presence of senior officials of other delegates that engaged in this regard COMSATS Secretariat, the Minister A number of written and video were distinguished visitors of COMSATS was given a briefing on COMSATS’ messages of felicitations were received Secretariat from European Union, mandate, flagship projects, current and from some COMSATS Centres of DFID, and embassies of Spain, Portugal, future programmes. Dr. S. M. Junaid Excellence and focal points that were Philippines, Belarus, and Australia. Zaidi, Executive Director COMSATS, documented into a montage (https:// apprised the Minister of COMSATS’ www.facebook.com/COMSATSofficial/ As part of membership campaign, it is plans to establish in its member videos/2497436103842738/). planned to reach out to the Central Asian states the Centres on Climate Change states, such as Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan and Sustainability, Nanotechnology, In addition to a publication that gives a and Turkmenistan. Respective ministers Genomics, Mathematics, Artificial gist of the organization’s engagements with of Science and Technology would be Intelligence and Robotics. Furthermore, member states, a special comprehensive approached to sensitize them about it was informed that consultations are publication on 25 years of COMSATS is COMSATS’ activities and the benefits of being made with the Association of also being prepared. A media campaign joining COMSATS. Commonwealth Universities (ACU) for with articles published in print media duly setting-up COMSATS University in four created awareness on the organization, its countries, i.e., Egypt, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, mandate and achievements. Social media and Tanzania. Mr. Fawad Hussain was tools were duly engaged in the process as appreciative of COMSATS’ efforts to well.
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 15 building of scientific community in developing countries. In particular, he was appreciative of COMSATS’ activities in the field of education. He also identified agriculture as an important area in Pakistan in which there is a need for building and sustaining capacities; and underscored the need for adopting latest technologies for increasing crop yield and agriculture production. Mr. Tiwana pledged his support for COMSATS’ on- going and future initiatives. establish new universities and centers on apprised of COMSATS’ undertakings, Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of critical issues in the developing countries including Silver Jubilee celebrations. Foreign Affairs (MoFA), Pakistan and considered them an excellent example Dr. Zaidi acknowledged the strong of international diplomacy. Apart from patronage of Pakistan’s Ministry of Science Ms. Andleeb Abbas, Parliamentary COMSATS Tele-Health (CTH) Network and Technology towards COMSATS’ Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs established in the suburbs of Islamabad operations over the years. During the (MoFA), Pakistan, visited COMSATS and far-flung areas of Pakistan, the meeting, the Minister was also briefed Secretariat, Islamabad, on 8th August Minister was apprised of the relevant about COMSATS’ forthcoming statutory- 2019. She was apprised of COMSATS’ collaboration of COMSATS with the body meetings including the one to be undertakings, membership and Government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir chaired by him in the first quarter of international partnerships. COMSATS, (AJK), Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) and next year, i.e. COMSATS’ Consultative she was informed, is mandated to cultivate Punjab. The Minister expressed interest Committee Meeting. The Minister was and promote S&T culture in the 27 in CTH Programme in connection also presented COMSATS’ Silver Jubilee developing countries of the South that with the Government’s aspirations to commemorative postal stamp. are member to COMSATS. Ms. Andleeb improve the health sector of Pakistan. appreciated the mandate with which Mr. Fawad Hussain considered Artificial Chairman National Assembly COMSATS is operating and contributing Intelligence and related technologies Standing Committee on Foreign to the well-being of the developing world. necessary for meeting the industrial and Affairs, Pakistan She considered S&T the backbone of national needs and emphasized promoting any developmental activity and driver liaison between research institutions and Mr. Muhammad Ehsan Ullah Tiwana of knowledge economy and innovation. industries so as to translate the research visited COMSATS Secretariat, Islamabad, She shared the vision of the current potential of the country into its economic on 22nd August 2019, and received a government to have the Universities growth. Mr. Chaudhry opined that briefing on COMSATS’ undertakings as major contributors towards making COMSATS is well-placed in aiding the aimed at achieving sustainable Pakistan a knowledge economy. Ms. Ministry in relevant interventions. The development of the South through due Andleeb assured her full support towards meeting ended with the pledge of support utilization of S&T. Mr. Tiwana appreciated COMSATS’ operations for improving its from the Honourable Minister towards COMSATS’ efforts for the capacity national and international stature. COMSATS’ mandate and operations. This includes holding the meeting of the 3rd Consultative Committee which is planned to be held soon.
On November 6, 2019, Dr. S. M. Junaid Zaidi, Executive Director COMSATS called on H.E. Mr. Fawad Chaudhry, Federal Minister for Science and Technology, Government of Pakistan, at the latter’s office in Islamabad. In his capacity as the Chairperson of COMSATS’ Consultative Committee, Mr. Fawad was
16 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 2. STRENGTHENING SOUTH-SOUTH AND TRIANGULAR COOPERATION
• Meetings with Diplomats from Member States 18
• Meetings with Diplomats from Potential Member States 19
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 17 STRENGTHENING SOUTH-SOUTH AND TRIANGULAR COOPERATION
One of the functions of COMSATS is to support major initiatives designed to promote indigenous S&T capacity through synergies among relevant Governments in the North and the South. Dignitaries, officials and delegations from a number of countries are engaged on regular basis to establish and promote linkages to help strengthen triangular cooperation in a number of fields, including education, training and research, climate change, SDGs and many more.
Meetings with Diplomats and Officials from Member States
H.E. Maj. Gen. (Retd.) Ibrahim Yala Al Madani, Ambassador of Jordan to Pakistan (22nd October 2019)
Visiting COMSATS Secretariat, His Excellency was accompanied by Dr. Maen Khareasat, Deputy Head of Mission/ Minister Plenipotentiary at the Embassy of Jordan in Islamabad. The honorable Ambassador received a briefing from the Executive Director COMSATS. Dr. S.M. Junaid Zaidi, acquainted him with between Jordanian universities and their desired to explore avenues of cooperation COMSATS’ efforts for expansion of counterparts in other Member States of in areas of mutual interest. its membership, in particular to Gulf COMSATS was also explored and it was Cooperation Council (GCC). He also hoped that Jordanian students shall avail H.E. Mr. Mohamed Karmoune, noted the active role being played by the scholarship opportunities available at Ambassador of Morocco to Pakistan Royal Scientific Society (RSS) of Jordan as COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI). (30th December 2019) a Centre of Excellence of COMSATS. The Jordanian Ambassador appreciated The meeting with the Ambassador was Possibility of enhancing collaboration activities of COMSATS’ Network and held in his office at the Embassy of
18 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 Morocco in Islamabad. The Executive for exploration of common grounds of Dr. Zaidi handed over to H.E. Mr. Director apprised him of COMSATS’ cooperation. Foric a formal letter inviting Bosnia & important Statutory bodies: heads-of-states Herzegovina for joining COMSATS along level Commission, ministerial Consultative Moreover, potential benefits of COMSATS’ with other relevant documents. Mr. Foric Committee, and Network institutions’ membership were also highlighted along pledged taking up the membership matter Coordinating Council. with the offer of affiliation to Kuwaiti with the relevant Ministries in Bosnia & R&D/S&T institutions with COMSATS Herzegovina. Dr. Zaidi sought support of his good Network of International Centres of office to facilitate COMSATS’ efforts for Excellence. H.E. Mr. Manuel Durain, expansion of its membership. Matters Ambassador of Spain to Pakistan pertaining to expanding the programmes The Deputy Head of Mission gave due (2nd May 2019) and activities of COMSATS’ Network consideration to the offer of membership also came under discussion during the and assured to take up the matter with Possibilities to initiate cooperation meeting. relevant government authorities in Kuwait. between Spain and COMSATS’ Member States in higher education, scientific Other engagements with diplomatic H.E. Mr. Sakib Foric, Ambassador research and technology-transfer were missions included a briefing session on of Bosnia & Herzegovina to Pakistan explored during the meeting with H.E. COMSATS Accra Forum and fourth (2nd May 2019) Mr. Durain. The Ambassador was given General Meeting of the Commission a briefing on COMSATS’ mandate, (Chapter 1) and an informative talk on The key agenda of the meeting was to undertakings and international outreach Community Building in ASEAN (Chapters seek His Excellency’s support for building and was informed about COMSATS’ 3 & 4). ties with the Government of Bosnia & relatively new initiative in the field of Herzegovina in order to promote S&T- climate change, i.e., the COMSATS Center Meetings with Diplomats from led development, and advance exchange for Climate and Sustainability (CCCS). Potential Member States of scientific knowledge and technical expertise in the region. The proposition of Spain’s participation in Mr. Khalid Al-Yasin, Counsellor/ CCCS along with building collaboration Deputy Head of Mission of the State During the meeting, H.E. Mr. Foric between COMSATS University Islamabad of Kuwait (17th January 2019) was informed about COMSATS’ vision (CUI) and Spanish universities for and mission as well as obligations and faculty development, scholarships and During the meeting, Mr. Al-Yasin was, potential benefits of joining COMSATS upgradation of R&D facilities was put inter alia, apprised of the membership as a member state. The Ambassador forth. Besides, the proposal to establish campaign for the State of Kuwait that had appreciated COMSATS’ international a world-class Centre for Mathematics on been initiated in 1999. programmes and activities and hoped to the model of the International Centre for institute cooperation between the two Theoretical Physics (ICTP), Italy, was also A major part of the campaign, it was sides particularly in education, trade and considered during the meeting. informed, included engagements and visits tourism. to leading Kuwaiti R&D/S&T institutions The Ambassador was handed over an
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 19 invitation letter to join COMSATS along relevant government officials. association with the European Union (EU) with key information documents on was highlighted which the organization is COMSATS. It was anticipated that Spain’s The meeting also discussed the endeavoring to capitalize on for expansion accession to COMSATS would help possibility of initiating collaboration of its membership to Europe. further expand COMSATS’ membership between institutions of COMSATS’ host to Latin America owing to the strategic country, Pakistan, and their Azerbaijani The Ambassador was appreciative of closeness of Spain to these countries. counterparts to promote academic, COMSATS’ undertakings and assured scientific and cultural exchanges. support of his good office for COMSATS’ The proposals discussed during the future endeavors. meeting were duly endorsed by H.E. Mr. H.E. Mr. Danila Ganich, Ambassador Durain who also assured full support of of Russia to Pakistan (12th July 2019) Meeting with Delegation from his office towards the matter of Spain’s Ethiopia (11th September 2019) accession to COMSATS and nomination of Discussions with the Russian Ambassador S&T/R&D Spanish institution for inclusion were centered upon building and Led by H.E. Dr. Markos Tekele, State in COMSATS Network of International enhancing cooperation between Minister of Foreign Affairs, Government S&T Centres of Excellence. COMSATS and Russia in various domains, of Ethiopia, the ten-member Ethiopian especially academics. delegation visited COMSATS Secretariat H.E. Mr. Ali Fikrat Oglu Alizada, with a view to explore common grounds of Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Dr. Zaidi expressed desire to foster cooperation. Pakistan (18th June 2019) cooperation in S&T and promote exchange of faculty and students between Russia The delegates were briefed about The meeting with H.E. Mr. Alizada was and COMSATS’ Member States. To this COMSATS’ international programmes in held at the former’s office in the Embassy end, H.E. Mr. Ganich recommended the Global South and were urged to benefit of Azerbaijan in Islamabad. COMSATS’ participation in forums from various opportunities of academic such as Pak-Russia Intergovernmental and scientific collaboration available with Apart from discussions on affairs Commission (IGC) to help explore and COMSATS Network. It was noted that of mutual interest, the matters of advance cooperation on economic, Ethiopia’s state membership to COMSATS Azerbaijan’s membership to COMSATS scientific and technical fronts. will help the Commission in expanding and nomination of a suitable S&T/ its outreach to East African countries. R&D Azerbaijani institution to become H.E. Mr. Paulo Neves Pocinho, Further, Ethiopian S&T/R&D institutions COMSATS’ Centre of Excellence were Ambassador of Portugal to Pakistan were invited to join COMSATS Network of discussed with reference to earlier contacts (25th July 2019) Centres of Excellence. in this connection. Dr. Zaidi and other COMSATS’ officials The Ethiopian delegation expressed It was communicated by Mr. Alizada that made a courtesy call on the newly willingness to collaborate with COMSATS the matter of Azerbaijan’s accession to appointed Portuguese Ambassador at his host country, Pakistan, for strengthening COMSATS is under consideration at the office in Islamabad. Taking opportunity, its agriculture sector. Further, they agreed Azerbaijan Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Dr. Zaidi apprised him of COMSATS’ upon the proposal for the establishment For expedition of the membership process, programmes and partnerships with of top-class higher education institute in it was proposed that COMSATS’ officials international bodies from the South and Ethiopia with the patronage of COMSATS may visit Azerbaijan to hold meetings with the North. In particular, COMSATS’ and international donor agencies.
20 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 Appreciating COMSATS, the Ambassador extended Denmark’s support to COMSATS’ Member States for expert- exchange and capacity-building.
H.E. Mr. Istvan Szaboi, Ambassador of Hungary to Pakistan (26th September 2019)
The two sides discussed matters related to enhancing scientific and technological cooperation between Hungary and COMSATS’ Member States through various joint ventures. The Executive H.E. Mr. Hamad Obaid Al Zaabi, science-led sustainable development in Director apprised the Ambassador of Ambassador of UAE to Pakistan the South. The Ambassador deemed it COMSATS’ programmes and activities (24th September 2019) important to hold meetings with the office aimed at addressing the socio-economic bearers of UAE’s Government to stimulate challenges in Member States. During the meeting held at the office of cooperation in areas of mutual interest. H.E. Mr. Al Zaabi, the Ambassador was While appreciating COMSATS’ initiative taken on board with the membership H.E. Mr. Rolf Michael Hay Pereira for enhancing student-exchange among its matter of UAE to COMSATS. It was Homboe, Ambassador of Denmark Member States, Mr. Szaboi mentioned the mentioned that COMSATS provides to Pakistan (25th September 2019) scholarship programme of Government a forum to the countries holding its of Hungary. The said programme, it was membership for bridging scientific and During the meeting, it was informed by informed, is available for students of technological cooperation with other H.E. Mr. Homboe that Denmark has a very COMSATS’ Member States, including members of the Organization. It was noted strong development programme in Africa Pakistan, where it is being managed by that UAE’s geographical location could and it was proposed that COMSATS’ Higher Education Commission (HEC). help grow COMSATS’ membership and activities in its African Member States can activities to Gulf and Arab region. be supported through various diplomatic In addition to these meetings, a number missions of Denmark based in these of informative talks and lectures were A proposal for instituting a regional hub countries. held where diplomats from Denmark, in the field of Artificial Intelligence was Mauritius, Ukraine and South Africa also put forth during the meeting owing COMSATS’ international programmes shared case-studies highlighting the to UAE’s strong global standing in the said and activities of crucial importance development paradigm, best practices, field. to sustainable development were cultural and foreign traditions of their highlighted by Dr. Zaidi who also invited respective countries (Section 3 & 4). H.E. Mr. Al Zaabi was appreciative of Denmark to establish working relations COMSATS’ undertakings geared towards with COMSATS by attaining country the realization of its mandate of promoting membership of the Organization.
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 21 22 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 3. COLLABORATION WITH NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
• Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) 24
• Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ISESCO) 24
• United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) 25
• United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) 25
• United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation (UNOSSC) 25
• Alliance of International Science Organizations (ANSO) 26
• Commonwealth Secretariat 26
• European Union (EU) 26
• Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD) 27
• American Academy of Arts and Sciences (AAAS) 27
• American Institute of Pakistan Studies (AIPS) 28
• Pacific Island Development Forum (PIDF) 28
• Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies (IPDS) 28
• The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) 28
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 23 COLLABORATION WITH NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
COMSATS has been endeavoring 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 with its Centres of Excellence for sustainable socio-economic development of the Member States. These partnerships aim to complement the programmes of COMSATS focusing on capacity-building of S&T community in developing countries.
Organization of Islamic conferences, capacity building and training Islamic Educational, Scientific Cooperation (OIC) workshops, high-level public awareness and Cultural Organization seminars and related activities. The (ISESCO) On 19th March 2019, a Memorandum of Agreement also seeks to enhance exchange and sharing of experiences, expertise and Understating (MoU) was signed between Since 2004, COMSATS is collaborating resources for joint programmes. COMSATS and the Organization of with the Islamic Educational, Scientific and Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Jeddah, Saudi Cultural Organization (ISESCO), Rabat, Arabia, in order to promote science, technology and innovation for achieving sustainable socio-economic development in 17 common member states of COMSATS and OIC.
Dr. S.M. Junaid Zaidi, Executive Director COMSATS, and Mr. Muhammad Naeem Khan, Assistant Secretary General for Science and Technology (Ambassador – OIC) signed the Agreement on behalf of their organizations during a ceremony held at COMSATS Secretariat, Islamabad.
Under this Agreement, both sides pledged to organize scientific events and
24 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 Morocco, with a view to building the indigenous capacities of scientific communities, belonging to their common member countries, in different fields of S&T. The partnership between the two organizations, materialized through signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), is revived on annual basis. Under the Joint Cooperation Agreement for 2019, an International Conference on Agriculture, Food Security and Biotechnology was held in Monastir, Tunisia, the details of which are covered in Chapter 4. a Centre in this field with nodes in during the meeting of COMSATS’ officials interested developing countries. with Dr. Shamila Nair Bedouelle (Assistant To date, the two organizations have Director-General for Natural Sciences) jointly organized 55 capacity building Appreciating the spectrum of COMSATS’ and Dr. Peggy Oti-Boateng (Director events in those fields of science and activities highlighted in the briefing, Mr. of the Division for Science Policy and technology which are most relevant to the Artaza also underscored various areas Capacity-Building). The possibility to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). of interest and operations of UNDP. He connect COMSATS’ Network with that of In the past, they have jointly supported showed keen interest in COMSATS’ UNESCO’s to help increase its outreach research projects and brought out joint initiatives relating to SDGs and Climate was also explored. Both sides also agreed publications. So far, over 660 researchers, Change. Both counterparts agreed to to employ UNESCO’s experience in scientists, engineers, technicians and further linkages and cooperation in these research commercialization and academia- industry professionals have benefitted and other areas of common interest. industrial linkages for the benefit of from the proceedings of these events. COMSATS’ Member States. United Nations Development United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural In the meeting with Mr. Moez Programme (UNDP) Chakchouk, Assistant Director-General Organization (UNESCO) for Communication and Information, the Avenues of cooperation are being explored two sides agreed to work jointly on smart with UNDP based on commonalities of With an agenda to build contacts cities for Sustainable Development. Also, mandates. A meeting was afresh and to explore common grounds during a meeting with the office-bearers held between COMSATS of cooperation in emerging areas of of Priority Africa and External Relations officials and Mr. Ignacio S&T, Dr. S. M. Junaid Zaidi, Executive Programme of UNESCO, the delegates Artaza, Country Director Director COMSATS, and Mr. Tajammul considered the prospects of collaborating of UNDP for Pakistan, Hussain, Advisor (Programmes), visited with UNESCO under its Africa Priority on 10th May 2019, at the the headquarters of the United Nations Programme for augmenting COMSATS’ latter’s office in Islamabad. Educational, Scientific and Cultural operations in the African region. Organization (UNESCO), Paris, France, in October 2019. Meetings were held During the meeting, the United Nations Office for South- Dr. Zaidi apprised the by delegates with officials from various Country Director of the programme sectors of UNESCO including, South Cooperation (UNOSSC) composition and activities Natural Sciences, and Communication and COMSATS gained patronage of the of the Commission in various fields of S&T Information. United Nations Office for South-South and their relevance to SDGs. In particular, Cooperation (UNOSSC) for its South- he was informed of COMSATS’ initiatives Views on building a Science Park in South Cooperative ventures through in the field of Climate Change and its collaboration with UNESCO, COMSATS signing of an Agreement in 2018. The corresponding interest in establishing University Islamabad (CUI) and relevant institutions in Ghana were exchanged cooperation furthered in 2019 through
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 25 meeting of Ambassador (R) Shahid Kamal with Mr. Jorge Chediek, Director, UNOSSC and Envoy of UN Secretary General for South-South Cooperation.
During the meeting, possibility of COMSATS’ participation in Global South-South Development Expo was explored along with the launching of a joint publication highlighting COMSATS’ Commonwealth, COMSATS was help further identify common areas for undertakings pertaining to South-South invited to submit project proposal collaborative work. Cooperation. for Commonwealth@70 Committee constituted on the 70th Anniversary of The cooperation with the European Alliance of International Science Commonwealth Secretariat. Through its Union’s Delegation to Pakistan also project (under consideration), COMSATS resulted in an awareness talk on EU’s Organizations (ANSO) aims to train coastal communities of Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Sindh and Baluchistan and build their Programme organized, for the young COMSATS has been endorsed for the capacities in three areas: health, gender scientists and researchers, at COMSATS membership of and entrepreneurship. Secretariat. The talk, delivered by Ms. the Alliance of Anne Marchal, highlighted various International COMSATS interactions with contours of EU flagship Research and Science Commonwealth Secretariat also included Innovation Programme – Horizon 2020 Organizations participation in the first Commonwealth with a special focus on the fellowship (ANSO), Beijing, ICT and Innovation Open Day held in opportunities under the umbrella of China, in London, in July 2019 (Chapter 5). MSCA. 2019. ANSO is committed to promoting sustainable development through Furthering the collaboration, Ambassador catalyzing cooperation initiatives in European Union (EU) (R) Shahid Kamal held meetings at the Science, Technology & Innovation European Commission Headquarters, and Capacity Building (STIC) at the During the calendar year 2019, Brussels, Belgium, in September 2019, international level. cooperation with the European Union continued with a view to explore ways of where he briefed Ms. Ann Mettler, Head of the European Political Strategy Centre The endorsement for membership was benefitting from the scientific knowledge (EPSC), about COMSATS’ undertakings made during the ANSO Governing and technical resources of the North to and projects geared towards the attainment Board meeting held in November 2019, help meet the challenges confronted by of sustainable development in the South. in Beijing, and the final decision shall be the developing countries that are members Ambassador (R) Kamal also met with made during ANSO General Assembly to to COMSATS. With this in view, Ms. Adviser on Demography & Migration be held in the next calendar year. By virtue Anne Marchal, Deputy Head of Mission, at the European Strategy Centre of the of this membership, COMSATS’ Network Delegation of the European Union to European Commission, EU Ambassador shall be able to participate in ANSO’s Pakistan, was invited to COMSATS at Large for Connectivity, Adviser to EU activities including fellowships and Secretariat in October 2019. During the Ambassador for Connectivity at European scholarships; prize and awards; training meeting, it was informed by Ms. Marchal External Action Service and International programmes; collaborative research; and that the European Union Delegation to Relations Officer – Pakistan at European professional associations. Pakistan is undertaking projects in various areas of global concern, including Climate External Action Service, for discussing Change, Biotechnology, Agriculture and possible collaboration for the common Commonwealth Secretariat Food Security. She was of the view that cause of bringing sustainability in the interactions with the European Union South. Being an accredited organization of Ambassador Designate to Pakistan could
26 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 Organization for Women in During the meeting, Dr. Fatmawati gave Massachusetts, to work together for Science for the Developing World a detailed account of her institute that achieving excellence in academics and (OWSD) has been hosting the Indonesian Chapter various scientific niches in the developing of OWSD since 2018. She mentioned world. On 20th November 2019, a virtual that ITS houses Science Techno Park and meeting was held between COMSATS’ Realizing the cooperation potential provides adequate facilities for product officials and Dr. John Randell, Director that exists between COMSATS and the innovation and professional workforce of Science, Engineering, and Technology Organization for Women in Science for development. She also expressed Programs; Dr. Amanda Vernon, Hellman the Developing World (OWSD) for the willingness to furthering cooperation with Fellow for Science and Technology Policy; skill development and capacity building COMSATS’ Network as she informed and Ms. Rebecca Tiernan, Program of women from developing countries of that ITS is already collaborating with the Associate for the Science, Engineering, and the South, including COMSATS’ member International Center for Chemical and Technology Program at AAAS. states, COMSATS initiated collaboration Biological Sciences (ICCBS), Pakistan, in with the Indonesian Chapter of OWSD. In the field of natural product sciences. The potential areas of work identified connection with this, a maiden meeting included education, S&T, energy and was held with Dr. Sri Fatmawati, President environment. It was suggested that of OWSD – Indonesia National Chapter, American Academy of Arts and reciprocal participation in the institutional and Assistant Professor at Sepuluh Sciences (AAAS) meetings could help recognize nodes Nopember Institute of Technology (ITS), for jointly working out solutions to Surabaya, Indonesia, on 23rd August 2019, COMSATS explored common avenues of developmental challenges. at COMSATS Secretariat. cooperation with the American Academy of Arts and Sciences (AAAS), Cambridge,
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 27 institutional linkages with the countries of the North for the expansion of COMSATS’ programmes.
