It gives me immense pleasure and satisfaction toinform you that the Commission on Science andTechnology for Sustainable Development in theSouth [COMSATS] has completed a decade ofsuccessful existence in the field of science andtechnology. More heartening is the fact that itscontinued pursuit of accomplishing its mission ofsocio-economic development in the countries ofthe South has instilled confidence in a largenumber of development organizations, in variousparts of the world, that developing countries canstand on their own feet. This is possible if theycollaborate and share their resources in terms ofskills, expertise, technology and manpower. AtCOMSATS, this approach does not suggestisolation from the developed world. COMSATS hasalso benefited from sharing of knowledge withvarious organizations from the developed worldand its numerous projects have received funding,from time to time, from these organizations.
The publication in your hand ‘Ten Years ofCOMSATS [1994-2004]: A Decade of Contributionsto Sustainable Development through Science andTechnology’ provides an insight into howCOMSATS ef fec t ive ly implemented i t sprogrammes/projects through successful South-South and North-South collaboration. It touchesupon COMSATS achievements in the past tenyears, aimed at improving the lives of peoplethrough the use of science and technology. Thoughthe list of milestones that the Commission hasachieved is long, I would like to especially mention
PREFACE
Ten Years of COMSATS
COMSATS’ two highly successful projects:COMSATS Internet Services [CIS], and COMSATSInstitute of Information Technology [CIIT]. Thesetwo projects have revolutionized the InformationTechnology sector in Pakistan with the provision oftechnical and educational facilities, not only tomajor cities of the country, but to remote areas ofPakistan as well. These facilities are also catering tothe educational/informational requirements ofvarious member countries.
Today the word COMSATS portrays an image of anorganization that has accomplished so much insuch little time. Be it in the field of Information andCommunication-Technologies [ICTs], RenewableEnergy, Water Resources or Bio-Technology,COMSATS has remained in the vanguard, leadingby example for others to follow. What betterrecognition of its services can it get thanaccreditation from the United Nations thatdesignated it as a UN Inter-GovernmentalOrganization [IGO] in the year 2002.
I will not be doing justice if I do not make a mentionof the dedication of the people involved at variousstages during the last ten years, who were behindthe success that COMSATS today can boast of. Mr.Pervez Ahmed Butt, Dr. S.M. Junaid Zaidi, and Mr.Shahzad Hassan Pervez rendered meritoriousservices as Executive Directors of this organizationduring their respective tenures. Mr. Pervez Buttand Dr. S.M. Junaid Zaidi now head COMSATSInternet Services, and COMSATS Institute of
Ten Years of COMSATS
Information Technology, respectively. Engr.Tajammul Hussain, Mr. Ahmed Munir Kabir andDr. Hanif Zauq, also made commendablecontributions as Directors of COMSATS. The list ofour dedicated employees is very long and it isindeed not possible to mention all of them but, atthe same time, I do sincerely acknowledge theiroutstanding contributions to this organization andtheir part in the success of COMSATS. May I heremake a mention of Dr. M.M. Qurashi, Mr. BarkaatAli, Mr. Irfan Hayee, and Mr. Imran Chaudhry fortheir efforts in bringing out this publication at thecompletion of COMSATS ten years of existence.
I am of the firm opinion that COMSATS shallcontinue to flourish in the years to come and beable to further contribute towards improving thesocio-economic conditions of its membercountries. I welcome comments and remarks fromyou which, I believe, shall help us further improveour efforts to bring a healthy change in the lives ofthe people of the developing countries.
Dr. Hameed Ahmed Khan,Executive Director,
COMSATSMar 2000 - May 2003 &
Sept 2003 - To date
H.I., S.I.
Ten Years of COMSATS
MESSAGEH.E. General Pervez MusharrafPresident of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan
I compliment the Commission on Science andTechnology
for Sustainable Development in the South (COMSATS) on
completing a decade of outstanding performance and all
those who have contributed to its success on this
memorable occasion.
I feel that economic globalization and the technological
revolution define the context in which all countries will
have to perform and view Science &Technology with even
more importance than in the past. Technology is also
advancing at a very rapid pace, thus providing an immense
potential for development. However, the fact that such an
immense potential is not being adequately harnessed
threatens to further marginalize the economies of the
majority of developing countries.To put this potential of
Science &Technology for development at the service for all,
it necessitates the transfer of science & technology.This
fact gives a lead as well as challenge to COMSATS.
The Commission has addressed various issues of global
concern in these ten years and considerably contributed to
the overall scientific and technological development of its
member countries. Being the host country to its
headquarters, I take great pleasure to mention here that
COMSATS has been playing a major role in elevating the
socioeconomic status of our country by employing science
and technology through its programmes.
I firmly believe that with such consistent efforts and spirit,
COMSATS will undertake more challenging and
productive programmes in the future for the sustainable
development of all its member countries. I assure
COMSATS of the Government of Pakistan’s full support in
achieving its objectives and wish it continued success in the
future.
Ten Years of COMSATS
1
MESSAGEH.E. Mr. Shaukat AzizPrime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan
It gives me great pleasure to extend my warm felicitations
to the Commission on Science and Technology for
Sustainable Development in the South (COMSATS) on
completing a decade of its existence. COMSATS has
innumerable endeavors and success stories to its credit for
the development of its member countries in general and
Pakistan in particular. I am glad to acknowledge that the
Government of Pakistan has benefited from COMSATS
programmes and projects over the years and that the
Commission has been an important ally to the government
in achieving its national scientific programmes.
It is generally believed that developing human resources in
the South is possible through the utilization of the capacity
present within the Third World, while taking advantage of
assistance provided simultaneously by the North.
Therefore, it is essential for the third world community to
embark upon a programme that envisions science and
technology to resolve some of their most pressing and
burning issues in the coming years. COMSATS has been
playing an active role in this regard, but there is still a great
need to enhance scientific cooperation amongst these
countries.
I also feel that in the age of globalization,our country has to
move ahead in terms of science and technology and
COMSATS has been fulfilling its objectives of bringing
about a sustainable technological revolution in the social
and economic fields in Pakistan.
I am optimistic that this milestone will serve as another
source of inspiration and dedication for the programmes of
COMSATS. It is my ardent hope that COMSATS will
continue to intensify its efforts to promote science &
technology for the sustainable development of Pakistan
and the rest of theThirdWorld nations.
Ten Years of COMSATS
2
MESSAGEMr. Naurez ShakoorFederal Minister for Science & Technology
I would like to congratulate the Commission on Science
andTechnology for Sustainable Development in the South
(COMSATS) on its 10th Anniversary. Its role as an Inter-
governmental Organization of 21 Member States in the
field of Science and Technology is indeed commendable.
Establishment of the Network of S&T Centres of
Excellence and undertaking of a number of projects in the
member countries in such fields as InformationTechnology
and Renewable Energy etc are some of its significant
achievements. In particular, exponential expansion in the
services rendered by COMSATS Institute of Information
Technology (CIIT) and COMSATS Internet Services (CIS)
have set high standards of excellence for others to follow
in Pakistan.A self evident gross turn-over of Rs.832 million
testifies its market credentials.
