The Pakistan Science Foundation (PSF) and the National Centre for Physics (NCP) held its first one-day Winter Science Camp at Quaid-i-Azam University in which 340 students from 45 educational institutions across the country participated.
The camp was held to motivate and inspire the youth to adopt research careers in high grade science and technology, and educate them about the importance of physics, mathematics, chemistry, biology and allied subjects in pursuit of high tech research and development.
The programme included thematic lectures, visits to NCP’s scientific laboratories, group activities and display of model experiments on science and technology. PSF also organised an exhibition of SandT Models and a Planetarium show for students. The camp was attended by science students from the 14-21 years age group from educational institutions across Pakistan.
Renowned nuclear scientist and former planning commission advisor Dr Ishfaq Ahmad inaugurated the camp. Addressing the inaugural session Dr Ishfaq called upon students to develop a passion for knowledge and transform that into technology for practical use.
He quoted the example of Noble Laureate Dr Abdul Salam, who studied at the Jhang Government College and then Lahore Government College and was recognised around the world for his work. Dr Ishfaq said that Dr Salam in 1970s had suggested a yearly event for young scientists as a result of which the Nathiagali Summer College had been organised for the last 35 years. PSF Chairman Dr Manzoor Soomro said, “Such events are very important for the foundation as they provide an opportunity to renowned scientists and the youth to gather at a platform and interact with each other.”