A major part of such facilitations include arrangement of meetings with a number of foreign diplomats based in Islamabad. COMSATS’ connections with the government-owned institutions of Pakistan (COMSATS host country) were strengthened through important meetings the arrangements of which were aided by IPDS. The celebratory ceremony of COMSATS’ Silver Jubilee at Presidency the collaboration, a visit of delegation from American Institute of Pakistan House, Pakistan, was also facilitated by Community Colleges of United States to Studies (AIPS) IPDS. COMSATS Secretariat was also arranged with a view to explore cooperation avenues COMSATS has been collaborating with COMSATS and IPDS with the engagement in academics. the American Institute of Pakistan Studies of diplomatic missions based in Islamabad (AIPS), Madison, Wisconsin, since also organized various awareness talks January 2018, when an Agreement was Pacific Island Development with a view to share with the masses signed between the two organizations. Forum (PIDF) the best practices and success stories of The cooperation during the reporting various countries as a suit to follow and period resulted in the establishment of The relatively new collaboration with lessons to learn. Furthermore, to instill and an International Centre for Training the Pacific Island Development Forum encourage leadership skills and diplomatic and Development (ICTD) at COMSATS (PIDF), established in 2018, resulted practices in youth, COMSATS partnered Secretariat, Islamabad. The Inter in the participation of two-member with IPDS in arranging International University Consortium for the Promotion COMSATS’ delegation in the second Young Diplomats School (details covered of Social Sciences Arts and Humanities Pacific Islands Development Forum in Chapters 4 & 8). (IUCPSS) and the Institute of Peace and (PIDF) Leaders’ Summit and Conference Diplomatic Studies (IPDS) played a crucial held at Nadi, Fiji, in July 2019 (Chapter The World Academy of Sciences role in instituting ICTD. 5). On the sidelines of the Conference, (TWAS) the delegates comprising of Dr. Azeema The Centre, inaugurated by Dr. Farhat Fareed (Principal Medical Officer) and Collaboration with the World Academy of Haq (President of AIPS) at COMSATS Ms. Farhana Saleem (Senior Publications Sciences (TWAS), Trieste, Italy, resulted Secretariat, aims to provide trainings by and Communication Officer), held in two capacity-building events held in foreign experts in areas including climate meetings with representatives of various Tunisia and Turkey to suggest ways and change, intellectual property rights, higher participating organizations and identified finding solutions for addressing pressing education and leadership, and energy common working grounds in health, global issues and achieving various aspects policy. energy, and ICTs, among others. of sustainability (Chapter 4). The inaugural ceremony, held on 20th Institute of Peace and Diplomatic December 2019, was attended by Studies (IPDS) representatives of COMSATS, AIPS, IUCPSS and IPDS. COMSATS and the Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies (IPDS), Islamabad, As part of their collaboration, COMSATS Pakistan, entered into an Agreement on and AIPS organized talks on issues 22nd June 2017. Since the agreement, pertaining to energy, climate change, and IPDS has been facilitating COMSATS’ air pollution (covered in Chapter 8). Under
28 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 4. SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY EVENTS ORGANIZED
• International Workshop on ‘Water Resources: Expected Crises and Strategies of Predomination’, 30 Cairo, Egypt (11th – 12th March 2019)
• Seminar on ‘The Role of Youth in the Implementation of the SDGs’, Islamabad, Pakistan 31 (24th April 2019)
• Seminar on ‘Second Belt and Road Forum: Achievements and Prospects’, Islamabad, Pakistan 32 (3rd May 2019)
• Talk on “Peaceful Cohabitation in Rainbow Islands: A Case Study of Mauritius” (11th July 2019) 32
• Talk on ‘Community Building in ASEAN’, Islamabad, Pakistan (16th July 2019) 33
• Talk on “Nelson Mandela’s Legacy: Lessons for Today and Tomorrow” 33 (25th July 2019, Islamabad, Pakistan)
• Seminar on ‘Pakistan China Industrial Cooperation’, Islamabad, Pakistan (9th October 2019) 34
• International Conference on ‘Agriculture, Food Security and Biotechnology: Role of ICTs’, 34 Monastir, Tunisia (4th – 6th November 2019)
• International Young Diplomats School (IYDS), Islamabad, Pakistan (3rd to 5th December 2019) 37
• International Workshop on ‘Sustainability, SDGs and Global Challenges’, Gebze, Turkey 37 (3rd – 5th December 2019)
• Talk on “Ukraine: History, Culture and Present Situation” (10th December 2019) 38
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 29 SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY EVENTS ORGANIZED
Capacity-building activities make a prominent part of COMSATS’ programmes aimed at South-South Cooperation. The organization has been organizing scientific events in areas crucial to Member States’ development. These result in strengthening scientific linkages; building indigenous capacities; and promoting 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 decision-makers to share their views and experiences on contemporary S&T-led development issues.
International Workshop on ‘Water Resources: Expected Crises and Strategies of Predomination’, Cairo, Egypt (11th – 12th March 2019)
COMSATS in collaboration with its Centre of Excellence in Egypt, National Research Centre (NRC), organized an international workshop on Water Resources: Expected Crises and Strategies of Predomination” from 11th – 12th March 2019, in Cairo, Egypt. The event brought together Zaidi, Executive Director COMSATS, Coordinating Council, appreciated scientists, academicians, managers in noted that availability of safe drinking COMSATS’ programmes aimed at private sector, and mid-to senior-level water and management of water resources skill-development and capacity-building government officials to discuss and find is ever more challenging in the wake of of young researchers and researchers solutions to the issues related to water changing climatic conditions. He assured from the South. He also acknowledged resources. continuous support of COMSATS for COMSATS’ efforts for strengthening the taking adequate measures to help address South-South and Triangular cooperation. The workshop was inaugurated on 11th such challenges in COMSATS’ Member March 2019 in the presence of scientists States. Prof. Mohamed Hashem, President and researchers from China, Egypt, of NRC, Egypt, underscored the need Nigeria, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Sudan. In his inaugural remarks, Prof. Ashraf for cooperation among governments, Speaking at the inaugural, Dr. S.M. Junaid Shaalan, Chairperson COMSATS academia and industries for generating
30 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 held a seminar on the role of youth gender parity, employment opportunities in the implementation of Sustainable and due engagement of youth in society. Development Goals (SDGs). The Seminar had participation of student In his remarks, Mr. Dalair Khan, Lecturer from COMSATS University Islamabad at Abdul Wali Khan University (AWKU), (CUI), Islamabad, and Abdul Wali Khan Mardan, considered the event important University (AWKU), Mardan, Khyber due to its emphasis on SDGs and hoped Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) Province. for it to address key issues of gender parity and inclusion. Mr. Vlastimil Samek, Director of the United Nations Information Centre The technical proceedings of the (UNIC) graced the occasion as the Chief Seminar included a talk by Mr. Adam Guest. In his welcome address, Mr. Koniuszewski, CEO of the Bridge Samek called for due commitment at Foundation, Poland, who shared the necessary responses to rationalize water national, regional and global levels for experience of his organization in usage. He considered excellence in science achieving SDGs and considered SDG17, inclusion of immigrants in society and and technology crucial for socio-economic “Partnerships for the Goals”, the most informed how improvement in their development. important goal. Mr. Samek highlighted communication abilities helped integrate UN’s commitment towards youth them in society. He deemed youth’s role Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Ahmed empowerment and participation. He was in achieving sustainability and SDGs of Abdul-Nazeer from the Ministry of pleased to note that COMSATS University crucial importance. He considered quality Military Production, Egypt, and Prof. Islamabad is a part of UN’s academic education as the most important tool for Mahmoud M. Sakr, President of the initiative. achieving the SDGs. Egyptian Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT), noted the Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador Furthermore, students from Pakistan, potential of cooperation between Egypt (R) Fauzia Nasreen, Advisor (SDGs) Nigeria and Nepal, expressed their views and other member states of COMSATS highlighted the youth’s stakes in SDGs and on various aspects of the theme of the and expressed interest to jointly work for sustainable development. She laid great event from youth’s perspective. In his finding solutions to common problems of emphasis on equality, quality education, talk, Mr. Prem Thapamagar, a Nepalese the developing countries.
The technical proceedings of the two- day event comprised of thirty sessions including two plenary sessions wherein presentations were made by speakers from Pakistan, Egypt, China, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, and Sudan. The various topics covered during these sessions pertained to rational use of water in agriculture, green environment, irrigation, water resources, wastewater treatment, improving water productivity and quality, and sustainable water management.
Seminar on ‘The Role of Youth in the Implementation of the SDGs’, Islamabad, Pakistan (24th April 2019)
In order to mark the United Nations First International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace, COMSATS
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 31 In the keynote talk, Ms. Bhao Zong, Head of Political and Press Section, Embassy of People’s Republic of China, noted that the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is aimed to promote development in the region and beyond through inclusiveness. The Initiative encourages bilateral and multilateral cooperation through various means and at various levels. It was further informed that projects under the umbrella of BRI have a bearing on social and economic aspects of national development.
The event encouraged exchanges on undergraduate student at COMSATS (IPDS) organized a seminar highlighting various aspects of the theme of the event. University Islamabad, emphasized the various prospect and achievements engaging youth at various levels for of the Forum. The seminar attracted Talk on “Peaceful Cohabitation in effective implementation of Sustainable diplomatic community, students and Rainbow Islands: A Case Study of Development Goals (SDGs). He was of members of the civil society. the view that youth, if provided, with the Mauritius” (11th July 2019) enabling environment, can effectively Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Farhat Asif, advocate the United Nations cause for President of IPDS, encouraged students COMSATS and the Institute of Peace sustainable development. to learn the best practices, principles and and Diplomatic Studies (IPDS) jointly values of developing countries such as organized a talk on “Peaceful Cohabitation Mr. Anya Augustine Igwebuike, a Nigerian China. In his remarks, Dr. Muhammad in Rainbow Islands: A Case Study of student from COMSATS University Munir, Assistant Professor at National Mauritius” at COMSATS Secretariat. Islamabad, opined that investment in Defence University (NDU), Islamabad, The talk was attended by members of youth in areas of education, innovative stated that the first world countries should the diplomatic community, students and skills, industrial trainings, capacity join hands with the developing world officials of COMSATS and IPDS. building, and leadership roles must be of on the path of economic growth and prime concern of governments as it can prosperity. Prof. Dr. Zameer Ahmed Awan, H.E. Mr. Soobadar Rashidally, High bring about the necessary change in the Sinologist, China Studies Centre, National Commissioner of Mauritius in Islamabad, society. University of Science and Technology while presenting Mauritius’ case history, (NUST), Islamabad, noted that CPEC presented his country as an isolated island The talks were followed by interactive has emerged as a silver lining for the with a population of 1.2 million that has panel discussion moderated by Mr. Faran developing countries who have struggled set an example of peaceful coexistence of Mahmood, Acting Director and Manager in the past to achieve peace and prosperity. multiculturalism and multi-ethnicity. He (SDGs) at United Nations SPIDER Lab at considered Mauritian constitution pivotal Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO), Islamabad.
Seminar on ‘Second Belt and Road Forum: Achievements and Prospects’, Islamabad, Pakistan (3rd May 2019)
Within the framework of the Second Belt and Road Forum (25th – 27th April 2019, Beijing, China), COMSATS in collaboration with the Centre for Belt and Road Initiative and China Studies of the Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies
32 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 on huge single market and its production base.
While answering the queries, the Honorable Ambassador stated that Pakistan’s entreaty to become ASEAN’s dialogue partner is under consideration. Further, he answered queries pertaining to Pakistan-Philippines relations, internally displacement people, disaster management and interfaith harmony.
Talk on “Nelson Mandela’s Legacy: Lessons for Today and Tomorrow” (25th July 2019, in safeguarding the political as well as H.E. Mr. Daniel Ramos Espiritu, Islamabad, Pakistan) social interests of Mauritius. Ambassador of Philippines to Pakistan, delivered the talk in which he underscored To commemorate Nelson Mandela His Excellency enumerated meritocracy, the pillars of ASEAN, that include the International Day, COMSATS and rule of law, and democracy as key values and norms set forth by the leaders the Institute of Peace and Diplomatic factors resulting in the socio-economic of the countries in the past. He stated Studies (IPDS) organized a talk themed development of his country. He informed that in its seven magnificent decades of on “Nelson Mandela’s Legacy: Lessons that Mauritius is a ‘unique welfare state’ existence, ASEAN has provided assistance for Today and Tomorrow”. It attracted that derives its strength from democracy, to all the member countries. To further participation from members of diplomatic fair distribution of wealth, cultural bridge the developmental gap between the community, members of civil society as competence, diversity, social inclusion, ASEAN members, developed economies well as students. The talk delivered by unity, strong political system, and are working towards the progress of the H.E Christo Janse Van Noordwyk, Acting meritocracy. less-developed ones. High Commissioner, South African High Commission in Pakistan, highlighted The country, he stated, was awarded Mo. H.E. Mr. Espiritu stated that apart the various aspects and characteristics of Ibrahim prize in ‘Good Governance’, from economic connectivity, human Nelson Mandela’s leadership. stands 1st in Africa and 20th in the connectivity holds great significance for world in terms of ease of doing business; the ASEAN community. He opined that His Excellency underscored the strong 1st in Africa and 21st in the world in ASEAN has its own pace of growth and affiliation of Nelson Mandela with Pakistan terms of economic liberalism; 1st in set its course through consensus among its and its struggle for independence. Mr. Africa and 49th in the world in terms of members. The Ambassador also remarked Noordwyk stated that Nelson Mandela global competitiveness; and 1st in Africa that ASEAN economic community banks promoted African philosophy of Ubuntu and 16th in the world with respect to democracy index.
Talk on ‘Community Building in ASEAN’, Islamabad, Pakistan (16th July 2019)
COMSATS and Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies (IPDS) co-organized a talk on “Community Building in ASEAN”. The event was attended by a number of diplomats, faculty members, media representatives, civil society members and students.
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 33 (humanness) for the advancement of Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Farhat Asif, prospects of the second phase of CPEC. He unity in South Africa as well as globally, President of IPDS, briefed the audience considered industrial development crucial irrespective of race, creed and orientation. about her Institute which is working for for economic growth and development the peace and development in countries of Pakistan. Mr. Shahnawaz Mahmood, Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador facing challenges such as those relating to Deputy Managing Director of Pakistan- (R) Fauzia Nasreen underscored the climate change. China Investment Company, remarked recognition that Nelson Mandela had that Pakistan and China are cooperating received globally as a true statesman. In her address, Ms. Chunxue stated that in diverse economic domains and are Further, she shed light on the association collaboration between Pakistan and China deepening mutual ties through developing and recent accreditation of COMSATS has flourished under CPEC during the business-to-business linkages. with Commonwealth of which South recent years, particularly in domains like Africa also holds membership. Special Economic Zone (SEZs), education International Conference on and technology. She further noted ‘Agriculture, Food Security and The South African Deputy Head of the increasing investment of Chinese Mission appreciated COMSATS for its companies in Pakistan. Biotechnology: Role of ICTs’, untiring work to bridge the gap between Monastir, Tunisia (4th – 6th the developed and developing countries In his presentation, Mr. Raja Amer Iqbal, November 2019) through technological and scientific tools Former President of Rawalpindi Chamber of knowledge-sharing. of Commerce and Industry and Chairman, The 5th International Conference All Pakistan Chamber of Commerce on ‘Agriculture, Food Security and Seminar on ‘Pakistan China and Industry on CPEC, highlighted the Biotechnology: Role of ICTs’ was held Industrial Cooperation’, Islamabad, Pakistan (9th October 2019)
A seminar on ‘Pakistan China Industrial Cooperation’ was organized by COMSATS and the Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies (IPDS) on 9th October 2019. Ms. Pang Chunxue, Chargé d’Affaires, Embassy of China to Pakistan, graced the occasion as the Guest of Honor. The seminar brought together members of the diplomatic community, academicians and students.
34 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 Agricultural Research, Senegal; Sultan Qaboos University, Oman; IROST, Iran; University of Karachi, Pakistan; University of the Philippines, Philippines; University of Carthage, Tunisia; Federal University of Technology, Nigeria; ITI, Sri Lanka; Busitema University, Uganda; University of Jordan, Jordan; American University in Cairo, Egypt; Al-Nahrain University, Iraq; University of Agder, Norway; Yarmouk University, Jordan; University of Technology, Iran; University of Benin, Nigeria; Musharraf University, Pakistan; University of Dhaka, Bangladesh; University of Milan, Italy; Université M’Hamed Bougara, Algeria; and University of Abomey-Calavi, Benin. in collaboration with ISESCO, and the the Conference on 4th November 2019. Inter Islamic Network on Information Dr. Jalila Ben Salah-ABBES, Executive During the first session, presentations Technology (INIT) in Monastir, Tunisia, Committee Member of TYAN for Arab were made on the topics including usage from November 04 – 06, 2019. The Region and Associate Professor of ISBM, of geographical information systems Conference was hosted by TYAN and Monastir University, Mr. Tajammul (GIS) and remote sensing technologies the Ministry of Higher Education and Hussain, Advisor (Programmes), and in agricultural field; role of ICTs in Scientific Research of Tunisia and was Mr. Atiq-ur-Rehman, Senior Programme agriculture, biotechnology and food held in conjunction with the International Officer at INIT spoke at the inaugural security: case of computer simulated Thematic Workshop on ‘Sustainable ceremony. path analysis in predicting yield and Agriculture, Food Security and quality of agricultural production; orphan Biotechnology: Best Strategies and Good The six technical sessions spanning crops in agroforestry: an approach for Practices’ organized by TWAS Young the three-day conference comprised of sustainable agriculture and circumventing Affiliates Network (TYAN). presentations by scientists from Karabük environmental challenges in Africa; University, Turkey; University of the insecurities and management of pastoral Over 50 researchers and subject experts Gambia, Gambia; University of Abomey- mobility by ICT in the Sudano-Sahelian from 25 countries including Algeria, Calavi (UAC), Benin; University of zone of Cameroon; and precision forestry Bangladesh, Benin, Cameroon, China, Maroua, Cameroon; Ecole Nationale towards sustainable forest management. Egypt, Gambia, Italy, Iraq, Jordan, Forestière d’Ingénieurs, Morocco; Chinese Kazakhstan, Morocco, Nigeria, Niger, Academy of Sciences, China; KazNU, The session on “Climate Change Oman, Pakistan, Philippines, Senegal, Kazakhstan; Senegalese Institute of Adaptation for Sustainable Agriculture” Sri Lanka, Sudan, Tunisia and Turkey, Uganda, and Yemen attended the event. In addition, representatives of COMSATS’ Centres of Excellence in Iran (Iranian Research Organization for Science and Technology – IROST), Kazakhstan (Al-Farabi Kazakh National University – KazNU), and Sri Lanka (Industrial Technology Institute – ITI) participated in the event.
Prof. Hedi Bel Hadj Salah and Prof. Mokhtar Mahouachi, Presidents of the University of Monastir and Jandouba University, respectively, inaugurated
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 35 covered topics relating to the role of from microalgae and cyanobacretia; of Toxigenic Fungi, Aflatoxins and agricultural extension in development of performance evaluation of collard based ochratoxin A in Algerian wheat, dried figs ICT functions with the aim of sustainable bio-filter for treating fish tank effluent; and nuts; cattle owners’ perception of the rural development; and the potential effects of fermentation and extrusion impact of bovine trypanosomosis in East of novel African isolates of spodoptera on the proximate and organoleptic Darfur state- the Sudan; and resistance littoralis nucleopolyhedrovirus for tomato composition of unripe plantain and pigeon and virulence determinants of faecal pest control. pea blends; and new era in solving water salmonella species isolated from slaughter scarcity for agriculture-food systems. animals in Benin. The third session was themed on “Crop Improvement, Protection and The fifth session, themed “Medicinal In parallel, brainstorming sessions Management” where presentations were plants for Industry and Biotechnology were held between TYAN members for made on the improvement of the resilience Application”, covered topics on symbiotic discussing prospects of collaboration of local populations by the use of an relationships, better plants and marine under the themes of the Conference. As improved bleeding technique of gum from soft corals life using metabolomics; a result of these discussions, following Sterculia setigera in Senegal; scaling up cytotoxic and genotoxic effect of purified three projects were finalized to be jointly climate smart farming techniques: the lantadene (A) loaded by synthesized executed under TYAN/TWAS support CILSS approach; strategies for sustainable gold nanoparticles on tumor cell lines; programme: crop production intensification Sultan; medicinal and functional values of artificial intelligence based techniques for natural antioxidants; synthesis and • Production of salt-tolerant rice; Omani’s dates classification; plant growth characterization of novel coumarins; • Design of multitask robot prototype regulators loaded silver nanobullets effect recent advances of artificial intelligence in for agricultural needs; and growth of tomato (F1 hybrid super- agriculture and food security; biosynthetic • Boosting Balanites aegyptica special) seedling plugs; genetic structure potential of novel bioactive Streptomyces valorization through quality of populations of Rhizoctonia solani recovered from Escravos River, Delta State enhancement of derived products. AG1-IA from rice in China, Japan and Nigeria; a comparative metabolomic study the Philippines; and soil health, weed on field grown Desi and Kabuli varieties As a result of deliberations and active dynamics and productivity of wheat and of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) under discussions made during the Conference, desi chickpea in long-term rice-based irrigated and drought stress conditions; important areas in line with the targets conventional and conservation production promising novel drug candidates against of Sustainable Development Goals were systems. rheumatoid arthritis targeting Macrophage identified to gain knowledge of the Migration Inhibitory Factor. current status of research in specific The fourth session on “Food Nutrition thematic areas and build capacity in Security: New Concepts and The last session was devoted to food safety Sustainable Agriculture, Food Security and Strategies” covered topics on beneficial regulation and standards and covered Biotechnology research especially among microorganisms from Sri Lankan dairies presentation relating the work of the common member countries of the partner as candidates in nutrition, healthcare international expert committees of FAO organizations. and biochemical industries; personalized / WHO JECFA and JMPR; application diet recommender system using of foodomics for the promotion of food anthropometric indices; future biofuel safety and food security; occurrence
36 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 International Young Diplomats United Kingdom, United States and December 2019, in Gebze, Turkey. School (IYDS), Islamabad, European Union. The workshop provided training to Pakistan (3rd to 5th December the scientists from least developed and The sessions of the event covered topics S&T-lagging countries on the concept of 2019) relating to development cooperation, sustainable development, the rationale diplomacy and foreign policy traditions of Sustainable Development Goals The third edition of the International of the afore-mentioned countries. (SDGs), importance of SDGs targets set as Young Diplomats School (IYDS) was Other topics discussed included climate benchmarks for monitoring the progress jointly organized by COMSATS and the diplomacy, leadership, education of the implementation processes, as well as Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies opportunities available in United Kingdom on the planetary boundaries. (IPD) at COMSATS Secretariat, from 3rd and Australia, prospects of foreign to 5th December 2019. Apart from foreign investment, and projects in various The Swedish International Development participants from China and Indonesia, development sectors. Cooperation Agency (SIDA) sponsored the three-day event attracted participants the event that was attended by 35 from various regions of Pakistan, including International Workshop on scientists belonging to Algeria, Botswana, KPK, FATA, Interior Sindh, South and ‘Sustainability, SDGs and Global Bangladesh, Benin, Burkina Faso, Congo, North Punjab, Islamabad Capital Territory, Italy, Kenya, Mali, Nepal, Niger, Palestine, Balochistan, and Kashmir, AJK. Challenges’, Gebze, Turkey (3rd – South Africa, Senegal, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, 5th December 2019) Togo, Turkey and Uganda. The School was opened on 3rd December with an interactive session themed An international workshop was jointly Inaugural Session on “Breaking a Barrier and Creating organized by COMSATS in collaboration Synergies”. The subsequent sessions of the with the Scientific and Technological The inaugural session included remarks by event featured talks by foreign diplomats Research Council of Turkey (TUBITAK), Dr. S. M. Junaid Zaidi, Executive Director from Romania, Denmark, Switzerland, Turkey, and the World Academy of COMSATS, Dr. Max Paoli, Programme Germany, Sri Lanka, France, Australia, Sciences (TWAS), Italy, from 3rd – 5th Coordinator TWAS, and Prof. Dr. Orkun Hasekioglu, TUBITAK.
Technical Proceedings
The technical proceedings of the event were divided into four sessions, each session comprised of plenary presentation on following topics followed by brainstorming sessions and presentation of recommendations. These sessions bore the following themes: Sustainable Development, SDGs, Planetary Boundaries; Greenhouse Effect; Climate
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 37 Change and Future Consequences; Energy Biodiversity Sources, Technologies and Policies; and Key Recommendations Biodiversity. In the fourth session, a comprehensive • To address climate change related food insecurity, salinity and temperature- presentation focusing on biodiversity and Sustainable Development, SDGs, resistant crops and crops requiring less the various threats to plant and animal Planetary Boundaries water should be produced. Furthermore, species was given by Dr. Boudjema used of hydro-retentive fertilizers (such Samraoui from the University of Annaba, as POLYTER) and consumption of crops In the first session, Dr. Max Paoli, requiring less resources and time should Algeria. He informed that about 99 per Programme Coordinator, The World be encouraged. cent of the species that have existed ever Academy of Science (TWAS), Italy, made a • Use of biomass fuel, biogas, pyrolysis, since the beginning of life on earth have presentation overviewing United Nations solar PV, wind energy, geothermal energy, gone extinct. Dr. Samraoui deemed natural hydroelectricity and ocean energy as well Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) as their effective use was recommended disasters, human activities, emerging and Sustainable Development Goals for reducing carbon emission and carbon diseases, fragmentation and habitat (SDGs). footprint. loss important factors in the process of • Dams and smart drainage systems and extinction of certain animals. channels should be constructed apart Greenhouse Effect, Climate Change and from planting trees to help avert floods Future Consequences and droughts. Talk on “Ukraine: History, • In order to reduce the loss of biodiversity, Culture and Present Situation” In the second session, Dr. Pauline Dube, pesticides use should be minimized, proper waste management systems (10th December 2019) Associate Professor at the University of should be established and the misuse of Botswana, Botswana, in her presentation antibiotics and other drugs should be covered the effects and implications of abandoned. A talk on “Ukraine: History, Culture climate change. She elucidated the rate and Present Situation” was arranged by COMSATS and the Institute of Peace with which world’s population, resources sources, utilization, latest technologies in usage, economic growth, urbanization and Diplomatic Studies (IPDS) at the field as well as policies for sustainable COMSATS Secretariat, Islamabad, on and globalization has increased paralleled energy use. He introduced different with threat to sustainable growth in 10th December 2019. The talk attracted types of energy sources that include coal, members of the diplomatic community, terms of failure to address the key global renewables, hydroelectricity, nuclear challenges. She informed that as the earth researchers and students. Delivered by energy natural gas and oil and stated that Dr. Olena Bordilovska, Second Secretary system has shifted from Holocene to their production and consumption varies Anthropocene, high energy in the form of at the Embassy of Ukraine to Pakistan, region-wise. He considered biomass and the talk highlighted the foreign policy heat, light, electrical, chemical, nuclear and waste decomposition and their conversion gravitational is being consumed globally. aspects of Ukraine with a focus on to energy highly sustainable method of history, culture and traditions of the energy production. Prof. Akgun further country. Dr. Bordilovska also discussed Energy Sources, Technologies and talked about various energy technologies Policies women’s role in Ukrainian society and and regarded gasification a promising development paradigm of the country. technology for processing of coal and The talk was followed by remarks of H.E. In his presentation during the third biomass to produce synthetic fuel. He also session, Dr. Fehmi Akgun, Associate Mr. Volodymyr Lakomov, Ambassador of stated polygeneration an important clean Ukraine to Pakistan, in which he, interalia, Professor at the Energy Institute of coal technology. TUBITAK, Turkey, focused on energy talked about the relations of Pakistan with Ukraine.
38 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 5. PARTICIPATION IN INTERNATIONAL FORA AND MEETINGS
• INSME Annual Meeting “Fintech & Logistics: New Technologies and Markets for SMEs” 40 (Naples, Italy, 6th – 7th June 2019)
• International Events on Aerosols and Climate Change (Beijing, China, 15th – 20th July 2019) 41
• First Commonwealth ICT and Innovation Open Day (London, United Kingdom, 29th July 2019) 41
• Second PIDF Leaders’ Summit and Conference 2019 (Nadi, Fiji, 29th – 30th July 2019) 42
• Launching Ceremony of the United Nations Global Sustainable Development Report 2019 42 (Accra, Ghana, 31st October 2019)
• EU-Asia Connectivity Forum (Brussels, Belgium, 27th September 2019) 43
• Asia-Africa Youth Entrepreneurs Forum (Beijing China, 15th – 19th October 2019) 44
• Non Aligned Movement Youth Summit (Baku, Azerbaijan, 24th – 26th October 2019) 44
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 39 PARTICIPATION IN INTERNATIONAL FORA AND MEETINGS Events and organizational meetings of partner and potential partner organizations are utilized as means to aiding joint efforts for regional and international development. Based on commonalities of mandates, reciprocal representation in statutory meetings and capacity building events are encouraged as good networking opportunity. These serve to garner mutual support, explore avenues of cooperation, and start and foster joint initiatives.
