ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister (PM) Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani on Tuesday urged the space scientists and technologists to promote and extensively employ space technology applications for socio-economic development of Pakistan.

Addressing the 6th Commencement of Institute of Space Technology (IST), the PM said his government would continue supporting the progress of science and technology in the country. The recent approval of “Pakistan’s Space Program 2040” sets clear milestone in the national quest for space technology, he pointed out.

“Launching of PAKSAT-IR is, indeed, only the beginning of a long journey,” the PM said. He assured government’s complete support towards the attainment of the laid down objectives of Pakistan’s Space Programme.

He said the youth involved in technology development must realise that the field of space technology has varied dimensions. The PM said space science plays a major role in sustainable socio-economic development and security of the country.

He said space technology applications in the country were being increasingly used in the fields of communication, environmental studies, agriculture, water and disaster management and mitigation; and national security.

Gilani lauded the recent launch of Pakistan’s national space agency - SUPARCO’s satellite PAK SAT 1R, with the help of Chinese friends. He said such collaboration would provide a unique opportunity to gain first-hand experience in communication satellite manufacturing technology.

Gilani who visited the Chinese space manufacturing organisation during his recent visit said that he met a large number of Pakistani engineers who were working closely with their Chinese counterparts during all stages of design, manufacture and development of satellites.

The event - the convocation of the sixth batch of the institute was attended by Strategic Plans Division Director General Lt Gen (r) Khalid Ahmed Kidwai, SUPARCO Chairman and parents of the students.

Gilani also announced Rs 100 million for the Endowment Fund for the welfare of the students of IST, and building of Information Technology Block for the Institute.

He said half of the amount would be paid to the institution in two installments; one in the current financial year and the second during the next financial year. Gilani awarded baccalaureate degrees amongst 40 graduates of Aerospace and Communication Systems Engineering.

He awarded President of Pakistan’s gold medal to Tanzeelur Rehman of Aerospace Engineering and Ubaid Basir Awan of Communication Systems Engineering.

Gilani felicitated the SUPARCO Chairman and his team and urged the IST graduates to work diligently in their professional endeavours to promote and extensively employ space technology applications for socio-economic development of our country.

“I am sure that IST will continue to prepare our youth for harnessing space technologies to meet the national requirements,” the PM added.

He said research leads to new and efficient ways of finding innovative solutions to the problems. He also asked the graduating students to inculcate the culture of research and a spirit of critical inquiry for promotion of science and technology in Pakistan. “Development of science and technology is the way forward for development of Pakistan.

”This is how we can bring about a positive change in the lives of our people,” Gilani said. He also appreciated the high employment rate of the graduates of IST and said it was the result of high standards of education imparted and liaison with industry and premier research and development organizations of the country. He hoped the new graduates would do their best in their endeavors and contribute to national development.

“You should think in terms of your responsibilities before you demand your rights. My Government will continue supporting the progress of science and technology in the universities of Pakistan,” the PM said.

He also quoted the Founder of Pakistan Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah; “Without education, it is complete darkness and with education it is light.”

Gilani said Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) had enjoined His followers to to even to China in the pursuit of knowledge. “No sacrifice of time or personal comfort should be regarded too great for the advancement of the cause of education,” he added. app.