Pakistan joined the global community in celebrating World Science Day for Peace and Development 2025, with a national event organized by the Pakistan Science Foundation (PSF) in collaboration with the Pakistan Academy of Sciences (PAS) and the Economic Cooperation Organization Science Foundation (ECOSF).
The event, held in Islamabad, brought together leading scientists, diplomats, educators, and policymakers to highlight the power of science in building trust, driving innovation, and shaping a sustainable future.
This year’s theme, “Trust, Transformation and Tomorrow – The Science We Need for 2050,” underscored the vital role of scientific knowledge in addressing global challenges, promoting peace, and achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in line with UNESCO’s vision for inclusive and sustainable progress.
The chief guest, Shahid Iqbal Baloch, Federal Secretary, Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST), commended PSF, PAS, and ECOSF for successfully organizing the event and for their continued efforts in promoting research and innovation in Pakistan.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the national science and technology ecosystem, fostering public trust in science, and aligning national priorities with the SDGs.
“Trust in science is the foundation of progress – it transforms uncertainty into opportunity and inspires future innovation,” Mr. Baloch remarked.
He urged scientists, educators, and policymakers to work collectively to create an enabling environment for research, technology, and innovation that benefits all segments of society.
The event began with a warm welcome from Dr. Muhammad Akmal, Chairman, Pakistan Science Foundation, who thanked the distinguished guests, partner organizations, and participants. He emphasized that PSF is fully committed to advancing science, research, and innovation in the country. “World Science Day reminds us of our shared responsibility to use science with trust, inclusivity, and for the well-being of humanity,” Dr. Akmal said.
Dr. Aslam Baig, Secretary General, Pakistan Academy of Sciences, highlighted the importance of integrity, transparency, and effective communication in building trust in science.
He reaffirmed PAS’s commitment to promoting evidence-based policymaking and maintaining high scientific standards in Pakistan.
Mr. Fawad Pashief, UNESCO Representative to Pakistan, praised the country’s active engagement in UNESCO’s science programs. He reiterated UNESCO’s support for initiatives that strengthen the role of science in peace and development. “Building trust in science is essential not only to counter misinformation but also to ensure equitable access to knowledge and reinforce public confidence,” he stated.
Dr. Ghulam Muhammad Memon, Executive Director, ECOSF, underscored the importance of scientific and technical cooperation at regional and global levels. He highlighted ECOSF’s ongoing regional programs to promote STEM education, innovation, and sustainable development.
Two thought-provoking keynote addresses were delivered during the event.
The first, by Dr. Ahmad Ali Sarohi, Director General (Africa), Ministry of Foreign Affairs, focused on “Science Diplomacy and Trust in a Fragmented Global Landscape.”
He elaborated that science diplomacy serves as an effective bridge to foster dialogue, trust, and collaboration among nations.
Dr. Sarohi emphasized Pakistan’s active role in international scientific partnerships to promote peace and progress.
The second keynote, by Dr. Muhammad Sabih Anwar, Professor of Physics and former Dean at LUMS Lahore, explored the event’s main theme “Trust, Transformation and Tomorrow – The Science We Need for 2050.”
He highlighted the transformative power of science to reshape societies and economies, calling for ethical scientific advancement, inclusive innovation, and greater investment in education and research to ensure a prosperous and sustainable future.
The speakers reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening trust in science, fostering regional cooperation, and leveraging innovation for sustainable development.
The event stood as a testament to the shared belief that science is not merely a tool for progress but also a bridge to peace, trust, and global harmony.