Dr. Abdus Salam: the guiding force for modern age ABC CERTIFIED Jan 29, 1926 — Nov 21, 1996 Thematic Edition www.technologytimes.pk Life and work of Prof Dr Abdus Salam Remembering from a personal perspective Prof Dr Abdus Salam work at an intellectually stim- ber 1960 as a delegate from distinguished scientists from technology development is By A Mahmud Faruqui prise: the promotion of phys- technology and materials ex- ulating institution. He made Pakistan to the International the South for the purpose of now much better than it used ics, of the scientific ethos, in ploitation. This view is widely the only choice available to Atomic Energy Agency. This promoting scientific capacity to be. Efforts are being made PROF. DR. Abdus Salam, the science-deficient develop- shared. an inquiring mind and left proposal resulted in his great- and excellence for sustainable to create scientific communi- Pakistan’s most distinguished ing world. “As perhaps the most truly for Cambridge to take up a est achievement – the crea- development in the South”. ties Salam would have liked scientist, did us all proud More than 50,000 re- international of all the scienc- lectureship in mathematics at tion of the ICTP, an institute Prof. Salam also played to see. when he won the Nobel Prize searchers from developed and es, physics has the opportu- the end of 1953. for the underprivileged. a major role in the develop- On November 21, 1996 in 1979. Many of us were developing countries have nity and the responsibility to Dr Riazuddin I believe that this choice ICTP under his “tireless ment of science in Pakistan Professor Abdus Salam almost in a state of ecstasy made their pilgrimage to the continue this flow of benefits ABDUS SALAM was one left a deep impression on and dynamic leadership has in 1960s and early seventies. passed away. He left the mes- when we saw him impecca- to society, and, of the profoundest physicists him. His enforced exile lay touched the lives of so many As the Chief Scientific Advi- sage: “Today the third world bly dressed up in a sherwani, most important, of the last century. Accord- behind his determination to physicists all over the world”. sor to the President of Paki- is only slowly waking up to shalwar and kulah and receiv- to extend them to ing to another Nobel Laure- do something for physicists Among his other initiatives stan (1961 – 1974) he helped the realization that in the fi- ing the coveted award from the very large frac- ate Dirac, the very greatest working in developing coun- for the progress of science to build the scientific efforts nal analysis, creation, mastery the Swedish king at the glit- tion of the world’s scientists in each discipline of Pakistan and to create an and utilization of modern tering Stockholm ceremony. burgeoning popu- are generally unifiers. This institutional framework for Science and Technology is Yet, not many of us are aware lations that have is especially true in physics. this purpose. The Pakistan basically what distinguishes of his scientific legacy - the thus far - for what- “Isaac Newton, Clarke Max- Atomic Energy Commission the South form the North. (UN) International Center ever reason - been well and Albert Einstein were (PAEC) was revitalized with On Science and Technology for Theoretical Physics - that denied them,” D. three great physicists who had the late Dr. I. H. Usmani as depends the standard of liv- he founded and which is Allan Bromley remarkable success in their its Chairman (a bureaucrat ing of a nation. The widening known today as the Abdus notes. (Bromley, quest for unity”. Salam is in with a PhD in Physics who gap in Economics and influ- Salam International Center Allan D., “The line with them “the force that had a passion for science de- ence between the nations of for Theoretical Physics. frontiers of phys- derives a flower is the same velopment) and Salam as its the South and the North is The Center made its debut ics and their roles force as the force that makes active member. During the essentially the Science and in the historic city of Trieste, in society”, Phys- the stars shine. It may sound above period the Space and Technology gap. Nothing else Italy. Tucked away in the ics Scripta, Vol. absurd to a layman, but this Upper Atmosphere Research – neither differing cultural northeast of Italy on the Adri- 19, pp. 204-229, is what the work of Salam, Commission (SUPARCO), values, nor differing percep- atic Sea, Trieste stands on 1979). Weinberg & Glashow (each Pakistani Institute of Nucle- tions of governance – can tree-dotted hills resembling The report working independently) is ar Science and Technology explain why the North (to a sunlit sea-washed amphi- “Physics in Per- all about”. Salam not only (PINSTECH) with 5 MW Re- the exclusion of South) can theater, with the surround- spective” (US Na- left a lasting mark in physics search Reactor, the Nuclear master this globe of ours and ing Carso plateau rated as tional Academy of but also in the hearts of thou- Power Plant near Karachi beyond”. Here he has picked one of the most enchanting Science, Washing- sands of physicists, who owe (KANUPP), Agriculture Re- the most important factor in landscapes in Europe. The ICTP since its inception and ton, DC) strengthens Salam their academic survival and search Centers at Faisalabad our development. Now that city used to be a small Roman have contributed to the main- and Bromley’s view: “Sci- development to the Interna- and Tandojam and Nuclear Salam is gone, it is for each of town under the Caesars, an stream of physics, besides en- ence is knowing. What man tional Centre for Theoreti- Medicine and Radiotherapy us, in our own humble way to independent municipality in riching their own communi- knows about inanimate na- cal Physics (ICTP) in Trieste, Centers at major hospitals, carry further his ideals. the Middle Ages, a flourish- ties at home. ture is physics, or rather the which is now very appropri- the National Science Coun- The author is a former student ing international and trading The discipline of physics, most lasting and universal ately named after him. Very cil and the Pakistan Science of Prof. Abdus Salam, both at center between the West and according to the late Profes- things that he knows make few have the opportunity to Foundation were created. It Lahore and Cambridge, HEC the East after 1700, and an sor Abdus Salam, “is an in- up physics. As he gains more discover a universal law of is during this period that the distinguished national profes- Italian entity since 1918. It is credibly rich discipline ...a knowledge, what would have nature, but still fewer have PAEC embarked on the pro- sor, Fellow of TWAS and a a city of entrancing scenic at- science of wealth creation par appeared complicated or the conscience and ability to gramme of training more than Fellow of the American Physical tractions. It has come to play excellence” because of its im- capricious can be seen as es- found an institute of learn- 500 scientists in the areas of Society. a leading role in a new enter- plicit connection with high ing and research for the un- Dr Salam not only left a lasting experimental and theoretical derprivileged. Salam accom- physics, nuclear chemistry, plished both. mark in physics but also in the hearts health physics, engineering I met Professor Abdus and agriculture. These men Salam for the first time as of thousands of physicists, who by and large constituted Paki- my teacher of Mathematics at owe their academic survival and stan’s major stock of trained Punjab University in Lahore manpower in the relevant dis- almost 60 years ago. He was development to the International ciplines. He helped launch an already a legend in Pakistan. annual ‘International Nathi- Salam went to Cambridge in Centre for Theoretical Physics agali Summer College on 1946, there he excelled equal- Physics and Contemporary ly. His PhD thesis published (ICTP) in Trieste, which is now very Needs’ in 1976 hoping that it in 1951, had an immediate appropriately named after him. would eventually evolve into impact and he was at once a national centre devoted to recognized as a major con- Very few have the opportunity research on the pattern of tributor to the field. ICTP. It did in the form of After a brief visit to the to discover a universal law of NCP. Institute of Advanced Study Yet Salam failed in one of in Princeton, he came back nature, but still fewer have the his lifelong goals, perhaps the to his Alma Mater Govern- conscience and ability to found an one closest to his heart. Near ment College Lahore in 1951 the end of his life he lament- as Professor of Mathematics institute of learning and research ed: “Countries like Turkey and Head of the Department and my own country Pakistan of Mathematics of the Punjab for the underprivileged. Dr Salam have no science communi- University. What he lacked ties geared to development, here was creative milieu, ena- accomplished both because we do not want bling him to interact with fel- such communities. We suf- low scientists working on ex- tries under difficult condi- and technology in the Third fer from a lack of ambitions citing cutting edge problems. tions so that they would not World countries was the towards acquiring science, a Thus his choice was starkly have to make the choice he founding of the Third World feeling of inferiority towards between intellectual