INSME Annual Meeting “Fintech & Logistics: New Technologies and Markets for SMEs” (Naples, Italy, 6th – 7th June 2019)
A two-member delegation of COMSATS visited Naples, Italy, to participate in 15th INSME Annual Meeting “Fintech & Logistics: New Technologies and Markets for SMEs”, held from 6th – 7th June 2019. The delegation comprised of Dr. Kamran Jahangir, Advisor Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) and Mr. Laeeq Hassan Jaswal, Manager Strategic Partnerships.
The session on first day of the meeting explored themes relating to Fintech and medium enterprises. The Fintech innovations in logistics and supply chains, opportunities for SMEs; the wider impact session was followed by the General especially trading platform, trade finance of digitalization on SMEs; competences Assembly session. and e-commerce. While concluding and skills in the era of Fintech. While the event, Mr. Giovanni Zazzerini, concluding the session, Mr. Giuseppe The second day of the meeting discussed Secretary General of INSME, thanked Tripoli, Secretary General, Italian Union of in detail the role, opportunities and the participants for their presence and Chambers of Commerce appreciated the challenges to logistics for SMEs in contribution to the meeting. role of Fintech in social inclusion through the Mediterranean region. The panel greater business opportunities for small deliberated upon: possibilities of having On the sidelines, COMSATS’ officials held an impact on business by bringing meetings with senior officials of INSME in
40 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 First Commonwealth ICT and Innovation Open Day (London, United Kingdom, 29th July 2019)
Representing COMSATS (a Commonwealth accredited organization), Ambassador (R) Shahid Kamal, Advisor (Environment and Climate Change), participated in the first Commonwealth ICT and Innovation Open Day, held at Marlborough House, London, on 29th July 29 2019. The event provided a platform to the members of the diplomatic communities, Commonwealth organizations and partners to understand, appreciate, and reflect on digital order to explore avenues of cooperation. cooperation. transformation and innovation; showcase new products and services; as well as to International Events on Aerosols The proposal for replication of China- increase the potentials for co-creation and Pakistan Earth Science Center (ESC) innovation in the future. and Climate Change (Beijing, in other Member States of COMSATS China, 15th – 20th July 2019) was discussed. It was informed that a The Open Day focused on one of the Technology Park has been set up by CAS themes (ICT and innovation) of the COMSATS’ delegation comprising in COMSATS host country, Pakistan, in forthcoming Commonwealth Heads of Mr. Tajammul Hussain, Advisor collaboration with the Chinese Ministry of of Government Meeting (CHOGM) (Programmes), and Major Gen (R) Science and Technology. scheduled to be held in Kigali, Rwanda in Muhammad Tahir, Advisor (China Desk), 2020. Speaking on the occasion, Secretary participated as organizers in international The possibility of COMSATS’ membership General, H.E. Patricia Scotland, stated events held from 15th – 20th July 2019, to the Alliance of International Science that Commonwealth has entered into in Beijing, China. The two events themed Organizations in Belt and Road Region partnerships with Bloomberg, GSMA and on aerosol observation, modelling and (ANSO) was also explored during the Global Innovation Fund in the backdrop climate change, were jointly organized meeting that later materialized (Chapter of organization’s motive to expand and by CAS-TWAS International Centre 3). Furthermore, the delegation discussed sustain its capacity for undertaking wide- for Climate and Environment Sciences other matters relating to expert-exchange ranging tasks. (ICCES), Institute of Atmospheric and short-term visits, scholarships and Physics (IAP) of the Chinese Academy of various collaborative programs, among The sessions of the event covered Sciences (CAS), and China Meteorological others. presentations by the representatives of Administration (CMA). It was sponsored by CAS, COMSATS, The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) and Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology (Details in Chapter 6).
On the sidelines of the events, COMSATS’ officials held a meeting with Mr. Yan Zhuang, Director, Division of International Organizations, Bureau of International Cooperation, CAS; Prof. Zhaohui Lin and Ms. Scarlett Hao, Director and Secretary of International Collaboration, respectively, at ICCES, China. During the meeting, the two sides exchanged views on matters of mutual interest to foster bilateral
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 41 GSMA (United Kingdom) and Bloomberg (United States). In addition, briefings on Commonwealth Innovation Hub and Data Platform along with online services, including Commonwealth Consultants database, OCCJR, Meridian and i-Library, were also a part of the event. The example of Rwanda’s successful digital transformation and the setting-up of Kigali Innovation City as a leading innovation hub in Africa was also underscored during the event.
As part of the Commonwealth-Bloomberg collaboration, Commonwealth Connected workspace was also launched. The facility will provide cutting-edge analysis and data on trade, economics and finance, and will The event was inaugurated on 29th July in (CIRDAP), Melanesian Spearhead Group be used for video conferencing, meetings a ceremony featuring welcome remarks of Secretariat, and China International and training. PIDF Secretary General, H.E. Mr. François Centre for Economic and Technical Martel, in which he stated that PIDF in Exchanges (CICETE). During his sideline meeting with the backdrop of global developmental H.E. Patricia Scotland and Dr. Nabeel challenges serves as the platform for Subsequent sessions focused on: best Goheer (Assistant Secretary General at South-South Cooperation in the Pacific practices of South-South and Triangular Commonwealth), Ambassador (R) Kamal Islands with a focus on sustainable Cooperation from Pacific Island Countries; explored the possibility to further the development and poverty eradication. public and private sector engagement bilateral cooperation between the two The premiers of Solomon Islands, Nauru, strategies to capitalize on the potential of organizations through joint activities. Tuvalu, and Seychelles also delivered blue/green economy; multi-stakeholder keynote addresses during the ceremony. partnerships for Islands resilience; Second PIDF Leaders’ Summit and leveraging scalable and replicable and Conference 2019 (Nadi, Fiji, The inaugural was followed by eight innovative solutions from the Global South plenary sessions spanning two days. As for building resilience.
29th – 30th July 2019) a panelist of the first session themed “South-South Cooperation: The Global The event focusing on climate change A two-member COMSATS’ delegation, Experience and Relevance to the Pacific”, resulted in Nadi Bay Declaration on the comprising of Dr. Azeema Fareed Ms. Saleem made a statement that Climate Change Crisis in the Pacific. (Principal Medical Officer) and Ms. highlighted COMSATS’ focus on South- Farhana Saleem (Senior Publications and South Cooperation and Sustainable On the sidelines of the Conference, a Communication Officer), participated in Development. She delineated on number of productive meeting were held the second Pacific Islands Development COMSATS’ role in: (i) Advocacy and by COMSATS’ delegates representatives Forum (PIDF) Leaders’ Summit and harnessing political will for development of PIDF, UNOSSC, SunTECH, Huawei, Conference 2019, held from 29th – 30th activities; and (ii) Science communication Pacific China Friendship Association, July 2019, at Nadi, Fiji. and finding indigenous solutions. She and Pacific Islands Universities Research linked COMSATS’ undertakings with Network (PIURN). The Conference themed on “South-South the main theme of the event, i.e., Climate Cooperation for a Resilient Pacific” was Change. attended by country representatives Launching Ceremony of from Fiji, Federated States of Micronesia, the United Nations Global Other panelists of the session included Kiribati, Marshal Islands, Nauru, Palau, representatives from United Nations Office Sustainable Development Report Solomon Islands, Timor Liste, Tonga, for South-South Cooperation (UNOSSC), 2019 (Accra, Ghana, 31st October Tuvalu, and Vanautu, who reviewed the United Nations Development Programme 2019) achievements and challenges of PIDF since (UNDP), Centre on Integrated Rural the last Leaders’ Summit held in July 2016. Development for Asia and the Pacific On a special invitation from Dr. Eugene
42 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 group of fifteen scientists, belonging to various fields and countries, appointed by the United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres.
One of the key resource persons for the Report, Dr. Ernest G. Foli (Forestry Research Institute of CSIR), gave a detailed briefing on the Report highlighting that the Report considers science and technology the key instrument for knowledge-based transformation to sustainable development. The publication, he added, recommends enhancing mission-oriented research, incentives for Science Technology and Innovation, periodic evaluation of research efforts, and Owusu, Special Advisor to the President development, and the environmental updating science policies. of Ghana on SDGs, COMSATS’ delegation global commons. comprising of Mr. Nisar Ahmad, Deputy The Report was officially launched in Director (Systems) and Mr. Farhan Ansari, In his statement on the occasion, Mr. Africa by the representatives of UNESCO Senior Assistant Director (Programmes) Cletus Alengah, Office of the President of and UNIC in Ghana, Government of participated in the launching ceremony of Ghana for SDGs, highlighted the efforts Ghana, and COMSATS. Global Sustainable Development Report being made by the Government of Ghana 2019, entitled “The Future is Now: Science towards achieving SDGs. He informed that EU-Asia Connectivity Forum for Achieving Sustainable Development”, the Honourable President in his capacity (Brussels, Belgium, 27th held at the United Nations Information as the Co-Chair of the United Nations Centre (UNIC) in Accra, Ghana, on 31st SDGs Advocate Group is also facilitating September 2019) October 2019. the implementation of SDGs on a global Ambassador (R) Shahid Kamal, Advisor scale. (Environment and Climate Change), The launching ceremony was attended participated in the Europa Connectivity by representatives of the United Nations While speaking on the occasion, Mr. Forum held in Brussels, Belgium, on 27th Educational, Scientific and Cultural Abdulrahamane Diallo, Head of Office September 2019. The Forum, themed on Organization (UNESCO) and UNIC in and Representative of UNESCO in Ghana “EU-Asia Connectivity: Building Bridges Ghana; Office of the President of Ghana; informed that the Report is the first of for a Sustainable Future”, was aimed at Forestry Research Institute, Council its kind prepared by an independent fostering dialogue and strengthening for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR); University of Ghana, Accra; Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Ghana; and Ghanaian Ministry of Planning, among others.
The Report reviews the progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with an emphasis on the developmental status in various areas. It focuses on six entry points that could aid actions across multiple goals and targets that include human wellbeing, sustainable and just economies, food and nutrition, energy access and de-carbonization, sustainable urban and peri-urban
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 43 ties between governments, financial Kamal discussed prospects of collaboration towards the implementation of the United institutions, and the private sector in on issues relating to sustainability, climate Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Europe and beyond. change, science and technology. Non Aligned Movement Youth The Forum was opened by H.E. Mr. Jean- Asia-Africa Youth Entrepreneurs Summit (Baku, Azerbaijan, 24th – Claude Juncker, the then President of the Forum (Beijing China, 15th – European Commission along with H.E. 26th October 2019) Mr. Shinzō Abe, Prime Minister of Japan. 19th October 2019) In his remarks on the occasion, President Engr. Qaiser Nawab, Assistant Director Juncker highlighted European Union’s Engr. Qaiser Nawab, Assistant Director (Programmes) at COMSATS Secretariat, greater focus on developing connectivity (Programmes) at COMSATS Secretariat, participated in the Non-Aligned with Asia for urbanization, transport, participated in Asia-Africa Youth Movement (NAM) Youth Summit held digitalization and education for building Entrepreneurs Forum held in Beijing, in Baku, Azerbaijan, from 24th – 26th more connection with Asian youth. China, from 15th – 19th October 2019. October 2019. The event was organized by “Great Silk On the sidelines of the Forum, Way” International Youth Union (GSW On the sidelines of the Summit, Engr. Ambassador (R) Kamal held important IYU) and All-China Youth Federation Nawab held meetings with H.E. Dr. meetings with Ms. Romana Vlahutin (EU (ACYF). Mukhisa Kityui, Secretary-General of Ambassador at Large for Connectivity) the United Nations Conference on Trade and Mr. Asad Beg (Adviser to EU The forum was aimed at helping young and Development (UNCTAD); and Ambassador for Connectivity at and enthusiastic entrepreneurs to increase Ambassador Chad Blackman, Ambassador European External Action Service) for their entrepreneurial ideas and share and Permanent Representative of Barbados exploring ways to build synergies between experiences and foster collaborations in to the United Nations and World Trade COMSATS and European Union within Silk Road region. Organization (WTO) at Geneva. During the framework of EU programme for these meetings, views were exchanged on connectivity. Furthermore, in his meeting In his speech on “Forging Partnerships matters relating to initiating collaboration with Ms. Marta Szilagyi, International to Promote Youth Entrepreneurship and between COMSATS and various UN Relations Officer – Pakistan at European Attaining SDGs”, Engr. Nawab highlighted agencies. External Action Service, Ambassador (R) COMSATS’ firm resolve and commitment
44 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 6. ACTIVITIES OF COMSATS CENTRES OF EXCELLENCE
• Al-Farabi Kazakh National University (KazNU), Kazakhstan 46
• Al-Quds University (AQU), Palestine 48
• Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR), Bangladesh 49
• International Centre for Physics (CIF), Colombia 50
• COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI), Pakistan 51
• Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Ghana 54
• Industrial Research and Consultancy Center (IRCC), Sudan 55
• Industrial Technology Institute (ITI), Sri Lanka 55
• International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS), Pakistan 56
• International Center for Climate and Environmental Sciences (ICCES), China 59
• Iranian Research Organization for Science & Technology (IROST), Iran 61
• National Mathematical Centre (NMC), Nigeria 62
• National Research Centre (NRC), Cairo, Egypt 63
• Royal Scientific Society (RSS), Jordan 64
• Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology (TIB), China 67
• Tanzania Industrial Research and Development Organization (TIRDO), Tanzania 69
• Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TUBITAK), Turkey 70
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 45 ACTIVITIES OF COMSATS CENTRES OF EXCELLENCE
A group of twenty-two S7T/R&D and higher education 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 serves as COMSATS’ technical resource for South-South cooperation, in line with these institutions’ mandate of having programmes of scientific research and development. This section covers reports received from COMSATS’ Centres of Excellence, as well as news of some Centres covered in COMSATS Newsletter over the year.
Al-Farabi Kazakh National University (KazNU), Kazakhstan
Al-Farabi Kazakh National University (KazNU), Kazakhstan, is the one of the oldest world leaders in higher education. The university has served for 85 years the integration of fundamental and applied sciences into the global educational space. Placed at 207th position by the International QS World University Rankings (QS WUR) in the University, Astana; Institute of Batteries sensor and electro-analytical applications, world, the university has made enormous LLP, National Laboratory Astana, security and utilization of batteries, contributions towards the advancement of Nazarbayev University; and National development of batteries for electronic science and technology in Kazakhstan. Laboratory Astana, Nazarbayev University, transport, instruments for modeling in KazNU organized the VII International material sciences, and systems of energy Capacity-Building Events Conference on Nanomaterials and transformation. The event attracted Advanced Energy Storage Systems researchers and scientists from Turkey, The VII International Conference on (INESS-2019), from 7th – 9th August Canada, United Arab Emirates, Japan, Nanomaterials and Advanced Energy 2019. The Conference focused on South Korea, China, Russia, United Storage Systems (INESS-2019): In innovation nanomaterials, energy storage Kingdom, and France. collaboration with the Nazarbayev systems, materials for electrochemical
46 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 Global University Summit: From 19th – a joint Neuro-Rehabilitation Center will be science with practice. The Centre shall 21st September 2019, KazNU organized established within the City Central Clinic also provide high-quality health services a Global University Summit with an aim Hospital, Almaty. McGill University will to the population in accordance with to improve the competitiveness of local transfer new technologies for the treatment international standards. higher education and the export potential and rehabilitation of neurodegenerative of educational services. The three-day diseases along with providing consultancy Antalya Bilim University, Turkey: KazNU event included plenary meetings, panel and assistance regarding the establishment signed a Memorandum of Cooperation discussions, business meetings, signing of the Centre. As part of the Agreement, (MoC) with the Antalya Bilim University, of Memoranda of Cooperation, and students at medical faculty of KazNU will Turkey, for bilateral faculty and student exhibition of the achievements of the be provided training and both sides will exchange, scientific internships and world leading universities. The event conduct collaborative research work. implementation of research projects. was attended by over 800 reputable Under this MoC, the two sides will academicians, scientists and experts from MoST, China: Collaborating with the cooperate in the fields of tourism, hotel more than 50 countries. Department of Science and Technology business, medicine, modern technologies, for Social Development of the Chinese and will also establish a Joint Modern Conference on Inverse Problems in Ministry of Science and Technology in the Dental Center at KazNU, Kazakhstan. Finance, Economics and Life Sciences: field of medicine, biology and chemistry, Another event, the international scientific KazNU has established a Center for the Refex Group, India: As the United conference on “Inverse Problems in production of natural raw material-based Nations Academic Impact (UNAI) Finance, Economics and Life Sciences” was medicines. The establishment of the Hub for Sustainability and to introduce held at KazNU, from 31st August to 4th Centre was based on the work carried more alternative energy sources September 2019. The Conference brought out by KazNU scientists at the beginning within Kazakhstan, KazNU signed a together well-known scientists and young of the year in the field of chemistry of Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) researchers working in the field of Natural medicinal plants and biologically active with the Refex Group, India, in the field Sciences for the exchange of experiences natural compounds. of renewable energy sources (RES). and discussing joint scientific activities Starting with the installation of solar and project results. More than 90 scientists Severance Hospital, South Korea: panels on the roofs of KazNU campus from China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, KazNU collaborated with the Severance buildings, the partnership will also lead Russia and other countries attended the Hospital, Yonsei University Health System, to the establishment of a demonstration event. South Korea, to launch the second phase center for alternative energy sources at the of the development of Research and University’s campus. Collaborations Educational Biomedical Cluster at its campus in Almaty. Transferred to the Government of China: Under the McGill University, Canada: KazNU KazNU management, the Almaty Clinical umbrella of an Agreement signed entered into an Agreement with the Hospital shall be converted into the between the Governments of Kazakhstan McGill University, Canada, in the field of National Center of Advanced Medicine and China, a supercomputer shall be medicine. Under the MoU that was signed, to help integrate medical education and provided by the latter to KazNU. The
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 47 Agreement was signed during a state President of the International Association Tattibekuly, Director, Center for visit of President of Kazakhstan to China. UNION (Universities Open Network). Economic Research at Al-Farabi The supercomputer will be installed Dr. Mutanov was unanimously elected as KazNU; in the High-Tech Zone of KazNU that the President at the grand opening of the • ‘Young Researcher of the Year’ was houses IT Techno park and the Center of QS Worldwide Forum, held in Almaty, awarded to Moldabekov Zhandos Supercomputer and Cloud Computing Kazakhstan, from 19th – 20th September Abdykanovich, post-doctoral fellow created on the model of Silicon Valley. 2019. at Physics and Technology Faculty, at Al-Farabi KazNU; Inspur, China: Being a part of the Web of Science Awards 2019: Prof. Galym • ‘Women in Science Award’ was government delegation to China, Rector Mutanov has also been awarded the awarded to Kerimrai Aiymgul of KazNU, Prof. Dr. Galym Mutanov, prestigious international award “Leader of Mergenovna, post-doctoral fellow at met with the representatives of renowned Science – Web of Science Awards – 2019” Chemistry and Chemical Technology high-tech companies and signed a in a ceremony held at Al-Farabi KazNU on Faculty at Al-Farabi KazNU; and Memorandum of Cooperation. These 13th November 2019. Additionally, Prof. • Scopus Award was given to Al- include high technologies with Inspur, Mutanov received an independent award Farabi KazNU Eurasian Chemico- Chinese IT enterprise. Under the as the author of a scientific monograph, Technological Journal. agreement, the Parties will implement which was included in the world’s leading joint projects for the production of high- database of scientific citations, Web of Al-Quds University (AQU), performance servers, data storage systems Science Core Collection. Palestine and personal computers in Kazakhstan, etc. Dr. Zhandos Moldabekov, post-doctoral Founded in 1984, the Al-Quds University student of KazNU, having 42 scientific (AQU), Palestine, Cairo University, Egypt: With support of publications in high-ranking journals, was is serving to the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan recognized as the “Best Young Scientist”. provide excellence in Egypt, KazNU has opened an Al- in academics and Farabi Research and Educational Center The scientific journal of KazNU research. With its at Cairo University, Egypt. As a platform “International Journal of Biology and main campus in for studying and promoting the heritage Chemistry” was considered the best Abu Dis, AQU is of great philosopher Abu Nasr al-Farabi, among domestic specialized scientific the first Palestinian the Centre will also nurture common publications. university historical and cultural values of Egypt and to establish a medical school and Kazakhstan. Scopus Award Kazakhstan – 2019: On nanotechnology research center. 12th December 2019, an award ceremony Huawei Technologies, Kazakhstan: was organized by Elsevier at KazNU for R&D Activities In collaboration with of Huawei honoring the winners of Scopus Award Technologies Kazakhstan, KazNU has Kazakhstan – 2019. Following six scientists AQU has introduced first of their kind opened HAINA (Huawei Authorized were awarded the Scopus Award. virtual anatomy laboratories in Palestinian Information and Network Academy) medical schools. The project has been Academy of Information and • ‘Best Paper of the Year’ was sponsored by the England based Al- Communication Technologies (ICTs) awarded to a team of scientists Quds Foundation for Medical Schools at the University. Currently, equipped from Kazakhstan and Great Britain in Palestine and the United Nations with material and technical base set and which includes Koshim Asima Development Programme (UNDP). necessary IT equipment, the Academy Galymzhankyzy, Associate Professor, The technology will be used to perform will allow KazNU graduates to become Department of Cartography and virtual dissections which will enhance highly qualified specialists in the fields Geoinformatics at Al-Farabi KazNU; students’ learning by providing them with of IT, digital technologies and tele- • ‘Top Researcher in Engineering medical information in an innovative way communications. and Technologies’ was awarded to better meet the needs of the market. to Professor Zayadan Bolatkhan The anatomy labs contain the equipment Kazykhanuly, Dean of Faculty of Awards and Recognition and software needed to provide efficient Biology and Biotechnology at Al- practical teaching to new medical students, Farabi KazNU; International Association UNION: as well as to the students of Dentistry and • ‘Top Researcher in Social Sciences’ Prof. Dr. Galym Mutanov, Rector of Pharmacy. KazNU, has also been elected as the was awarded to Sayabek Ziyadin
48 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 Representative to Palestine, Prof. Kishek pledged enhancing collaboration with Mexican academic and R&D institutions for joint research, exchange of faculty and students. In 2019, AQU also signed an agreement with the Marmara University, Turkey, for joint collaboration in scientific research and other areas of mutual interest. Under this Agreement, a peer-reviewed journal focusing on the Jerusalem issue will be launched and the two sides will co-organize an annual joint academic conference. Both sides also intend to further collaboration in the field of medical sciences. Collaborations by the German government and jointly implemented by both universities, was Awards and Recognition The University has been collaborating discussed. Under this program, students on various grounds with a number of of Al-Quds University will be provided A “Clear E Care” team of AQU bagged institutions across the globe with a view the opportunity to exchange experiences the first placae (defeating 32 teams) in to achieving academic excellence. In with European peers and utilize modern the Palestinian Hult Prize Summit 2019 connection with this, Prof. Imad Abu international knowledge in education and held under the sponsorship of Palestinian Kishek, President of AQU held meetings research. Higher Council for Youth and Sports with representatives from Germany, (HCYS). The team comprising of Samah Mexico, Turkey and United Kingdom. King’s College London: AQU has Ayyad, Lotfi Al-Atrash, Rola Odeh, and also established collaboration with the Ahmed Touqan, presented their pioneer German Institutions: A number of International School for Government project with the idea of creating a new agreements were signed between AQU at King’s College London, for the sterilization system for medical clothing. and German universities and institutions development of academic programs at to promote student-exchanges and AQU. The collaboration was established Bangladesh Council of Scientific training during the visit of Prof. Kishek during a meeting held between Prof. to Germany. As a follow-up of this Kishek and Mr. Alexander Downer, and Industrial Research (BCSIR), visit, a delegation from Heinrich Heine Executive Chair of the International Bangladesh Universität Düsseldorf (HHU), Germany, School for Government at King’s College visited AQU, to further the established London. Bangladesh Council of Scientific cooperation between two varsities. and Industrial During the meeting, progress of Dual Mexico: Furthermore, in his meeting Research (BCSIR), Studies Master’s Program, sponsored with Mr. Pedro Blanco Perez, Mexican Bangladesh, is a non-profit multidisciplinary public-sector research organization with a mandate to foster the R&D sector and cultivate a scientific culture in the country.
R&D Activities
In 2019, BCSIR initiated whole genome sequencing of humans for the first time in Bangladesh for identification of genetic diseases. To serve the purpose, latest
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 49 Mr. Md. Faruque Ahmed Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR), Chairman Bangladesh
I extend my warm felicitations to its Member States for the outstanding contributions and achievements that are being made by the organization for the sustainable development in the South through scientific and technological collaborations.
In recognition of COMSATS’ vision, BCSIR has committed to continue working closely with the member states of COMSATS to strengthen relationship in the extended fields of science and technology and other allied areas.
NovaSeq machine has been installed Paper and Allied Industries” was held at of Colombia in at BCSIR which has the capability of BCSIR, from 12th – 14th December 2019. areas of Science sequencing genomes of 48 people in 72 The Congress, inaugurated by Honorable and Technology hours. A reference microchip will be Architect Yafesh Osman, Minister of legislation, creation created by matching the genetic markers Science and Technology, Government of research found in Bangladesh with the ones found of Bangladesh comprised of 29 technical entities, promotion in foreign countries hence leading to sessions during which technical papers of science, cheap and easy identification of diseases. were presented by 200 participants relationship- The programme would be run by highly- from ten countries. In addition, about building between academia and industry, trained scientists and is expected to reduce 30 participants from different countries and the creation of high-tech industries. the cost along with saving valuable gene including Australia, China, India, Finland, information. Nigeria, Malaysia, Sudan, South Korea In 2019, CIF explored common grounds and Canada, also presented their research of cooperation with COMSATS in a Capacity-Building Events findings during the technical sessions. number of fields to help consolidate and expand COMSATS’ Network activities BCSIR Congress 2019: A three-day International Centre for Physics in the Southern region and beyond. In BCSIR Congress 2019 in conjunction with (CIF), Colombia this respect, a meeting was held between the International Union of Forest Research officials of CIF and COMSATS Secretariat Organizations (IUFRO) WP 5.07.03 Established in 1985, International Centre during the visit of the latter to Colombia Conference on “Green Technology of Pulp, for Physics (CIF), is a pioneer institution (details covered in Chapter 7).
50 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 Prof. Dr. Eduardo Posada International Centre of Physics (CIF), Colombia Director Thanks to its international composition and to the quality of its member centres, COMSATS is a great instrument for generating change in the developing world. As member of the Network, we must direct all our efforts to strengthen our institutions and improving COMSATS’ visibility and interaction among the decision makers in our countries.
I am convinced that the impact that COMSATS is having on South-South cooperation in science and technology and, hence, on the social and economic development of our countries, will keep increasing in the coming years.
