Economic self-reliance cannot be achieved without meaningful advancements in science and technology, emphasized Vice Chancellor Government College University Faisalabad (GCUF), Prof Dr Rauf-i-Azam, during an international seminar held at the university on Wednesday.
The seminar, titled “Antiprotozoal Drug Discovery: Risks and Challenges,” was organized by the Institute of Microbiology, in collaboration with the Directorate of International Linkages and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation’s COMSTECH.
Speaking at the event, Prof Dr Rauf-i-Azam underlined the critical importance of international academic collaboration, stating, “Only those nations that invest in knowledge, research, and innovation will succeed in today’s complex global environment.” He added that partnerships between universities are essential for boosting scientific research and finding practical solutions to global health challenges.
A significant milestone of the seminar was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between GCUF and the Centre of Global Network for Neglected Tropical Diseases, which aims to strengthen global research cooperation and combat diseases that have long been overlooked by mainstream healthcare systems.
The seminar’s keynote speaker, Prof Dr Paul William Denny, Director of the Centre at Durham University UK, delivered an insightful address on current advancements and persisting obstacles in antiprotozoal drug development. Dr Denny called for increased international collaboration and funding to fight neglected tropical diseases, which continue to impact millions across developing countries.
The event drew an audience of leading academics and researchers including Dean of Life Sciences Prof Dr Farhat Jabeen, COMSTECH Media Advisor Murtaza Noor, Director of the Institute of Microbiology Prof Dr Hidayat Rasool, and Director of International Linkages Prof Dr Ramzan Saeed. A large number of faculty members and students from the science disciplines also participated.
This seminar marks a strategic step forward in Pakistan’s commitment to contributing to global scientific discourse and addressing health issues that affect vulnerable populations.