death was forced to make. This de- Academy of Sciences (TWAS) it, bordering sometimes even and migration to the West to termination was behind his in 1983 providing “an inter- on hostility.” However, the proposal on 22nd Septem- national forum for uniting environment for science and Dr Salam’s science and technology education vision Atomic Energy Commission entific research at maximum ute to physics and tirelessly ad- Pakistan Science Foundation-PSF, (Ministry of Science & Technology) (PAEC) and Space and Up- level in his country. vocated for the development per Atmosphere Research Dr. Abdus Salam got his of science in Third-World is continuously striving for promotion and popularization of science in Commission (Suparco). He Nobel Prize for Physics in countries. the country. For capacity building and motivating towards adapting was a member of the PAEC, 1979 for his groundbreak- In 1964, Salam founded a member of the Scientific ing research in theoretical the International Centre for “Science” as their future career, PSF in collaboration with British Commission of Pakistan and physics and contribution to Theoretical Physics (ICTP), Council, Islamabad intends to send 3-4 students for participation in Dr Manzoor H Soomro Chief Scientific Adviser to electroweak unification. As a Trieste, in the North-East of Two week duration Scientific Event titled “London International Youth THE 88TH Birth Anniver- the President from 1961 to teacher and science promoter, Italy and served as its director sary of Pakistan’s only Nobel 1974, a position from which Salam is remembered as a until 1993. Salam continued Science Forum-2013” likely to be held in July, 2013 at Imperial College, he played a major and influ- founder and scientific father inviting Pakistan’s scientists Laureate and Science legend London. Prof. Dr Abdus Salam is be- ential role in Pakistan’s sci- of mathematical and theoreti- to ICTP, and maintained a re- ing celebrated on January 29, ence infrastructure develop- cal physics in Pakistan. Salam search programme for the Pa- kistani scientists. Many promi- 2013 not only to pay homage Regular Science students having DoB between 24.7.1991 to 7.8.1996 to his glowing services for Pa- nent scientists, including kistan and the mankind, but Ghulam Murtaza, Riazuddin, may send their applications to undersigned by 18 Feb, 2013 alongwith Kamaluddin Ahmed, Faheem also to renew our commit- Prescribed Proforma available on www.psf.gov.pk. Only shortlisted ment to carry on his Science Hussain, Raziuddin Siddiqui, and Technology Vision Educa- Munir Ahmad Khan, Ishfaq candidates will be called for interview. Decision of the Selection Panel Ahmad, and I. H. Usmani, tion more vigorously for socio- will be final. economic development of the considered him as their men- country. tor and a teacher. In 1997, the scientists at Dr. Salam was a firm believ- PSF will bear all expenditure of selected students for participation in er that “scientific thought is ICPT commemorated Salam the common heritage of man- and renamed ICTP as “Abdus LIYSF-2013. However, partial contribution from the selected students Salam International Centre kind,” and that developing na- will be encouraged. tions should help themselves for Theoretical Physics”. and invest in their own scien- He was the guiding force tists to boost development and for establishing the National reduce the gap between the Centre for Physics (NCP) Global South and the Global on the lines of International Abdul Rauf North, thus contributing to a ment. Salam was responsible heavily contributed to the Centre for Theoretical Physics PSF Coordinator for LIYSF more peaceful world. for not only major develop- rise of Pakistani physics to (ICTP), Trieste, Italy, to pro- ment and contribution in the Physics community in the mote research in Physics and Ph: 9203186 Cell: 0333 5527 581 He was the guiding spirit Email:- [email protected] and founder of Pakistan’s theoretical and particle phys- world. Even until his death, related disciplines in Pakistan, nuclear programme, Pakistan ics, but also promoting sci- Salam continued to contrib- II Dr Abdus Salam: the guiding force for modern age

Ed Note: The images used in this supplement are courtesy of Marie Curie Dr Abdus Salam - Library, The Abdus Salam ICTP, Trieste, Italy, and other web sources. champion of science in the third world By Zakaria Virk as an inspirational mentor, as founded in Trieste, Italy Among the world’s most dis- ecutive Director Muhammad • He selected the site which Did you know: • Hopkins Prize (Cam- a world renowned scientist, as in 1983 by a distinguished tinguished scientists. Fellows Hassan assists the Council in became future home of • Dr Abdus Salam was the bridge University) for THE YEAR is 1956; Profes- the creator of International group of scientists from the are citizens of the South; As- the administration and coor- PINSTECH first Pakistani Muslim to “the most outstanding sor Blackett of Imperial Col- Centre for Theoretical Physics South under the leadership sociate Fellows are citizens of dination of the programmes. • He was Advisor to the Ed- receive Noble Prize. contribution to Physics lege, London was looking for (ICTP) and its guiding spirit The secretariat is located on ucation commission and • Dr Abdus Salam Prize during 1957-1958” someone to fill the position for 30 years and as a champi- the premises of Abdus Salam member scientific commis- for Young Pakistani Sci- • Adams Prize (Cambridge of chairman in the depart- on of science and technology ICTP in Trieste, Italy. sion of Pakistan in 1959 entists is given every year University) (1958) ment of theoretical physics. in the Third World. Since 1986 TWAS has which prepared framework in Pakistan. • Sitara-e-Pakistan for con- One of the selected candi- Prof. Abdus Salam wore supported scientific research for science education. • The International Cen- tribution to science in dates had to appear before many hats. He was an able in 100 countries in the South • He prepared a draft for Is- tre for Theoretical Phys- Pakistan (1959). Professor Temple for a formal administrator, an educator, through a variety of pro- lamic Science Foundation ics he found in 1964 is • First recipient of Maxwell interview who was very fond a respected teacher, a world grammes. More than 2,000 presented at the Lahore now Called Abdus Salam Medal and Award (Physi- of Dr Eddington’s book on statesman, a scientist, and eminent scientists worldwide, Islamic Summit in 1974, International Centre for cal Society, London) astronomy. above all champion of third including TWAS members, single handedly organized Theoretical Physics (1961) During the job interview world causes. peer review proposals free-of- by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. • There is a Dr Abdus • Hughes Medal (Royal So- Prof. Temple asked the can- He established the world charge for research grants, fel- • He assisted in the training Salam Science Institute ciety, London) (1964) didate who did not have a fa- renowned ICTP in Trieste for lowships and awards that are of close to 500 scientists, in the Republic of Benin. • Atoms for Peace Award vourable opinion of the said one reason and one reason submitted to the Academy by engineers and technolo- • There is a street named (Atoms for Peace Foun- book, what did he think of only, that is the scientist in scientists and institutions in gist to study in Europe after him in (Route Ab- dation) (1968) Eddington’s book? The candi- third world could study and developing countries. and USA. Many foremost dus Salam), Bern, Swit- • J. Robert Oppenheimer date replied: I had not read the use modern scientific equip- Contributions to the de- Pakistani scientists got ad- zerland. Memorial Medal and book with the detachment of a ment without migrating to a When Prof Dr Abdus Salam velopment of science & tech- mission in the US univer- • There is a street named Prize (University of Mi- neutral mind. Prof Temple was western country. This is what nology in Pakistan: sities mainly because of his after him (Abdus Salam ami) (1971) very impressed with the reply, he had experienced him- received the Nobel Prize in 1979, • Prof Salam was scientific connections and in many Street), in Maple, On. • Guthrie Medal and Prize and remarked: Young man, self when he had to make a advisor to various Presi- cases he paid for student’s • Abdus Salam Medal is (1976) you should go to the diplomat- choice between looking after he felt that he had won it, not for dents from 1958- 74. In expenses from his own given annually by Third • Matteuci Medal (Ac- ic service. That candidate was a soccer team at Government himself, but for the Third World. this capacity he devised pocket. World Academy of Sci- cademia Nazionale dei Prof. Dr Abdus Salam. College Lahore and doing science policy which laid • Prof Salam was instrumen- ences. Lincei, Rome) (1978) When Prof Salam was research in modern science. As such, he felt that he had no the groundwork for later tal in having shipped used • Pakistan government is- • John Torrence Tate Med- studying in Princeton, New Fortunately he opted for re- critical scientific develop- books, science journals sued a Rs 2.00 stamp on al (American Institute of Jersey, one day he met Prof search in theoretical physics right to use the prize money for ments. and laboratory equipment Nov 21, 1998 