(THE). It has also been ranked at #301- 400 in THE Engineering & Technology; #401-500 in Computer Science and Life Sciences; and #501-600 in Physical Sciences (THE rankings 2019). Also the University is ranked 137th in THE Emerging Economies Rankings 2019. Earlier, it was ranked 125th in THE Asian University Rankings 2018, and was among THE #150-200 top young universities of world in 2018.
New Initiatives
Al-Farabi Corner: CUI opened an ‘Al-Farabi Corner’ at its Junaid Zaidi During the meeting, Dr. Eduardo Posada, COMSATS University Islamabad Library at its Islamabad Campus under a partnership agreement reached between Director of the Institute highlighted (CUI), Pakistan multidisciplinary research work being Dr. S.M. Junaid Zaidi, Executive Director undertaken by CIF in diverse fields and COMSATS, and Prof. Dr. Galym COMSATS University Islamabad, Pakistan, Mutanov, Rector of KazNU, during the proposed conducting short courses on is dedicated to various topics in developing countries in 21st meeting of COMSATS Coordinating advancement Council, held in April 2018. collaboration with COMSATS. Possible of learning and operationalization of COMSATS’ Regional extending the Office in Bogota was also discussed. Rapid Prototyping Facility: CUI has frontiers of established a Rapid Prototyping Facility knowledge. Its at its Islamabad Campus. The Facility, The delegates were also shown around mission supports various facilities and laboratories of the inaugurated by Rector of the University, and promotes Prof. Dr. Raheel Qamar, houses major Institute, including Chip design laboratory, knowledge creation in academically Cellular Bio Laboratory, Microbiology and mechanical and electrical equipment diverse disciplines and to application of required to fabricate products. The Facility Biochemistry Laboratories, Spectroscopy this knowledge to benefit the people. and Ranging (LIDAR) system, and Genetic will benefit university students and Research Institute of National University. faculty members as well as collaborating CUI is ranked among 601-800 world’s best industries to help materialize product universities, and second among Pakistani design into fully functional prototypes for Universities, according to the most recent their further testing. rankings of TIMES Higher Education
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 51 Prof. Dr. Raheel Qamar COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI), Pakistan Rector CUI is proud to be a part of the 22-member COMSATS Network of International Centres of Excellence. The University has immensely benefited from COMSATS’ programmes and contributed to the International Thematic Research Groups over the years. Moreover, being the Number 1 University in Information Technology in Pakistan, CUI has helped add value to the programs of COMSATS and continues to be a think tank on a number of subjects. With its rich human resource of over 1,100 PhD faculty, the University has invariably contributed to all COMSATS’ efforts, activities and events organized across the world.
I also hope that COMSATS expands its Scholarship Programs for Member Countries and continues to facilitate researchers through mobility and expert exchange as well as sponsorship of scientific events. COMSATS University Islamabad welcomes students from all member countries with our offer of 100 post-graduate scholarships for COMSATS’ member countries.
Research Activities
In year 2019, total of 2,705 impact factor publications were made in national/ international journals by the faculty of CUI. In addition, 131 research projects, 04 travel grant applications and 9 seminar/ workshop applications were submitted to different funding agencies, out which one 74 research projects, 30 travel grants and 4 seminars/workshops won funds from different funding agencies.
The Office of Research Innovation and Commercialization (ORIC) at CUI also undertook diversification of CUI’s research portfolio by identifying and submitting research proposals to multi- faceted national and international funding Patents Applied (2019) Patents Granted (2019) agencies. A Guide to Research Grant Pakistan 8 Pakistan 2 Programs of National and International United States 3 United States 5 Funding Agencies was developed and distributed amongst CUI faculty and Malaysia 1 Total 7 researchers. Singapore 1 locally and internationally. CUI also Japan 1 provided trainings on understanding IP In order to attract young faculty into the Brazil 1 Rights and Patenting to researchers from research mainstream, CUI Research Grant many universities. Program (CRGP) is in place to award India 1 grants up to PKR. 300,000/- for research Indonesia 1 Besides, CUI also signed Memorandum of proposals of 1-2 years’ duration. CUI China 1 Understanding (MoU) with Cotton Craft has also developed in-house capacity to Total 18 Pvt. Ltd., Pakistan, for commercialization provide Intellectual Property support to of a wound care application. its researchers and file patent applications
52 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 Capacity-Building Events
During 2019, fifteen (15) seminars, workshops, conferences and forums were organized by CUI, including:
• 5th COMSATS International Model United Nations (CIMUN), 31st January – 3rd February 2019; • First Functional Nanomaterials Summer Camp under Mega Summer School, 29th July – 2nd August 2019; • 8th International Conference on Environmentally Sustainable Development (ESDev), 21st – 23rd August 2019; across the globe visited CUI with a view to Moreover, CUI made 10 major • 7th Pak-China Business Forum- strengthening collaboration in academics international linkages with reputed Industrial Expo 2019, 2nd – 4th and to promote higher education, universities/institutions globally. Besides, September 2019 exchange knowledge, transfer technologies the World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) • 3rd Annual Conference of CPEC and share good practices. Some of these also collaborated actively with CUI. Main Consortium of Universities on were from: activities in this regard related to the visit “Academic Collaboration for of scholars for undergoing higher degrees Sustainable Partnerships”, 18th – 19th • Western Sydney University, Australia; and conducting research at CUI. During November 2019; and • Université Libre de Bruxelle (ULB), 2019 01 PhD scholar joined CUI. • 17th International Conference on Belgium; ‘Frontiers of Information Technology’ • Huanghuai University, China; Awards and Distinctions (FIT-2019), 16th – 18th December • Shenzhen University, China; 2019. • Tsinghua University, China; (3G) Award for Excellence in Higher • Gustave Roussy Cancer Center, Education: The Cambridge IFA and In 2019, Professional Development France; UK awarded CUI the Global Good (PD) wing of CUI’s ORIC conducted 10 • Korea Institute for Advanced Studies, Governance (3G) Award for Excellence in trainings in which over 142 professionals Korea; Higher Education on 15th March 2019, in from a number of organizations, industries • University of Kaiserslautern, Jakarta, Indonesia. and universities were trained. Germany; • Meiji University, Japan; Sitara-i-Imtiaz (Star of Excellence): In Student Startup Business Center (SSBC) • Istanbul Sehir University, Turkey; recognition of his contribution to the field organized (09) training sessions for • University of Wolverhampton, United of Nanotechnology, Nanoscience and Startups Batch-VI, through “SSBC Kingdom; Applied Physics, Prof. Dr. Arshad Saleem Business Plan Development Training • University of Kent, United Kingdom; Bhatti, Dean of Faculty of Science at CUI Program” at Islamabad Campus. Further, and was conferred Pakistan’s Third Highest SSBC also organized: • Duquesne University, United States of Civilian Award, Sitara-i-Imtiaz (Star of America Excellence), on 14th August 2019. • 01 training session in coordination with SECP; Furthermore, officials from CUI visited Sponsorships and Scholarships • a three-day Boot Camp “KHUDI”, in various higher education and scientific collaboration with PEP Foundation to institutions in Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, China, promote women entrepreneurship; In year 2019, CUI benefited from Canada, Egypt, France, Indonesia, Italy, exchanges under Erasmus+ which • one-day SME session for new start- Romania, Switzerland, Qatar, Philippines, ups. caters to a much wider scope and larger Turkey, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, funding available for reciprocal mobility Netherlands, and United Kingdom for to Europe. In fact, CUI availed a total Collaborations research and participation in international of 25 fully funded exchange mobilities, activities. i.e., 20 students and 5 faculty/staff. The Delegations from the different varsities
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 53 Prof. Dr. Victor Agyeman Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Ghana Director-General Technical cooperation among scientists and scientific institutions remain key to S&T-led development, especially in the developing countries. Fortunately for us, one such platform is available to use in the form of COMSATS’ Network of S&T Centres of Excellence, of which the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Ghana is a part…..I believe that CSIR’s association with a networking platform like COMSATS could help the organization in cementing its research potential and forging partnerships. We hope that this mutually beneficial relationship will continue for many years to come.
universities where the mobilities were in Ghana through issue through simplified and packaged availed included high ranked universities utilization of science information about their farm produce. like Middle East Technical University and technology. The (Turkey) Istanbul Sehir University Council formulates New Maize Varieties: CSIR introduced (Turkey), University of Cote D’ Azur and implements new improved varieties of “Vitamin A” (France) and University of Nice (France). government policies rich orange maize in partnership with During 2019, total of 248 international regarding S&T the Crops Research Institute (CRI). The students from 7 countries, i.e., based research and development. improved varieties will help increase yield Afghanistan, Canada, China, Nigeria, and income. Additionally, it matures Gambia, Indian Occupied Kashmir and R&D Activities early and contains vitamin “A” which has USA Tanzania were enrolled in Software numerous health benefits. Furthermore, Engineering, Mathematics, Accounting Digital Agricultural Innovation Hub: when used as poultry feed, the laid eggs and Finance, Computer Science Physics A Digital Agricultural Innovation Hub are more yellowish and healthier than and Bio-sciences programmes. (DAIH) is being established at CSIR for those from the poultry fed with the white the management of agricultural data. maize. Country-wise Enrollment of DAIH, to be completed by mid-2020, International Students would put all the technologies developed International Cooperation Country No. of over the years by CSIR for the access Students of farmers and the public. Currently CSIR signed a Memorandum of Afghanistan 233 existing technologies are not accessible to Understanding with the Korean farmers. The hub would help address this Programme on International Agriculture Gambia 1 Kashmir 1 Nigeria 7 China 4 USA 1 Canada 1
Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Ghana
The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Ghana, focuses on accelerating socio-economic development
54 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 Dr. Widad H. Abdel Halim Hassan Industrial Research and Consultancy Centre (IRCC), Sudan Director General The researchers and staff of IRCC would like to extend their sincere congratulations to COMSATS for completing 25 glorious years of success. We are very honored to have gotten the opportunity to partner with you in many ventures and we hope that the future holds more cooperation.
We wish you many more years of success and prosperity in your consistent efforts to create a better world by using Science & Technology for the benefit of human society.
(KOPIA), Korea, to expand its commercialization activities. Under the agreement, KOPIA will support the Animal Research Institute (ARI) and the Crop Research Institute (CRI) of CSIR to produce poultry breeds and rice seedlings for commercial purposes.
Capacity-Building Events
Food Research Institute (FRI) and Science and Technological Policy Research Institute (STEPRI) of CSIR organized a two-day training workshop on “Climate- Smart, Innovative Food Preservation and Processing Technologies Applied by Women in Rural Area in Sub-Sahara Africa” in Accra, Ghana, in collaboration of the country’s industrial sector. The ceremony of the project was held on with the Food and Agriculture Centre is involved in research, technology, 21st July 2019, at the National Leather Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. and consultancy; including industrial Technology Center (NLTC) of IRCC. During the workshop, innovative climate information, industrial process modeling, smart technologies applied by women in product design, economic and feasibility rural areas were identified for fostering Industrial Technology Institute studies, technology and production line (ITI), Sri Lanka their effective uptake, adoption and design, and quality assurance. sustained use. The Industrial Technology Institute In 2019, IRCC successfully executed the Industrial Research and (ITI), Sri Lanka, project titled: “Reduction of Persistent comprises of Consultancy Center (IRCC), Organic Pollutant chemicals (POPs) in research and Sudan Leather Industry” under the Five-Year development Plan (2015-2019) with United Nations divisions, and A major research Industrial Development Organization technical services institution in Sudan, (UNIDO). The project was aimed at divisions. The Industrial Research introducing eco-friendly alternatives to Institute conducts and Consultancy Persistent Organic Pollutant chemicals multidisciplinary scientific and industrial Center (IRCC) (POPs) which are used in tanning process research on technology-transfer for rapid caters to the needs to support the Sudanese leather industry industrial development. in a sustainable manner. The closing
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 55 health risks; microbial contamination in teas; and composting.
Awards and Recognition
The outstanding performance of ITI scientists and engineers was also appreciated at the 4th Biennial Research Symposium during the award ceremony where more than 28 researchers were conferred awards and certificates in various categories.
International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS), R&D Activities to offer its food technology services for the Pakistan upgradation of selected micro, small and Scientists at ITI succeeded in developing a medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Jaffna, One of the leading academic research simplified low cost honey quality detection Kilinochchi and Vavniya, Sri Lanka. A institutions in kit to help farmers test the quality of team of ITI officers visited the ILO selected Pakistan with a honey on-field. According to the Sri Lanka SMEs for surveying the current process strong international Standards Institute, honey for human technologies, food safety management standing, the consumption should meet SLS 464:2016 aspects used and held discussions with International Center standards. The current method of quality the entrepreneurs to consolidate their for Chemical and testing performed in laboratories is too knowledge. Biological Sciences time consuming and poses problems (ICCBS), serves as for farmers in sample shifting. The ITI- Capacity-Building Events the Centre of Excellence of COMSATS, developed kit will be able to provide a cost TWAS, WAITRO, OIC and UNCSTD. and time effective alternative. The 4th Biennial Research Symposium of Since 2015, the Centre has been serving as ITI ‘Science, Technology and Innovation a UNESCO Category II institution. ICCBS Technical Services for Sustainable Development’ was focuses on: research and training for organized by ITI, from 17th – 18th producing high quality human resource; Proficiency Testing: ITI serves a December 2019. The Symposium attracted and extending diagnostic, analytical large number of laboratories to prove over 250 participants belonging to ITI, and clinical testing services to local and evidence to their competency through universities and R&D Centres of Sri regional clients from private and public Proficiency Testing programmes in water Lanka, as well as industry. Dr. Bandula sectors. microbiology, food microbiology, and Gunawardena, Honourable Minister chemical and physical testing for cement. of Higher Education, Technology and R&D Activities In 2019, the Institute also became the first Innovation, Sri Lanka, and Mr. Thilanga one in Sri Lanka to offer proficiency testing Sumathipala, Honourable State Minister The Center for Bioequivalence Studies service. Having been granted ISO/IEC of Technology and Innovation, Sri Lanka, and Clinical Research (CBSCR) at ICCBS 17043: 2010 Accreditation for Proficiency graced the inaugural as the Chief Guest successfully completed one-year trial Testing by Sri Lanka Accreditation Board and Guest of Honour, respectively. of Yinhuang Qingfei Capsule, first ever (SLAB), ITI will provide Proficiency traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for Testing to National Quality Infrastructure. The technical sessions of the symposium bronchitis. Randomized double-blind comprised of 41 presentations in two clinical trial in patients with chronic Food Technology Services: Based on parallel sessions pertaining to: food simple bronchitis were conducted to test its performance and supreme quality technologies; GM foods, fermentation and the efficacy and safety of the Yinhuang of services, ITI was also invited by the diary; artificial foods, chemical industry; Qingfei Capsule against Amoxicillin- International Labor Organization (ILO) food research; refrigeration; sterilization; Clavulanate. The medicine was found under the Local Empowerment through natural oils; minerals in food; nutrition; to be suitable and effective for Pakistani Economic Development (LEED) project, food contaminants; soil study; food related population and is an effective alternative to
56 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS), Director Pakistan
Over the past two decades, COMSATS has made massive efforts to build indigenous capacity in science and technology of COMSATS’ member institutions through trainings, joint research projects, support for conferences, and mobility of scientists, scholarship programs, and policy guidance for science-led sustainable development. We greatly appreciate the remarkable work of COMSATS through which a strong network of 22 highly reputed Centers of Excellence is now playing a leading role in their respective fields of specialization to promote science and technology.
(KazNU), Kazakhstan. In this connection, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the two organizations.
National Institute of Virology: ICCBS launched the National Institute of Virology at the Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research (PCMD) ICCBS, Pakistan. The Centre is equipped with state-of-the-art technologies for cutting-edge instruments for facilitating scientific research on viral and other diseases.
Collaborations
TIB, China: ICCBS and Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology (TIB), Amoxicillin whose resistance in bacteria ICCBS is setting-up a Virology Center at China, entered into an Agreement for the is being reported to increase greatly. PCMD. The research facility is aimed to promotion of cooperation in various fields Yinhuang Qingfei Capsule is a natural advance the virology research, contribute of bioorganic chemistry and biological herbs preparation that has been developed knowledge policies and good practices. sciences through R&D, staff exchange, by Hunan Anbang Pharmaceutical, China, Apart from studying the viruses, this Bio- transformation and industrialization of for the treatment of an acute attack of Safety Level-3 (BSL-3) Laboratory will help scientific and technological achievement. chronic bronchitis. determine the anti-viral activity of various Within the framework of this cooperation, compounds for vaccine development. ICCBS and TIB shall also support the Institutional Capacity-Building related S&T activities of COMSATS such Natural Product Sciences and Traditional as the International Thematic Research DNA and Serology Laboratory: ICCBS Medicine Centres: ICCBS has opened two Group on Natural Products Sciences. set-up a state-of-the-art forensic DNA research centres on “Sino-Pakistan TCM & and Serology Laboratory at the Jamil-ur- Ethnomedicine” and “Sino-Pakistan TCM”, HASMU, China: ICCBS also entered into Rahman Center for Genome Research at its facility. Moreover, the first “Joint an Agreement with the Southwest Medical of Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Laboratory for Innovation in Natural University Hospital (HASMU), China, Medicine and Drug Research (PCMD). Products Research and Development” was for cooperation in the field of traditional inaugurated at ICCBS. The laboratory has medicine. Under this MoU, both sides will Virology Center: In collaboration with been jointly established by ICCBS and exchange research staff and R&D faculties. the University of Tübingen, Germany, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 57 Chinese Institutions: Multiple Capacity-Building Events Canada, Brazil, Sweden, New Zealand, Memoranda of Understanding were Hungry, Indonesia, Jordan, Malaysia, signed by ICCBS with the leading Chinese 5th Science and Technology Exchange Kazakhstan, Ethiopia, Sudan, Thailand, research and academic institutions of Program (STEP5): The 5th Science and Oman, Cameron, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Technology Exchange Program (STEP5) and Nepal attended the international Changsha, China. Prof. Atta-ur-Rahman Conference was organized by ICCBS in event. (Chairman, Prime Minister’s Task Force collaboration with the Mustafa Science on Science and Technology), Prof. Dr. M. and Technology Foundation (MSTF), Awards and Recognition Iqbal Choudhary (Director, ICCBS) and Iran, from 28th February – 2nd March relevant Chinese officials signed the MoUs 2019. The 3-day conference had the theme • In recognition of his extraordinary on behalf of their institutions. The signed “Health Challenges of Communicable and outstanding scientific agreements aim to advance science and Diseases (CDs) and Non-Communicable achievements in the field of organic technology through joint collaborative Diseases (NCDs)” with an emphasis chemistry and natural products research and education for addressing on female scientists’ contribution in chemistry, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Iqbal national, regional and global challenges future global village. The conference Choudhary, Director, ICCBS, was associated with chemical and biological comprised of scientific and technological awarded the title of Al-Farabi KazNU sciences. panels, STEP talks, round tables, keynote Honorary Doctor by Al-Farabi addresses and invited talks focusing on the Kazakh National University (KazNU), KFUEIT, Pakistan: Another MoU was areas of influential actions to overcome Kazakhstan, in a ceremony held at signed by ICCBS with a local Higher health-related challenges lying in the the University on 2nd April 2019. Education Institute, the Khawaja Fareed Islamic World, and latest development to Prof. Choudhary’s career includes University of Engineering and Information overcome challenges arising from CDs 1,098 research papers, 51 patents, a Technology (KFUEIT), that entails and NCDs in the Islamic countries. Over cumulative impact factor of 2,120 and cooperation in sharing analytical facilities 500 eminent scientists from 40 countries 2,300 citations, as well as a number of for research in synthetic organic and participated in the Conference. national and international awards and natural products chemistry. honors. 7th International Symposium-Cum- Department of Health, Government Training Course on Molecular Medicine • ICCBS has become a member of Sindh, Pakistan: On 5th December and Drug Research: The 7th International organization of the Global Open 2019, ICCBS signed a Memorandum Symposium-Cum-Training Course on Biodiversity and Health Big Data of Understanding (MoU) with the Molecular Medicine and Drug Research Alliance (BHBD) housed at Beijing Department of Health, Government of was held at the Dr. Panjwani Center for Institute of Genomics, Chinese Sindh, to improve Chemico Bacteriological Molecular Medicine and Drug Research Academy of Sciences, China. The Laboratory of the Department. Under (PCMD), ICCBS, from 4th – 7th Director of ICCBS, Prof. Dr. Iqbal the agreement, ICCBS is providing grant November 2019. Over 700 scientists from Choudhary, has also been accepted by the provincial government of Sindh 35 countries including Turkey, Iran, Iraq, as a representative from Pakistan in for the up-gradation of the Chemico China, Egypt, Syria, Italy, Nigeria, Greece, recognition of his extraordinary and Bacteriological Laboratory. USA, UK, Germany, France, Australia, outstanding scientific achievements
58 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 Prof. Lin Zhaohui International Centre for Climate and Environment Sciences (ICCES), China Director ICCES, being the Centre of Excellence of COMSATS in China since 1994, has been playing a leading role in the area of Climate Change research, including climate change science, impact, adaptation and mitigation, etc. Over years, COMSATS promotes networking of ICCES with their counterparts worldwide and facilitates joint activities, such as training, research projects, expert- exchange.
ICCES commits to continue working closely with COMSATS’ member states to strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards in the South, to improve related education, awareness-raising and capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, and risk management.
in the field of organic chemistry and towards Leishmaniasis research has environment sciences, and provide natural products chemistry. earned him this credential. services to the developing countries with scientific support and advisory, capacity • Hunan University of Chinese International Center for Climate building. Medicine (HUCM), Changsha, has and Environmental Sciences established “Academician Professor The main research fields include the Atta-ur-Rahman One Belt and One (ICCES), China development of Dynamical Earth System Road TCM Research Center” to Model and numerical simulation, honor the scientific contributions The International Center for Climate meteorological, and environmental of renowned Pakistani scientist, and Environment forecast and related disaster assessment Prof. Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman, Patron- Sciences (ICCES), theory and technique, data assimilation in-Chief of ICCBS in the field of China, focuses theory and methodology, and earth system traditional medicine. The Centre its research on theory and natural cybernetics. was inaugurated on the sidelines the key scientific problems related of the 5th Annual Bio-TCM Collaborations International Conference, held at with global climate and environmental the Hunan University of Chinese ICCES and NRC, Egypt: Prof. Zhaohui changes. ICCES is devoted to establishing Medicine (HUCM), on 24th October Lin, Director of the CAS-TWAS the cooperative and innovative research 2019. Apart from Prof. Dr. Atta-ur- Center of Excellence for Climate and center in the area of climate and Rahman, the ceremony was attended Environment Sciences (ICCES) visited by H.E. Mr. Chaudhry Fawad Hussain, Federal Minister for Science and Technology, Government of Pakistan; Chinese Government officials; Mayor of Huanhua; and Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary, Director ICCBS, among others.
• Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary, Director of ICCBS, has been elected as the member of the Executive Management Group (EMG) of the ‘A Global Network of the Tropical Neglected Diseases (NTD)’. Prof. Choudhary’s extensive contribution
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 59 from developing countries to conduct joint research under the support by CAS President’s International Fellowship Initiative (PIFI). Mr. Victor Dike first joined ICCES in year 2014 as a PhD candidate and successfully completed his study courses in year 2018. He rejoined ICCES in year 2019 as Postdoctoral researcher under the support of CAS President’s International Fellowship Initiative (PIFI).
Dr. Victor Dike will stay at ICCES for 2 years to conduct his on the project. the National Research Centre (NRC), Dr. Omid Alizadeh-choobari is an ”Simulating the Impact of Trans-Tropical- Egypt, from January 19 to 20. Prof. Fagr Associate Professor in the Institute of Atlantic-Pacific Ocean Dipole on Future Gawad, Director of the Water Pollution Geophysics, University of Tehran, Iran. Variation of Extreme Summer Rainfall Research Department took ICCES team His research interests include, extreme Events over West Africa” that will focus to a number of research laboratories weather events, impacts of large-scale on utilizing high-resolution model of NRC. On January 20, Prof. Ashraf teleconnections on climate variability, simulations to evaluate future variation Shaalan, the former President of NRC, dynamical downscaling and spatial and of these extreme climate events over West the Chairman, Prof. Mohamed Hashem; temporal variations in dust events. Africa as well as the future occurrence of Mr. Sherif Rahim, Director of the Center TAPOD and inherent thermodynamics of Climate Change of Egypt’s Ministry of In July 2019, Dr. Omid Alizadeh- associated with the future occurrence. Environment; Prof. Tarek Elasiad from the choobari was invited in the 18th CTWF Suez Canal University, Prof. Fagr Gawad, International Symposium on Aerosol and TWAS-UNESCO Associate at ICCES- Prof. Zhaohui Lin, and Assoc. Prof. Climate Change, hosted by ICCES. He China: Under the TWAS-UNESCO Chenglai Wu from ICCES had a meeting gave presentation on “Spatial and temporal Associateship Scheme, Dr. Sathaporn about a new center on climate change. variations of dust events over Iran”. Monprapussorn from Geography Department of Srinakharinwirot Later in April 2019, Prof. Shaalan Academic Sponsorships University, Thailand, visited ICCES from visited ICCES on April 15, 2019. Prof. April 8th – June 4th 2019. The visit was Xiaodong Zeng, Deputy Director of President’s International Fellowship undertaken to conduct collaborative ICCES, introduced ICCES’ research Initiative (PIFI): ICCES has been research on comparative study of land work and international collaborations working to support young scholars in use models and urban heat island effects to Prof. Shaalan, with an emphasis on the field of climate and environmental between China and Thailand. During the forthcoming CTWF international research from developing countries. In his visit to ICCES, Dr. Monprapussorn symposium and training workshop and 2019, ICCES attracted one young scholar presented an academic report entitled invited NRC researchers to join the event. “Land Use Change in Bangkok and Dr. Chenglai Wu and Dr. He Zhang also its Impact on the Urban Heat Island”, gave an overview on the development which highlighted the geographical and current status of the CAS Earth characteristics of the Bangkok model system, especially its performance Metropolitan Area (BMA). and prospect in the application of global climate change research. Capacity-Building Events Institute of Geophysics, University of International Workshop for “Climate Tehran: October 17th, 2019. Dr. Omid Change between Present and Future Alizadeh-choobari gave an academic Scenarios” with NRC, Egypt: From report entitled “Frequency of extreme El January 22 to 23, 2019, the International Niño and La Niña events under global Workshop on “Climate Change between warming” at ICCES. Present and Future Scenarios” was held in Cairo, Egypt. It was jointly organized
60 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 Dr. Alireza Ashori Iranian Research Organization for Science & Technology (IROST), Iran President As a COMSATS’ member, IROST attaches great importance to contributing to COMSATS’ activities and considers this organization as a potent platform for South-South cooperation in science and technology which has played a significant role in the sustainable development and socio-economic uplift of the member states through its cooperation programs and initiatives.
