Nano Science to bring benefits: Atta
By Uzma Babar

ISLAMABAD—Research in Nano science, a cutting edge area is bound to bring countless benefits said Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman, Chairman Higher Education Commission while inaugurating a two-day workshop on ‘Nano Science and Catalysis’ at the Quaid-i-Azam University and jointly organized by the National Centre for Physics and the Chemical Society of Pakistan.
He proposed HEC’s support if QAU established a Centre for Industrial Nano- Material which would cover a variety of materials, including nano-medicines, catalysts, nano-materials for cleaning the environment etc. ‘Such an initiative would forge the nation ahead, ‘he said, adding that, ‘We must not suffer from ‘paralysis from analysis’ and must take such decisions promptly.’
He said that HEC is doing its best in creating a highly qualified faculty in our universities and so far has sent 2500 students to technologically advanced countries for doctoral studies.
He spoke of creating an enabling environment for the returning scholars who have at their disposal grants of upto Rs. 60 lakh for research which can be won in the last year of their foreign studies. In effect it means that Pakistan can have 2500 international linkages with universities with high quality foreign scientists as collaborators.
HEC encourages good research and not a single project for research grants has been rejected due to lack of funds. He said that conditions have been improved immensely so that young people are enthusiastically joining the academia so that they can indulge their love for research and discovery. The online journals and e-book, video conferencing facilities in most universities as well as the countless opportunities for further studies have created excitement in the universities.
He spoke of the upgradation of Pakistan Educational and Research Network (PERN) which will result in a huge increase in bandwidth of one gigabit connections to universities. It will also enable an increased access to research networks across the world. Dr Qasim Jan, Vice-Chancellor QAU said that nano science presented a whole new world of small and complex things which is all set to make an impact on our lives. He said that he was sure that the workshop would deliver new concepts which would enhance future industrial growth.