Physics) (1978) Einstein casually on the cam- for which he had to leave his • He was member Pakistan to many universities and • Republic of Benin issued • Royal Medal (Royal Soci- pus of Institute for Advanced beloved Pakistan. personal purposes but that it must Atomic Energy commis- colleges in Pakistan. a postal stamp in Novem- ety, London) (1978) Study. Einstein asked him; When he received the No- be used to further his mission of sion, he prepared a blue- • Founded the International ber 2001. • Nishan-e-Imtiaz for out- what research are you doing? bel Prize in 1979, he felt that print for Nuclear Process- Centre for Theoretical standing performance in Salam replied: I am working he had won it, not for him- development of Science in the ing Plant which was Physics in Trieste, Italy Organizations founded by Scientific projects in Pa- on renormalization theory. self, but for the Third World. turned down by President where hundreds of Paki- Dr Salam: kistan (1979) • Einstein Medal Einstein said I am not inter- As such, he felt that he had Third World. He specially put Ayub Khan stani students have been • He founded ICTP in Tri- ested in that. After a few mo- no right to use the prize mon- • He was Founder, chair- studying higher science (UNESCO, Paris) (1979) aside money to help Pakistan and este, Italy in 1964. • Shri R.D. Birla Award ments Einstein again asked; ey for personal purposes but man of space agency subjects and participating • He founded Third World have you studied my Relativ- that it must be used to fur- called SUPARCO, he was in leading edge research. (India Physics Associa- Pakistani students Academy of Sciences – tion) (1979) ity theory? Salam replied: I ther his mission of develop- present at the launch site After their studies these TWAS in 1985 am not interested in that. ment of Science in the Third in Karachi along with Dr students go back to Paki- • Josef Stefan Medal (Josef • He founded Third World Stefan Institute, Ljubli- These two incidents are World. He specially put aside of the late Nobel laureate the North who either were Usmani when Pakistan’s stan to enrich the lives of Organization for Women proof of the eventful life of money to help Pakistan and Abdus Salam It was officially born in the South or have first rocket Rahbar I was future bright students. jana) (1980) in Science- TWOWS • Gold Medal for Out- Prof Dr Abdus Salam, first Pakistani students. launched by the then-secre- made significant contribu- fired into space around • Started the International • He founded Third World Muslim and Pakistani scien- tary general of the United Na- tions to the advancement of 1961 Nathiagali Summer Col- standing Contributions Third World Academy of Network for Scientific to Physics (Czechoslovak tist who won the Noble prize Sciences tions, Javier Perez de Cuellar, science in the South. About • He assisted in the pur- lege which has been taking Organizations -TWNSO in 1985. Since its inception, 80 percent of TWAS’s mem- chase of a nuclear reactor place every year for last 28 Academy of Sciences, in physics in 1979. The motto of the Third Prof Sheldon Glashow of TWAS’s operational expens- bership are Fellows represent- from France for KANUPP years. Six Nobel laureates Prague) (1981) World Academy of Sciences es have largely been covered ing some 60 countries in the (Karachi Nuclear Power have lectured there since Awards received by • Lomonosov Gold Medal Boston University, another (TWAS) is Promoting scien- Noble Prize winner, described by generous contributions of South. A Council elected by Plant). its inception. Dr Salam: (USSR Academy of Sci- tific excellence for sustainable the Italian government. members every three years, • Member National Science • It was he who suggested the • Nobel Prize in Physics ences) (1983) Prof Salam as: Abdus Salam development in the South. and I knew each other very The Academy’s more than is responsible for supervising Council, which published establishment of an inde- (Stockholm, Sweden) • Copley Medal (Royal So- TWAS is an autonomous 600 Fellows and Associate all Academy affairs. A small his comprehensive report pendent federal Ministry of (1979) ciety, London) (1990) well. My colleagues will un- international organization, doubtedly recall Abdus Salam Fellows are elected from secretariat headed by an Ex- in 1970. Science and Technology. Continued from page I: sentially simple and in a deep ernment and the hospitable the global war on poverty.” ing. Ambassadors of various country scientists meet their and then resigned, saying centers of learning, peace and sense orderly. And, to under- Triestines. No wonder with Salam countries who drove from peers from the developed were clipped where he had said “An Army General will run harmony. Perhaps the late Dr. stand how things work is to Today, the ICTP serves as at the helm, the ICTP saw Vienna to Trieste in May world with “the minimum the kalima or used an Islamic the UNESCO over my dead Salam wanted to begin with see how, within environmen- an important point of con- a growing multiplicity in its 1986 were pleasantly sur- of restrictions.” To him, the expression. It was Dr. Salam’s body” (K.K.Aziz, 2007). Jhang as a model district. tal constraints and the limi- vergence, a meeting place, programs. Gradually, cover- prised at the enthusiasm and Center is the “only place in good luck that one of the be- Salam died, full of honors However, this was not to tations of wisdom, better to for physicists of all nation- age broadened from funda- confidence among scientists the world” where the uni- lievers did not go to the court and laurels from across the be. The self-destructive trends accommodate nature to man alities. It welcomes scientists mental physics to encompass working at ICTP. Some ac- versal nature of science tran- under Zia’s own laws to get the world, on 21 November 1996, in our society patronized by and man to nature.” from Africa, Asia, North and physics that could be more knowledged their easy access scends geographical and ideo- country’s only Nobel laureate in Oxford. His brother, who the state of which Dr. Salam But the ICTP was con- South America, Europe and relevant to the needs of the to current literature; others logical frontiers. sent to prison for six months of lived in Lahore, asked the himself was a victim engulfed ceived by Salam not so much Australia. For East European developing countries: for in- spoke of the fruitful and in- A Nigerian mathemati- rigorous imprisonment. government if it would like us. Jhang, today is the epi- to create economic wealth in physicists, ICTP is one of the stance, physics of materials tellectually stimulating dis- cian felt that “information ex- A year later in January to provide protocol on the ar- center of sectarian violence in developing countries as to en- only places in the world for and microprocessors, physics cussions they shared with change, focusing particularly 1981, when he was in India, rich their intellectual stock. effective collaboration with of energy, physics of fusion, co-researchers; while some on overviews of major thrust five universities gave him “Salam’s strength is that he the West. Salam thus succeed- physics of reactors, physics of others mentioned a feeling lines of scientific theories, honorary degrees, including believes miracles are possible ed in demonstrating that vari- solar and non-conventional of exhilaration in interacting novel developments, and new the Guru Dev Nanak Uni- provided one goes out and ous interactions of nations energy, geophysics, biophys- with top-notchers in their areas of concentration” are of versity of Amritsar where he helps their way,” Nigel Calder and cultures are no obstacle ics, neurophysics, laser phys- field. A surprised ambassa- especially high quality. The delivered the convocation ad- stated in 1967. Thus, Salam to the brotherhood of man in ics, physics of oceans and dor exclaimed, “We are used Center has been “the biggest dress on 25 January 1981 in remained unruffled when science. In the words of Pro- deserts, and systems analysis. to listening to pessimists and boost to my endeavor to gen- Punjabi, and the university, his proposal for the creation fessor John Ziman of Bristol But the Center did not com- egocentrics when it comes to erate self-consistent fields for on his request brought to Am- of an international center for University, the distinguished mit the blunder (which is all a dialogue with the scientific biological phenomena.” ritsar four of his old teachers theoretical physics got a polite community. The ICTP mood Dr Thomas W. Kephart, who had taught him in Jhang rebuff in UN circles. Some is certainly different.” a physicist from the US, and Lahore. The Prime Min- comments were particularly Twice - during 1986 and described the ICTP as “a ister, Mrs. Indira Gandhi, stinging: “Theoretical Physics 1988-89 - I had the privilege to visionary enterprise now at- invited him to her residence, is the Rolls Royce of sciences render editorial services to the taining many of its goals. The made coffee for him with her - the developing countries ICTP and the Third World research performance at the own hands, and sat on the need only bullock carts.” Academy of Sciences (TWAS) Center and the conferences carpet throughout the meet- Reflecting on his sus- founded by Dr Salam to foster held are making a substantial ing near Salam’s feet