It is my sincere hope that COMSATS’ valuable efforts will gain even further momentum to promote scientific and technological cooperation in the South. by NRC and the CAS-TWAS Center of researchers gathered both to create this Islamabad (CUI), Pakistan; and Industrial Excellence for Climate and Environmental new networking chapter and share their Technology Institute (ITI), Sri Lanka. Sciences (ICCES). The event was latest research. The meeting included 19 supported by the Egyptian Ministry of short presentations by researchers from Iranian Research Organization Environment, the Egyptian Meteorological African, Central & Middle East, Southeast for Science & Technology Administration, Cairo University, Suez Asian and South Asia, representing a Canal University, etc. More than 50 broad range of international research (IROST), Iran scholars attended the seminar, including organizations. representatives from the NRC, the IROST was founded in 1980, with the Egyptian Meteorological Administration, The INCES will provide a much-needed aim to support the Egyptian Ministry of Environment, networking platform for a broad range Iranian researchers, Cairo University, Suez Canal University, of climate and environment sciences inventors and and ICCES. topics including climate variability and industrialists change and their predictions; climate across the country. The 18th CTWF International Training change impacts on the environment, This organization Workshop on Atmospheric Aerosol: water resources, agriculture and health; provides valuable Observation, Modelling and Impact: The observation and prediction of climate and services in fulfilling event was held from 18th – 20th July 2019, environmental extremes. the country’s scientific, technical and in Beijing, China. It was jointly organized engineering requirements by supporting by ICCES, Chinese Academy of Sciences The Network will facilitate data sharing, applied and developmental research, (CAS), Chinese Ministry of Science training of young scientists for capacity as well as developing new technologies and Technology (MoST), COMSATS, building, and foster scientific collaboration by making use of qualified experts and and the National Satellite Meteorological for the study of climate change impacts, modern equipment and facilities. Centre (NSMC). The training benefited observation, and prediction of climate and around 80 Chinese and foreign scientists environmental extremes. The Network Thirty second Al-Khwarizmi including more than 40 foreign will consist of four regional groups, i.e., International Award representatives from Egypt, Ethiopia, African, Central & Middle East Asian, Ghana, Indonesia, Iran, Kazakhstan, South-East Asian, and South Asian On March 04, 2019, the Iranian Research Pakistan, Palestine, Senegal, Sri Lanka, Group. At present, the following six (06) Organization for Science & Technology Thailand, Vietnam, Nigeria and Nepal. COMSATS Centres of Excellence are (IROST) held the 32nd Al Khwarizmi members to the Network: Council for International Award ceremony. The Award Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), is conferred annually to researchers, Establishment of International Network Ghana; National Research Centre (NRC), inventors and innovators from all over the on Climate and Environment Sciences Egypt; University Cheikh Anta Diop world in recognition of their outstanding (INCES): The International Network of Dakar (UCAD), Senegal; Al-Farabi scientific achievements. Out of the total on Climate and Environmental Sciences Kazakh National University (KazNU), nominations of 271 Iranian and 111 (INCES)’s inaugural session was held in Kazakhstan; Al-Quds University (AQU), foreign researchers from 40 countries Beijing China on 17th July, 2019. INCES Palestine; COMSATS University across the world, 16 won the Award.
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 61 Prof. Stephen E. Onah National Mathematical Centre (NMC), Nigeria Director/Chief Executive Nigeria has benefitted immensely in the areas of trainings, support in R&D, capacity development activities in Mathematical Sciences, new cooperation and knowledge-sharing through COMSATS’ various publications. We are indeed proud of COMSATS as an Inter-Governmental Organization.
While promising our continual commitment to the course of COMSATS, the organization should strive harder in the years to come for uniting nations across boundaries, institutions of various disciplines and people of different races towards the development of Science and Technology.
COMSATS has been sponsoring the with` Department of Mathematics and cash prize and certificates of the first Computer Science of the University of and second prize winners of the Award Lagos under the auspices of Mathematical since 2000. This year’s first and second Analysis and Optimization Research prizes worth US$ 1,500 and US$ 500 were Group (MANORG), Nigeria, organized the granted to Dr. Mohammad Durali and Mr. 6th Annual International Conference on Hamid Raza Nasiri, respectively. Mathematical Analysis and Optimization: Theory and Applications (ICAPTA 2019) National Mathematical Centre from 24 – 30 March, 2019. The Conference (NMC), Nigeria bearing the theme “Mathematical Methods and Optimization in Risk and Financial The National Mathematical Centre Modeling” was held at NMC. The pre- (NMC), Nigeria, is conference workshops included an an inter-university overview of Convexity and Optimization organization Methods, Network Optimization and that promotes A number of papers have been published Machine Learning and Hand on Desk research and and others accepted for publication. Also, Training on Python Software. The capacity-building several products of industrial importance Conference brought together a number of in mathematical were developed. new collaborations among researchers, and sciences. It was postgraduates students across institutions, established, inter alia, to train and Computational Mathematics and home and abroad. develop high quality human resource in Scientific Computing: This research group Mathematical Sciences, for enhancing is developing numerical codes which will Other events: students’ performance in Mathematics satisfy standard computational properties and Mathematical Sciences at all levels of and are to be deployed for numerical • Three-day Colloquium in Algebra Nigerian education system. simulation of interdisciplinary real life (July 2019); problems. The research is progressing • Foundation Postgraduate Course on Relative Astrophysics (22 April to 3 Research Activities impressively. Several publications have appeared in reputable journals both local May 2019); and international. • Five-day Workshop for Mathematics Ethno-Mathematics Research in Teachers of Federal Unity Colleges (20 Mathematics: The Research Group to 24 May 2019); has developed strategies to enhance Capacity-Building Activities • Training of Olympiad Teachers (18 to research, teaching and learning of 23 August 2019); Mathematics, especially on Combinatorics, 6th International Conference • Foundation Postgraduate Course in Graph Theory and Network Analysis on Mathematical Analysis and Inference Statistics (7 to 26 October using women stories bases on cultural Optimization: Theory and Applications 2019); experiences. (ICAPTA 2019): NMC in collaboration
62 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 • NMC/SDGs Mental Arithmetic It also incorporates Computer Based Test training using the Abacus and (CBT) System on various topics based Mathematics Improvement workshop on Nigerian Mathematics Curriculum, for Mathematics Teachers and to enable monitoring of learning Students. These activities took progress. DIMANET was designed and place in several states of Nigeria implemented by the NMC. with the support of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Office in Expansion of Facilities: NMC has the Presidency. expanded its facilities with addition of a 500-Seater Auditorium and Participants’ Academic Undertakings Hostel and Participants’ Guest House.
2019 Nigeria Universities Computer Collaborations Programming Contest (NUCPC) and supervision and evaluation of R&D Africa & Arab Collegiate Programming MSc Financial Mathematics with projects, industrial auditing, and textile Championship (ACPC): The two contests University of Abuja: The Centre is testing. These are aimed at development of were held from 8th to 15th September, presently collaborating with the University textile industry and wet processing. 2019. Contestants were undergraduates of Abuja, Nigeria, and has signed a of Computer Science/IT in Nigeria Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) A lot of research work was conducted in Universities. The NUCPC provides to run its MSc Financial Mathematics the division to explore industrial-scale students the opportunities to sharpen and programme. applications. Several textile factories from demonstrate their algorithmic problem- public and private sectors are expected to solving, programming and teamwork COMSATS University Islamabad: The be included in this division for improving skills. It is also the first stage of a three tier working relationship between NMC industrial applications. Some are already International Collegiate Programming and the Department of Mathematics, cooperating with the Division in various Contest (ICPC) that ends with the World COMSATS University Islamabad activities. finals. The NUCPC participants also continued during 2019. took part in the Regional Africa & Arab Some applications of emerging Collegiate Programming Championship National Research Centre (NRC), technologies of special interest to the (ACPC). The contests took place in the Cairo, Egypt Division are as follows: Nano-coating computer laboratory of the National technology and smart coatings for Mathematical Centre with judges from NRC was established in 1956 to foster material reinforcement, protective Egypt, Jordan and host country Nigeria. basic and applied clothing, medical textiles, as well scientific research, as creating self-cleaning fabric; Statistics Competition for undergraduate particularly in Biotechnology; Plasma technology; Students 2019: This competition was industry, agriculture, Electrospining technology for producing second edition of the competition public health and nanofiber; Microencapsulation of involving Statistics undergraduates of other sectors of chemical finishes and fragrances Nigeria Universities. The Statistical Egypt’s national including phase-change materials Society of Nigeria partnered with NMC for economy. for thermoregulation, aromatherapy/ organizing this contest. fragrance release and cosmetotextiles Textile Industries Research Division and skin care benefits, insects repellent Digital Mathematics Network National Research Centre (NRC), textiles; Microwave technology; (DIMAnet): Digital Mathematics Network Cairo, Egypt Supercritical carbon dioxide in dying (DIMAnet) employs the memory and the process; and Green chemistry and Eco- audio-visual capabilities of the computer textiles. system and mobile devices to provide Textile Research Division (TRD) is one of the most important divisions in National an on-line and offline instructor-led TRD is well-equipped with instruments mathematics instructional materials. Research Centre (NRC). It has about 180 professional members that specialize and equipment for treatment and analysis This provides encouragement and of the textile materials. Beside many enhancement in the learning and teaching in textile science, technology and manufacture. TRD is involved in industrial others, the central labs of the TRD are of Mathematics at the Basic and the Senior equipped with plasma discharge, freeze- Secondary School level in Nigeria. planning, management, implementation,
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 63 HRH Princess Sumaya bint El Hassan Royal Scientific Society (RSS), Jorda President Our shared story of promoting collaboration and cooperation for sustainable socio-economic development of the countries of the South is one we must empower and honor. At the Royal Scientific Society of Jordan, the RSS, we are privileged to contribute to your mission as a member of the Network of International Centres of Excellence since 1997. And we are privileged to be able to work with you, our crucial partner, for the benefit of all members and economies that are enriched by COMSATS’ vision and mission.
dryer, nozzle-less electro-spinneret, SEM, TEM, pilot-scale spinning and weaving machines, spraycoater, and contact angle. Most of the equipment needed for analysis and testing of textile materials is available in the TRD laboratories.
The Division has held a number of workshops on: spinning and weaving; pretreatment and finishing of cellulosic fibers; protein and synthetic fiber; coloration technology; knitted and ready- made garments.
Several professors of TRD were honored capacity-building. Framework (ETF), Beirut, Lebanon: African Union Kwame Nkrumah Scientific RSS presented “Getting ready for the Awards (AUKNSA). These include: Prof. Arab Charter on Ethics in Science transition towards ETF” -Case of Jordan Dr. Ali Hebeish (2016) and Prof. Dr. Nabil at WSF 2019 Launched by President at the Annual Partnership Retreat of the Abdelbaset (2012). RSS: HRH Princess Sumaya bint El Partnership on Transparency. Hassan, President of RSS, Jordan, Moreover, some professors of TRD launched the “Charter of Ethics of Science Major Research Projects received other prizes, including the Nile and Technology in the Arab Region” Awards, State Merit Awards, State Awards at the World Science Forum held in The following are major research projects of Excellence, and State Encouragement Budapest, Hungary, from 20th – 23rd of RSS during 2019: Awards. November 2019. The Charter frames science and technology activities in the • Rural Economic Growth and Royal Scientific Society (RSS), Arab region, supports an environment Employment Project (REGEP)/ Jordan that enables science and technology to Qualitative Study in Preparation thrive, protects science and technology of Baseline Quantitative Survey for workers and outcomes, and guide science The Research Scientific Society (RSS) is REGEP project; and technology activities away from the largest applied • Strengthening Capacities for non-ethical practices that could harm the research institution Wastewater Management in Jordan; individual, society or the environment. in Jordan. It, inter • Science Engagement, Mentoring and alia, provides Empowerment of Young Scientist; Participation in 8th Annual Partnership consultancy and Climate Change & Energy challenges. Retreat: Getting ready for the transition technical support • Ambient Air Quality (AAQ) to the Enhanced Transparency services for scientific Monitoring and Assessment in the
64 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 During the two-day conference, the participants discussed latest technological developments in the field of concrete construction and polymer compounds for building reinforced concrete and mass concrete and exploring errors in concrete construction.
Annual Meeting of WAB-Net: RSS and EcoHealth Alliance (EHA), USA, jointly organized the Second Annual Meeting of the Western Asia Bat Research Network (WABNet) in Amman, Jordan, from 9th – 11th December 2019. More than 55 local and foreign participants (researchers, Industrial Areas as a part of an AAQ Germany GmbH on COOL_ME laboratory experts and zoonotic disease Monitoring Network/ Ministry of project to scale up sustainable cooling specialists) from Georgia, Turkey, Environment (MoEnv); on the Middle East. (23 Oct 2019) Pakistan, Iraq, Oman, Saudi Arabia, • Ambient Air Quality (AAQ) • MoU with ISESCO (August 2019). United Arab Emirates, Azerbaijan and Monitoring and assessment in Attarat • Agreement with the Jiangsu Armenia attended the meeting. area / Saudi Arabian Corporation for Industrial Technology Research Oil Shale (SACOS); Institute (JITRI), China, ( 22nd June Regional Workshop on Entrepreneurship • The Production of Hollow and Solid 2019). for Scientists and Engineers in Member Concrete Blocks for Walls and Slabs. States: RSS, IPARK and ISESCO Capacity-Building Activities organized a Regional Workshop on International Collaborations ‘Entrepreneurship for Scientists and Training on GHG Inventory and Engineers in Member States’ from • Agreement with Actin against Hunger Analysis: RSS in collaboration with the 4th – 5th August 2019. The event had to improve conditions for Syrian United Nations Environment Programme participation from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, refugees and vulnerable Jordanians in (UNEP), held a workshop from 23rd to Oman, Egypt, Lebanon and Jordan. Jordan. (5 Feb 2019) 24th September 2019, in Baghdad, Iraq, • Agreement with the International to train Iraqi officials on various aspects First National Learning Alliance meeting Water Management Institute, to of the preparation of the Second National about Wastewater Reuse in Agriculture: conduct a project on ‘Wastewater Communication and the First Biennial On 17 July 2019, RSS held the first Reuse in the MENA Region: Report. National Learning Alliance (NLA) meeting Addressing the Challenges’. (6 Feb for the “Reuse of reclaimed wastewater for 2019) First National meeting of the “Local agricultural purposes and its contribution • MoU with International Youth Community Initiatives to Preserve the to national water security” in Amman. Ambassadors Foundation (IYAF) to Environmental and Cultural Heritages The meeting was attended by a wide range develop awareness campaigns and in Jordan”: The meeting was held at RSS of stakeholders, including: governmental events concerning the advocacy of the on 2nd October 2019. Representatives bodies, academia, NGO, international 17 SDGs within the borders of Jordan. from the Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry donors and farmers. (25 April 2019) of Environment, Ministry of Culture, • Business Agreement with CAST Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, as The 2nd Annual Meeting of the Western software India private limited and well as community-based organizations, Asia Bat Research Network (WAB-Net): partner regarding regional system attended the meeting. The RSS Biosafety and Biosecurity Center integrator. (27 June 2019) and EcoHealth Alliance (EHA) in USA • Agreement with United Nations ACI’s Regional Conference: A regional organized the 2nd Annual Meeting of Development programme to conduct Conference on Concrete Materials the Western Asia Bat Research Network a project on “development of the and Design was organized jointly by (WAB-Net) that was held in Amman, second biennial update report to the American Concrete Institute (ACI), Jordan between December 9th and 11th, UNFCCC. (19 Aug 2019) Jordanian Concrete Association, RSS 2019. The regional workshop brought • Agreement with Navigant Energy and the Jordanian Engineers Association. together more than 55 participants
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 65 Labs in the technical requirements of the international Standard ISO/IEC 17025:2017; • Assisting 5 selected “IRADA” projects in the preparation for obtaining certification according to ISO 9001:2015; • Providing Pre-ISO 9001:2008 & 2015 quality services for 13 “IRADA” projects; • Comprehensive training courses in different quality topics: ISO 9001:2015, ISO17025:2017, Internal Audit, corrective actions, etc. representing different Western Asian National (MRV) System for Greenhouse Awards and Recognition countries (Georgia, Turkey, Pakistan, Gas Emissions and Mitigation of Climate Iraq, Oman, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Change – the first of its kind in the • At the IAP Triennial Conference Emirates, Azerbaijan and Armenia). Arab region – developed by the RSS was in Seoul, Korea, RSS was elected to launched for the Ministry of Environment the Executive Committee of IAP Other Events: Other events organized on early in 2019. for Science – a core pillar of The social issues included: InterAcademy Partnership (IAP), COOL-ME and BUILD-ME Projects: the world’s influential representative • Social Entrepreneurship in the MENA From September 3 to 9, 2019, RSS body for science academies. RSS Region: Inclusiveness and Growth held consultative sessions on the was awarded one of just 11 places • Conference on “Innovative Strategies implementation of the two regional on the IAP for Science committee, for Women Empowerment” projects: COOL-ME and BUILD-ME, in in recognition of its contributions cooperation with the consulting company to global science engagement and Moreover, RSS conducted 41 capacity NAVIGANT, Germany. The two projects its support for the activities of IAP, building courses, attended by 540 trainees, are funded by the German government particularly by organising and hosting such as Radiation protection; Problem represented by the German Ministry of World Science Forum 2017. solving; Control charting; Climate Change Environment. • RSS also currently holds a seat on Sessions /Ford Project; and Validation of the executive committee of IAP for Analytical Chemical Methods. Technical Services Policy, another of the IAP’s three pillars. Earlier in the week, at the IAP Development Activity RSS Audit, Risk and Quality Assurance for Policy board meeting, a proposal Department provided the following by RSS, for a three-year project to Second phase of the EU-funded project Services during 2019: assess the strengths and weaknesses of “Transfer of Environmentally Sound links between academia and industry Technology (TEST)” in cooperation • GAP Analysis according to ISO/ around the globe, received unanimous with UNIDO: The second phase of IEC 17025:2017 for Military Quality support of the board. the EU-funded project “Transfer of Control Labs; Environmentally Sound Technology • Building capacity of Demilitarization (TEST)” was launched in collaboration Centre in the preparation for Tianjin Institute of Industrial with the United Nations Industrial obtaining certification of ISO Biotechnology (TIB), China Development Organization (UNIDO) to 9001:2015; develop new growth opportunities for the • Building the capacity of the Military Tianjin Institute of Industrial Jordanian industry. Labs for Quality Control (MLQC) in Biotechnology (TIB), Chinese Academy the management system requirements of Sciences (CAS), is a non-profit national The National Monitoring, Reporting of the international Standard ISO/IEC research institute jointly established by and Verification (MRV) System for 17025:2017; CAS and Tianjin Municipal Government Greenhouse Gas Emissions and • Building the capacity of the Food in 2012. TIB’s mission is to strengthen its Mitigation of Climate Change: This Lab staff of Military Quality Control capabilities in innovation and technology-
66 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 Prof. Dr. Yanhe Ma Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology (TIB), China Director General As a prestigious inter-governmental organization, COMSATS plays significant roles in supporting the socio-economic sustainable development for the South. TIB is lucky to join COMSATS’ Network as its 22nd International S&T Centres of Excellence in April, 2018. We believe, with the fruitful leadership of COMSATS and joint efforts of the member countries, we will build the express way toward a greener, healthier and more prosperous community with shared future for mankind.
transfer so as to • Efficient biosynthesis technology of Industrial Synthetic Biotechnology faced become a global rare sugars with a green, efficient, to the Belt and Road countries: The leader for research controllable, low-cost biological course was hosted by TIB from October and development manufacturing model; 14 to November 2. Among 21 trainees, 19 in industrial • A green bioprocess technology to were from COMSATS’ member countries, biotechnology. produce rare sugars, such as allulose, including Pakistan, Nigeria, Iran, In 2019, Tianjin tagatose and mannose from starch Kazakhstan, Bangladesh, Turkey, Sir Lanka Institute of Industrial Biotechnology (TIB) by in-vitro multienzyme molecular and Egypt. celebrated its 7th Anniversary. machine; • Biosynthesis pathway in Metabolic Engineering Summit (MES R&D Activity microorganisms by metabolic 2019): Held from October 20 to October engineering and synthetic biology; 22, the summit was initiated by the Some research and development activities • the synthetic route of asiatic International Metabolic Engineering that took place at TIB during 2019 acid was built for the first time Society (IMES) and was successfully includes: in the world. The microbial cell hosted by TIB. Over 500 experts and factories for salidroside, gastrodin, scholars in the areas of metabolic • New pathway of chemical APIs’ breviscapine were further optimized engineering and synthetic biology biosynthesis with high efficiency with the highest fermentation level, from more than 20 countries attend the and low cost; a new generation significantly reducing costs compared summit. These included the United States, cell factory of protocatechuic acid, to plant extraction. Germany, Britain, Japan, South Korea, which is mainly used in the fields of Singapore and Pakistan. pharmaceutical synthesis, organic Capacity-Building Activities intermediates synthesis, dye synthesis Institutional Capacity-Building: The and chemical reagents. International Training Course on second meeting of International Scientific
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 67 Pakistan, visited TIB and showed interest in R&D for manufacturing Biodegradable plastic bags and explored other avenues of collaboration with TIB. • Besides cooperation with the developing countries, TIB expanded cooperative ties with the developed countries. In 2019, TIB signed a MoU with VIB, Belgium, an advanced life science research organization. Now, the two sides are moving forward with the detailed cooperation in Chassis Advisory Board was successfully held Egypt and Industrial Technology cell development and application. with participation by 5 International Institute, Sri Lanka, on genomics • At national level, TIB has established outstanding scholars including the Nobel and computational biology, biotech 43 cooperative projects with Prize owner of 2018 in chemistry, Prof. for green textile industry and plant enterprises, with the contract turnover Frances H. Arnold gave strategic advice on natural products, respectively. of 480 million RMB. So far, TIB has the center. As the strong supporting action, • Under an MoU, a joint research center established cooperative relationships Tianjin government has launched a project has been built with ICCBS under Belt with more than 170 enterprises from with one billion within 5 years to support and Road Science, Technology and 24 provinces of the nation, with a total the R&D, core facilities construction and Innovation Cooperation Program contract value of 970 million RMB acquisition of high-level talent for the of Tianjin municipality. This Centre in various areas such as chemical center. The ¥ 0.2 billion fund for 2019 has focuses on basic research such industry, food, biomedicine, textile, been released. The innovation network as pharmacological toxicology, energy. This makes TIB rank in top 10 has been broadened with inclusion of 35 pharmacodynamic mechanism and among the 104 CAS institutes judged universities or research organizations, the microbial production of the plant on the basis of technology-transfer. such as Tsinghua University, University natural products. of Science and Technology of China, • On September 13-14, Prof. Jibin Sun, Zhejiang University and Nankai University the Deputy Director-General of TIB Sponsorships and Scholarships as the coordinative nodes. visited ICCBS, during which the • TIB has enrolled 3 students from two sides further strengthened the the developing countries; a master Moreover, a COMSATS joint center within cooperation tie. candidate from Pakistan, and 2 PhD the scope of the National Center will be • On September 11, an Agreement was candidates from Nigeria and Pakistan. established to provide more resources for signed with the COMSATS University Also, a Postdoctoral student from student and expert exchange and facilitate Islamabad for the possibility of Pakistan was enrolled. joint projects among the COMSATS’ collaboration in personnel exchange, • A fellowship for the Belt & Road, member states. joint research projects, and joint under the framework of the project conferences/seminars. granted by Tianjin government, is Collaborations • On September 11, avenues of in operation to help the scientists cooperation were also explored with from the Belt & Road improve their In 2019, TIB continued close the University of Medical Sciences of capacity in industrial biotechnology collaborations with COMSATS Centers of Pakistan, in the fields of biodegradable and encourage them to carry on excellence and other organizations, which plastics, herbal medicines and collaborative research work with TIB resulted in the following: pharmaceuticals. scientists. • On November 25, an Agreement • During the 22nd Meeting of was signed with the Al-Farabi COMSATS Coordinating Council Kazakh National University for the Awards and Recognition hosted by TIB, some TIB researchers collaboration in Biotechnology, During the reporting period, TIB discussed potential collaboration Biology and Computer Science. got 5 S&T awards at the Provincial with officials from Bangladesh • On November 22, the Minister of and ministerial-level for creation and Council of Scientific and Industrial the Health & Population Welfare application of new generation of industrial Research, National Research Centre, Department, Government of Sindh,
68 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 Prof. M. M. Angelo Mtambo Tanzania Industrial Research and Development Organization (TIRDO), Director General Tanzania
While COMSATS is turning quarter a century old, we at Tanzania Industrial Research and Development Organization (TIRDO), are proud to appreciate the benefits we gained from the network. The COMSATS’ network has assisted in bridging knowledge, science and technology gaps in member countries through South-South collaboration. Furthermore, the advocacy role of COMSATS has uplifted science and technology to be widely-applied as a tool for socio- economic development.
Director General, TIRDO, and Mr. Japhet Some Statistics-2019 Tanzania Industrial Research and Development Organization Justine, Managing Director, TADB, signed Research 63 (from the MoST, the the MoU on behalf of their Organizations. Projects National Natural Science (TIRDO), Tanzania Collaborating under the agreement, Foundation of China, CAS both sides will ensure the availability of and Tianjin government) Tanzania Industrial Research and agro-services to farmers’ associations, Contract Value $44 million Development agro-processors and other players in of Projects Organization agriculture production. Both sides will (TIRDO) aims to Patents 52 are granted, including also facilitate development of a knowledge 7 PCTs perform research database and network with adequate and development, Publications 148 (including 133 SCI; agro-industrial information to facilitate and provide 10 published in Nature informed decision-making at the policy Communications, ACS technical services and implementation levels. Catalysis and Angew. for industrial Chem.Int.Ed) processes and products in Tanzania. Institutional Capacity-Building strains, the microbial production of L- Alanine and its industrialization, the green Collaborations Coal Laboratory: TIRDO acquired the manufacturing technology and industrial unique coal quality assessment equipment MoU on Agro-Processors: TIRDO signed application of citric acid, the Application backed by a team of competent staff. a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) of structural biology in the study of The equipment allows the undertaking with Tanzania Agricultural Development enzymes’ function and the key technology of proximate and ultimate analysis of Bank Ltd (TADB) for cooperation in of biological manufacturing of natural low carbonaceous energy materials like building technical capacity of farmers’ sodium alginate flavorant. coal. Tests conducted at TIRDO coal groups and agro-processors. Prof. laboratories along with applicable Mkumbukwa Madundo Angelo Mtambo,
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 69 H.E. Prof. Hasan Mandal The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TUBITAK), President Turkey
Attaining advances in science, technology and innovation is the most prominent asset for bringing countries closer to inclusive development and to provide benefits for economic performance and human welfare. We, as the Scientific and Technology Research Council of Turkey (TÜBİTAK), have focused our recent strategic approach on qualified human resources and knowledge creation while placing greater emphasis on impact. We cherish our membership of COMSATS’ Network of International S&T Centres of Excellence that has now brought together 22 research councils, institutes, centres and universities throughout the COMSATS’ community for developing effective cooperation with a particular focus on the South. standards include proximate analysis for The Scientific and Technological in lieu of its Centre – TÜBITAK Marmara Moisture (ASTM D3173), Fixed Carbon Research Council of Turkey Research Centre (MAM). (ASTM D5142), Calorific Value (ASTM (TUBITAK), Turkey D5865) and ASH (ASTM D2795). The Collaborations ultimate analysis tests produce more Founded in 1963 an autonomous public comprehensive results by determining Rwanda: TÜBİTAK-MAM participated institution, The the elemental composition of the coal in the Defence Industry Cooperation Scientific and including sulfur (ASTM D4239). meeting, held in Ankara on 27 February Technological 2019. Rwandan Military Delegation Research Council The TIRDO coal laboratory’s contribution showed interest in Electric Vehicle and of Turkey (Turkish: to Tanzania’s social economic development Warm Mix Asphalt Additive produced Türkiye Bilimsel is enormous. When the laboratory by TÜBİTAK MAM. The possibility of ve Teknolojik was established in year 2015, the coal technology-transfer is being evaluated. Araştırma Kurumu, production/ use in the country was TÜBİTAK) is a national agency of 255,884 tons (valued TZS 25,588,400,000). Sudan: The Undersecretary of the Turkey whose stated goal is to develop In year 2018, the coal use increased to Sudanese Ministry of Higher Education science, technology and innovation (STI) 913,500 tons, which is equivalent to TZS and Scientific Research Prof. Mustafa policies, support and conduct research 91,350,000,000. El Ballah and the Director General of and development. TUBITAK became the Africa City of Technology Prof. COMSATS Centre of Excellence in 2019 TIRDO has now embarked on developing Osama A. Rayis visited TÜBİTAK coal utilization technologies. Coal briquettes are being developed for use in households and industries. The special interest is to replace wood-based fuel in household cooking. This takes into consideration that in Tanzania, over 90% of households use forest products (charcoal or firewood) as source of cooking energy. The coal utilization technologies development at TIRDO is also receiving technological support from TÜBİTAK MAM.