I am confident that the COMSATS will not only continue to
contribute towards development in the fields of Science
and Technology in the South, but also assist in restoring
South's dignity among the comity of nations. I wish
COMSATS all the success in achieving its mission towards
sustainable socio-economic development by building
indigenous capacities involving judicious use of Science and
Technology applications for pro-poor developments
through South-South and North-South dialogue and
exchange.
Ten Years of COMSATS
3
MESSAGEDr. Ishfaq AhmadSpecial Advisor to the Prime Minister of Pakistan
It is a matter of great satisfaction to note that Commissionon Science andTechnology for Sustainable Development inthe South (COMSATS) has completed a decade of itsexistence.On its tenth anniversary,the Commission,whichwas formed with the objective to promote science andtechnology based on socio-economic development, canfeel proud of the journey it has made to fulfill that mission.
I strongly believe that the progress of the developingcountries lies in their working in close cooperation andrelying on their own strength i.e. in building a collective selfreliance. COMSATS is a unique organization which candevelop a roadmap of identifying key areas where scienceand technology can make impacts on socio-economicdevelopment in the South.This would result in a future ofthe developing countries which will be different from andfar better than their past.
The Commission's list of its own achievements over theyears has remained impressive. It has performedsignificantly in sensitizing its member countries to thecentrality of science and technology in the developmentprocess and the integration of science and technology inthe national and regional developmental plan. Thedevelopment projects and programmes initiated byCOMSATS over the years have been well-defined andfocused in terms of their objectives and results.With suchmeaningful and result-oriented projects at hand, theCommission has deservedly consolidated its position inthe development sector as one of the leadingorganizations.
I hope that the organization's dedication to the cause ofscience and technology will continue to further the socio-economic interests of Pakistan. Once again, I extend myheartiest congratulations and best wishes to COMSATSand its Executive Director for its continued success in thecoming years.
Ten Years of COMSATS
4
MESSAGEProf. Dr. M.H.A. HassanExecutive Director - TWAS, Italy
On behalf of theThirdWorldAcademy of Sciences, it gives
me great pleasure to extend my heartfelt congratulations
to the Commission on Science & Technology for
Sustainable Development in South (COMSATS) on the
occasion of its 10thAnniversary. TheThirdWorldAcademy
of Sciences (TWAS) is proud to associate itself with
COMSATS, an organization that has shown unflagging
commitment to the social, economic and technological
development of its member countries. Indeed COMSATS
has achieved commendable milestones in advancing
scientific & technological development in theThirdWorld.
Developing countries must galvanize their strength and
forge greater solidarity in support of South-South
cooperation in science & technology. The nations of the
Third World must exchange resources, knowledge and
experiences to help them build their scientific capacities.
COMSATS has played a major role in this regard,especially
by strengthening the resolve of the South to harness
advances in science and technology to meet the needs of
development.
The Academy cherishes its strong working relationship
with COMSATS and believes that the Commission will
continue to advance the goal of scientific development in
the South.TWAS shares with COMSATS the common goal
to help developing countries utilize science & technology.
Its programmes for human resource and technological
development have inspired the South to recognize the
importance of science & technology for development. I
wish COMSATS the best of luck in future endeavours.
TWAS looks forward to continuing its close relationship
with the Commission in the coming years.
Ten Years of COMSATS
5
MESSAGEMr. Kh. Zaheer AhmadSecretary, Science & Technology
It is a matter of utmost satisfaction and pleasure for me to
learn that the Commission on Science andTechnology for
Sustainable Development in the South (COMSATS) has
successfully completed 10 years since its establishment in
October 1994. During its productive existence, the
COMSATS has undertaken a number of initiatives in
Pakistan, and internationally.At home, its role for creation
of COMSATS Institute of Information Technology (CIIT)
supported development of highly skilled manpower.
Almost 7,000 students have been enrolled in last two years
at CIIT Campuses.Also,COMSATS Internet Services (CIS)
have provided quality services at competitive prices to
65,000 satisfied customers throughout the country.These
measures tend to generate a considerable goodwill for
beneficial work being done by the COMSATS in aid of
socio-economic development and eventually for reducing
poverty.
Likewise,establishment of Syrian COMSATS-COMSTECH
Information Technology Centre, the CERN-COMSATS
Project on Data Grid Applications and Industrial
Information Network for SME's have contributed to
strengthening of S&T capabilities in our friendly countries. I
am sure that realignment of its strategic focus to promising
fields like Biotechnology, Water Resource Management,
Rural Development etc.the COMSATS would lead the way
for reinforcing its relevance for the peoples of its general
membership in 21 Century and beyond. I wish COMSATS
all the success in its fruitful endeavors.
st
Ten Years of COMSATS
6
MESSAGE
Dr. Gerald C. LalorDirector General, International Centre forEnvironmental & Nuclear Sciences, Jamaica
Over the years we have heard much about South-South
collaboration but, unfortunately, under pressure of other
matters this appears to have had no great success in
science and technology. I believe that COMSATS is one of
the most important avenues for such collaboration and
warmly congratulate the Government of Pakistan and the
COMSATS Secretariat for their steadfast support over the
past 10 years.The task of building is seldom easy anywhere,
but COMSATS has been contributing to the great task of
constructing a basis for socio-economic development
through science and technology, and has gained valuable
experience that can be applied in the near term.
The importance of what must be done increases with each
year and, as the present global situation compounds our
difficulties, so institutions like COMSATS grow in
importance, leading perhaps to greater responsibilities on
members of the network and their supporting
governments,to ensure success.On behalf of ICENS,I wish
the organization a great future and hope that we will all
help bring closer to reality the vision of Abdus Salam, on
which COMSATS was based, for a world in which science
improves the lot of all.
Ten Years of COMSATS
7
MESSAGEDr. Hameed Ahmed KhanExecutive Director, COMSATS
It gives me immense pleasure and satisfaction to express
my feelings on the 10th anniversary of the Commission on
Science and Technology for Sustainable Development in
the South (COMSATS). The last ten years have seen
tremendous development of COMSATS,not only in terms
of its international linkages but also in the scope of its
diverse projects in member countries. Some of these
noteworthy programmes include the ongoing 'ICTs for
Rural Development in Mountainous and Remote Areas of
Northern Pakistan', the 'Data-Grid Applications & Physics
Data-Analysis Programme' and the 'French Online
Distance Learning Programme', which have been initiated
in collaboration with IDRC-Canada, CERN-Geneva and
Alliance Française respectively.
Apart from this, COMSATS is also in the process of
developing the 'Biotechnology Web-portal' for providing
quick access to information regarding institutions involved
in the subject, on-going research projects and available
expertise. The affiliate institutions of COMSATS namely
the COMSATS Institute of InformationTechnology (CIIT)
and the COMSATS Internet Services (CIS) have been
acting as the backbone of several important development
projects of the Commission.They are definitely symbols of
focused efforts to ensure quality education and improved
IT services in Pakistan.
I firmly believe that the success of COMSATS in the last ten
years shall be a source of encouragement and inspiration
for us and our member countries to take even bigger and
more effective strides towards socially developed and
economically stable South through the applications of
Science &Technology.
Ten Years of COMSATS
8
The Commission on Science and Technology forSustainable Development in the South [COMSATS]was established in 1994 for the purpose of socio-economic development in the countries of theSouth, through the application of science andtechnology. The idea behind the creation of theCommission, which now has 21 countries as itsmembers, came from Prof. Dr. Abdus Salam, theonly Nobel Laureate from Pakistan, who realizedthat the fast-increasing gap between the North andthe South in terms of knowledge and technologycould not be bridged without building andsustaining indigenous capacities.