saying tained strivings to create the science in developing coun- contribution to international that was her way of honoring center, Salam later recalled: tries. Both the ICTP and the physics,” he conceded. a great guest. Later in his tour “People took it (proposal for TWAS gave a singular fillip to Dr Kephart was convinced of several Latin American ICTP) half-jokingly and many Third World science. that the scientist who visits countries including Brazil, delegations abstained on the According to Dr Julian the Center “gains from both he was received everywhere at vote when it was approved for Cehla-Flores, a biophysicist the scientific and cultural the airport by the head of the a preliminary study. I found from Venezuela, the ICTP experience independently of state. (K.K. Aziz, 2007) out that the idea interested demonstrated “a successful whether he or she is from the In 1986, the Director Gen- the poor countries. What I model of international coop- East or West, North or South, eralship of UNESCO fell va- wanted to do was to give the eration not tried before,” one or from a developed or devel- cant and nominations were rival of the coffin. There was Pakistan. The militant organi- poor a place of their own The ICTP was conceived by which should be emulated in oping country.” solicited. Salam wanted to be no response. He was buried zations Sipah-e-Sahaba and where they would not have Dr. Salam not so much to create other fields of science, but on In his view, the effective- considered and everyone was in Rabwah, at the foot of his its offshoot Lashkar-e-Jhangvi to beg anybody. Why should a regional basis, particularly ness of, and interaction sure that he would be elected. mother’s grave. are centered here. According not a bright youngster in Paki- economic wealth in developing in Third World settings. The between, scientists in the But the rule was that a can- The scientist Dr. Salam to the Jhang police, the Tali- stan have the right to receive transfer of information at developed and developing didate must be nominated had a vision. He wanted to ban and al-Qaeda network is the same stimulating atmos- countries as to enrich their ICTP, he affirmed, is quick, a countries, as with any other by his own country. Paki- bring about a change in the also expanding in Jhang. phere as an Englishman or intellectual stock. Dr. Salam’s false start is timely corrected, human interaction, demands stan nominated Lt. General social and educational sec- We never realized that the an American provided he and the preprints of papers effort by individuals. This Yaqub Khan, a retired army tors of an impoverished soci- vacuum created by lack of edu- deserves it?” Why should a strength is that he believes sent to thousands of research effort is so apparent at the officer. Both Britain and Italy ety. He wanted to change the cation and enlightenment is developing country scientist centers all over the world, are Center and has resulted in offered to nominate Salam culture of backward areas like always filled by ignorance and be confronted with the cruel miracles are possible provided a single contribution to glo- many rewards for all. Its con- if he agreed to become their Jhang by creating opportuni- extremism. Can we still pri- choice of either giving up bal research. genial and intellectual atmos- national. He refused. The Pa- ties for the downtrodden yet oritize the power of discourse physics or the country? one goes out and helps their way. The floating population of phere provides opportunity, kistani general received only intelligent children of the over the discourse of power? A Salam’s unrelenting cam- He remained unruffled when his scientists that passes through and “the scientists who come one vote. A French member, area. He endowed the schools proposition which Dr. Salam paign, later ably supported the ICTP produces results from all parts of the world are when pressed by her Govern- and madrasahs of Jhang with advocated throughout his life! by Italian professor Budinich, proposal for the creation of an “comparable to the best cent- making the most of it,” he ob- ment to vote for the Pakistani hefty grants and scholarships. The writer is a human rights activ- was eventually crowned with ers of research in frontier served. candidate, resisted, protested He envisioned these to act as ist. Coutesy: viewpointonline.net success. In 1962, the General international centre for theoretical sciences, particularly in high- The ICTP created a stir Conference of the Interna- energy physics, condensed when it emerged on the in- tional Atomic Energy Agency physics got a polite rebuff in UN matter physics, nuclear physics ternational scene in 1964. It and to develop a science cul- mote science in Pakistan. The of its “Scientists of Pakistan” (IAEA) approved the creation circles and plasma physics,” he said. has been on the march since. ture in the country. The NCP INSC is an annual meeting series, but these steps are not of the ICTP. Thanks to Salam’s vision and Thanks to the vision and en- started its scientific activities of scientists from all over the enough to acknowledge the “That was the most mo- enterprise, the developing terprise of Professor Abdus on January 27, 1999 and the world to come to Pakistan and contributions and services of mentous day of my life,” Pakistani acted as “a sort of too often committed in less- world has also contributed Salam, the Center has testi- Centre was formally inaugu- hold discussions on different the Pakistani Nobel Laureate. Salam exuberantly declared. one-man multinational cor- developed countries) of ne- to the developed world in fied that the “Rolls Royce” rated by Dr. Ishfaq Ahmad, aspects of physics and science. The government should “I seldom smoke, but I must poration, busily transferring glecting basic frontier physics, the ICTP association. Some of physics, a pressing neces- Chairman, PAEC, on May Even today, the INSC holds take steps to declare January have smoked 50 cigarettes intellectual technology to the such as high-energy physics, course directors from develop- sity of the developed as well 16, 2000. Since its inception, annual meetings and Salam’s 29 as Dr Abdus Salam Day to that day and I went through less developed countries of astrophysics, quantum grav- ing countries - brilliant acade- as the developing countries, the NCP has been organizing student Riazuddin is its direc- carry on the vision of Pakistani a kilo of grapes. At the end of the world.” ity, cosmology, atomic and micians and men of erudition can be mastered by both. The different national and interna- tor since its inception. scientist who won laurels for the debate, 60 hands went up Complimenting the vi- nuclear physics, and math- - have sharpened the percep- ICTP has also demonstrated tional scientific events every Dr. Salam’s alma mater the country and acknowledge in favor - and we had won.” sionary scientist, Nigel Cal- ematics. tion of participants from de- the promise and strength of year in which a large number Government College, La- his services for preparing a bri- In 1964, the ICTP opened der observed that Salam was Such a broadening of the veloped countries. The ICTP, developing country science. of young Pakistani students hore, now Government Col- gade of scientists by providing its doors at Trieste. It was to astonish the “ablest men of program was made simply be- Dr Flores summed up, “has It stands as the unique legacy and researchers participate lege University, also named them scholarships for higher jointly sponsored by the his time and became a leader cause there was not, and still exceeded the expectations of of a distinguished Pakistani - and interact with internation- its mathematics and physics studies at the best institutions IAEA and the United Na- in theoretical physics.... He is not, any other international the founding fathers.” True. a legacy that every Pakistani ally renowned scientists. departments after Dr Salam. of the world. tions Educational, Scientific, was one of the wise men en- institute responding to the Dr Anis Alam, a physicist should be proud of. Another feature of his vi- In 1998, the Government of Dr Manzoor Hussain Somroo and Cultural Organization trusted by the United Nations scientific hunger of develop- from Pakistan, described the The writer the Editor of Pakistan sion was the founding of Inter- Pakistan issued a commemo- currently working as Chairman, (UNESCO), and generously with guiding the application ing country physicists. ICTP as “a second home for Link USA and can reached at national Nathiagali Summer rative postal stamp to honour Pakistan Science Foundation supported by the Italian gov- of science and technology to The effort proved reward- physicists” where developing College (INSC) in 1974 to pro- the services of Salam as part (PSF), Ministry of S&T, GoP. Dr Abdus Salam: the guiding force for modern age III Dr Hassan recalls encounter with Dr Abdus Salam Muslim-Science.Com talked with Dr Mohammed H. A. Hassan, the outgoing Executive Director of the Academy of Sciences of the Developing World (TWAS). While Dr Hassan hopes to continue to remain engaged with TWAS, his retirement is an end of an era for the institution created more than 25 years ago. Remembering those days, Dr Hassan recalls his first encounter with Dr Abdus Salam – one of the most prolific and inspirational scientist ever to have