70 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 MAM on 18 January 2019. As part of a in the aftermath of the establishment and status analyses have been conducted Memorandum of Understanding that of the Alliance of International Science for Turkish provinces. In connection with was signed between TÜBİTAK MAM Organizations in the Belt and Road Region this, a meeting was held on 22 March and Sudan, it is envisaged to establish (ANSO). 2019, at the headquarters of the Ministry cooperation in the fields needed by Sudan, of Environment and Urban Planning including agricultural technologies, National Institutions: Cooperation with High Technics Board for determining the digital transformation, renewable Turkish institutions included agreements technical specifications of the components energy, nanotechnology and software and partnerships with the following; that can be used in designing and development. application of noise barrier systems. • Strategic Partnership and Cooperation Saudi Arabia: TÜBİTAK MAM Protocol with ASPİLSAN, Immuno-Affinity Columns Energy Institute and Saudi Arabia’s • TCDD Railway Research and (AFLAMAM): Genetic Engineering and King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology Center (DATEM). Biotechnology Institute of TÜBİTAK Technology (KACST) signed contracts MAM and the Turkish Ministry of on “Technology Collaboration Project R&D Activities Agriculture and Forestry developed for Developing a 7-Feeder Power Quality “AFLAMAM Immuno-Affinity Columns Analyzer – KACST PQ2” and “Technology Institutes at TUBITAK have developed the for Aflatoxin Analyses” from natural Collaboration Project for Developing Solar following solutions over the year 2019. resources. The columns were developed Central Inverter”. As per the “Technology in response to the need of the Turkish Collaboration Project for Developing Solar National Noise Barrier Systems: Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry for Central Inverter” that was initiated in Environmental Noise Management studies mycotoxin analyses. April 2019 with the same organization, the technology of the photovoltaic inverter to be developed jointly will be transferred to KACST.
China: Jiangsu Industrial Technology Research Institute (JITRI) and Jiangsu Province Department of Science and Technology (JSTD) were hosted by TÜBİTAK MAM on June 16, 2019 at the TÜBİTAK research campus in Gebze, Kocaeli. The meetings aimed to foster scientific and technological cooperation between China and Turkey
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 71 representation from Kocaeli University, Turkish Ministry of Industry and Technology, Kocaeli Chamber of Industry and others.
Turkey’s Chemical Industry R&D Needs Workshop: A workshop was organized by TÜBİTAK MAM on 13th June 2019 to address the research and innovation needs of Turkish Chemical Industries. It had participation from ministries, R&D and academic institutions, technopark administrations, NGOs and relevant Submarine Active Sonar System: 15-35 °c lower temperatures without companies. TÜBİTAK MAM’s Materials Institute compromising asphalt quality. Underwater Acoustic Laboratory (SAL) Workshop on cooperation between has successfully manufactured Turkey’s Capacity-Building Activities TÜBİTAK-MAM and SAHA İstanbul: first Active Sonar System for submarines A workshop on cooperation between (composed of transducers, power and Workshop on Tools and Indicators to TÜBİTAK-MAM and SAHA İstanbul was electronic units) for the first time in Assess Black Sea’s Environmental Status: held on 17 December 2019. The workshop Turkey. The integration and acceptance Within the framework of the ANEMONE had the participation of senior officials procedures of the Sonar System have been Project for Joint Monitoring of the from Institutes of Chemical Technology, completed on two submarines and the Black Sea, TÜBİTAK MAM organized a Energy and Materials of TUBITAK MAM systems have been commissioned. Workshop on “Tools and indicators for apart from officials from the companies of the integrated assessment of the Black SAHA İstanbul. Other developments include: Sea’s environmental status” , from 19th to 20th June 2019. The workshop attracted Midterm Meeting of ERNETMED • Biotechnological drug against cancer participants from Bulgaria, Georgia, Project: The 2nd midterm meeting of developed as a result of a partnership Romania, Ukraine, and Russian Federation the ERNETMED Project on the “Use of between public R&D and private as well as speakers from international Photovoltaic Solar Power for Desalination sectors; organizations including Black Sea of Seawater and Mineral Production” • Biotechnological human antibody Commission (BSC), the European under the EU Horizon 2020 program drug agent for use in treatment of Commission Joint Research Center (EC was held at TÜBİTAK MAM on 13-15 cancer and eye diseases; JRC), the Hellenic Center for Marine November 2019. The meeting was attended • Recombinant human antibody Research (HCMR), and specialists from by twelve researchers from Turkey, structures that allow the human- Spain (AZTI) and Denmark (NIVA). Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Italy, France compatible use of two anti-angiogenic and Germany. recombinant antibodies (kdr1.3 Turkey’s Chemical Industry R&D Needs and kdr2.6) for stopping tumor Workshop: A workshop was organized Technical Services angiogenesis; by TÜBİTAK MAM on 13th June 2019 • A live bomb detection and contraband to address the research and innovation TÜBİTAK MAM’s Environment and imaging system that can detect metal needs of Turkish Chemical Industries. It Cleaner Production Institute launched and non-metal dangerous materials had participation from ministries, R&D BS Standard Tests on “Non-metallic” and hidden on persons from a safe and academic institutions, technopark “Stainless Steel” Products. The standard distance; administrations, NGOs and relevant test for non-metallic products relate to • Thru-wall radar imaging that can be companies. evaluation and reporting of suitability of placed on a mobile system to provide non-metallic materials and products for information about the position Pharmacology Meeting: A meeting was use in contact with water intended for and movements of a living creature held at TÜBİTAK MAM to facilitate human consumption. Another standard moving behind a wall; exchange of foresights on innovations test on stainless steel products provides • Warm mix asphalt additive for in pharmaceutical sciences and linkages evaluation of the passive behavior of road applications which allows between relevant Turkish stakeholders stainless steels. bituminous blends to be produced at working in the field. The meeting had
72 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 7. INTERNATIONAL VISITS OF SECRETARIAT OFFICIALS
• Ghana (January, September and October-November 2019) 74
• Sri Lanka (February and December 2019) 78
• China (April and July 2019) 79
• Colombia (September 2019) 81
• Tunisia (November 2019) 82
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 73 INTERNATIONAL VISITS OF SECRETARIAT OFFICIALS
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
The most prominent activity in this chapter pertains to Ghana, the country currently holding the Chair of COMSATS. Over the calendar year 2019, high level senior officials of COMSATS made a number of high-level interactions in Ghana, predominantly with regard to arrangements regarding COMSATS’ 4th General Meeting to be convened and chaired by Honorable Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, President of Ghana and incumbent Chairperson of COMSATS. Visits to Ghana were made in January, September and October, to seek the Chairperson’s guidance, facilitate relevant decision making and necessary actions Akufo-Addo (President of Ghana and Chairperson of COMSATS Coordinating from his office. incumbent Chairperson of COMSATS) for Council; Prof. Dr. Orkun Hasekioglu, COMSATS’ programmes in his capacity Executive Vice President, Scientific January 2019 as Co-chair of Sustainable Development and Technological Research Council of Goals (SDGs) Advocates. Turkey (TÜBİTAK), Turkey; Ambassador A delegation led by the Executive (R) Shahid Kamal, Advisor, COMSATS Director COMSATS, Dr. S. M. Junaid The delegation led by Executive Director Secretariat; and Mr. Nisar Ahmad, Deputy Zaidi, visited the Republic of Ghana COMSATS, Dr. S. M. Junaid Zaidi, also Director (Systems), COMSATS Secretariat, from 7th – 10th January 2019. The main comprised Prof. Dr. Ashraf Shaalan, Islamabad. aim of this visit was to seek guidance Advisor to the President of National of the Honorable Nana Addo Dankwa Research Centre (NRC), Egypt, and
74 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 Meeting with the Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation (MESTI)
On January 8, 2019, COMSATS’ delegation called upon H.E. Prof. Dr. Kwabena Frimpong Boateng, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation (MESTI) at his office in MESTI, Accra Ghana. The meeting was attended by the Prof. Kwabena Frimpong Boateng Minister – MESTI; Mrs. Patricia Appiagye (MP), Dy. Minister- MESTI; Mr. R. Kwame Nartey (Consulate General for Pakistan in Ghana); Mr. Oliver Boachie (Special Advisor to the Minister) Nominated Focal Person for COMSATS’ During the meeting, Dr. Orkun briefed for its other scientific programmes. in MESTI; Mrs. Levina Owusu Chief the meeting about the Technology Bank Director – MESTI; Dr. Agyeman Victor established at TÜBİTAK and COMSATS’ The matters highlighted during the Director General – CSIR and Ms. Ayishetu recent collaborations with United meeting with Dr. Eugene Owusu focused Adbullah (Assistant Director, Ministry of Nations agencies. He also informed how on interventions made by the Government Foreign Affairs & Regional Integration, its resources can be utilized by other of Ghana as well as COMSATS’ Ghana). organizations/countries. endeavours for realization of United Nations 2030 Global Agenda, apart from The Minister was informed about the The Honourable Minister pledged his discussions on COMSATS’ Centre for agenda of the meeting with the Hon. Ministry’s support towards COMSATS’ Climate & Sustainability (CCCS). President of Ghana who is also the programmes. Chairperson of COMSATS to be held the Meeting with the Chairperson next day. Meeting with the Special Advisor COMSATS, His Excellency Nana Akufo- to the President on the Sustainable Addo Other matters discussed with the Minister Development Goals (SDGs) included: The meeting with His Excellency Nana • COMSATS’ current and future On January 08, 2019, the COMSATS’ Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo was held on proposed activities; delegation met with Dr. Eugene Owusu, 8th January 2019 at Jubilee House, Accra. • MESTI’s participation in COMSATS’ Special Advisor to the President on the Also present during the meeting were programmes; Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). the Minister for Environment, Science, • Nomination of COMSATS’ New Focal The Executive Director informed Dr. Technology and Innovation (MESTI), Person at MESTI, Mr. Oliver Boachie Owusu that COMSATS is actively Ghana; Consulate General for Pakistan (Special Advisor to the Minister) pursuing the UN Sustainable Development in Ghana; and high-level officials from was nominated as COMSATS’s Focal Goals and has planned a number of the President’s office, Ministry of Foreign person for COMSATS at MESTI; activities in near future. Among other Affairs & Regional Integration – Ghana, • Participation of CSIR in Coordinating points of discussions, it was emphasized and Council for Scientific and Industrial Council; that participation of Ghana in the CCCS Research (CSIR) – Ghana. • Setting up an institution in Ghana. initiative dealing with key areas of climate change and sustainable development To acquaint the Chairperson with Amb. Kamal delineated on COMSATS’ would be a valuable source of strength for COMSATS’ recent activities, and projects recent engagements with different bodies COMSATS. and programmes, Dr. Zaidi made a under United Nations for strengthening presentation highlighting COMSATS’ on- the organization’s network to better Dr. Owusu showed keen interest in going programmes and future aspirations pursue sustainable development of COMSATS’ activities and expressed having a bearing on the socio-economic COMSATS’ Member Countries, as well as Ghana’s interest in joining CCCS and uplift of the developing countries. COMSATS’ activities towards Sustainable participate in its future activities. He also Development Goals (SDGs). assured his support towards COMSATS In connection with His Excellency’s vision
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 75 for Ghana’s progress and development, and Road Research Institute); CSIR-CRI developed clarity on matters relating to: Dr. Zaidi offered COMSATS’ platform (Crops Research Institute); CSIR-FRI COMSATS-CSIR relationship; follow ups for initiating specific projects in Ghana in (Food Research Institute); CSIR-FORIG on meeting with the President of Ghana; accordance with the country’s needs and (Forestry Research Institute of Ghana); future collaborations; and participation priorities. CSIR-IIR (Institute of Industrial Research); in the upcoming Coordinating Council CSIR-INSTI; CSIR-OPRI (Oil Palm Meeting. The President was briefed on COMSATS’ Research Institute); CSIR-PGRRI (Plant Centre for Climate & Sustainability Genetic Resources Research Institute); Mr. Surv Daniel Asenso-Gyambibi, (CCCS), by Ambassador (R) Shahid CSIR-SRI (Soil Research Institute); CSIR- Director, Building and Road Research Kamal. Mr. Kamal encouraged Ghana’s STEPRI (Science and Technology Policy Institute (BRRI) of CSIR was nominated participation in the initiative which Research Institute); CSIR-WRI (Water as the new Liaison Officer for COMSATS currently has the representation of nine Research Institute); and CSIR-SARI at CSIR. member states of COMSATS. Further (Savanna Agricultural Research Institute). discussions during the meeting touched Meeting with Pro-Vice- Chancellor upon: The DG-CSIR gave a detailed presentation University of Ghana about the functions and activities of • Prospects of enhancing COMSATS’ CSIR and its affiliated organizations. The On the same day, COMSATS’ delegation membership especially to African COMSATS’ delegation appreciated the visited the University of Ghana. The countries; R&D activities being carried out at CSIR. premier and largest HEI in Ghana, the • Possibility of setting-up COMSATS University was founded as the University University, R&D centres and CCCS in The session was followed by a meeting College of the Gold Coast in 1948 for Ghana; and with Dr. Agyeman Victor, Director the purpose of providing and promoting • Holding of 4th General Meeting of the General CSIR, at his office where the two university education, learning and Commission (details in Chapter 1). sides discussed the following matters: research. Prof. S. Kwame Offei, Pro-Vice Chancellor of the University received the H.E. Akufo-Addo was appreciative • Nomination of COMSATS Focal delegation. Discussions with the pro- of COMSATS’ undertakings and Person at CSIR; Vice Chancellor included COMSATS’ achievements and reiterated his • CSIR’s participation in the programmes; possible participation in commitment towards strengthening forthcoming meeting of COMSATS Coordinating Council Meeting; and scientific cooperation among developing Coordinating Council; and cooperation in areas of mutual interest. countries. • prospects of future collaboration September 2019 Dr. Zaidi expressed gratitude to H.E. Following the interactive session, the Akufo-Addo for his recommendations and delegation held a brief meeting with Later in September, Dr. S. M. Junaid Zaidi continued support towards COMSATS’ DG-CSIR at his office and discussed and visited Accra to make consultations and mission.
Meetings at CSIR Headquarters
On January 9, 2019, COMSATS’ delegation attended an interactive session at the Centre of Excellence in Ghana, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). During the session, a comprehensive presentation was made by Director General CSIR about the functions and activities of the Institute and its umbrella R&D organizations.
The interactive session was attended by heads/directors of research institutes under CSIR, including CSIR-ARI (Animal Research Institute); CSIR-BRRI (Building
76 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 seek guidance from the Chairperson and platform to coordinate efforts towards The Executive Director thanked the other Ghanaian Government officials, with establishment of high-tech specialized Chairperson and expressed hope that the regard to organizational matters of 4th International centers in cutting edge role and impact of COMSATS and its General Meeting and Accra Forum. technologies, including artificial financial position will further improve intelligence and Robotics, Biotechnology, under the leadership of the President of The meeting with the Chairperson was Genetic Engineering, Genomics, Bio- Ghana. also attended by the H.E. Kwabena Medical Materials, Industrial Bio- Frimpong Boateng, Minister – Ministry Technology, Pharmaceutics, Advanced October-November 2019 of Science, Technology and Innovation Chemicals, Precision Engineering, (MESTI); Dr. Eugene Owusu, Special Nanotechnology, Climate Change, Nano A two-member delegation of COMSATS, Advisor to the President on the SDGs; Mr. Bio Technology, Medical Electronics, comprising Mr. Nisar Ahmad, Deputy R. Kwame Nartey, Hon. Consul General Cyber Security, etc. These centers, it was Director (Systems) and Mr. Farhan Ansari, for Pakistan in Ghana; Mr. Kwabena noted, could lead to the creation of job Sr. Assistant Director (Programmes), O-Appiah, Director Middle East and opportunities, thus helping in poverty visited Accra, Ghana, in connection with Asia, Ministry of Foreign Affairs & alleviation. preparations for the 4th General Meeting Regional Integration, Ghana; Mr. Oliver of COMSATS and Accra Forum on Boachie, Special Advisor to the Minister- The Chairperson was receptive of the Science and Technology for Sustainable MESTI; Ms. Scholastica Nyarko, Assistant propositions. He expressed his desire to Development. Director, Ministry of Foreign Affairs & establish a high-quality research Centre for Regional Integration, Ghana; Mr. Fawaz Artificial Intelligence and to install a Super During the visit, the delegation held Aliu, Executive Assistant, Office of the Computer at Council for Scientific and meetings with the Ghanaian officials, President; and other senior officials. Industrial Research (CSIR), Ghana. including Dr. Eugene Owusu, Special Advisor to the President of Ghana on The Executive Director informed the Further dynamics and format of the SDGs; Mr. Oliver Boachie, Special Advisor Chairperson of COMSATS’ activities since General Meeting and Accra Forum were to the Minister, Ministry of Environment, the January meeting, especially with regard also discussed. The budget and other Science, Technology and Innovation to the General Meeting and Accra Forum, administrative arrangements for the (MESTI); Ms. Adelaide Asante, Ag. and the efforts being made to enhance the meetings were also discussed. Dr. Zaidi Director STI, MESTI; Mr. R. KWAME Membership of the Commission. presented relevant documents for further Nartey, Hon. Consular-General Ghana of action including the draft invitation Pakistan in Accra; Prof. Dr. Victor Kwame The Executive Director delineated on letters of Chairperson COMSATS to be Agyeman, Director General, Council for the concept of Accra Forum that had sent to Commission Members, detailed Scientific and Industrial Research; Mr. developed since the last meeting. It Checklists, etc. Kwabena Appiah, Director – Middle East was noted that the forum can provide a and Asia, Ministry of Foreign Affairs &
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 77 Additional Director General (R&D) of Industrial Technology Institute (ITI), Sri Lanka, also attended the meeting. The Minister was appreciative of COMSATS’ programmes and expressed keen interest in establishing working relations with the Organization. Dr. Zaidi endorsed the Minister’s proposal for the establishment of Science and Technology University in Sri Lanka and affirmed COMSATS’ support towards this project. Both sides also agreed to establish working groups for overseeing the matters related to student-exchange and scholarships offered by Pakistani government to Sri Lankan students.
The meeting at MoSTR was followed by Regional Integration, Ghana; and Mr. Sri Lanka a meeting at ITI where possibilities were Cletus, Office of the President on SDGs. explored for increasing the participation of During the reporting period, two visits Sri ITI in COMSATS’ scientific programmes. Various aspects related to the organization Lanka were undertaken. The February visit The meeting was held with Mr. Amal of the afore-mentioned events were especially focused on sensitization and Dias, Chairman, ITI, in presence of discussed during the meeting. These strengthening cooperation with Sri Lanka senior officials of the Institute. During included inaugural and technical institutions, including COMSATS’ Focal the meeting, COMSATS’ officials were programme, status of participation, Point, the Ministry of Science, Technology informed of ITI’s collaborations with protocol and logistic arrangements, and Research (MoSTR), and Centre of other COMSATS’ Centres of Excellence. publicity, etc. In this connection, the Excellence in the country, Industrial Dr. Zaidi extended COMSATS’ support delegation also took part in the meeting Technology Institute (ITI), while the for upgrading ITI’s laboratories and of the Sub-Committee of Planning December visit also included participation facilitating the collaboration between constituted by MESTI for organizing the in ITI’s biennial congress, among other the Institute and Welcome Laboratories, events. activities. UK. A visit to research facilities of ITI presented to COMSATS’ delegation the Availing the opportunity, the delegation February 2019 potential that the Institute offers for also held a meeting with Maj. Gen. cooperation. (R) Waqar Ahmed Kingravi, High Dr. S. M. Junaid Zaidi, Executive Commissioner of Pakistan in Nigeria Director COMSATS, accompanied by Also during the visit, a meeting was held (concurrently accredited to Ghana) and Mr. Farhan Ansari, Sr. Assistant Director with Pakistani High Commissioner in briefed him about the status of preparation (Programmes), paid a visit to Sri Lanka Colombo, H.E. Maj. Gen. (R) Shahid for the afore-mentioned meetings. from 24th to 26th February 2019. The Hashmat. During the meeting, his support purpose of the visit was to enhance was sought for facilitating cooperation Moreover, on special invitation from bilateral scientific cooperation and explore between COMSATS and Sri Lanka. Dr. Eugene Owusu, Special Advisor to avenues for future cooperation in areas of the President of Ghana on the SDGs, mutual interest. On 26th February 2019, Dr. Zaidi visited COMSATS’ delegation participated in the Sri Lanka Institute of Nanotechnology launch of Global Sustainable Development A meeting with His Excellency Sujeewa (SLINTEC), where he met Mr. Harin de Report 2019, entitled “The Future is Senasinghe, Federal Minister for MoSTR Silva Wijeyeratne, CEO and Dr. Vinitha Now: Science for Achieving Sustainable was held on 25th February 2019. Also Thandani, Research Scientist, SLINTEC. Development” held on 31st October 2019, present during the meeting were Mr. Possibilities were explored for initiating at the United Nations Information Centre, Chinthaka Lokuhetti and Ms. Himali trilateral projects in medicine involving Accra, Ghana. Athaudage, Secretary and Director SLINTEC and two of COMSATS’ Centres (International), respectively, of MoSTR. of Excellence in Pakistan, CUI and ICCBS. Chairman, Acting Director General, and
78 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 December 2019 The State Minister appreciated the China programmes and activities of COMSATS Visiting Sri Lanka for participation in as well as its contributions towards socio- Engagements in China pertained to the ITI’s biennial Research Symposium held economic development of the member 22nd Coordinating Council Meeting in Colombo, COMSATS’ delegation held countries. The matter of ITI’s upgradation hosted by one of COMSATS’ Centres of important sideline meetings. to make it a top-notch research centre in Excellence in China, the Tianjin Institute the developing world was also discussed. of Industrial Biotechnology (April On 18th December 2019, the Executive 2019) and sideline meetings, as well as Director COMSATS, Dr. S. M. Junaid Speaking during the meeting, the Pakistani participation in joint capacity-building Zaidi, held a meeting with Hon. Thilanga High Commissioner highlighted the event (July 2019). Sumathipala, State Minister of Technology ongoing collaboration taking place & Innovation, at his office. Mr. Tanvir between the governments of Pakistan April 2019 Ahmad, Acting High Commissioner of and Sri Lanka, including scholarships, Pakistan in Colombo; Mr. Chinthaka S. expert-exchange, technology transfer, etc. On the sidelines of the 22nd Meeting Lokuhetti, Secretary at the Sri Lankan He assured his full support for facilitating of COMSATS Coordinating Council Ministry of Technology and Innovation; collaborations between COMSATS and the (Chapter 1), a delegation of COMSATS Dr. Radhika Samarasekera, Director government of Sri Lanka. Secretariat and COMSATS University General, ITI; Dr. Ilmi Hewajulige, Additional Director General ITI; and Mr. Farhan Ansari, Sr. Assistant Director (Programmes) at COMSATS Secretariat, were also present during the meeting. During the meeting, the Executive Director informed the participants of the meeting about collaboration between COMSATS and Sri Lanka, and the former’s various projects including COMSATS University Islamabad. He hoped for due participation of Sri Lankan institutions in the upcoming meetings of COMSATS’ organs; the Commission; the Consultative Committee, and the Coordinating Council.
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 79 Advisor (Programmes), and Gen (R) Muhammad Tahir, Advisor (China Desk), visited People’s Republic of China from 14th – 18th July 2019. The purpose of the visit was to participate in two international scientific events on atmospheric aerosol and climate change, organized by ICCES, China (Details on Page 9), as well as to reinforce ongoing collaboration with COMSATS’ focal point and Centres of Excellence in China.
On the sidelines of the symposium, COMSATS’ officials held a meeting with the senior officials of the Bureau of International Cooperation – Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), and the International Centre for Climate and Islamabad (CUI) visited the Tianjin of Pakistan to China, to seek Embassy’s Environment Sciences (ICCES), China, on University of Science and Technology support towards COMSATS’ collaborative 17th July 2019. (TUST) and Embassy of Pakistan in activities with China especially those Beijing, China. under BRI. The Ambassador was Present during the meeting were Mr. Yan appreciative of COMSATS’ ongoing Zhuang, Director, Division of International The senior officials and faculty of TUST collaboration with its Centres of Organizations, Bureau of International received briefing about COMSATS’ Excellence in China, i.e., International Cooperation, CAS; Prof. Zhaohui Lin, programmes and activities as well as Centre for Climate and Environment and Ms. Scarlett Hao, Secretary of proposed initiating faculty/ student Sciences (ICCES) and Tianjin Institute of International Collaboration, ICCES, exchange between TUST and COMSATS Industrial Biotechnology (TIB). China. The two sides discussed bilateral Centres of Excellence. Reciprocally, Prof. international programmes tailored to meet Zhang Aihua, Vice Chairman, TUST, Further, H.E. Mr. Khalid encouraged the scientific needs of COMSATS’ member gave an overview of the academic and COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI) to states. research activities being undertaken by the join the Consortium of CPEC universities University and its umbrella departments. in order to fully benefit from the initiative. It was informed that a Technology Park The University, he added, is well-known has been set up by CAS in COMSATS’ for the research in food sciences, July 2019 host country, Pakistan, in collaboration biotechnology and chemical engineering with the Chinese Ministry of Science and and is conducting 80 innovative projects at A two-member delegation of COMSATS Technology (MoST). Furthermore, the the national level. Besides, it was informed comprising of Mr. Tajammul Hussain, possibility of replication of ChinaPakistan that a thousand foreign, including eleven Pakistani students are studying at the University.