He believed that such an undertaking wouldrequire strengthening of cooperation between theNorth and the South, as well as among thecountries of the South. This prescription by Dr.Salam to alleviate the plight of the developingcountries helped rally support for his idea and alarge number of world leaders and heads of statesendorsed it. This support culminated in thefoundation-conference of the Commission inOctober 1994, when COMSATS was formallyestablished. COMSATS is headquartered inIslamabad, Pakistan.
The achievements of COMSATS, over the yearssince its inception, were duly acknowledged by theUnited Nations when it was accredited, in 2002, asan Inter-governmental Organization [IGO] withthe United Nations Protocol and Liaison Service.The Commission undertakes its developmentalprogrammes through financing from a TechnicalAdvisory Fund [TAF], which uses membership-
FROM IDEATO REALITY
Ten Years of COMSATS
9
contributions, revenue from services andinternational grants/project funds. COMSATSactivities are run and coordinated through itsdesignated focal points, which are mainlyministries of science and technology or otherrelevant state-bodies and R & D institutions.COMSATS Network of International Science andTechnology Centres of Excellence and thediplomatic community of the member states arealso making vital contributions towards theachievement of the Commission's objectives.
“To bring about sustainable socio-economicdevelopment in the South, through buildingindigenous capacities in, and making judicious useof, science and technology-applications, byinstituting South-South and North-Southcollaboration and exchange”.
To sensitize the countries of the South to thecentrality of science and technology in thedevelopment process, to the adequateallocation of resources for research anddevelopment, and to the integration ofscience and technology in the national andregional development plans;
To support the establishment of a Network ofInternational Science and TechnologyCentres for Sustainable Development in theSouth;
The Mission
The Objectives
Ten Years of COMSATS
10
To support other major initiatives, designedto promote indigenous capacity in scienceand technology for science-led sustainabledevelopment, and to help mobilize long-term financial support from internationaldonor-agencies and from Governments /Institutions in the North and the South, tosupplement the financing of internationalscientific projects in the South;
To provide leadership and support for majorNorth-South and South-South cooperativeschemes in education, training andresearch, such as the proposal to set upprogrammes of scholarships for research atcentres of excellence in the South;
To support the relevant programmes andinitiatives of major scientific organizationsworking for the development and promotionof science and technology in the South.
COMSATS programmes and projects are spreadover a wide spectrum of technology, thus giving itmuch leeway in terms of working both on the high-and the low-end technologies. The Commissionrealizes the importance of funding-issues in theThird World and thus has focused its area ofoperation on key selected areas. This has been donein order to minimize the risk of spreading thescarce resources too thin to extract any tangiblebenefits from the projects. The areas includeInformation and Communication Technologies
Priority Areas
Ten Years of COMSATS
11
[ICTs], and Bio-technology in particular and WaterResources, Renewable Energy Technologies, ingeneral. Besides development programmes andprojects, COMSATS also brings out qualityscientific/technical publications from time to time.The afore-mentioned areas have been carefullyselected, in consultation with the membercountries and the Centres of Excellence, keeping inview the economic and environmental aspects ofsustainable development.
Ten Years of COMSATS
12
COMSATS Internet Services [CIS]
COMSATS Internet Services (CIS) is one of theleading Internet Service- providers and a verysuccessful project of COMSATS in Pakistan. CISprovides a variety of Internet access-services,ranging from dial-up, leased lines and Broadbandconnectivity through radio-links to value-addedservices for corporate and residential users. CIS isin the process of developing high-speed Internet-access through wireless and DSL media.
CIS started its operations in 1996 and is a pioneerin launching Internet Backbone on multi-city basisin the country and is now successfully operating in12 major cities of Pakistan and providing Internetproducts and services to the people of Pakistan. Itemploys approximately 200 persons in itscountryside network, including trained and
qualified System-Administrators, Networking andCommunication engineers, Software designers
AN OVERVIEW OF SALIENTPROGRAMMES & PROJECTS
Ten Years of COMSATS
13
INFORMATION &COMMUNICATION
TECHNOLOGIES
and engineers, Web developers, marketing, salesand customer- support executives.
COMSATS Internet Services clients includereputed national and international organizations,technology and business companies, ForeignMissions, NGOs, social development and researchorganizations, coupled with a good percentage ofresidential users. To date, CIS has on its list 75,000customers including corporate clients. Thespecialty of CIS in LAN & WAN connectivity gives itan edge over our competitors. The Sun, Microsoft,Intel, Compaq and Cisco System's certifiedengineers are constantly engaged in enhancing ournetwork- capabilities. The internationalconnectivity to US multiple Tier-1 IP backbones, bysubmarine cable, makes CIS the largest InternetService Provider of Pakistan. Furthermore, CIS'snetwork-operations centers are equipped with thesystems and machines from sorld-class vendors,like SUN, CISCO Systems and Compaq. CIS hasthe fiber backbone terminated at NOC Islamabadand all connectivity is “Copper-less”.
COMSATS Internet Services (CIS) also remainedthe exclusive CISCO Learning Partner in Pakistanand provided CISCO-certified Training-courses inIslamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar andMultan.
Prepaid Internet CardsDial-up services up to 56 KbpsLeased-Lines connectivity up to 128 Kbps
Internet Access Services
Ten Years of COMSATS
14
Ten Years of COMSATS
15
Broadband and wireless access, throughISDN, from 64K to 128Kbps, and DigitalCross-Connect from 64 to 512 Kbps andRadio links up to 2 MbpsProvision of bandwidth from 64K to 20MbpsCOMSATS Wireless Internet Service(CWIS) up to 20 Mbps.
Web design and developmentDomain name registration and web-hostingIntranet, Extranet and PortalsMultimedia presentations and InteractiveCDsE-Learning and TrainingCustomized web-applications developmentE-Commerce Applications
Network Consultancy, support and trainingServer Set-up and configuration servicesVirtual Private NetworksVOIP Enterprise SolutionsCorporate Network solutions
Diploma in TelecommunicationISP Set Up and Networking Essentials
Web-Based Solutions
Networking and Communication Services
Training
COMSATS Institute of InformationTechnology (CIIT)
The COMSATS Institute of Information Technology(CIIT) was established with the objectives ofproviding quality education and training in thefield of Information Technology (IT). CIIT becamefunctional in April 1998. Initially, CIIT startedshort certificate courses in selected areas of IT.Soon it established a reputation of a quality
education institution. The management of the CIITwas encouraged to initiate degree classes.Recognizing the education standards, availablefacilities and the highest level of competence anddedication of the faculty, the Government ofPakistan accorded CIIT the Charter to awarddegrees in August 2000.
The COMSATS Institute of InformationTechnology, founded with the belief thatunderstanding enriches all people, is dedicated tothe search for truth through advancement oflearning and extending the frontiers of knowledge;to the sharing of this knowledge through education
Ten Years of COMSATS
16
in an academically diverse range of disciplines andsubjects; and to the application of this knowledge tobenefit the people of Pakistan, in particular and theWorld, at large.