been produced by the developing world – who had a formative influence on TWAS. As Hassan became a regular visitor at Salam’s International Center for Theoretical Physics (ICTP) in Trieste in Italy, he had an opportunity to work closer with Salam. The following is some extract of an interview, taken from Muslim-Science.com. By Dr Athar Osama search from plasma physics to me that he wanted to set up Salam did not agree with it. you describe as the most have begun operations and it citing for the future. The aver- done fairly well in terms of high energy physics and join an Academy of Sciences for His focus was primarily to sup- important accomplishments is our hope that they will be- age age of a TWAS Fellow is getting developed countries HASSAN’S “CALL to duty” a group of Sudanese profes- the Third World and wanted port the individual scientists of TWAS over the last two- come self-sustainable regional 67 today. to collaborate with each other came from Salam in 1983 sors who were very active in me to draw up the structure and build their capacity. The and-a-half decade? coordinators of TWAS’ pro- MS: Kindly explain the idea through exchange fellow- when the latter wrote to him that area. That way I will be and regulations of this insti- most important programme TWAS has grown over the grammes. Right now, these of South–South Research ships. Some of the larger de- to come to Trieste to engage better connected with the tution. We received no fund- that we developed at TWAS, last two and a half decades in centres are particularly active Collaboration. Much of the veloping countries – such as in the creation of The Third rest of the world. He thought ing at all as a result of this. I therefore, was the competitive a number of different ways. in organising conferences, South–South Collabora- India, China, Brazil, Mexico, World Academy of Sciences this transition should be very went back to Khartoum. In grants programme for scien- Today, while the headquarter handling local and regional tion today is in the area of and Pakistan – now offer be- (TWAS). He spent a couple easy for me. Second, he said, 1985, I again got a letter from tists of developing countries. remains at Trieste, it has five logistics for various ex- tween 150-200 fellowships of months researching how if I couldn’t’ do that then I Dr. Salam asking me to come per year through TWAS to academies worked and writ- should write to him and he for a year this time. Dr Salam was other least developing coun- ing a charter for this new one. would look into how he could MS: So, TWAS came into tries. This is one of the big- Before leaving back for his look into how I could visit being as one of Dr. Salam’s simply brilliant at gest South – South Coopera- home country Sudan, Has- Trieste more regularly. In the lasting contributions to the tion initiatives there is and it san sent – on Salam’s behalf morning we met again, and world of science? this. As a Nobel is our hope that it will be- – as many as fifty letters to I told him that it would be come even bigger. However, difficult for me to change my Yes, Dr Salam was a simply Laureate, his stature with regards to actual joint world leaders to fund the op- brilliant at this. He was po- erations of this new organiza- field of work because I loved projects and research there plasma physics. Dr. Salam litically very astute. As a No- was such that he is much less, although there tion. None of those bore any bel Laureate, his stature was fruits. In 1985, Salam called smiled at my suggestion and could call upon Heads is some happening in this said that he thought I would such that he could call upon realm as well. China, for in- Hassan again, this time for Heads of States when he visit- a “longer period” of time, as make that decision. He prom- of States when he stance, through its Africa Ini- ised to arrange for me to visit ed a country. But the respect tiative, is collaborating with a he had found $1.5 million of and love that he commanded funding from Italian govern- Trieste as an exchange scholar visited a country. But number of African Countries and that began a long associa- from the scientific commu- and there are smaller multilat- ment to fund his new acad- nities across the developing emy. tion with Trieste. the respect and love eral groupings such as IBSA world was unquestionable. (India-Brazil-South Africa). Muslim Science (MS): MS: So you became one of They saw in him a champion that he commanded Please tell us how you got those more than 140,000 Many of these initiatives, of their cause and gave him however, have quite limited involved with the Academy scientists from developing that status and he delivered from the scientific of Sciences for the Develop- countries who have visited nationalistic agendas rather in return. His most fruitful than a true multilateral spirit. ing World in the first place? ICTP at Trieste. How did partnership was with Giulio communities across that lead to TWAS? We would like to do more in Mohammed H. A. Hassan Andreotti who was Italy’s For- the developing world this realm. (MAH): After my complet- Well, in 3 months time I eign Minister at the time of ing education, I had a chance was back at ICTP as an ex- TWAS’ creation. These two was unquestionable. MS: Is TWAS creating to visit Italy on a business change scholar for 2 months. gentlemen went along very scientists of the calibre and tour. My friends who worked I became a somewhat regular well, understood each other, They saw in him a influence of Salam? at the university asked me to visitor to ICTP after that. I and did remarkable things TWAS will be happy to visit the International Cen- would spend a month or two together. It was through him champion of their support science policy fellow- tre for Theoretical Physics once every other year at ICTP that Dr. Salam arranged the ships as well. However, we (ICTP) in the nearby Trieste. in the company of other sci- $1.5 million for TWAS. In cause and gave him need to first identify institu- On my way to Milan, I entists from developing coun- fact, there is a very interest- that status and he tions in the developing world stopped over at Trieste. It was tries as well as leading schol- ing story here that could tell that could host these fellows. around 6pm when I arrived ars of the field to recharge you about the nature of their delivered in return Here, I believe, we have a defi- at ICTP. The institution had my batteries and go back to relationship and Dr. Salam’s cit in that there aren’t as many closed but there was light in work in Khartoum – just as political acumen. high quality institutions in the Dr. Salam had predicted. developing world focusing on one of the rooms. I walked MS: What was Dr. Salam’s There are more than 100 Sci- regional centres around the change programmes, straight into the room and I also had a chance to work fellowships and scholarships science policy as there are in vision for TWAS? ence Academies in the world world in Asia, China, Latin and identifying young and between more advanced found myself face to face with closely with Dr. Salam and to today. There were very few in talented scientists from the the developed world. We need get to him better. In 1983, I Dr. Salam fundamentally America, Africa, and the and less developed Southern to develop science policy as a Dr. Abdus Salam who was saw TWAS as an institution the developing world at that Middle East. The Academy region through an extremely the founding Executive Direc- got a letter for him asking countries. The idea of real discipline and the scientific created to serve individuals time. There was hardly any has more than 1000 mem- competitive system. Over and meaningful collabora- tor of ICTP. Dr. Abdus Salam me to come for six months. I country in the developing time, we hope that these re- community need to embrace showed that letter to my uni- – the fellows of the Academy. bers worldwide. There are a tion such as joint research it too. I see TWAS as having asked about my purpose of During my interactions with world at that time that had number of exciting dimen- gional centres will become visit and I told him about the versity administrators who – has not really picked up. multiple roles in the future. him in those early days, we a competitive research grant sions to what TWAS is doing the focal point for south – How would you consider reason for my travel to Italy. because of Dr. Salam’s influ- programme to support scien- south cooperation at the re- First, to serve scientists and ence and good relations with used to talk about a global and I will talk about three of TWAS’ success in promot- scientific community, as it has Dr. Salam suggested that he agenda for TWAS by influ- tists. them. gional level. Second, we are would like to offer two op- them – gave me the permis- ing that? done in the past. And second, encing governments in the MS: What has TWAS First, the regionalisation doing a lot more work with tions to me. First, I should sion to go to Trieste. When young scientists now than we You’ve raised a very impor- to provide advice and service I arrived here, Dr. Salam told developing countries to bet- become today? What would is a new experiment for us. tant observation. We have to the government. try to change my field of re- ter support science. But Dr. These five regional centres used to do and this is very ex- Dr Abdus Salam: