Prof. Qureshi explained that university recognized the importance of developing strong links and collaboration with reputable international institutions in order to make a difference.
The Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS) celebrated another milestone with the opening of an advanced molecular genetics and genomics diseases research and treatment center and related facilities on Friday. A biotechnology college, as well as a fly research lab and stock center, were among the facilities.
“The establishment of these institutions would open up new vistas for research and help the university enhance its research potential,” DUHS Vice Chancellor Prof. Saeed Qureshi said at the inaugural ceremony, which was well-attended. He thanked the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and Dow College alumni for their help.
“While the HEC provided the basic funds for the establishment of the genomics research laboratory, Dow alumni have promised to provide $5 million, which would help us turn this research facility into a state-of-the-art center,” he said, adding that research facilities required ongoing financial support to deliver to society.
Prof. Qureshi explained that the university recognized the importance of developing strong links and collaboration with reputable international institutions in order to make a difference.
“For this purpose, we are collaborating with Oxford University‘s genomics department, which has agreed to train our teachers and students in this field. “One of our students will also be able to pursue doctoral studies in cancer at its department.”
He also emphasized the importance of molecular genetics, stating that it has helped link mutations to genetic conditions, which has aided in the search for targeted treatments and cures for various genetic conditions.
Earlier, Federal Minister for Planning and Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal discussed the challenges Pakistan faced, emphasizing the importance of biotechnology in addressing the country’s growing food insecurity and the disastrous effects of climate change.
“Investment in biotechnology could help meet the global food crisis. The gravity of this situation can be gauged by the fact that approximately 800 million people go to bed hungry every day,” he said, adding that medical biotechnology had brought about a global revolution.
“Now is the time to invest in this field, create jobs, and produce pharmaceutical and diagnostic products.”
The federal minister praised the DUHS’s research initiatives and stated that future wars would be fought in labs and classrooms rather than on the battlefield. The minister cited examples of countries that were making the best use of smart agriculture when discussing how biotechnology helps meet climate challenges.
“Agriculture is the backbone of our country.” “We have no choice but to use this technology to help reduce the effects of climate change.”