In all of its activities, the Institute strives to sustainan open exchange of ideas in an environment thatembodies values of academic freedom,responsibility, integrity and cooperation; thatprovides an atmosphere of mutual respect, freefrom discrimination and prejudice on any groundwhatsoever; that assists individuals, institutionsand communities in responding to a continuouslychanging world; that is conscious of and responsiveto the needs of many communities it is committedto serving; that creates and supports partnershipswithin the Institute, with other educational systemsand institutions, and with communities to achievecommon goals; and that inspires, sets highexpectations for, and empowers individuals withinits community.
The CIIT meets a significant portion of its recurringexpenses from its own sources (mainly studentfees) and a small part of it from the non-
Ten Years of COMSATS
17
developmental grant provided by the Governmentof Pakistan through the Higher EducationCommission. The development funding is alsoprovided by the Government of Pakistan throughthe Higher Education Commission.
The CIIT is experienced in a variety of disciplinesand strives to make a real difference for itsstudents. Flexibility, dedication and responsivenessdifferentiate it from other institutions. CIIT isrunning degree program in the following subjects:Computer Science, Electrical Engineering,Management Sciences, Mathematics, Physics,Biosciences &Environmental Sciences.
With its four (4) faculties, the CIIT is a medium-sized institution where contacts between facultymembers and their students, as well asinterdisciplinary relationships flourish. As ITcontinues to become a greater part of our lives,there is a rapidly growing need to provide industrywith individuals capable of meeting the technicaland business challenges of the new millennium.
The CIIT is providing high quality education thatincludes 4 year Bachelor and 2-3 year Masterprograms in Computer Science, ElectricalEngineering, Electronics Engineering, ComputerEngineering, Telecommunication Engineering,Software Engineering, Business Administration,Mathematics, Bioinformatics, Electronics,Environmental Sciences, etc. Graduate studies andresearch programs leading to MS and Ph.D.degrees have also been started in the disciplines ofMathematics, Physics and Computer Science. The
Ten Years of COMSATS
18
enrollment at CIIT is nearly 6000 (until Spring2004).
The CIIT is committed to respond to the dynamicsof fast paced manufacturing and service industryand therefore adapts a proactive yet flexibleapproach to anticipate and meet the challenges offuture technologies.
The CIIT has plans to introduce newer programson the basis of felt needs of the industry. Plans arealso there for initiating more graduate andpostgraduate programs in Information Sciences,Engineering, Telecommunications, BusinessAdministration and Basic Sciences in the forthcoming years.
The CIIT has had an enviable record of growth andexpansion. In just three years, it has expanded fromone campus in Islamabad, to five campuses oneeach at Islamabad, Abbotabad, Wah, Lahore andAttock.
Ten Years of COMSATS
19
Human Resource Development Programs
For the successful implementation of theGovernment's IT Action Plan (2000), the CIIT hassuccessfully executed several programs/projects,the gist of which is given below (the number inparenthesis corresponds to the number ofpersonnel trained, unless specified otherwise):
Thisproject has helped develop a new market inPakistan with enormous demand both locally aswell as from abroad. The compilation ofregistration (equivalent to social security in US),passport, land & revenue record, utility billing,human development indexes, etc. generate a lot ofdemand for the data entry operators thus providingplenty of job opportunities to the educated youthirrespective of the gender bias.
The two programshelped establish new and now thriving market ofmedical and legal transcription in the countryprimarily serving the overseas clients.
The project provided training to theFederal Government employees and has asignificant impact on their abilities to usecomputers in the day-to-day work.
The CIIT and M/s Intel(Pakistan) Limited conceived and implemented the
Training of Data Entry Operators (12,000):
Medical Transcription Training (2,500) & LegalTranscription Training (2,000):
IT Training for Federal Government Employees(5,000):
Training of School Teachers in the Use of IT inTeaching (18,000):
Ten Years of COMSATS
20
program. It provided training to 18,000 teachers(both male and female) from primary, secondary,and high schools spread all over Pakistan, in theuse of IT in teaching their respective subjects. Theprogram is extremely successful and the CIIT andM/s Intel are receiving requests for emulating theexperience in other developing countries.
Keeping in view the dictates ofdot.com transformation and demand forprofessionals who could take up the challenges ofthe e-commerce, a pilot project was implemented.T h e i m m e d i a t e a b s o r p t i o n o f t h etrainees/professionals in the job market had amultiplier effect in the sense that more and moreprivate sector institutions are now offering similarand even more advance courses.
Keeping in view the relativelymore acute scarcity of IT professionals in theProvince of Balochistan, the CIIT trained 100engineering and science graduates for One YearPost Graduate Diploma in IT. The project isextremely successful and the return of thesegraduates back to Balochistan has spurred an ITsensitized change in the Province.
The CIIT collected data from the publicand private sector universities for human resourceneeds in IT and simultaneously establishedlinkages with expatriate faculty through publicsolicitation and informal contacts. The services of
Pilot Project for Training Developers in JavaTechnology (1,000):
Post Graduate Diploma for Students from Provinceof Balochistan (100):
IT Expatriate Faculty Hiring Program (250 manmonths):
Ten Years of COMSATS
21
highly qualified IT faculty hired on a short termwere placed in the universities. It helped provideaccess to quality instructions, newer insights intothe discipline and research trends in IT, andstrengthened relationships among the local andexpatriate faculty. The program has been sosuccessful that the Government of Pakistan has up-scaled the experience by approving a still largerforeign faculty hiring program.
Keeping in view the demand fornetworking professionals in the country, the CIITtaking benefit of being a Regional CISCONetworking Academy, developed and implementeda project for the establishment of ten (10) CISCOLocal Networking Academies in the public andprivate sector universities. The program is verysuccessful as the newly established networkingacademies spread through far and wide in thecountry are now successfully running networkingtraining and various academic programs.
Taking benefit of an institution of higher learningwith a large intellectual resource base, the CIITconceived and instituted arrangements forestablishing and hosting think-tanks in variousselected areas of IT. The areas were selectedkeeping in view of their relevance to the nationaleconomy and mobilized the technical expertise ofthe private and public sector. The program helpedthe Government and civil society alike in deployingIT for gainful purposes. The think-tanks wereinstituted in the following areas:
Establishment of CISCO Local NetworkingAcademies:
Technology Resource Mobilization Unit (TReMU):
Ten Years of COMSATS
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Accreditation System for Education in IT,Computers in Schools, Call Centres, IT LawForum, Geographical Information Systems, Urduand Regional Languages Software DevelopmentForum, Venture Capital, Women in Technology,Simulation Software, Industrial AutomationCAD/CAM/CAE, Model IT Districts, etc.
Successive initiatives like E-Government and theVirtual University benefited in the form ofavailability of critical human resources andinstitutions geared to take up IT applications,content development, availability of a critical massof programmers, developers, networkingprofessionals, data base administrators, etc.