Prof. Aihua was appreciative of COMSATS’ sustainable developmental activities and encouraged COMSATS and CUI to benefit from the opportunities available under Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). During the meeting, both sides pledged to further cooperation with potential support under BRI.
On 19th April 2019, the delegates met with H.E. Mr. Masood Khalid, Ambassador
80 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 Later during the day, the delegation visited Colombian Academy of EXACT, Physical and Natural Sciences, where they met with the Academy’s President, Dr. Enrique Ferero. The meeting resulted in identification of following areas for bilateral cooperation: telehealth, climate education and curricula development. Dr. Ferero also offered his support for setting-up of COMSATS’ Regional Office in Bogota.
COMSATS’ officials also visited Focal Point in Colombia, COLCIENCIAS. Here, opportunities of furthering the collaboration were explored in a meeting with Ms. Sonia Esperanza Monroy and Earth Science Center (ESC) in other Jaswal (Manager Strategic Partnerships). other members of COLCIENCIAS’ member states of COMSATS was also Former Chairperson COMSATS international office. It was communicated discussed. Coordinating Council, Dr. Eduardo that in view of the Colombia’s development Posada who is the director of COMSATS plan (2018-2022), the country is The matter of COMSATS’ membership Centre is Excellence in Colombia, attaching great importance to STI for to the Alliance of International Science International Centre of Physics (CIF), national development. As a result, the Organizations in Belt and Road Region accompanied the delegation for most of COLCIENCIAS, the highest level scientific (ANSO) was also touched upon during the their engagements within Colombia. forum, is being upgraded to Ministry (to meeting (Chapter 3). be renamed as MINCIENCIAS). On 2nd September 2019, a meeting was In order to enhance cooperation held with Ms. Maria Piedad Villaveces, Later, a visit was made to National in academics, it was proposed that Executive Director of Colombian University of Colombia, where the COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI) Association for the Advancement of delegates had discussions on matters of may collaborate with the University of Science (CAAS). Ms. Villaveces showed mutual interest with Dr. Luz Teresa Gomez Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS) great interest in replicating COMSATS (Vice Rector of Research) and Prof. Melba and University of Science and Technology University Islamabad (CUI) model in Libua Cardenas (Director of Office of of China (USTC) for short-term Colombia. External Affairs). visits, mutual exchanges and various collaborative programmes.
COMSATS’ member states and Centres of Excellence were encouraged to avail the various opportunities available under CAS President’s International Fellowship Initiative (PIFI) and ANSO fellowship and scholarship program.
Colombia
A delegation of COMSATS Secretariat, led by Ambassador (R) Fauzia Nasreen, Advisor (SDGs), visited Bogota, Colombia, from 1st to 6th September 2019. The delegation comprised of Ms. Huma Balouch (Senior Assistant Director Programmes) and Mr. Laeeq Hassan
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 81 On 5th November 2019, the delegates met H.E. Mr. Muhammad Hassan, Ambassador of Pakistan, in his office. Pleased to learn about COMSATS’ activities, His Excellency highlighted some key areas, including ICTs, Biotechnology, Nanotechnology, and Artificial Intelligence, in which Tunisia and other member countries of COMSATS could further collaborate. He also proposed jointly establishing a technology park in Tunisia.
Later during the day, COMSATS’ officials visited CERTE and met with its Director General, Prof. Ahmed Ghrabi. During the meeting, Prof. Ghrabi made a presentation highlighting the structure, On 4th November 2019, Prof. Hédi Bel Tunisia activities, achievements, research projects, Hadj Salah, President of the University of international collaboration as well as Monastir, was briefed about COMSATS, A two-member delegation of COMSATS current activities and future programmes as well as the benefits that the University visited Tunisia in connection with the of CERTE. International Workshop on “Agriculture, of Monastir could avail by being a part of COMSATS’ Network of International Food Security and Biotechnology: Role Discussions with Prof. Ghrabi touched S&T Centres of Excellence. Prof. Salah of ICTs”, held from 4th to 6th November upon creating a Network of institutions was invited to visit COMSATS Secretariat, 2019. The delegation comprised of Mr. working in the field of water resources; COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI) Tajammul Hussain, Advisor Programmes, joint capacity-building events with other as well as other renowned universities/ and Mr. Babar Sultan, Protocol Officer. members of COMSATS’ Network; and institutions of Pakistan and other Tunisia availing scholarships offered by COMSATS’ member states in order to On the sidelines of the event, the other COMSATS’ Centres of Excellence. delegation held important meetings explore opportunities of cooperation in the areas of mutual interest. Prof. Salah was at COMSATS’ Centre of Excellence An Agreement of Cooperation was appreciative of COMSATS’ programmes in Tunisia, Water Researches and proposed between COMSATS and CERTE and activities and took keen interest in Technologies Centre of Borj-Cedria for reciprocal exchange of students and student-exchange, faculty development (CERTE), University of Monastir, and the researchers among COMSATS’ member and joint research programmes of Embassy of Pakistan in Tunisia. states COMSATS.
82 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 8. SPECIAL ASSIGNMENTS
• COMSATS Telehealth (CTH) 84
• COMSATS Internet Services (CIS) 86
• COMSATS Science Diplomacy 88
• Scholarships and Sponsorships 91
• Foreign Interns 91
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 83 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. Other than CUI, two COMSATS flagship projects, COMSATS Internet Services and COMSATS Telehealth continue their operations and are being overseen by COMSATS Secretariat. The administration related to graduate students from Member States studying at CUI is also a special assignment of the Secretariat. Some of these foreign students after thorough evaluation were engaged to facilitate in COMSATS’ operations.
COMSATS Telehealth (CTH) Access to Care Magsi under an MoU signed in 2018.
In 2019, telehealth trends show its Focusing predominantly on primary Around 3,000 patient consulted doctors acceptability worldwide especially in the care, CTH provided medical opinions through COMSATS Telemedicine in developed world. More investments are and checkups to patients in five rural the year 2019. Three clinics in Quetta, being made in this area and new tools, Telehealth clinics. The new addition to the Gawadar and Jhelum are currently serving devices and methodologies are being list of rural Telehealth Clinics are BHU all female Outpatient Teleconsultation adopted to provide healthcare to the Pind Sawika in Jhelum District and one needs through female physicians at patients remotely either at their homes established by Baluchistan Research and Telehealth Centre in CIS Islamabad, while or at health facilities based near their Development Foundation (BRDF)/Dr in other two clinics at Gokina and Jhal homes. Pioneer in Telehealth in the region, Najma Ghaffar Hospital (DNGH) at Jhal Magsi both male and female patients COMSATS remains aware about emerging trends in telehealth.
COMSATS Telehealth remained committed to transforming healthcare, specifically by enhancing access to care and making it work better through Telemedicine. COMSATS Telehealth has successfully managed to sustain the Telehealth service by utilizing its own resources with providing benefits to a large number of patients, especially women.
84 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 the other rural site in BHU, Pind Sawika of District Jhelum. Chief Executive Officer (District Health Authority) and District Health Officer of Jhelum District along with other prominent figures of the area were also present during the inauguration.
Learning and Professional Development
Capacity-building of the telehealth staff and general awareness raising activities are the regular feature of CTH.
• Under the Memorandum of benefitted from the service. Owing to the communities located at the right Understanding signed in November success of the Tele-ultrasound facility of bank of the Bunhar River and at 2018, COMSATS and Pakistan CTH, the service has become an important starting of Tilla Jogian mountain Allergy, Asthma and Immunology tool of healthcare for maternal and child range. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Society (PAAIS) conducted an online health. More than 50 percent of all the Chaudhry appreciated CTH and the training in the basic knowledge of Teleconsultations in the year 2019 were role of COMSATS in development of diagnosis and treatment of allergic Tele-ultrasounds. Information Technology and its useful diseases. Through these training, applications in the country. COMSATS and PAAIS utilized the Inauguration of New Centres • Later, on August 30, Mr. Chaudhry Telehealth Platform of COMSATS inaugurated the Telehealth clinic at with the objectives of creating • H.E. Mr. Fawad Chaudhry, Federal awareness on eHealth and its Minister for Science and Technology, importance in capacity building and Government of Pakistan, inaugurated “This is the start of a revolution skill development, training of medical CTH services at Basic Health Unit in health that will unfold in professionals about diagnosis and (BHU), Pind Sawika, District Jhelum, coming days”. treatment of allergic conditions. on 26th August 2019. This clinic is (Fawad Chaudhary Federal The training comprised of series of the thirteenth of the CTH network Minister for Science and clinics and 16th such initiative on five sessions that started on 17th Technology, Pakistan on the whole. Pind Sawika is a town in January 2019. Participants from Jhelum District of Punjab, Pakistan. inauguration of new Telehealth a total of 13 Telehealth clinics, The clinic intends to benefit the clinic) including COMSATS’ BHU Telehealth residents of Pind Sawika and nearby clinics in Gawadar, Quetta, Mardan, Mansehra, Sawabi and Gokina; Dr Najma Ghaffar Hospital Telehealth clinics in Quetta and Jhal Magsi and the Health Centres of Human Development Foundation in Mardan, Islamabad, Zhob and Tando Adam Khan connected online through COMSATS Telehealth platform for the online workshop. During the session Dr Shahid, President PAAIS presented information on the allergy, its causes and an overview about the topics to be covered in upcoming sessions for upgrading the participants’ abilities in allergy cases.
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 85 • Dr Azeema Fareed, Principal Medical Health Camp The camp not only provided medical Officer and CTH focal person at care to the patients but also helped in COMSATS Secretariat, participated Telehealth is providing benefit to the creating awareness about Telemedicine as an invited speaker in the “National community as much and innovatively as and its benefits to the medical community Stakeholder Workshop on Developing possible. Therefore, at the end of the year, and health sector professionals in a National Digital Health Strategy”, COMSATS organized an online medical the area. Having benefitted from the held from 26th – 27th September camp in collaboration with Fauji Fertilizer camp, the locals of Ahmadpur Lumma 2019, in Islamabad. She shared the Company (FFC) and Global Institute for looked forward to more telemedicine practical aspects of operating an Healthcare Quality (GIHQ) in Ahmadpur interventions. on-ground Telehealth setup and the Lumma, a town near Rahim Yar Khan issues and challenges faced that need District of Pakistan. Types of cases presented to be kept in mind while devising a in the medical camp strategy. The workshop was successful The medical camp was organized as part Illness Percentages in integrating national efforts to take of COMSATS’ Silver Jubilee celebrations, the digital health agenda forward on 9th and 10th December, 2019. A Nutritional deficiency 40% as well as developing a plan for population of around 19,000 located Worm infestation 2% a national digital health strategy around the Sona Centre (Ahmadpur Derma Cases 5% guided by WHO/ITU tool-kit for Lumma) where the camp was set-up Urological Cases 4% developing national e-health strategy. mostly comprises of farmer community. Chronic Liver Diseases 2% The workshop was first of the series With only one Government-run Rural to be held by the World Health Health Centre constituting the sole Respiratory Problems 18% Organization (WHO) in collaboration medical facilities in the area, the town Gynae & Obs Cases 3% with the Ministry of National was an excellent candidate for such an Hypertension Issues 10% Health Services, Regulation and intervention. Diabetes Mellitus 8% Coordination (NHRC), Government Constipation 3% of Pakistan. The two-day camp served around two • With a purpose of creating awareness hundred patients from the area seeking Arthritis 5% and interest in telehealth to address medical attention for variety of ailments, the dearth of relevant HR, CTH also including respiratory infections, skin hosted two study tours of the MS problems, joint pains, hypertension and Visitors Health informatics students from the diabetes. The doctors at CTH Centre in COMSATS University Islamabad. Islamabad were linked with the patients All year round, COMSATS Telehealth Groups of more than 10 students to FFC’s Sona Centre set up at Ahmadpur Centre at CIS receives a number of visits visited the Telehealth Centre in May Lumma. A large number of women and interested in witnessing the Telehealth and November 2019. The students children turned up to benefit from the operations. They are generally from the were briefed about Telehealth and how camp, a number of which also suffered partner organizations, potential partners it is carried out at CTH centre. from nutritional deficiencies. including Government officials, NGOs, international organizations etc. This year’s visitors’ list includes Fawad Chaudhary, Federal Minister for Science and Technology; DG Health, KPK province; Senior manager, Rural Support Program Balochistan, officials from Ministry of National Health Services and Regulations and Director Health services, KPK Province.
COMSATS Internet Services (CIS)
COMSATS Internet Services (CIS) is the pioneer Internet Service Provider (ISP) of Pakistan established in 1996. It
86 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 Hurricane™ (On-demand broadband), Prism™ (Website development), Viacon™ (Video conferencing), COM meeting™ (web Conferencing Service) and COMSATS Innovation, IOT. CIS ComClinic™ is a brand name, under which CIS delivers Telehealth service to the people living in underdeveloped and far flung areas of Pakistan. All these processes and procedures are ISO9001:2008 certified.
Data Centers: CIS has well-equipped data centers in Islamabad, Lahore, Faisalabad & Karachi that offers variety of services, including Virtual Private Servers, Domain Registration, Website offers diversified services like Wireless social development and research Hosting, Co-location of Server’s and Rack’s broadband, Domain & web hosting, organizations. space to customers. Hosting services on On-demand broadband, Data Center both Windows and Linux platforms are Services, Video conferencing, Website Since inception, CIS is recognized as offered. CIS has expanded its IT & Data designing and development, Search Engine one of the top rated ISPs in Pakistan. Center infrastructure with state-of-the- Optimization, Virtual Private Servers, CIS’ affairs are managed by a Board art technologies at CIS Technology Park Networking, IT training and internet of Management (BoM) headed by Dr. building, Islamabad, to capture emerging related research facilities. CIS is a self- S.M. Junaid Zaidi, Executive Director opportunities in the data center services sustaining organization which generates COMSATS. The managerial team is space for CIS’ existing and potential its revenues for future development, currently working under the guidance of customers. expansion of programs and other Mr. Nasir Jamal Khan, Chief Operating operational expenditures. Officer. Software Department: CIS has developed/maintained websites for many CIS is currently operating in 19 cities CIS Core and Value-added Services prominent organizations including and has customers belonging to Pakistan army, Pakistan navy, Nova prominent organizations in public and CIS Core Services: CIS has nine core Technologies, Universal Service Fund, as private sectors, well-known national services known as ‘The Colors of CIS’. This well as developed many useful software and international companies and firms, includes Tornado® (Wireless broadband), applications in Java and .Net that can software and business companies, foreign Hawaii™ (Domain, hosting, and VPS) and be used by customers in the billing missions, consulates and embassies, non- COMSpeed™ (Optical Fiber Connectivity). system, helpdesk system and purchasing governmental organizations, universities, CIS’ value added services include management system.
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 87 COMSATS Innovation (IOT Events Academy of Sciences (TWAS). COMSATS Department) Science Diplomacy aims to address the During 2019, CIS participated in the needs of scientists, diplomats, journalists CIS is designing essential needs in the following events in various capacities. and policy-makers to build peace among technology of ICT to combat needs and nations using scientific knowledge and Innovations, Upgrading of conventional • OPF Carnival and Education Expo principles for allowing informed decision technologies with the prospect of futuristic 2019 on January 19, 2019; making. optimization for development and • Marketing Activities at Safa Gold Mall inventions based on “SMART”. CIS IOT from March 22-24, 2019; While COMSATS’ all major operations turns Renewable Energy into SMART • One day marketing activity at and activities pertain to Science concepts by introducing and continuously Islamabad Medical and Dental Diplomacy, some specific activities during improving “One Click” theme. The IOT College, Bara Kahu Islamabad on the reporting period are as follows. team develops Net Metering solutions April 9, 2019; with real-time reports. Other R&D at • International Student Convention and Cooperation with Pakistan’s Foreign CIS is looking into the following IoT Expo 2019 at Lahore on April 17-19, Office’s Science Diplomacy Wing applications: 2019; • Pak China Business Forum Industrial Under a cooperative arrangement • Soil Moisture Detection for Expo in September 2-4, 2019 at Expo recently forged between COMSATS Agriculture and Horticulture; Center, Lahore; and the Science Diplomacy wing of the • Surveillance System development. • Workshop on Final Project Report of Pakistani Ministry of Foreign Affairs, IoT based solutions for WSSCM and the two organizations are planning to ComClinic its implementation plan on November co-organize a Science Exhibition in 19, 2019; collaboration with relevant partners and Activities during the calendar year under • Seventeenth International Conference institutions in Pakistan, including the this head are covered in the earlier part of on Frontiers of Information Higher Education Institution of Pakistan this chapter. Technology” on 16-18 December and COMSATS University Islamabad. 2019. The event, to be held in Islamabad in the Capacity Building near future, would gather universities, COMSATS Science Diplomacy entrepreneurs, industry, R&D institutions Trainings: Comtrain® is a technical and organizations working in a number training service of CIS, under which COMSATS has been engaged in advocacy of fields to exhibit their R&D strengths, technical trainings have been imparted of Science at all levels through its products, services, patents and inventions. to more than 2000 IT professionals different organs, activities of COMSATS and students over the last twenty-three Secretariat as well as other number of With an overarching theme of SDGs, years. These training courses include means. COMSATS Science Diplomacy participation is expected in a number of conferences CCNA, CCNP, Microsoft programme was formally institutionalized fields, including health, higher education, Office, Linux Administration, Window in 2015 after an MoU with The World agriculture, water, energy, food security, TM Administration, ONO recording Hardware, ITIL TM V3 Foundation, PMP TM, Web Development, Java Development and .Net Development.
Bandwidth Growth: CIS’ bandwidth grew from 3.5 GBPS in 2018 to more than 5 GBPS in 2019.
New Nodes: CIS has recently expanded its operations with establishment of two new nodes were launched in Bahawalpur & Abbottabad, and several new PoPs in the coverage areas to provide quality services without interruption.
88 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 and environment. With the diplomatic Fouzia Nasreen, Advisor SDGs, noted that towards identifying the areas of research community and government functionaries over the years, COMSATS has remained which would enhance their industrial as the major target audience, the event cognizant of the soft aspect of cooperation capabilities. This guided activity was would serve as an interface between through Science Diplomacy. She opined essential for high dividends both for the them, academia and R&D institutions that Science Diplomacy framework has business community and academia. to help understand the latter’s potential significant stake in combating challenges in development process, as well as open posed by the fourth industrial revolution. Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador avenues for possible collaboration and She highlighted that various initiatives Fauzia Nasreen expressed that there was commercialization opportunities. of COMSATS and considered the an inextricable nexus between energy, organization devoted to developing more environment, food security and health and Seminar on Science Diplomacy nuanced collaboration among its member the Committee members desired to deal states in the field of emerging technologies. with them in a holistic manner. It would COMSATS in collaboration with the The Seminar attracted members of the be appropriate in her view to constitute OIC Ministerial Standing Committee on diplomatic community, civil society, public sub-groups in these areas who could Scientific and Technological Cooperation and private sector organizations, think analyze various dimensions and make (COMSTECH), Science Diplomacy tanks and academia. recommendations for the Committee’s Division of the Ministry of Foreign consideration. This would enable the Affairs (MoFA), and Pakistan Academy Participation in 3rd Meeting of the Committee to select specific areas where of Sciences (PAS), organized a Seminar FPCCI Bioeconomy Committee held potential existed for the researchers, and on Science Diplomacy at COMSTECH on 27 July 2019 business community with strong positive Secretariat Islamabad, on 27th November impact on the social sector. 2019. Dr. S. M. Junaid Zaidi, Executive Director COMSATS, participated in 3rd Meeting Talk on “Air Pollution in Pakistan” The event was inaugurated by Dr. of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers in Commemoration of the Earth Day Tariq Banuri, Coordinator General of of Commerce and Industry’s Bioeconomy 2019 (22nd April 2019) COMSTECH and featured addresses by Committee held in Islamabad on 27 representatives of the Pakistan Academy July 2019. Speaking at the meeting, Dr. COMSATS, in collaboration with the of Sciences, Division of Arms Control and Zaidi focused on how linkages between American Institute of Pakistan Studies Disarmament DivisionII (ACDIS-II) & universities and industry/business (AIPS) and the Centre for Climate Science Diplomacy of Pakistani Ministry community can spur green economic Research & Development (CCRD) of CUI, of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), Higher growth. He opined that cutting edge organized a consultative dialogue on “Air Education Commission, ECO Science technology was needed for enhancing the Pollution in Pakistan” to observe the Earth Foundation (ECOSF), COMSTECH potential of the private sector which the Day 2019. The main highlight of the event and the Ministry of Climate Change, business community was best placed to was the talk on “Air Pollution in Pakistan: Government of Pakistan. acquire. Commercialization of research Current Scenario and the Way Forward” done in silos at various forums can only by Prof. Dr. Gabriel Filippeli, Director of Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador (R) be achieved if the industry was inclined Center for Urban Health, Department
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 89 of Earth Sciences at Indiana University- Dr. Anjum Rasheed, Assistant Professor Federal Minister for Science and Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI). at Centre for Climate Research & Technology, Government of Pakistan, Mr. Hassan Nasir Jamy, Secretary, Ministry Development (CCRD), COMSATS and explored the possibilities of bilateral of Climate Change, Government of University Islamabad, Director General cooperation between TIB and academic Pakistan, gave a keynote address on the Pak-EPA, Ms. Farzana Altaf Shah, and institutes in Pakistan, establishment occasion. Mr. Nadeem Akbar, Director of American of R&D laboratories through joint Institute of Pakistan Studies, also collaboration as well as training of In the talk on ‘Air Pollution in Pakistan’, participated in the meeting. scientific and technical human resource. Prof. Dr. Gabriel Filippeli appreciated the interest of the government and Talk on South-South Cooperation Talk on Denmark’s Green Transition other stakeholders of Pakistan towards Day and Bilateral cooperation and Sustainable Practices addressing the issue of climate change. between Pakistani and Chinese He stated that air quality varies globally Institutions With a view to learn best practices from from continent to continent and so are the North for creating green economies, a associated challenges. He enumerated the On 12th September 2019, Prof. Jibin Sun talk on “Denmark’s Role in the Promotion negative effects of bad air as: susceptibility delivered a talk at COMSATS Secretariat of Global Climate Sustainability Solutions” to respiratory diseases, reduction in in connection with the United Nations was arranged by COMSATS and the brain cognitive functions, and reduction South-South Cooperation Day. During Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies in the life span of an individual. He also the talk, he underscored the importance (IPD) at COMSATS Secretariat, Islamabad, elucidated the association of particle of SouthSouth Cooperation for achieving on 25th September 2019. Delivered by matter (PM) 2.5 and PM 10 with the excellence in science, technology and H.E. Mr. Rolf M. Hay Pereira Holmboe, diseases of upper and lower respiratory innovation. Ambassador of Denmark to Pakistan, the tract. In addition to funding, Prof. Filippeli considered adequate scientific knowledge His talk also highlighted ways in which and expert programmes mandatory for three-dimensional R&D organization tackling the problem of air pollution. model is facilitating TIB’s mission of achieving biotechnological innovation In connection to the strategic and policy system for the promotion of eco-friendly interventions that could be taken to development of industrial sectors. remedy the situation of air pollution Further, he introduced means through in Pakistan, Dr. Filippeli indicated the which Industrial Biotechnology could following important: Improvement in help achieve United Nations Sustainable fuel standards with lesser sulfur content; Development Goals, in particular 1, 2, 3, 7, phasing out mal practices resulting 9, 11, 13 and 17. in poor air quality incrementally; and incorporation of RETs in the energy mix as During his visit, Prof. Jibin also met a cleaner option that would ameliorate the with H.E. Mr. Chaudhry Fawad Hussain, environment greatly.
talk attracted members of the diplomatic community, academicians, students as well as stakeholders from public and private sector organizations.
In his talk, Mr. Holmboe shared best practices and sustainable solutions that have aided Denmark’s transition towards green economy. He stated that the Government of Denmark has resolved to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and eliminate the use of fossil fuels in automobiles before 2030. In accordance
90 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 with this, Denmark is investing heavily University Islamabad (CUI), Pakistan, has The National Research Centre (NRC), in R&D for finding sustainable solutions a long standing offer of 100 postgraduate Egypt, had offered 05 short-term (1-2 to climate change driven challenges. He scholarships. Recently, CUI has months) postdoctoral fellowships. also noted 50 percent increased growth in reviewed the term and conditions for the ICCBS-Pakistan has also offered five (05) Denmark’s economy since 1990 coupled aforementioned scholarships providing scholarships per year to the member states. with proportional decrease in carbon complete fee waiver, which has made dioxide emissions in the country. The it more convenient for the qualifying Moreover, sponsorships amounting to Ambassador enumerated four aspects he candidates. Twelve 12 students are availing US$ 31500 for a number of different deemed imperative for green transition, these scholarships and are enrolled in MS activities were given to beneficiaries from i.e., energy, water, resources, and cities. In and PhD programmes. Moreover, CUI China, Ghana, Iran, Jamaica, Kazakhstan, this connection, Mr. Holmboe informed (Lahore Campus), in collaboration with Palestine, Pakistan, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, and that Denmark is leveraging the potential the International Centre for Theoretical Sudan. A glimpse at the same is given in of renewable energy sources since 1970s Physics (ICTP), Italy, has offered five (05) the table on the next page. when it became the first country in the additional post-graduate scholarships world to install wind turbines. (Masters of Science in Mathematics) to the Foreign Interns students belonging to COMSATS’ member The Ambassador considered sustainable countries. In this regard, four nominations Started in 2017, the Foreign Interns production and consumption, waste- have been received from Nigeria and programme of COMSATS concluded at to-energy conversion, and effective Tanzania. the end of the calendar year 2019. PhD management of resources important for a students from Cameroon, Ethiopia, country to gain economic competitiveness. The Al-Farabi Kazakh National University Nepal, and Nigeria had been engaged for Mr. Holmboe expressed Denmark’s (KazNU), Kazakhstan, had offered 05 a number of activities aiding COMSATS willingness to assist Pakistan in adopting postgraduate scholarships for COMSATS Secretariat operations during this sustainable practices in various sectors, in Member States. A student from Pakistan is time. These activities included drafting particular, energy and waste management. availing this opportunity, while two more proposals in areas of sustainable socio- candidates belonging to Syria and Iran economic development of the South; Scholarships and Sponsorships have been accepted during the reporting developing ideas for various workshops period. and seminars, and facilitation in event During the last Council meeting, a organization; report writing and research; few Centres of Excellence had offered The Bangladesh Council of Scientific and writing, review and editing services for postgraduate scholarships/postdoctoral Industrial Research (BCSIR), Bangladesh, COMSATS’ publications. fellowships to the students/researchers had offered one (01) postdoctoral belonging to COMSATS’ Member States. fellowship, which has been availed by a The last batch of these interns was bid In this connection, the COMSATS researcher belonging to Nigeria. farewell on 31st December 2019.