a memoir Abdus Salam ICTP’s T/ICT4D By Khalid Hasan grown a beard,” I said. “Yes, Pakistan government showed hman who had been so kind the entire Nobel Prize money the day I was declared a non- serious interest. I asked him as to have driven him around in scholarships for students, lab: It’s all about tech transfer THE STORY is apocryphal Muslim, I decided to follow what his engagements were Ottawa. That was the sort of many of them in his beloved but deserves to be told one ‘ Sunnat-e-Rasool (PBUH)’ and when I found that one of man he was. How many Paki- Jhang. He wanted to be bur- for having visited “Mar- for scientific purposes and more time. Sometime in the and grow a beard,” he replied. his afternoons was free, I sug- stanis would do that? Most of ied in Pakistan and willed coni Laboratory” in Galileo also to determine ionospher- 1960s at a ladies’ soirée all He had come to confer with gested that the embassy chauf- us treat those who serve, be that if he could for some rea- Guest House Trieste Italy in ic effects on satellite naviga- wedded to gentlemen of the the Canadian government feur Mirza Abdul Rehman they cooks or drivers, as sim- son be taken to Pakistan for 2011 to attend one Interna- tion and positioning systems long-departed Civil Service on matters relating to the In- show him around because ply having no existence as hu- burial, his tombstone should tional Workshop on “Wire- (GNSS). of Pakistan - someone men- ternational Centre for Theo- some of the city’s suburbs man beings. But to Dr Salam read, “It was his wish to be less Sensors Networking for The Wireless Commu- retical Physics he had almost were very beautiful. He said such things mattered. buried at the feet of his moth- Environment Monitoring nications Laboratory devel- tioned Dr Abdus Salam and Dr B S Chowdhry how brilliant he was, at which single-handedly established at that would be very nice. On He also told me a Bhutto er.” in Developing Countries”. ops wireless solutions for Attiya Inayatullah is said to Trieste, Italy. He had wanted his return to Trieste, he wrote story. He had resigned as He found no conflict be- ONE OF Prof Abdus Salam’s Full name of this laboratory academic institutions in have asked, “If he is that bril- Chief Scientific Adviser to tween Islam and science, and most enduring quotes is that is “ICTP ARPL-ITU BDT developing countries. They liant, why is he not a CSP?” the Government of Pakistan once said that of the three “Science is the common her- Guglielmo Marconi Wire- organize training activities, Needless to say, even Dr after the National Assembly Abrahamic religions, Islam itage of mankind”. At the less Laboratory” and it was manage projects and carry Salam with all his mathemat- decision. When ZAB pressed was alone in devoting one- Abdus Salm ICTP one feels inaugurated by ICTP Direc- out research to find the best ics and higher physics could him in a meeting to take it eighth of its holy book to urge this concept is more promi- tor Fernando Quevedo and solutions to bridge the digital not have answered that one. back, assuring him that it was a study of nature and to call nent in developing the inter- ITU Secretary General Dr divide. Since 1995, the Wire- Dr Salam was a man of “all politics” and he would on people to reflect. When he national scientific collabora- Hamadoun Touré on 23rd less Communications Labora- astonishing humility. In Vi- change it at an appropri- came to Pakistan after his No- tions. Prof Salam used to say November, 2010. The labora- tory has held some 40 train- enna, which he used to visit ate time, Salam said to him, bel Prize, he met Zia-ul-Haq Science is great because it is tory is boosting ICTP’s train- ing activities attracting more off and on, I once ran into “Write that down for me on and after he had explained common language for people ing programmes on wireless than 1600 participants from him as he was walking across a plain piece of paper, from to him what he understood coming from different cul- communications technolo- all over the world. the rotunda of the Vienna In- Zulfi to Salam, and it will al- about the finality of Prophet- tures. T/ICT4D (Telecom- gies. These programmes have I visited the ICTP over 12 ternational Centre where all ways remain a secret between hood, the General recited the munication/Information been providing much-needed years and during all my stay the UN agencies are housed. the two of us. I will then take kalima, asked Salam to recite and Communication Tech- support in wireless technolo- at ICTP undoubtedly every We shook hands and chatted back my resignation.” Bhutto it also and said, “You are a nology for Development) is gy education to students and one recalls Dr Abdus Salam for a few minutes in Punjabi thought for a moment, Salam better Muslim than I am.” one of such living example. researchers from developing as an inspirational mentor, which he spoke with that de- told me, and replied, “That When Salam was leaving Since 1995, the Wireless countries. as a world renowned scien- licious Seraiki lilt that makes I cannot do; you see I am a Cambridge after his double Lab has held some 50 train- ICTP’s T/ICT4D Labora- tist, as the creator of Interna- the language sound exceed- politician.” tripos, he asked his professor ing activities attracting more tory is divided into two units: tional Centre for Theoretical ingly sweet. After he had gone Dr Salam loved Pakistan and Dr Salam died of a de- for a testimonial but was told, than 2400 participants, from Ionospheric Radiopropaga- Physics and its guiding spirit his way, a friend of mine, who bilitating disease in 1996. He “You should give me a testi- Africa, Asia, Oceania, Eu- tion and Wireless Communi- for more than 30 years and was with me, asked who that though he could have become the loved Pakistan and though he monial that I taught you.” rope and Americas as well as cations Research and Devel- as a champion of science opment. and technology in the Third man was. “Dr Abdus Salam,” citizen of any country he chose, could have become the citizen When he died the Times of from international organiza- I replied, “the Nobel Prize lau- of any country he chose, he London wrote, “The death of tions. Their main interest is Aeronomy is an interdis- World. reate”. “But he was so utterly he never gave up his citizenship never gave up his citizenship Abdus Salam leaves the world in ICT4D: how to use ICT ciplinary field of science that Professor Dr BS Chowdhry is simple, I would never have and all his life he travelled on of theoretical physics without to help the development of deals with the physics and presently working as a Dean guessed,” my friend said. May- and all his life he travelled on that that green passport which has one of its most distinguished academic networks. In par- chemistry of the upper atmos- Faculty of Electrical Electronics be that was another reason he needed a visa for every coun- and respected members. In ticular, they have been work- phere of the Earth and other and Computer Engineering and did not end up as a CSP. green passport which has needed try for years now. addition to his brilliant intel- ing on Long Distance Wire- planets under the effects of has served Chairman Electronics I had briefly met Dr Salam a visa for every country for years In a letter Salam sent to lectual gifts, Salam was a man less Links, Wireless Sensor magnetic fields and electro- Department MUET for 20 years at Multan at that famous an admirer from Karachi of remarkable vision and out- Networks for Development magnetic and corpuscular ra- and Former Director IICT. He is meeting of scientists which now. He donated the entire Nobel some months before he died, standing energy who played a and Low-cost solutions for diation from space. pioneer of two more departments Zulfikar Ali Bhutto called. I he wrote: “Never doubt your major role in developing sci- wireless links setup. Most of The scientists at T/ICT4D viz-a-viz Telecommunication next met him in Canada in Prize money in scholarships for abilities to produce the best ence throughout the world. the activities are organized in Ionospheric Radiopropaga- Engineering and Biomedical 1974 when I was serving at in the world but remember He was deeply concerned collaboration with the Inter- tion Unit study and develop Engineering in the University. He the Pakistan embassy. This students, many of them in his the best will not come with- about the proliferation of nu- national Telecommunication 3D and time dependent glo- is recipient of HEC University was after the National As- hometown Jhang. He wanted to out hard work. As Muslims clear weapons and served on Union-Telecommunication bal electron density models in Best Teacher Award 2001 and sembly decision declaring we have a great heritage to in- many high-level committees Development Bureau (ITU- the ionosphere. One of these National Cultural Award-2002 the Ahmedis non-Muslim. be buried in Pakistan spire us and we should never involved in the promotion BDT). They have collabora- is the NeQuick model that in recognition of achievements in I went to receive him at the forget that great and learned of international peace and tion agreements with organi- has been developed in collab- the field of Engineering Profes- Ottawa airport. At first I did Muslim scholars a few cen- collaboration and in the de- zations in Europe, Asia and oration with the