In addition, the CIIT undertook and successfullycompleted several assignments of national andinternational importance. Such assignmentsresulted in establishing new organizations/institutions, such as:
Virtual University (2001-02)National Institute of Telecommunicationsand Electronics (2001-02)Inter-Islamic Network on InformationTechnology - INIT (2001-02)National Testing Service (2002-03)ISESCO Centre for Promotion of ScientificResearch - ICPSR (2003-04)Edward De Bono Foundation Pakistan(2003-04)
National & International Assignments
Ten Years of COMSATS
23
The above-stated entities have taken shape and areflourishing. Furthermore, the CIIT has thedistinctive honour of being awarded the advisoryrole for the Higher Education Commissionsponsored 'Computerization and NetworkingEnhancement Programme (CNEP)'. The technicalservices have been provided to the followinginstitutions of higher learning:
Fatima Jinnah Medical College and SirGanga Ram Hospital, LahoreGovernment College University, FaisalabadKohat University of Science & Technology,KohatNWFP Agricultural University, PeshawarUniversity of Malakand, MalakandUniversity of Sargodha, Sargodha
The CIIT is a Regional Academy (RA) of CISCONetworking Academy Program (CNAP). Being theRA, CIIT is authorized to establish LocalAcademies (LA) under its umbrella and providingtraining to the instructors of LA through two levelsof certification i.e. CISCO Certified NetworkingAssociates (CCNA) and CISCO CertifiedNetworking Professionals (CCNP). Both thesecertifications are designed to meet employmentstandards for the networking industry.
Similarly, the CIIT has joined hands with a numberof reputed IT companies in initiating variousprograms of general and specialized training in IT.Such collaborations have been initiated with Intel,
International Collaboration
Ten Years of COMSATS
24
Microsoft, NCR, IBM, etc. Today, the CIIT is amodern degree awarding institution constituting avast ensemble of high-level education, leading-edge research establishment and software housewith a growing reputation.
The CIIT aims at imparting knowledge, creatingquality scholarship and advance technologies thatwill shape the country's future in the 21st century.The total faculty strength at five campuses of CIIT(Islamabad, Abbottabad, Wah, Lahore and Attock)is approx. 360 (until Spring 2004).
All Professors, Associate Professors and a goodnumber of Asst. Professors have PhDs in theirrespective disciplines. The faculty at CIIT hasc o n t r i b u t e d o v e r s i x t y r e s e a r c hpapers/publications in international refereedjournals and international conferences of repute.The total student strength at five campuses of CIITis approx. 6000 (until Spring 2004).
COMSATS established an IT centre at Damascus,in collaboration with COMSTECH and the
S y r i a n - C O M S A T S - C O M S T E C HInformation Technology Centre, Syria
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Ministry of Higher Education, Arab Republic ofSyria. The President of Syrian Arab Republic, H.E.Mr. Hafiz Bashar Al-Asad, and Chief Executive ofthe Islamic Republic of Pakistan, H.E. Gen. PervezMusharraf, jointly inaugurated the Centre on 8thJanuary, 2001.
The scope of this centre includes training insoftware, hardware and networking; software-development, Internet-applications and electronic-commerce.
This project is intended to facilitate application ofthe basic concept of GRID, which enablesdistribution of workload and basic data-sharingthrough networks and clusters. The objective is tolink Industries, such as the pharmaceutical,bioscience, aerospace, and academic research-institutes, for facilitating complex calculations andpermutations needing heavy processing andcomputing powers. The project is being collectivelyundertaken by COMSATS and National Centre forPhysics (NCP).
The project is focused on establishing a cluster of
CERN-COMSATS-NCP Project on Data-Grid Application & Physics-Data Analysis
Ten Years of COMSATS
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PCs, using Linux Operating System, for enablingData-Grid applications and analysis of Physics-data. As a result of this project, a number ofcomputing machines are being connected witheach other through a Local Area Network (LAN),which, in turn, are connected to CERN through adedicated line of 128 kbps.
All machines have the complete CERNenvironment installed on them. This implies that allCERN-specific libraries, detector-simulationpackages, and other CERN software-standards arestrictly implemented on these machines.
The Industrial Information Network (IIN), aproject for the development of small and medium-level enterprises in Pakistan, has been initiatedjointly by the United Nations IndustrialDevelopment Organization (UNIDO), COMSATSand some other partner-organizations in the year2001. The project, designed to become a one-stop-shop for growing number of SMEs in Pakistan, is aweb-based portal ( www.iin.org.pk ) that willenable SMEs to carry out online trade andcommerce activities and meet their informationalneeds.
Industrial Information Network (IIN)Project for Small & Medium Enterprises
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Installation of Biogas Plants forSustainable Rural Development
Tissue Culture Research Project
COMSATS Tele-Health Project
COMSATS, under the project support fromUNESCO, has installed around 13 Bio-gas plants inrural areas of Pakistan. Initially, the gas producedis being used for heating and cooking purposeswith an advantageous output of fertilizers. Theproject was implemented with technical input fromPakistan Council of Appropriate Technology(PCAT).Currently, these installations by COMSATSexist at Dhok Uthal, Simly Dam Road, Islamabad[Pakistan].
One of the techniques of bio-technology is planttissue-culture technology for producing high-yielding and disease-resistant crops. COMSATS, incollaboration with National Agricultural ResearchCentre, Pakistan (NARC), successfully completed aproject to test tissue-culture technologyapplications for producing disease-resistant andhigh-yielding potato seeds.
COMSATS has engaged itself in several projectsthat specifically focus on the educational andhealth-related needs of distant dwellers in remoteareas. The objective is to provide specialized healthand education services, through the use ofInformation Technology and specificallyInformation Communication Technologies forsustainable development.
BIOTECHNOLOGY,EDUCATION &
HEALTH SECTORS
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The pilot-project for rendering healthcare and tele-consultation services was launched in January2002. The concept of Tele-Health, for the first timein Pakistan, was practically demonstrated byCOMSATS, in collaboration with Byte2000. Theproject aimed at connecting remote clinics in ruralareas of Pakistan with urban hospitals andadvanced medical units in the big cities, using themost modern Information CommunicationTechnologies.
The pilot project in Gujar Khan characterized:establishment and networking of the ResourceCentre at Islamabad and a Tele-Health Clinic atGujar Khan; provision of instant and inexpensivehealth-services to people of remote and far-flungareas; provision of 2nd specialist opinion, anddevelopment of indigenous technologies. The bestpractices and lessons learned out of this pilot-project shall be put to use when replicating theproject for COMSATS member-countries.
The Biotechnology Resource Centre, madefunctional in the year 2002, operates with the solegoal to expedite the process of promoting the causeof sustainable development through theapplication of Biotechnology in sectors such ashealth and agriculture. The cell, in accordancewith COMSATS biotechnology programme, hastaken the following initiatives:
Networking and Linkages with R&Dinstitutions
COMSATS Biotechnology Cell/Portal
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Development of Biotechnology Web portalDevelopment of Data bankInformation DisseminationO r g a n i z a t i o n o f C o n f e r e n c e o nBiotechnologyCollaborative Programs
The project aims at facilitating initiatives of povertyalleviation, improving access to specialized health-services and education in the Northern areas ofPakistan, namely, Hunza, Baltistan and Gilgit. Thistwo-year project, being sponsored by InternationalDevelopment Research Centre (IDRC) Canada, is acollaborative effort between COMSATS' BaltistanHealth and Education Foundation (BHEF) andKarakoram Area Development Organization(KADO).
This action-research project will examine anddemonstrate the role that modern InformationCommunication Technologies (ICTs) can play inimproving the standards of life of the mountainpeople. A Resource Centre at Islamabad, Distance-Learning Centre at Hunza and Tele-Health Centerat Skardu, are being set up to achieve the objectivesof the research project.
