The government has announced the establishment of the National Centre for Advanced Materials at Quaid-i-Azam University (QAU), which will be named after the late Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan in recognition of his outstanding contributions to Pakistan’s scientific and technological development.
According to Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, the center will focus on cutting-edge research in aerospace, energy, defense, and other strategic sectors, while also promoting applied research, technical training, and international collaboration.
The minister made the announcement during the inaugural ceremony of the 19th International Symposium on Advanced Materials (ISAM-2025), held at the National Centre for Physics (NCP) in Islamabad under the auspices of the Pakistan Advanced Materials Forum (PAMF).
Paying tribute to Dr Khan, Iqbal said the late scientist played a key role in making Pakistan self-reliant in several critical fields. He added that developing countries like Pakistan cannot afford to remain on the sidelines of scientific progress.
“Science and technology are no longer optional, they are a strategic necessity,” he stated, highlighting that for over three decades, ISAM has connected global experts, fostered innovation, and strengthened scientific collaboration.
Underscoring the importance of materials science, the minister said it lies at the core of global innovation, driving advancements in clean energy, healthcare, environmental sustainability, and defense.
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He noted the growing integration of physics, chemistry, nanotechnology, and artificial intelligence in creating next-generation materials that are stronger, lighter, smarter, and more sustainable.
The five-day symposium brings together leading scientists, engineers, and researchers from around the world to discuss emerging breakthroughs in materials science and engineering.
