51st INSC on Physics and Contemporary Needs inaugurated

ISLAMABAD: Chairman of the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC), Dr. Raja Ali Raza Anwar, on Monday inaugurated the 51st International Nathiagali Summer College (INSC) on Physics and Contemporary Needs, reaffirming PAEC’s commitment to scientific excellence, innovation and international collaboration.

Organized by PAEC from July 6 to 18, the prestigious Summer College continues a tradition established in 1976, inspired by Nobel Laureate Professor Abdus Salam’s vision of bringing together scientists from developed and developing countries for meaningful exchange of knowledge and ideas. Over the past five decades, INSC has evolved into a globally respected platform for advanced education, knowledge exchange, and capacity building.

Addressing the inaugural session, Chairman PAEC said the International Nathiagali Summer College remains one of PAEC’s flagship initiatives, reflecting the Commission’s continued focus on research, institution-building and international scientific partnerships.

The College has hosted hundreds of world-renowned scientists, including nine Nobel Laureates, and has trained thousands of young researchers from Pakistan and more than 75 countries. It has made significant contributions to Pakistan’s research ecosystem, particularly in high-energy physics, CERN collaborations, nuclear and accelerator sciences, laser technology, plasma physics and advanced materials research.

The Chairman said the College has continuously evolved with global scientific advancements by embracing emerging disciplines such as artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, advanced manufacturing, and data-driven science. He added that its carefully designed programme bridges fundamental science with emerging technologies and applied research, enabling participants to explore practical solutions in energy, healthcare, agriculture and sustainable development.

The 51st INSC focuses on five multidisciplinary themes covering some of the world’s fastest-growing technological frontiers: Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning; Advanced Manufacturing Techniques; Nuclear Techniques in Agriculture and Biotechnology; Nuclear Techniques in Health and Environment; and Advances in Plasma Science and Fusion Technology.

These focus areas support Pakistan’s efforts to promote artificial intelligence, Industry 4.0 technologies, advanced manufacturing, climate-smart agriculture, biotechnology, healthcare innovation, environmental sustainability, and future energy technologies.

Referring to the rapid pace of global technological transformation, Dr. Raja Ali Raza Anwar said artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, and semiconductor innovation are reshaping the future of energy, healthcare, communication, and industry. He emphasized the need for sustained investment in human capital and research infrastructure, adding that platforms such as INSC provide young scientists with world-class exposure and opportunities for innovation.

Highlighting PAEC’s broader contribution to Pakistan’s socio-economic development, the Chairman said the Commission has consistently harnessed the peaceful applications of nuclear science and technology to improve the quality of life of the people.

PAEC’s six nuclear power plants generate more than 3,500 megawatts of clean, reliable, and affordable electricity, strengthening Pakistan’s energy security while contributing to environmental sustainability. The Commission’s network of 21 Atomic Energy Cancer Hospitals and diagnostic centres provides comprehensive cancer care to nearly 80 per cent of the country’s cancer patients, while PAEC’s agriculture centres continue to develop improved crop varieties, strengthen pest management and promote climate-resilient farming to enhance national food security.

PAEC’s multidisciplinary research and development activities are also expanding national capabilities in artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, semiconductor research and other frontier areas of science and technology.

Concluding his address, Dr. Raja Ali Raza Anwar reaffirmed PAEC’s commitment to scientific excellence, international collaboration, and the continued success of the International Nathiagali Summer College. He encouraged young scientists to embrace innovation, think beyond conventional boundaries, and contribute meaningfully to humanity through science and technology.

Earlier, Scientific Secretary INSC Dr. Rahat Ullah welcomed the participants and briefed the audience about INSC 2026. He said this year’s edition has brought together 45 distinguished scientists from 20 countries across Asia, Europe, North America, South America, Oceania and the Middle East, along with leading Pakistani researchers, industry experts and young scientists.

He added that 300 selected participants will attend INSC 2026 in person, while hundreds more will join the scientific sessions virtually through a live stream arranged by the Higher Education Commission (HEC). The participation reflects the growing international stature of INSC and Pakistan’s expanding role in scientific cooperation and science diplomacy, while contributing to the objectives of the Uraan Pakistan programme through its focus on innovation, human resource development and emerging technologies.

At the end of the inaugural ceremony, Chairman PAEC Dr. Raja Ali Raza Anwar presented commemorative shields to the foreign faculty members and participants of the 51st International Nathiagali Summer College, while Member (Science), Dr. Shakeel Abbas Rofi, presented a commemorative shield to the Chairman PAEC.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026