In addition, the establishment of two ISPs, oneeach in Hunza and Skardu and extension to Gilgitnode will take place, as a result of the successful
ICTs for Rural Deve lopment inMountainous & Remote Areas of NorthernPakistan
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implementation of the project. The researchfindings would further the cause of ICT applicationfor development.
Alliance Française and the Commission on Scienceand Technology for Sustainable Development inthe South (COMSATS) together initiated the'French-Online Programme' to promote culturalexchange by teaching French language over theInternet, some three years ago. At a later stage,Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) became apartner as well. After several years of hard work
and efforts through the preparatory phase by thepartner organizations, the programme has nowreached its final stage and was formally launchedat COMSATS Headquarters on the 20th of March,2003, in a colourful and lively ceremony, which waschaired by the French Ambassador to Pakistan andwas addressed by the Executive Director,COMSATS, and the Vice Chancellor of AllamaIqbal Open University. For more informationp lease re fer to the pro jec t ' s webs i tewww.frenchonline-af.org.pk .
COMSATS, Alliance Française and AllamaIqbal Open University 'French OnlineDistance Learning Programme'
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SOME OTHERPROJECTS &
PROGRAMMES
Opening of COMSATS Liaison Office inSudan (January 2004)
COMSATS Chinese Technology TransferCentre
COMSATS established, on the 24th January 2004,its liaison office in Sudan, in collaboration with theMinistry of Science and Technology (Sudan).Thepurpose of this cooperative effort is to jointly workfor science-led sustainable development for socio-economic uplift in the region, particularly throughoptimal use of Science and Technology. The key-areas of cooperation are Information Technology,Renewable Energy and other related fields.
COMSATS, in collaboration with its focal point inChina [Ministry of Science and Technology China(MOST-China)], has successfully identified the keyareas for cooperation. In order to coordinate theefforts, it has been planned to establish COMSATSChinese Technology-Transfer Centre (CCTTC) inChina. A number of international events andprojects have also been planned in the areas ofInformation and Communication Technologies(ICTs), Biotechnology, Renewable Energy andWater-Resources Management. The proposedCentre would facilitate smooth diplomatic
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relations and implementation of the programs andprojects in China.
A Regional Coordinating Office of the Third-WorldAcademy of Sciences (TWAS) and Third-WorldNetwork of Scientific Organizations (TWNSO) wasestablished at COMSATS Headquarters,Islamabad, on July 24, 2000. The CoordinatingOffice ensures quick disposal of the casespertaining to the region and coordinates speedyexchange of information on research and otherscientific projects designed by TWAS / TWNSO. Apart of the Coordinating Office has been dedicatedto Prof. Dr. Abdus Salam (Nobel Laureate), thefounder of both TWAS and COMSATS, inrecognition of his valuable services for thedevelopment of science and technology.
COMSATS Postgraduate Scholarship Programmeprovides funding for postgraduate studies, training
Regional Office of Third-World Academy ofS c i e n c e s ( T WA S ) a t C O M S AT SHeadquarters
COMSATS Postgraduate ScholarshipProgramme and other sponsorships/donations
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in different disciplines at Centres of Excellence andother institutions linked with COMSATS. Initially,scholarships are being offered in the fields ofchemistry, metrological sciences and information-technology at the following establishments, with aplan to extend the activity to other disciplines also:
HEJ Research Institute of Chemistry,Karachi University, Karachi PakistanInternational Centre of Climate andEnvironmental Sciences (ICCES), Beijing,China.COMSATS Institute of InformationTechnology (CIIT), Islamabad, Pakistan
More institutions are being contacted for theextension of the programme to other disciplines.Apart from the post-graduate scholarships,COMSATS also provides research and travel grantsin order to promote scientific activities in itsmember countries. The Commission has madesizeable donations in books and computers.
COMSATS is involved in promoting literacy andbuilding capacity at the school level as well. Itdonated computers and provided Local AreaNetworking facilities to a number of schools andeducational institutes in Pakistan. Some of thebeneficiaries include PAEC Model College, SirSyed Memorial School, F.G. Margalla GirlsCollege, O.P.F Girls College, PMDC High School,Warchah, District Khushab, Skina Vocational
COMSATS Donates Computers to PublicSchools
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Training Institute for Women, Skardu, Govt. Viqar-un-Nisa High School, & Govt. Islamia School,Okara.
COMSATS over the years has brought out a numberof quality publications and periodicals. Thepublications have made important contributionstowards enriching the scientific literature availablein Pakistan and abroad. The salient publicationsare as follows:
COMSATS publishes an international quarterlyjournal, Science Vision, whichcontains scientific researchpapers & review-articles onlatest advancements. Started in1995, its circulation is currentlyspread over 27 countries. Thejournal is also available onlineat www.sciencevision.org.pk .Several important conferenceproceedings have also beenpublished.
A newsletter 'COMSATS News & Views' waslaunched in the year 2001. It covers importantresearch breakthroughs, science and technology
Periodicals
Science Vision (Quarterly)
COMSATS News & Views (Quarterly)
SCIENTIFICPUBLICATIONS
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news, and views of the expertson subjects relevant to thedevelopmental needs of thethird-world. The newsletter alsocarries news reports onCOMSATS' activities andachievements in its specificthrust areas.
Book on Capacity Building for Science &TechnologyBook on Science andT e c h n o l o g y f o rS u s t a i n a b l eDevelopmentB o o k o n W a t e rResources in the South:Present Scenario andFuture ProspectsD i r e c t o r y o fInternational Donor andDevelopment OrganizationsCOMSATS Activity ReportS c i e n t i f i c a n dTechnological Researchfor Development [by Dr.Hameed Ahmed khan,Execut ive Director,COMSATS]
Other Publications
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COMSATS has organized a large number ofconferences/seminars/workshops on a variety ofscientific and technological issues since itsinception in 1994. Such events provided a usefulplatform to members of the scientific community,development experts, donor organizations, andpeople in general to share their views on subjects ofvital concerns in the current age. The following listssome important conferences/seminars/workshopsthat the Commission held over the years:
The purpose of the conference was to promotegreater cooperat ion among COMSATSInternational Centres of excellence by bringingtogether their representatives and preparing a jointstrategy for seeking financial assistance from
international development agencies and othermulti-lateral donors.
The rationale behind organizing this conferencewas to create awareness that advancement in
Pre-Donor Conference - Islamabad [1997]
Workshop on Mathematical Models:Application and Uses - Islamabad [1998onwards]
MAJORCONFERENCES /
WORKSHOPS /SEMINARS
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mathematical techniques and computational soft-wares provide easy solutions to many complex realworld problems. The approach, MathematicalModeling, can be an effective tool to investigate andanalyze issues in such areas as demography, food,agriculture, energy, water, health, climate changeand the like.
The purpose of the workshop was to spread theskills, among COMSATS member-states, involvedin using Numerical Weather Prediction Model. Themodel can be used to make more accurate andtimely weather prediction.
The objective of this discussion-forum was toidentify the implications of technology-convergence for developing countries, inparticular, and the ways of securing its benefits for
Numerical Weather-Prediction Workshop -Islamabad [1998 onwards]
Round-Table Meeting on South-SouthCooperation on Convergence - InformationTechnology, Telecommunication andMedia - Islamabad [2000]
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social and economic development. The groupd i s c u s s i o n s w e r e a i m e d a t m a k i n grecommendations for South-South cooperationstrategy, in the light of the opportunities that existin this new and emerging technology area.