University sion, and Presidential Academic not recognise him because it to be set up in Lahore and me a letter in which he asked turies ago led the world in velopment of peaceful uses of South America. of Graz, Austria. This model Distinction Award (Izaz-e- he had a beard. “You have would have done so had the me to thank Mirza Abdul Re- so many fields.” He donated nuclear energy.” I have also been lucky is widely used internationally Fazeelat) in 2009. Dr Abdus Salam: the guiding force for modern age IV Jan 29, 1926 — Nov 21, 1996 Emulating Dr Salam - a personal journey Dr. Salam preferred to be excellence whose talents and entific community in the de- in his mind during his initial emulate Salam’s example as genius was recognised at the veloping world. years of working in Pakistan. science policy-maker and an highest levels of the scientific He was a child prodigy and Having returned from Cam- institution-builder, I could Pakistani to ‘all’ profession but he was much the signs of his genius and bridge to take up a position touch the lives of hundreds - By Waseem Altaf hours a day in academic work summoned to bestow upon more than that. I have always subsequent influence started at Government College, La- if not hundreds of thousands at Cambridge. During Christ- him the honorary doctor- held a belief that Dr. Abdus very early having secured the hore, Salam quickly discov- - of scientists and engineers PROF DR. Abdus Salam, mas holidays he was invited by ate of science was cancelled Salam’s contributions to the highest marks granted ever by ered that while equipment who fail to realise their po- the first and probably the last Professor Wolfgang Pauli, the because of the warning from Dr Athar Osama world of science policy dwarf Punjab University for his ma- was not a problem for a theo- tential and thus become frus- Pakistani to receive a Nobel 1945 Nobel laureate in phys- the students belonging to those in the field of science triculation examination at the retical physicist, he needed trated in Pakistan and across Prize, preferred to remain ics, who was visiting India, to the right-wing Jamaat-i-Islami I DON’T precisely remem- come to Bombay. He went to to disrupt the function, and ber when Dr. Salam entered itself. There is no doubt that age of 14. He became the sci- much more than a university the Developing and Islamic a Pakistani national all his my life. I am certain that it Dr. Salam was instrumental ence advisor to the President position and some students Worlds. life, whereas a scholar of his was my mother - a science in addressing some of the of Pakistan at the age of 34 to continue his research. This then has led to my stature could have honored teacher and, later, a school most profound questions in and played an extremely in- He needed colleagues with own life-long journey as a any country of the world by administrator - who brought the field of theoretical phys- fluential role in that capacity. whom he could work and dis- science policy analyst, re- adopting its citizenship. He up discussion on Dr. Salam’s cuss his ideas. In Pakistan, he searcher, and advisor and Dr. remained the citizen of a achievements, on family gath- soon felt ‘intellectually lone- Abdus Salam’s example and state which ensured that he erings and on our dinner ta- ly’ and hence unable to work ideals continue to guide this be dishonored posthumously. ble. With that a door opened to his potential. Frustrated at quest. In November 1996 when the in my mind and Dr. Salam being unable to carry on, he One of my biggest regrets great scientist was buried at walked in and thus started a left Pakistan to return back to in life is to have never had Rabwah (renamed Chenab most amazing journey of fas- United Kingdom. the opportunity to meet Dr. Nagar through a Punjab As- cination and reverence to this Later, he realised that this Salam. I have tried to fill sembly resolution passed in remarkable man... was a problem faced by most that void by talking to people 1998)his tombstone read “Ab- As my mother talked more scientists in the develop- who have had the privilege of dus Salam the First Muslim and more about this inspi- ing world who would then meeting him in person and Nobel Laureate”. Needless to rational - almost mythical - become a part of the ‘brain getting to know him through say, the police arrived with a figure, each of us - brothers drain’ and decided to do those who have known him. magistrate and rubbed off the and sister - always felt in awe. something about it. Thus the For Instance, last year I had ‘Muslim’ part of the inscrip- My earliest recollection of a idea of ICTP was born. an opportunity to meet Dr. tion. Now the tombstone major rendezvous with Dr. ICTP offered temporary Salam’s British wife - Dame says the nonsensical: Abdus Salam is when I began read- fellowships to scientists from Louise Johnson - herself a Salam the First Nobel Laure- ing his book “Ideals and Re- the developing world to come former professor of Oxford ate. Unfortunately the State, alities” and really began to get to Trieste for a few months - University who recently died. in this part of the world de- to know the person and his often during holidays at their I have also sometimes won- cides as to who is and who is ideas. Being just under 15 at parent institutions - to work dered how an encounter with not a Muslim. the time, I hardly remember Dr Abdus Salam’s contributions with other talented physi- him would have been. Wheth- The other recipient, the Dr Salam was not a welcome if there was anything in par- cists from the developing and er my mentor would have frail, short statured lady, ticular that I liked about that to the world of science policy dwarf some of the leading scientists taken a liking to his mentee looking after the leprous of personality in his own country. book but needless to say that of the world. This, Salam be- or if I would have found him Calcutta, who adopted the it made an overall impact and those in the field of science itself. lieved, provided the necessary the same or better than I had Indian nationality in 1948, In Lahore, his lecture arranged was a catholic. Mother Ter- only enhanced the reverence There is no doubt that Dr Salam was outlet for their creative tal- always envisioned him. But at the campus of the Punjab I felt for him. ents and provided them with that was never meant to be. esa received a State burial. I am sure that Dr. Salam instrumental in addressing some just the opportunity to vent Regardless, though, Dr. The gun carriage that carried University had to be moved to had a significant influence their frustrations and conse- Salam’s spirit, his example, Mahatma Gandhi and Pandit in enhancing my interest in of the most profound questions in quently remain within their and ideals live on for me - as Nehru’s bodies’ was used to the Senate Hall as certain groups science, generally, and phys- countries. Over the years, they do for millions of others carry Mother Teresa to a serv- ics, in particular. I remem- the field of theoretical physics ICTP has hosted more than he inspired. My own modest ice in Netaji Stadium. Tens of had demonstrated earlier and ber spending hours during 100,000 scientists from all life’s example is a testament thousands of people lined the threatened to murder Dr Salam my early teens reading about around the developing world of the fact that Salam’s influ- streets, for she was an inter- fascinating stuff of science ics but in that he was not He is known to have helped, and has had major influence ence transcends generations nationally acclaimed Indian unique. In fact, his discovery through his personal contacts on the development of theo- going beyond those who have citizen and not an infidel. India for a week and on his the venue was shifted to the fiction - like time travel, cos- return was charge sheeted for hall of National Assembly. In mic worm holes, dark mat- of the electro-weak force that and influence, send more retical physics in the South. personally interacted with When in 1952 Dr. Salam won him the Nobel Prize in than 500 Pakistani scientists In the same vein, Salam cre- him and that his life’s unfin- came to Government College not seeking prior approval Lahore, his lecture arranged ter, gravity, and all - that was before leaving. This shocked to be held at the campus of gradually being explained by 1979 was independently done abroad. He also helped create ated the International Nathi- ished business of bringing sci- Lahore as head of the Math- by two Americans - Glashow a number of institutions such agali Summer College (INSC) ence to the developing world ematics department, he was him as he was used to Euro- the Punjab University, had to physicists like him. Reading pean freedom of movement. be moved to the senate hall Popular Science, New Scien- and Weinberg - who shared as Space and Upper Atmos- in 1974 to promote science in so that they too can partake in refused an official residence. the Prize with him. pheric Research Commission Pakistan. He also founded an activity he once described When in an interview, he re- However, later the Director in the city because certain tist, Scientific American used Public Instruction intervened groups had demonstrated ear- to be among my hobbies. It Yet, it was in the realm (SUPARCO) and Pakistan the Third World Academy of as ‘the common heritage of quested the Education