ISLAMABAD, (TDI): The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Secretary-General Hissein Ibrahim Taha, visited the Secretariat of the OIC’s Ministerial Standing Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation (COMSTECH) on Friday, where he launched several transformative initiatives aimed at advancing science and technology across OIC member states.
The event was attended by Assistant Secretary Generals of the OIC, ambassadors from OIC member states, diplomats, vice-chancellors, government officials, scientists, and researchers.
It served as a platform for fostering collaboration and introducing programs to address critical challenges in the Muslim world.
In his address, H.E. Taha underscored the significance of unity among OIC member states in leveraging science and technology to address shared issues.
“Collaboration in science and technology is vital to overcoming the key challenges faced by the Muslim Ummah,” he stated.
A key highlight of the event was the launch of the COMSTECH Expert Service for Technological Cooperation by Taha, in partnership with the Federal Minister for Science and Technology and the Coordinator General of COMSTECH.
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This initiative aims to promote technological self-reliance, foster sustainable development, and reduce brain drain within OIC countries.
The program will mobilize expertise across the Muslim world to address critical issues in healthcare, agriculture, energy, and education, exemplifying the spirit of collective progress.
The Secretary-General also praised the COMSTECH Fellowships and Scholarships Program for Palestinian Nationals, highlighting its positive impact on empowering Palestinian youth through education and skills development.
“This initiative reflects the OIC’s unwavering commitment to uplifting marginalized communities and fostering development,” he noted.
Looking ahead, Taha highlighted two major upcoming events: the 16th COMSTECH General Assembly in Islamabad in 2025, and the 2nd Ministerial Meeting of the OIC-15 Dialogue Platform this year.
He also underscored the importance of the planned Emergency Conference on Education in Palestine, emphasizing its role in advancing scientific and educational progress in the region.
Expressing gratitude to Pakistan for its hospitality, Taha commended COMSTECH’s contributions to science, technology, and innovation, calling it a beacon of hope.
“COMSTECH’s groundbreaking initiatives empower individuals and communities. I urge all OIC member states to support and actively engage in these programs to build a brighter and more prosperous future,” he said.
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Federal Minister for Science, Technology, and Education Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui welcomed the Secretary-General and highlighted the importance of science and technology as essential pillars of sustainable development in the OIC region.
He called the launch of the COMSTECH Expert Service a milestone in uniting expertise across the Muslim world to tackle shared challenges.
Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary, Coordinator General of COMSTECH, elaborated on the organization’s efforts to foster collaboration, build capacities, and promote scientific excellence among OIC member states.
He noted that COMSTECH’s initiatives have significantly empowered researchers, fostered innovation networks, and driven advancements, particularly in Africa and Palestine.
Headquartered in Islamabad, COMSTECH remains a cornerstone of the OIC’s mission to advance scientific excellence and technological innovation, striving to build a resilient and prosperous future for the Muslim world.