The main objective of the workshop was to providean opportunity to young and upcoming chemists tolearn the effective use and operation of modernspectroscopic instruments. The uses ofspectroscopy in biology, medical diagnosis,industrial analysis, environmental probing andother fields are already widespread. The workshopattracted participants from 14 countries.
The objective of the workshop was to introduce ISO14000 series, with related cost- benefits, to theindustry and to further its implementation asenvironment-management system in the
production units.
COMSATS - HEJ Workshop on the Use ofSpectroscopic Techniques in StructuralOrganic Chemistry - Karachi [ 2000]
COMSATS Workshop on Implementationof ISO-14000 in Industry - Islamabad[2000]
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COMSATS-HEJ Workshop on SustainableUse of Medicinal and Food Plants - Karachi[2000]
COMSATS 1st Meeting on Science &Technology for Sustainable Development -Islamabad [October 2001]
COMSATS organized a Workshop on SustainableUse of Medicinal and Food Plants, in collaborationwith HEJ Research Institute, Karachi, and Third-World Academy of Sciences (TWAS). A select groupof scientists from 16 countries participated in theevent and discussed the case- studies received byTWAS from different institutions.
The rich biodiversity in the developing world andits potential use, for sustainable economic growth,made the event very important for all organizationsinvolved in scientific and economic development inthe South. The workshop included presentationson best practices, extensive discussions on lessonslearned with reference to administrative, policy,laboratory and networking experiences of eachproject, and an open forum to formulate futurestrategies for sustainable use of medicinal and foodplants.
The meeting addressed the current situation as well
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as the future prospects for sustainabledevelopment. Special emphasis was given to thegreat need of appropriate technologies for thesustainability of development projects.
COMSATS organized a two-day workshop on“Water Resources in the South: Present Scenarioand Future Prospects” on November 1-2, 2001. Themeeting was attended by scientists, engineers,
Meteorologists, Environmentalists, ReservoirEngineers, Climate Scientists, Power Experts, andGovernment Representatives. The purpose of themeeting was to take stock of existing ground-realities and problems, and of inviting proposals asto how to best to manage, utilize and sustain ourwater- resources in the South. Management ofWater-Resources has special significance since itinvolves every person on the planet - from thesimple act of how water is used by individuals to themore direct involvement of everybody in how wateris used in the industry.
COMSATS 1st Meeting on Water-Resources in The South: Present Scenarioand Future Prospects - Islamabad [2001]
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Workshop on Economic Growth: TheInvolvement of Biotechnology and ModernBio-industries - Beirut [November 2001]
A workshop on 'Economic Growth: TheInvolvement of Biotechnology and the ModernBio-industries', was held in Lebanon, fromNovember 10 to 11, 2001. The event was wellattended and drew a lot of appreciation from theexperts for its relevance and practical application.The two-day meeting involved interactivediscussions with a select group of decision-makersand technical experts from USA, Europe and thedeveloping countries.
The meeting was designed to review the state-of-the-art concepts and advances in the field ofbiotechnology and their catalytic impact instimulating economic growth. A key-activityduring the conference was to formulate anappropriate technology-foresight and policy-approach for the region.
The meeting was designed to review the impact ofbiotechnology on commerce and industry and onquality-of-life issues. It was co-sponsored by UnitedNations Educational, Scientific and CulturalOrganization (UNESCO), OIC StandingCommittee on Scientific & TechnologicalCooperation (COMSTECH), Commission onScience and Technology for SustainableDevelopment in the South (COMSATS) and Third-World Academy of Sciences (TWAS).
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International Workshop on NetworkingEssentials and Interconnecting CiscoNetworking Devices - Islamabad [2002]
Meeting on Science and TechnologyCapacity-Building for SustainableDevelopment - Islamabad [February 2003]
M e e t i n g o n R e n e w a b l e - E n e r g yTe c h n o l o g i e s a n d S u s t a i n a b l eDevelopment- Islamabad [February 2004]
COMSATS organized this international workshopprimarily to develop human resources of itsmember countries and equip them with animportant tool of IT, to meet the challenges of themodern era. It is pertinent to mention thatCOMSATS remained an authorized CiscoLearning-Partner (CLP) for Pakistan.
The objectives of the meeting were to address thecurrent challenges for S&T Capacity Building indeveloping countries, prospective benefits in termsof sustainable development for developing nationsthrough S&T Capacity Building, means andmethods for developing indigenous capacitiesrelevant to the developing world, and practicalsolutions for specific challenges confronted bydeveloping countries in pursuit of S&T CapacityBuilding.
COMSATS co-organized the Meeting incollaboration with the Pakistan Council of
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Renewable Energy Technologies (PCRET) and theGlobal Change Impact Studies Centre (GCISC).The objective of the meeting was to review the roleof renewable energy in the overall context ofsustainable development.
COMSATS organized this meeting in collaborationwith the Third-World Academy of Sciences (TWAS),Trieste, and the Islamic Educational, Scientific andCultural Organization (ISESCO), Rabat. Theobjective of the Meeting was to review the synergiesthat exist in international and regional cooperationin S & T and to address the current issues in furtherstrengthening that relationship.
A Meeting on Basic Research and IndustrialApplications was held under the auspices ofCOMSATS and was attended by notable scientistsand leading figures from the government andindustrial sector. The objective of the Meeting onBasic Research and Industrial Applications, was tohighlight the integral link between basic researchand related industrial uses. It further aimed atascertaining the importance of basic research asone of the pre-requisites for innovation, which isessential for companies and nations to remaincompetitive in the global village of today.
Meeting on South-South and North-SouthCollaboration in Science and Technology:Present Scenario & Future Prospects -Islamabad [March 2004]
Meeting on Basic Research and IndustrialApplications - Islamabad [July 2004]
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The activities & events that have enjoyedCOMSATS support and patronage include:
Seminar of lectures on “Nobel Prizes inPhysics” Islamabad, 23 October 2003, & 30January 2004.International Workshop on ClimateVariability in Asian Monsoon Region,Bangkok, Thailand 2-4 December 2003.27th International Nathiagali Summer-College on Physics and ContemporaryNeeds - Nathiagali, June 24 - July 6, 2002Inauguration Ceremony of InternationalCentre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP) -Pakistan Chapter Islamabad, May 10, 2002National Exhibition of Tele-CommunicationEquipment Islamabad, April 4, 20027th Eurasia Conference on ChemicalSciences - Karachi, March 9-12, 20023rd Alexander von Humboldt Seminar ofGerman Alumni Forum Islamabad,February 21, 200215th Khwarzimi International Awards, Feb2002, TehranFirst Workshop on Plasma Physics & Laser-Induced Plasma-Spectroscopy (LIPS) &Applications - Tunis, January 11-13, 2002First National Conference on Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) - Islamabad,October 24-26, 200126th International Nathiagali Summer-College on Physics and ContemporaryNeeds - Nathiagali, June 25 - July 14, 2001Regional College on Plasma Physics -Islamabad, January 29 - February 3, 2001
OTHERSPONSORED
SCIENTIFIC &INTERNATIONAL
EVENTS
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8th National Symposium on Frontiers ofPhysics - Lahore, November 20-22, 2000International Microelectronics Conference -Tehran, October 30 - November 1, 2000Institute of Environmental Science andEngineering (IESE) NUST workshop on“Environmental problems of the PetroleumIndustry” Islamabad, 9-14 October, 2000Third South-Asia Geological Congress -Lahore, September 23-26, 2000International Conference on Nuclear TracksIn Solids Portoroz, Slovenia, August 28 -September 1, 200025th International Nathiagali Summer-College on Physics and ContemporaryNeeds- Nathiagali, June 26 - July 15, 2000NUST Workshop on Fuel Cell andHydrogen-Fuel Technologies, Islamabad,May 8-11, 200013th Khwarzimi International Awards, Feb2000, TehranInternat ional Workshop on LaserApplications Islamabad, 1997
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COMSATS FOUNDATION CONFERENCE
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A representative of a membercountry signing the
Foundation Document(Islamabad, October 1994)
Another representative of amember country signing the
Foundation Document(Islamabad, October 1994)
H.E. Benazir Bhutto, the(then) Prime Minister of
Pakistan, at theCOMSATS Foundation
Conference(Islamabad, October 4, 1994).