Min- of science policy and institu- Atomic Energy Commission Sciences (TWAS) to help sup- mankind’ will continue until ister Sardar Abdul Hameed and the period of his visit was lier and threatened to murder was also then that I made a treated as leave without pay. Dr. Salam. The University of decision to become a nuclear tion building where Salam (PAEC), among others. port scientists in the develop- it is achieved. Dasti, to look into this prob- touched the lives of millions But Salam’s crowning ing world. Long Live Dr. Abdus lem; the Minister categori- After receiving the Nobel Punjab refused to honor him physicist, though I was ulti- Prize, Dr. Salam came to Pa- with a degree. The Govern- mately dissuaded from doing - including my own - and achievement as a science It is this aspect of Dr. Salam. cally told him that if the job shines like one of the bright- policy-maker and institution- Salam’s scientific career did not suit him, he could kistan. In December 1979, on ment College did not even so by none other than one of Dr Athar Osama is a Science his arrival in Lahore, Pesha- invite him to visit its precinct. Salam’s students - Dr. Pervez est stars of his time. Salam builder is the setting up of and life - one of a science leave. Later Professor Sirajud- was perhaps one of the most International Centre for policy-maker and an institu- Policy Researcher and Consult- din, the Principal asked him war and Islamabad, he was re- Although it was embarrass- Hoodbhoy. ant and a graduate of RAND ceived by junior army officers ing for General Zia, he had But even though I ended influential scientists of the Theoretical Physics (ICTP) in tion-builder - that has most to take charge of the college 20th century - second only Trieste, Italy in 1964 - later re- affected and inspired me Graduate School for Public Policy football team, an assignment who were military secretaries to welcome the great scientist up not becoming a scientist in Santa Monica, CA. He is also to the provincial governors and had to be seen with him myself, Salam remained an to the Great Master, Albert named as Abdus Salam Cent- personally and hence shaped he always resented as it was Einstein, himself - and a true er for Theoretical Physics in my own life choices. I have the founder of Pakistan Innova- against his temperament and and the ‘President’. The con- on TV. However, those sec- idol and a role model. To tion Foundation and the Editor vocation at the Quaid-i-Azam tions of Dr. Salam’s speech me, Salam was a scientist par leader and champion - by a 1997. The preliminary idea long believed - perhaps some- sheer wastage of time for a very wide margin - of the sci- of ICTP was probably formed what naively - that if I could of Muslim-Science.Com. person who would spend 14 University in Islamabad

PAKISTAN COUNCIL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOL OGY

Pakistan Council for Science and Technology (PCST) is mandated to provide advice to the government on science and technology policy National Science, Technology and Innovation issues. For performance of its duties the Council collects national S&T Policy 2012 data through scientific surveys and maintains a databank about S&T/R&D The National ST&I Policy 2012 describes principal aims and objectives under organizations, their budget, manpower and output. It also carries out the broader areas of socio-economic development, human resource analytical studies on important S&T issues and publishes the results in the development, R&D infrastructure, promotion of ST&I in the society and S&T form of S&T Indicators, reports and articles. Besides this for seeking management system and, envisages that achievement of these aims and expert opinions and advice regarding development and application of objectives would help to realize the Vision of the policy which has been stated science and technology in different S&T areas, the Council constitutes as “to achieve the security, prosperity and social cohesion of Pakistan through “Think Tanks” and Expert Committees as and when needed. equitable and sustainable socioeconomic progress using science, technology

and innovation as central pillars of development in all sectors of economic Functions: activity”.  to undertake policy research, organize study groups/task forces, The main focus of the policy is on ST&I Planning and Management Structure, formulate policy proposals, monitoring and evaluation of ST&I policy Human Resource Development, Indigenous Technology Development, for achieving targets for the overall development of science and Technology Transfer & Creation of Absorptive Capacity and International technology in the country. Cooperation as well as R&D Thrust Areas. The prominent features of the  to identify priority areas for research and development keeping in current policy are the proposal of an effective mechanism of policy oversight, view the futuristic developments of science and technology. highlighting innovation as a driver of economic activity, paradigm shift from  to constitute expert committees in various disciplines for supply to demand side and an effort to align ST&I policy with national policies preparation of reports on policies and issues of national importance in other economic sectors. in respect of science and technology. ST&I Planning and Management Structure  to collect, update statistics and maintain database on science and technology potentials of the country. The policy identifies that due to a variety of reasons, S&T Planning and Management  to take measures for effective collaboration among academia, R&D Structure is not functioning in an optimal manner with the result that there is a wide gap in the expectations from and the achievements of the system. organizations and industry for development of indigenous products / technologies. Human Resource Development

 to promote quality R&D culture in the country, evaluation of No policy can be successful on ground unless it is demand-driven and people-centric. national research and development activities including output of Therefore, in the current policy, the highest premium is placed on the quality of human individuals and institutions and to grant awards/incentives thereof . resource and the necessary measures to educate and train them.

 to promote collaboration among national and international Indigenous Technology Development organizations for promotion and capacity-building in science and As there was no real demand from industry, the R&D system of the country is oriented technology and to enter into MoU’s, contracts etc. in this regard. towards the supply side. R&D activity in the industrial sector itself is assumed to be  to participate in national science and technology planning and negligible. This is in contrast to the industrialized countries where the industrial sector is development activities and providing advice on selection of projects a major contributor to the overall R&D effort of the country. Realizing the urgent need,  to promote or implement projects of national importance. to re-orient the public sector R&D organizations to demand-driven research in collaboration with the industry, various measures for the Federal & Provincial  to act the Secretariat of the National Commission for Science and Governments, R&D institutions and industry have been suggested in the policy. Technology. Thrust Areas  any other project of national interest The Thrust Areas include Metrology, Standards, Testing & Quality (MSTQ), Major S&T Councils and R&D Organizations such as Pakistan Atomic Environment, Health & Pharmaceuticals, Energy, Biotechnology & Genetic Engineering, Energy Commission, Council for Works and Housing Research, Irrigation, Agriculture & Livestock, Water, Minerals, Ocean Resources, Electronics, Information & Drainage and Flood Control Research Council (now Pakistan Council of Communication Technologies (ICTs), Space Technology, Materials Science, Nanoscience Research in Water Resources) have been established as a result of work & Nanotechnology, Lasers & Photonics and Engineering. done and recommendations framed by the Council. Recent achievements of the Council include:

 Formulation of the National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy 2012  Evaluation of research output of scientists for grant of Research Productivity Award  Evaluation of productivity and numerical rating of scientists of Pakistan  Establishment of database of S&T manpower and expenditure  Development of Technology Achievement Index and comparative ranking of countries  Provision of nation wide data on science & technology statistics / indicators to UNESCO Institute of Statistics  Establishment of “Women in Science” database  Organization of international conference, “Climate Change: Challenges and Opportunities” “National Science, Technology And Innovation Policy 2012“ was launched  Organization of workshop on "Science & Technology Policies and in a high profile ceremony organized by Pakistan Council for Science & Planning in SAARC Countries” Technology in conjunction with the Ministry of Science & Technology on  Signing of an MoU with NUST to setup Dope Testing Lab November 23, 2012 at Serena Hotel, Islamabad.

Pakistan Council for Science and Technology Shahrah-e-Jamhuriat, Sector G-5/2, Islamabad - 44000. +92 (51) 9204860, +92 (51) 9205157 [email protected], [email protected], www.pcst.org.pk