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 91 Beneficiaries Facilitated for Activity
Dr. Xiaoling Wang, China Sixth International Conference on Aerospace Science and Engineering (ICASE), Dr. D.D.G.L Dahanayaka, Sri Lanka November 12-14, Pakistan Hafiz Abdur Rehman, Library In-charge (CUI), Pakistan Establishment of “Al-Farabi Corner” at the Junaid Zaidi Library, COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI), November 10-14, Kazakhstan Mrs. H.R.W.M. Dhakshilapk Niyangoda, Sri Lanka 7th International Symposium-Cum-Training Course on Molecular Medicine and Drug Research (MMDR-7), November 4– 7, Pakistan Ms. Seitimova Gulnaz, Kazakhstan 7th International Symposium-Cum-Training Course on Molecular Medicine and Drug Research (MMDR-7)’, November 4– 7, Pakistan Ms. Deepani Upeka Rajawardhana, Sri Lanka 5th International Conference on ‘Agriculture, Food Security, and Biotechnolo- Ms. Negin Fallah Haghighi Seighalani, Iran gy’, November 4– 6, Tunisia Mr. Zayadan Bolatkhan Kazykhanuly, Kazakhstan Prof. Dr. Alexandra Rodkina, Jamaica 2nd International Conference on Applied and Engineering Mathematics-2019 (ICEAM-19), August 27-29, Pakistan Eng. Liang Jing, China 3rd International Workshop on Ion Beam Application and Defects in Nanoma- terials, August 05-07, 2019, Pakistan Hassaan Fayyaz Khan Sipra, COMSATS University Islam- 2nd Summer School on “Geo-engineering the Climate: Impacts and the Devel- abad, Pakistan oping World, August 12-16, China Hassaan Fayyaz Khan Sipra, Centre for Climate Research 18th CTWF International Symposium on Aerosol and Climate Change: Obser- and Development, COMSATS University Islamabad, vations, Modeling & Interactions” (July 15-17, 2019) and International Training Pakistan Workshop on “Atmospheric Aerosol: Observation, Modeling and Impact” (July Dr. Seyed Hossein Mir mousavi, The university of Zanjan, 18-20, 2019), July 15-20, China Iran Dr. Stephen Adu-Bredu, CSIR, Ghana Jawad Shoqeir, AL-Quds University, Palestine Dr. Adekunle Abiodun Emmanuel, Nigeria 06-month Postdoctoral Fellowship at BCSIR, January to June, Bangladesh Prof. Dr. Jamshed Iqbal, CUI, Abbottabad Campus, Paki- 18th Symposium on Purine and Pyrimidine Metabolism in Man, June 12-14, stan France Naveed Satti, Pakistan Conference for media researchers and parliamentarians for capacity-building of the media persons, April 30, Turkey Prof. Ming Zhang, Peking University, China “4th TYAN International Thematic Workshop and 1st African Symposium on “Big Data, Analytics and Machine Intelligence for Financial, Health and Envi- ronmental Inclusion in Developing Countries” , June 3-7, Nigeria Qaiser Nawab, CUI, Pakistan Global forum on Political Parties and Good Governance, May 10-12, China Dr. Farida Tahir, Associate Professor, COMSATS Universi- 2nd Regional Conference on Women in Physics, March 27-29, Nepal ty, Pakistan Jia Jia, China Workshop on ‘Water Resources: Expected Crisis and Strategies of Predomina- Ainur Mussina, Kazakhstan tion’, March 11-12, Egypt Withanage Dona Kushani Mahatantila, Sri Lanka Jiping Wang, China Gloria Imoh Bassey Obioh, Nigeria Siham Yagoub Ahmed Erwa, Sudan Toqeer Ahmed, Pakistan Prof. Dr. Abilov Zharylkassyn, Kazakhstan Pak-Kazak Joint Laboratory for Innovation in Natural Products Research and Prof. Dr. Sultanova Nurgul, Kazakhstan Development, 4-Mar, Pakistan
92 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 Thoughts shared by Outgoing Foreign Interns
Prem Thapamagar Dr. Leonel Javeres Mbah (Nepal) Ntepe (Cameroon)
Chinese Academy of Sciences “Belt Medical Doctor and PhD Scholar and Road” Master Research Fellow at Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Science and Technology COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI), of China (USTC) and graduate in Pakistan ([email protected]) Accounting and Finance under CUI Scholarship Program ([email protected]) I won the COMSATS University Islamabad-The World Academy of Science (CUI-TWAS) PhD Research Fellowship for My enrollment in COMSATS’ Foreign Interns program 3 years 2017-2020. I did my research at neuro-toxicology and had been a significant learning experience for me. I worked environmental Lab, my research was focused on Occupational there as an intern for two and half years while I was still an Health, Geno-toxicology of Organophosphorus compounds undergraduate student at COMSATS University Islamabad. and Neurological diseases in Pakistani and Cameroonian I was the youngest and with the least academic qualification populations. We were able to achieve good research results amongst the interns. But that also meant I had more room to with excellent findings under the supervision of Dr. Syed M. grow and more to gain from this experience. From editing, Nurulain. CUI is a world-class University that provided me proofreading articles to drafting reports on S&T activities; and the enabling environment, equipment and all the required from studying the financial reports of COMSATS to analyzing materials to conduct my research. the funding mechanisms of global funding agencies, I learnt a lot under the mentorship of professionals at COMSATS. I also served as an International intern at the Commission This position also gave me opportunities to learn about south for Science and Technology for Sustainable Development in to south cooperation, triangular cooperation, SDGs, United the South (COMSATS) Secretariat, Islamabad, Pakistan. My Nations Framework, and many more activities/ organizations experience as an intern has allowed me to develop a particular related to sustainable development, which are sure to help me interest in areas such as telemedicine, international relations in my research and career ahead. and cooperation, human resources management and business communication. This opportunity was very rewarding for me I would like to use this opportunity to express my gratitude and unforgettable experience for my career profile. to Dr. S.M. Junaid Zaidi, Executive Director COMSATS, for initiating this internship project and to other COMSATS I thank all the COMSATS’ officials, in particular the Executive officials, especially to Mr. Amanullah Khattak, Ambassador (R) Director, for this wonderful experience. Fauzia Nasreen and Ms. Farhana Saleem for their guidance and support during the period.
Haris Ja’afar Bello (Nigeria)
Assistant Research Fellow at National Mathematical Centre (NMC), Abuja, Nigeria ([email protected])
I am currently doing PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology in the Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI) under the supervision of Dr. Syed Tahir Abbas Shah. My overall experience at COMSATS University and headquarters (as an intern) is all about happiness, good news and inspiration. So many things are worth acknowledging about CUI, COMSATS and Pakistan at large. During my stay at COMSATS Secretariat, I have learned and experienced so many new things. I am proud to have been associated with this great and esteemed institution.
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 93 Anya Augustine Igwebuike Kewani Welay Brhane (Nigeria) (Ethiopia)
PhD Scholar of Mathematics at Lecturer at Department of COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI), Mathematics, Mekelle University, Pakistan (anyaaigustineigwebuike@ Ethiopia ([email protected]) gmail.com) I came to Pakistan to study PhD in Mathematics under In the academic session, 2016/2017, I won an award of The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) and COMSATS PhD fellowship in Mathematics via CUI-TWAS scholarship University Islamabad (CUI) full-time postgraduate fellowship programme to advance the course of my higher education in in 2017. COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI) is among the area of Mathematics at COMSATS University Islamabad. the best Universities in Pakistan founded to meet the vision My stay at COMSATS encompasses great and lots of academic of COMSATS. My research is in the area of mathematical and non-academic activities. The academic activities were modeling and simulation for industrial process under the saddled with coursework, comprehensive exam and intense supervision of a prominent professor in the stated area of research in the field of solid mechanics, particularly in wave research. propagation in micropolar fibre reinforced media. Sequel to this, I was able to get published four research articles in During my internship at COMSATS Secretariat, I have worked international refereed journals with good impact factors in this with different people with different experiences who came from field of Solid Mechanics. different parts of the world. This helped me a lot to improve my communication and team work experiences. Moreover, it was Furthermore, I also had the privilege to work as an intern at during my stay in this wonderful organization that I have learnt COMSATS Secretariat, Islamabad. During the course of the a lot about the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the internship, I was involved in facilitating communications different ways of achieving these SDGs. Furthermore, I have between COMSATS and some aspiring member countries. This obtained a lot of experience on how to develop mutual relations exposed me to gain some experiences in international relations between organizations and beyond. In general, my stay at and administrative skills. In addition, I equally worked with COMSATS gave me an immense experience on international the COMSATS media unit; rapportuering during seminars, organizations and their operations. sourcing and drafting of some ST&D section news articles for Newsletters. Through this COMSATS media unit, I also Finally, I would like to thank all the officials of the COMSATS published a non-math article titled “Democracy: a blessing Secretariat for their cooperation during my stay. turned tsunami” in Pakistan Observer, on April 26, 2018.
In spite of this, my involvement with COMSATS Secretariat was such an awesome one. It enabled me to be among one of the speakers at “COMSATS Seminar marking first UN’s International Day for Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace” in April 2019, where I spoke on the “Role of the youth for sustainable goals.”
Above all, I must say, the whole activities with COMSATS was a positive change that groomed me into becoming a great result oriented personality, especially towards my future endeavors as a mathematician.
94 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 9. PUBLICATIONS AND INFORMATION DISSEMINATION
• COMSATS Newsletter 96
• COMSATS Work on Sustainable Development Goals (October 2019) 96
• Science Diplomacy Booklet (December 2019) 97
• South-South and Triangular Cooperation: COMSATS’ Experience (February 2019) 97
• Tele-health Flyer 97
• Summary of COMSATS Activities (1994-2019) 98
• Flyer of COMSATS Centre for Climate and Sustainability 98
• Accra Forum Flyer 98
• Profiles of COMSATS’ Network of International S&T Centres of Excellence (January 2019) 98
• Print, Electronic and Social Media 98
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 95 Publications and Information Dissemination
Information dissemination through publications is an important means of outreach for COMSATS, which is done through a bimonthly Newsletter, COMSATS’ official website and other publications, apart from other promotional material. From time to time, COMSATS also collaborates with different institutions to bring out joint publications. Dissemination of important information through electronic and social media aides this activity throughout the year.
COMSATS Newsletter member states. The first aims to project important scientific and technological COMSATS Newsletter is a regular advancements that have potential to publication that keeps stakeholders ameliorate the development process, abreast of COMSATS’ activities and especially in the countries of the South. aspirations. During 2019, the 11th Volume The second one tries to highlight similar of COMSATS Newsletter was successfully S&T and R&D potential in member states, completed and 5 issues of the 10th volume especially in development sector. were brought out, thus completing 65 issues of this important information The Newsletter is widely distributed to dissemination tool. all the member countries, COMSATS’ Centres of Excellence and other related Apart from the standard sections covering organizations. Present and past issues of the activities of COMSATS Secretariat COMSATS Newsletter are available for and Centres of Excellence, following viewing and downloading at the following reports were covered as ‘Special Section’: URL: http://comsats.org/?page_id=150. 22nd Meeting of the Coordinating Council; COMSATS-TWAS-TUBITAK Diplomacy. COMSATS Work on Sustainable International Workshop on ‘Learning Development Goals (October about Sustainability, SDGs and Global Opinion Articles included in these issues 2019) Challenges’; and COMSATS-ISESCO- highlighted various aspects of S&T-related INIT-TWAS/TYAN International development and touched on important COMSATS’ undertakings and Conference on ‘Agriculture, Food Security, themes of interest to the stakeholders of collaborations are reflective of and Biotechnology: Role of ICTs’. COMSATS. Broad themes of these articles organization’s firm resolve and were tele-health, bio-economy, science commitment towards its mission achieving In the different issues of volume 11, diplomacy and S&T for development. sustainabile development in the South. A comprehensive reports of the following These articles were: major part of such operations pertain to events were covered under the section ‘Highlights from COMSATS Secretariat’: • Special Economic Zones: Socio- CTH-PIAAS tele-health e-trainings; economic Impact on Pakistan by COMSATS-NRC Workshop on ‘Water Amb. Fauzia Nasreen; Resources: Expected Crises and Strategies • Digital Health – An Overview of of Predomination’; Seminar on ‘The Role COMSATS Member States by Dr. of Youth in the Implementation of the Azeema Fareed; SDGs’; Seminar on ‘Second Belt and Road • COMSATS and Promotion of Bio- Forum: Achievements and Prospects’; economy by Amb. Fauzia Nasreen; 18th CTWF International Symposium • COMSATS’ Experience of Science on ‘Aerosol and Climate Change: Diplomacy by Amb. Fauzia Nasreen. Observations, Modeling & Interactions’; International Training Workshop on The Science Diplomacy aspect of the ‘Atmospheric Aerosol: Observation, information covered in the newsletter Modelling and Impact’; Seminar on majorly comes from the two sections on ‘Pakistan China Industrial Cooperation’; Science, Technology and Development, International Young Diplomats School and S&T and Development news from (IYDS); and Seminar on Science
96 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 capacity-building events organized to was released in December 2019. The South Cooperation, the report focused create awareness, promote networking publication highlighted efforts of on COMSATS’ efforts for strengthening and knowledge sharing, provide solutions COMSATS at various levels for the cooperation within the South through and recommendations for meeting advocacy of science for prosperity, various means and mechanisms such as sustainability related challenges, all in human and socio-economic development institution-building, policy and advocacy, some way related to the 2030 Development among its Member States. The booklet promoting joint research, and facilitating Agenda. was distributed among the members academic and scientific programmes. of the diplomatic community as well COMSATS’ collaborations and A dossier overviewing COMSATS’ as representatives of international and partnerships to this end as well as future programmes and activities addressing national scientific institutions on the aspirations were also one of the features of various goals and targets of SDGs, occasion of COMSATS Silver Jubilee this publication. was brought out during the reporting celebrations at President House, Pakistan. period. The publication specifically The publication is available online at catalogued events and activities in South-South and Triangular COMSATS’ website on the following accordance with the United Nations Cooperation: COMSATS’ URL: http://comsats.org/wp-content/ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) uploads/2019/02/South_South_ and their respective targets. The booklet Experience (February 2019) Triangular_Cooperation_Feb_2019.pdf is available online at the following During the reporting period, a publication URL: http://comsats.org/wp-content/ Tele-health Flyer uploads/2020/02/COMSATS-Work-on- titled “South-South and Triangular SDGs_Booklet_October2019.pdf Cooperation – COMSATS’ Experience” was compiled highlighting COMSATS’ An information leaflet on COMSATS profile on South-South and Triangular Telehealth Programme, one of the flagship Science Diplomacy Booklet cooperation over the span of organization’s projects of COMSATS, was released in (December 2019) existence. 2019. The publication delineated the goals and aspirations of the Programme along A publication on COMSATS’ efforts Along with an overview of the with outlining the achievements since the for Science Diplomacy Programme organization’s structure supporting South- launch of the Programme in 2001. The
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 97 electronic version of the flyer is available of climate change and environmental document has been developed bearing at the given URL: http://comsats.org/wp- sciences. During the reporting period, brief profiles of the network of COMSATS’ content/uploads/2020/02/TeleHealth_ an information hand-out was produced Centres of Excellence. These profiles Flyer.pdf that entailed the rationale, goals, scope provide a quick overview of expertise and aspirations of CCCS. The electronic available, sought as well as the existing Summary of COMSATS Activities version of the flyer is available on the given portfolios of these institutions. (1994-2019) URL: http://comsats.org/wp-content/ uploads/2019/07/Flyer_CCCS.pdf. All twenty-two (22) centres have been A handbook on ‘Summary of COMSATS included in this document with a uniform Activities (1994 – 2019)’ was brought out Accra Forum Flyer format. The document can be accessed as a special publication in connection with at the following URL: http://comsats. COMSATS forthcoming statutory bodies’ In connection with COMSATS org/Publications/Profile_of_COEs_ meetings. The publication was a graphical forthcoming Accra Forum on S&T for January_2019.pdf. representation of COMSATS’ programmes Sustainable Development, a publication focusing on capacity-building events, summarizing the objectives, purpose, Print, Electronic and Social Media scientific exchanges and scholarships impact and outcomes of the said Forum availed. All the twenty-seven (27) Member was brought out. As per practice, the official website States of COMSATS are covered in this of COMSATS was kept updated with document with a homogenous format Profiles of COMSATS’ Network information on various undertakings presenting the statistics and data relating of International S&T Centres of and related aspects of the organization. to various programmes. The information made available on the Excellence (January 2019) website included: announcements, news COMSATS Centre for Climate and reports of all major happenings COMSATS’ Centres of Excellence are of the organization; new and updated and Sustainability - Brochure a major source of technical and human information material; and updated contact resources for COMSATS’ programmes. information of members of major organs COMSATS Centre for Climate & In order to provide ready information of COMSATS. Sustainability (CCCS) was launched in on the background, scope, history, August 2018 as a platform to promote human resources and expertise available The PDF versions of all the publications coordination, advocacy, and regional and in the Network, as well as to encourage of COMSATS including the Newsletters, international collaboration in the area important relevant collaborations, a
98 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 create awareness on the event themes as well as on the mandate and scope of the organization.
A special supplement was also issued on 25th Anniversary of COMSATS highlighting organization’s major achievements, scientific programmes in the developing region as well as international outreach.
COMSATS also published over 20 articles in local journals featuring its various projects and initiatives and highlighting the impact and implications of development-related issues in the Global South. Furthermore, around 10 special Annual Report, Brochure (updated in relevant issues, COMSATS engages articles were published in newspapers December 2019), Flyer (updated in with the local print media by means of as part of COMSATS Silver Jubilee September 2019), Membership Documents important messages and information celebrations. The purpose of such articles (updated in October 2019) and other on the organization. Three major events was to mark COMSATS’ achievements information material were made available of this sort had the participation of over the years in various scientific spheres on the website for easier access. The COMSATS: 70th Anniversary of People’s and development paradigm. electronic copies of other publications Republic of China (October 01), World brought out during the year are also Science Day (November 10) and 144th COMSATS also effectively utilized social available on COMSATS’ website. birth Anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam media platforms to connect to wider (December 25). Advertisements and audience, engage with various state and As part of its advocacy of science and relevant articles in these issues helped non-state actors as well as to increase
Graph representing the growth of followers on COMSATS’ official Facebook Page (Jan-Dec 2019)
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 99 the visibility of COMSATS’ operations breakthroughs, success stories and best During the calendar year 2019, the at various levels. Apart from keeping practices for achieving sustainability by number of followers on COMSATS’ the stakeholders abreast of day-to- all means. These social media handles Twitter and Facebook pages increased day undertakings, COMSATS’ official were also soundly employed to broadcast by 23 and 10 percent, respectively. Twitter (twitter.com/COMSATS_en) information about various scholarships Additionally, modalities are being worked and Facebook pages (https://www. and sponsorships programmes available out to launch the official Instagram page of facebook.com/COMSATSofficial/) with COMSATS Network and elsewhere the Organization in the upcoming year. highlighted recent developments, scientific for the countries of the South.
100 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 10. FINANCIAL AFFAIRS
• Host Country (Pakistan) Contribution 102
• Annual Membership Contribution (AMC) 102
• COMSATS Endowment Fund 102
• Accounts and Audit 102
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 101 Financial Affairs
The major source of financing operations of COMSATS Secretariat is annual contribution of the Government of Pakistan towards running cost of COMSATS Secretariat. The other member states of COMSATS pay Annual Membership Contribution (AMC) towards COMSATS on voluntary basis. The AMC received from member states is kept as ‘Trust Money’ and is spent on activities related to the respective country. In order to have a regular source of financing technical programmes, COMSATS Secretariat created an Endowment Fund of US$ 10.00 million in the 2nd General Meeting of COMSATS, held on 16-17 April 2012 in Islamabad, Pakistan.
Host Country (Pakistan) Country Contribution Amount COMSATS Secretariat begins on 1st July Contribution Name for the (US$) and ends on 30th June of the succeeding period (s) year. The accounts of COMSATS Since establishment of COMSATS in China 2019-20 50,540 Secretariat are audited by a reputed 1994, the Government of Pakistan, being chartered accountancy firm every year. The Jamaica 2017-18, 60,000 audited accounts, along with the auditors’ the host country, is meeting the running 2018-19 & costs of COMSATS Secretariat under 2019-20 report, are submitted to COMSATS the International Agreement signed at Management Committee for endorsement Nigeria 2017-18 & 40,000 and the Coordinating Council for the time of inception. In addition, the 2018-19 Government of Pakistan is also paying approval. Pakistan 2018-19 20,000 Annual Membership Contribution (AMC) towards COMSATS on regular basis since Sri Lanka 2018-19 20,000 The auditors’ report for the financial year the financial year 2013-14. During the Total 190,540 ended on June 30, 2018, approved by the financial year 2019, the Government of Coordinating Council of COMSATS in its Pakistan paid Rs. 40.00 million towards Pakistan, by the then Prime Minister 22nd meeting held on 16-17 April 2019, in running costs of COMSATS Secretariat of Islamic Republic of Pakistan, in his Tianjin, China, is included in this chapter. and US$ 20,000/- as Annual Membership capacity as the Chairperson of COMSATS. Contribution (AMC). During this meeting, the Government The accounts for the financial year that of Pakistan pledged seed money of ended on June 30, 2019, have been audited US$ 1.00 million (Rs. 100 million) as Annual Membership by M/s HLB IJAZ TABUSSUM & Co., its contribution towards the fund and Chartered Accountants. The auditors’ Contribution (AMC) representatives of other member states also report and audited financial statements made pledges to contribute towards the for the year 2019 will be submitted to The Annual Membership Contribution Fund. the Coordinating Council of COMSATS (AMC) received from the member states for approval in its forthcoming meeting of COMSATS on voluntary basis is kept The Government of Pakistan has scheduled to be held on 2-4 March 2020, as “Trust Money” and utilized to support contributed Rs. 10.00 million towards the in Karachi, Pakistan. technical activities and programmes of the fund against its total commitment of Rs. contributing country. During the reporting 100 million (US$ 1.00 million). period, COMSATS received Annual Membership Contributions (AMC) from The contributions received so far have five (05) member states as shown in the been invested in the National Bank of table. Pakistan and total current worth of the fund is Rs. 15.016 million, as on June 30, COMSATS Endowment Fund 2019.
In order to strengthen the financial health Accounts and Audit of COMSATS and to have a regular source of income for technical activities of The accounts of COMSATS Secretariat COMSATS, an endowment fund of worth are managed and maintained as per US$ 10.00 million was created during international practices and in compliance the 2nd General Meeting of COMSATS with the International Accounting & held on 16-17 April 2012 in Islamabad, Financial Standards. The financial year of
102 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 103 104 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019 LIST OF FOCAL POINTS IN COMSATS’ MEMBER STATES
Hon. Architect Yafesh Osman Hon. Fayval Williams Minister Minister Ministry of Science and Technology Ministry of Science, Energy and Technology People’s Republic of Bangladesh Jamaica, West Indies
Hon. Dr. Fawaz Elkarmi H.E. Mr. Wang Zhigang Acting Secretary General Minister Higher Council for Science and Technology (HCST) Ministry of Science and Technology Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan People’s Republic of China H.E. Mr. Askhat Aymagambetov Minister H.E. Dr. Mabel Gisela Torres Ministry of Education and Science Minister Republic of Kazakhstan Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation Republic of Colombia Hon. Mr. Jang Chol President State Academy of Sciences Prof. Dr. Mahmoud M. Sakr Democratic People’s Republic of Korea President The Academy of Scientific Research and Technology H.E. Prof. Saaid Amzazi Arab Republic of Egypt Minister Ministry of National Education, Vocational Training, Higher Education and Scientific Research H.E. Dr. Badara Joof Kingdom of Morocco Minister Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Mr. Bitrus Bako Nabasu, mni Technology Permanent Secretary Republic of The Gambia Federal Ministry of Science & Technology Abuja, Nigeria.
H.E. Prof. Dr. Kwabena Frimpong Boateng H.E. Chaudhry Fawad Hussain Minister Federal Minister Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Ministry of Science and Technology Innovation Islamic Republic of Pakistan Republic of Ghana H.E. Prof. Mahmoud Abu Mowais Minister H.E. Dr Mansour Gholami Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research Minister The State of Palestine Ministry of Science, Research and Technology Islamic Republic of Iran
Annual Report 2019 www.comsats.org 105 Hon. Mr. Fortunato T. De La Peña Prof. Dr. Hasan Mandal Secretary President Department of Science and Technology (DOST) The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Republic of the Philippines Turkey (TUBITAK) Republic of Turkey Hon. Dr. Cheikh Oumar Anne Minister Dr. Peter Ibale Ndemere Ministère de l’Enseignement Supérieur, Executive Secretary Republic of Senegal Uganda National Council for Science & Technology Republic of Uganda H.E. Mr. Abdullahi Godah Barre Minister Prof. Dr. Hussein Abdelrahman Basalama Ministry of Education, Culture and Higher Education Minister Federal Republic of Somalia Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research Republic of Yemen Hon. Dr. Bandula Gunawardana Minister Hon. Prof Dr. Amon Murwira Ministry of Higher Education & Technology Minister and Innovation Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Science Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka and Technology Development Republic of Zimbabwe H.E. Dr. Intisar Sigheiroun Alezein (Ms.) Minister Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research Republic of the Sudan
Prof. Dr. Bassam Ibrahim Minister Ministry of Higher Education Syrian Arab Republic
Hon. Prof. Joyce Ndalichako Minister Ministry of Education, Science & Technology The United Republic of Tanzania
H.E. Prof. Slim Khalbous Minister Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research Republic of Tunisia
106 www.comsats.org Annual Report 2019
COMSATS’ Centres of Excellence
BCSIR-Bangladesh Embrapa Agrobiologia-Brazil ICCES-China TIB-China CIF-Colombia NRC-Egypt
CSIR-Ghana IROST-Iran ICENS-Jamaica RSS-Jordan KazNU-Kazakhstan NMC-Nigeria
CUI-Pakistan ICCBS-Pakistan AQU-Palestine ITI-Sri Lanka IRCC-Sudan UCAD-Senegal
HIAST-Syria TIRDO-Tanzania CERTE-Tunisia TÜBITAK-Turkey
COMSATS SECRETARIAT Shahrah-e-Jamhuriat, G-5/2 Islamabad, Pakistan Ph: (+92-51) 9214515-7; Fax: (+92-51) 9216539 URL: www.comsats.org; Email: [email protected]
COMSATSo cial/ @comsats_en @comsats_en