COMSATS PICTORIAL:
RELIVING MEMORIES
COMSATS FOUNDATION CONFERENCE
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A view of the gathering at theFoundation Conference
H.E. Benazir Bhutto, the(then) Prime Minister of
Pakistan and other dignitariesstanding in respect of the
national anthem(Islamabad, October 4, 1994).
Prof. Dr. M.H.A. Hassan,Executive Director, TWAS,presenting his views to the
audience
FOUNDATION-STONE LAYING CEREMONY
OF COMSATS HEADQUARTERS BUILDING
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H.E. Mr. Rafiq Tarar, the (then)President of Pakistan,
unveiling the plaque at theFoundation-Stone Laying
Ceremony of COMSATSBuilding
(Islamabad, April 2000)
Dr. Hameed Ahmed Khan,Executive Director, COMSATS,
presenting COMSATS’ shieldto H.E. Mr. Rafiq Tarar, the(then) President of Pakistan
A view of the ground-breakingceremony of the COMSATS
Headquarters building(Islamabad, 2000)
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COMSATS COORDINATING
COUNCIL MEETINGS
The Participants of the 3rdCOMSATS Coordinating
Council Meeting(Bhurban, Pakistan, 1998)
A group-photo taken at the 4thCoordinating Council Meeting
(Beijing, China, 1999)
The Participants of the 5thCOMSATS Coordinating
Council Meeting(Islamabad, Pakistan, 2001)
COMSATS COORDINATING
COUNCIL MEETINGS
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The Participants of the 6thCOMSATS Coordinating
Council Meeting(Islamabad, Pakistan, 2002)
The Participants of the 7thCOMSATS Coordinating
Council Meeting(Islamabad, Pakistan, 2004)
Participants of the 7thCoordinating Council Meeting
along COMSATS Team
COMSATS PROJECTS
- CIS -
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A view of Customer SupportCentre at COMSATS Internet
Services (CIS), a project ofCOMSATS
Another view of CustomerSupport Centre at COMSATS
Internet Services (CIS)
A glimpse of (CIS) ServerRoom at Islamabad
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COMSATS PROJECTS
- CIIT -
H.E General Pervez Musharrafat the Inauguration ofCOMSATS Institute of
Information Technology (CIIT)(Islamabad, October 2000)
A view of CIITin Islamabad
Campus
A view of CIITin Wah
Campus
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A view of CIITin Abbottabad
Campus
A view of CIITin AttockCampus
A view of CIITin Lahore
Campus
COMSATS PROJECTS
- CIIT -
Ten Years of COMSATS
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INAUGURATIONS OF VARIOUS
PROJECTS & PROGRAMMES
H.E Hafiz Bashar Al-Asad,the President of Syria
shaking hands with theExecutive Director - COMSATS
at the Inauguration of ITCentre in Syria
(Damascus, January 2001)
A view of the Inauguration ofthe ICTP - Pakistan Chapter
(Islamabad, 2002)
A view of the Inauguration ofthe Regional Office of TWAS in
Pakistan(Islamabad, 2001)
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SIGNING OF VARIOUS
AGREEMENTS & MoUs
An MoU being signed betweenCOMSATS and Ministry of
Science & Technology , Sudan(Islamabad, 2003)
COMSATS Signing an MoUwith UNIDO in Austria
( 2001)Vienna,
An MoU being signed betweenCOMSATS and IROST &
Sistan University(Islamabad 2003)
Ten Years of COMSATS
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INAUGURATION OF VARIOUS
DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS
The Launching Ceremony of“French Online”- A Distance
learning programme ofCOMSATS, AIOU & Alliance
Francaise(Islamabad, 2003)
An Introductory Workshop onMathematical Modeling at
COMSATS Headquarters(Islamabad, 2002)
Mr. Carlo Magarinos, DirectorGeneral UNIDO, addressing
the launching ceremony ofIIN Portal
(Islamabad, 2002)
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S&T DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS
A vies of a Bio-Gas plantinstalled by COMSATS near
Islamabad, Pakistan
A view of COMSATS Tele-Health Centre
(Gujar Khan, 2002)
COMSATS and IDRC signingan Agreement for
implementing ICT basedproject in Northern Areas of
Pakistan(Islamabad - January, 2004)
Ten Years of COMSATS
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S&T DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS
Engr. Pervaiz Butt chairing theMeeting on CERN Data-Grid
and its Applications(Islamabad, 2002)
Dr. John Ellis of CERNaddressing the audience
through Video Conferencing atthe above stated meeting
Late Dr. Azra Qureshiinspecting the potato yield
produced through TissueCulture technology in the
Northen Areas of Pakistan
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COMSATS EXPO - LAHORE, 1999
COMSATS Expo: An exhibitionof Chinese Technologies for
SME development(Lahore, 1999)
Closing Session of COMSATSExpo
A stall of Chinese textileaccessories at COMSATS Expo
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COMSATS MEETINGS/CONFERENCES
Participants of the Workshopon Numerical Weather
Prediction(Topi - Pakistan)
Prof. Dr. Atta-ur-Rahmanchairing the inaugural session
of COMSATS 1st Meeting onScience and Technology for
Sustainable Development(Islamabad, 2001)
Dr. Ishfaq Ahmad presidingover COMSATS 1st Meeting on
Water Resources(Islamabad, 2001)
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COMSATS MEETINGS/CONFERENCES
The Inaugural session of theIntroductory Workshop on
Mathematical Modeling(Islamabad, October 2002)
Group Photo of the resourcepersons & participants of the
same workshop
The Participants of theworkshop having a hands-on
experience session
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COMSATS MEETINGS/CONFERENCES
Engr. Pervaiz Butt chairingCOMSATS Meeting on S&T
Capacity Building forSustainable Development
(Islamabad, 2003)
The inaugural session of theMeeting on Basic Research
and Industrial Applications inprogress
(Islamabad, 2004)
The Meeting on RenewableEnergy Technologies andSustainable Development
(Islamabad, 2004)
COMSATS MEMBER STATES
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COMSATS MEMBER STATES
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NETWORK OF CENTRES OF EXCELLENCE
Ten Years of COMSATS
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NETWORK OF CENTRES OF EXCELLENCE