STAFF REPORT
ISLAMABAD: A three-day moot focusing on global pandemics and epidemics formally kicked off in Pakistan’s capital on Monday.
The conference is jointly being organized by the Pakistan Academy of Sciences (PAS), Alliance of International Science Organization (ANSO), and Monbukagakusho-MEXT Alumni Association of Pakistan (MAAP), where 50 posters and papers will be presented on various themes of pandemics and epidemics.
Through physical and/or virtual (online) presence, more than 400 academicians, scientists, researchers, and postgraduate students from around the world are taking part in the conference’s discussions. The conference’s recommendations will be distributed to national and
International organizations and research facilities are dedicated to the global control of potential epidemic and pandemic-related issues.
Crucial event
Chairman (HEC) while speaking to the conference said that HEC has been a forerunner in adopting the idea of smart universities offering higher education online. In addition, Prof. Dr. CAO Jinghua, ANSO’s Executive Director, spoke to the group online on behalf of Prof. Dr. Chun Li Bai, ANSO’s President.
Higher Education Commission Chairman Prof. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed gave the event, its official start. In his speech, he thanked PAS, ANSO, and MAAP for organizing this crucial event to protect human health and the world from epidemics and pandemics. He inspired postgraduate students and young scientists to play an important part in the treatment, prevention, and vaccination of various viruses.
He praised the Pakistan Academy of Sciences and COVID-related management for their efforts to raise awareness of the negative effects of epidemics and pandemics in the nation.
The Chief Guest, distinguished scientists, speakers, and participants were earlier welcomed by Prof. Dr. Tasawar Hayat, Secretary General, the Pakistan Academy of Sciences. He clarified the Academy’s function in supporting Pakistani academicians, scientists, and researchers.
Such as creative research and development across a range of scientific fields with potential applications in the fields of technology, energy, and health, among others.
Global Advancements highlighted
The keynote address was given by Prof. Dr. Zabta Khan Shinwari, President of MAAP, Distinguished National Professor, and Professor Emeritus, QAU, Islamabad.
He expressed gratitude to PAS, ANSO, and HEC for helping to organize this event and highlighted the advancements made in pandemic control-related strategies, risk management, and policies against potential outbreaks in the future. He had a preliminary plan in place to deal with potential global pandemics.
Prof. Dr. Khalid M. Khan thanked the global organizing team, participating institutions, and attendees for their efforts in his welcome speech. He discussed the spread and effects of some devasting pandemics from the past, including the swine flu, COVID-19, and the Hong Kong flu.
Zoonotic viruses
The event’s organizer, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali (QAU), who is also the principal investigator of the global ANSO Project on molecular detection and characterization of bat-borne viruses from Pakistan, spoke about zoonotic viruses that cause endemics and pandemics that have an impact on almost every aspect of human life worldwide.
He specifically targeted viruses linked to bats, which are the primary source of viruses. He talked about his impressive project and the inescapable battle for recognition.
Pakistan is home to numerous studies on these bats’ microbiomes. The event was concluded by the organizers giving a vote of thanks.
